Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Vietnam hopes to receive more US support in COVID-19 combat: PM Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on September 4 called on the US to continue helping Vietnam in COVID-19 prevention and control through suitable forms, especially in implementing the vaccine strategy. The Government leader made the suggestion at a reception for Charge d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Vietnam Christopher Klein and representatives from US firms and investors that are running global supply chains in Vietnam. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (photo VNA) The meeting was connected to sites in Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong and Dong Nai provinces in the southern region, and the US. Vietnam wants to further promote the comprehensive partnership with the US, he said, expressing his thanks to the US government and people for their donations of vaccines and medical supplies to Vietnam in the pandemic fight. Given difficulties facing enterprises amid the pandemic, PM Chinh said a special working group of the Prime Minister has been established, with the task of removing obstacles for businesses and people. A resolution on assistance to businesses in the face of the pandemic will also be issued next week, he said, adding that the Vietnamese government has studied a plan on economic recovery and adaptation amid COVID-19. Representatives of several US firms briefed PM Chinh on their operations in Vietnam, and raised proposals related to maintaining supply chains, transporting goods, organising production activities, granting work permits, domestic movement of experts, access to vaccine sources and administrative reforms. They spoke highly of Vietnams strategies and measures to combat the pandemic while maintaining production and circulation of goods, saying they will make efforts to observe the measures. PM Chinh asked ministries, agencies and localities to take measures to assist businesses and investors, particularly foreign firms, in this difficult period to ensure safe, smooth production and supply chains. He affirmed Vietnams aim of vaccinating employees soon and that the country is working hard to realise the vaccine strategy. The Vietnamese government will double efforts to handle the proposals made by US businesses and stays ready to satisfy them within its capacity, PM Chinh said, emphasising that what has been done must be done better. PM Chinh also asked the Charge d'Affaires and US businesses to boost closer coordination with Vietnamese ministries, sectors and localities so as to effectively implement pandemic containment measures, maintain production activities, ensure social welfare for workers and facilitate Vietnamese businesses' investment in the US. Charge d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Vietnam Christopher Klein (Photo: VNA) Klein and representatives of the US businesses showed their desire to continue to further step up investment and business activities in Vietnam, and believed that with the joint efforts of the governments, businesses and people of both nations, Vietnam and the US will overcome difficulties caused by the pandemic soon. They also expressed their confidence that the comprehensive partnership between the two countries will grow and flourish in a more substantive and effective manner across fields, in which economic and trade ties will remain an important pillar. World Insights: Experts galvanized by Xi's call for solidarity, common development at Eastern Economic Forum Xinhua) 09:34, September 05, 2021 BEIJING, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday called on all parties in Northeast Asia to join hands to overcome the challenges of COVID-19, foster mutual cooperation and safeguard regional peace and stability. His proposals, made while addressing the opening ceremony of the plenary session of the sixth Eastern Economic Forum on Friday in Beijing via video link, bear profound significance for galvanizing the region and the world at large to tide over a difficult time, plan for common development, and unite for win-win outcomes, said overseas pundits and scholars. Oleg Timofeyev, associate professor at the People's Friendship University of Russia, said that Xi in his address underscored the importance of firmly rejecting any politicization of COVID-19 vaccines and origins-tracing, and striving to build a global community of health for all, which will have both global implications and a positive impact on the life of ordinary people. Japanese economist Hidetoshi Tashiro said that Xi's proposals laid out in his speech, including strengthening cooperation in vaccine research and development as well as production, supporting the innovative development of the digital economy, and jointly tackling global climate change and promoting economic and social development in the region, will play an important role in advancing regional peace and prosperity. Wilson Lee Flores, a columnist for English-language daily The Philippine Star, said China has made coordinated efforts in its epidemic prevention and control and economic development, which are valuable lessons for other countries and have injected confidence and impetus into global economic recovery. Bambang Suryono, chairman of Indonesia-based think tank Asia Innovation Study Center, said that China has provided vaccines to many countries, contributing to the global anti-pandemic fight and economic recovery, and demonstrating its responsibility as a major country. In addressing climate change, China has yielded great achievements in energy conservation, emission reduction and the low-carbon economy in recent years, providing an inspiration to other developing countries, he added. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Bianji) Iran condemns U.S. sanctions on four Iranians for alleged "kidnapping" charges Xinhua) 10:47, September 05, 2021 TEHRAN, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- The spokesman for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday condemned recent U.S. sanctions on four Iranian citizens for what he called "fictitious" charges. On Friday, the U.S. Treasury Department announced it would sanction four Iranian citizens for an alleged failed plot aimed at kidnapping a U.S.-Iranian New York-based journalist. "Unfortunately, incumbent U.S. officials are following the failed policy of the previous administration," Saeed Khatibzadeh, the Iranian spokesman, said according to the ministry's website. Khatibzadeh described the U.S. narrative of the so-called plot as a "Hollywood scenario," saying that the supporters of sanctions in the United States thrive on the sanctions atmosphere they have created. "Washington had better know that it has no choice but to abandon its sanctioning addiction and to use language of respect vis-a-vis Tehran," he said. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Bianji) China-funded thermal power plant expansion completed in Mongolia Xinhua) 10:50, September 05, 2021 ULAN BATOR, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- The completion and commissioning ceremony of the China-funded expansion of a thermal power plant was held Friday in Erdenet, capital of Mongolia's northern province of Orkhon. The project was executed by China's Hunan Industrial Equipment Installation Company, which has previously conducted the expansion of Thermal Power Plant No. 3 in Ulan Bator. "The completion of the project is of great significance to the development of Mongolia's energy sector," Mongolian Energy Minister Nansal Tavinbekh said at the ceremony. Tavinbekh noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic the project executor overcame difficulties such as personnel exchanges and limited transportation of materials, and successfully completed the expansion with high quality. Chinese Ambassador to Mongolia Chai Wenrui sent a letter to praise the successful completion of the project. Chai expressed his hope that the completion of the project will cater to the industrial development and residents' needs in Erdenet and its surrounding areas, promote urban energy conservation and environmental improvement, and help regional economic development. The ambassador also said that China will actively support Mongolia's economic and social development, promote the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Steppe Road Program, and promote the construction of the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor to achieve more substantial results. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Bianji) Chinas Juncao technology cooperation mirrors the countrys commitment to common progress 10:54, September 05, 2021 By He Yin ( People's Daily Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the Forum on the 20th Anniversary of Juncao Assistance and Sustainable Development Cooperation, hailing the gigantic role played by the unique Chinese technology of Juncao in international development and cooperation. Xi emphasized that China is willing to work with relevant parties to continue to contribute Chinas wisdom and Chinas solutions to the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and make Juncao technology a grass of happiness that benefits people in developing countries. Over the past 20 years since the Juncao technology was firstly introduced to other countries, it has made important contributions to promoting local economic development and livelihood. It demonstrates Chinas sincerity and actions to advance global poverty reduction cooperation, promote common progress and contribute to global sustainable development. The Juncao technology generates economic, social and environmental benefits, and the Chinese government has long used it to serve human development. Chief scientist Lin Zhanxi of China National Engineering Research Center of Juncao Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, checks mushrooms cultivated from crushed Pennisetum sinese Roxb. (Photo by Wei Peiquan/Xinhua) When Xi was working in Fujian province, he personally promoted the building of the first overseas demonstration base for Juncao technology in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 2001, raising the curtain for Chinas international cooperation on the technology. He also witnessed the signing of a series of aid programs between China and PNG related to new Juncao technology and dry land rice planting when paying a state visit to the Pacific island country in 2018. So far, the technology has been introduced to over 100 countries and is generally welcomed by developing countries. President of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly, Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, said the technology has made an important contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals set in the 2030 Agenda, from poverty eradication to clean energy, gender equality to preserving biodiversity. Juncao, an herbal plant for growing edible mushrooms, is connecting people around the world. Over the past 20 years, China has vigorously promoted Juncao technology cooperation with developing countries, which vividly mirrors its commitment to global poverty reduction and sustainable development. Chief scientist Lin Zhanxi (first on the left) of China National Engineering Research Center of Juncao Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, celebrates a harvest of upland rice with local farmers in Papua New Guinea. (Photo provided by Lin Zhanxi) The successful promotion of the technology once again proves that Chinese development cooperation programs, with a focus on development and livelihood improvement, aims to enhance the welfare of the people. Considering developing countries respective resources, as well as development level and demands, these programs bring technologies and advocate independent development. To ensure lasting impact, China guarantees that every project achieves good results and is effective, and helps countries localize project management. Speaking of the assistance brought by Juncao technology cooperation to local development, President of the Central African Republic Faustin-Archange Touadera said President Xi attaches high importance on Chinese and global poverty reduction. He noted the people have always been the beneficiaries of pragmatic cooperation in each field, and practices tell the importance of international cooperation. Chief scientist Lin Zhanxi of China National Engineering Research Center of Juncao Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, shows how to process Juncao to local farmers in Fiji at the fifth workshop of the China-Fiji Juncao Technology Cooperation Project. (Photo provided by Lin Zhanxi) Development is meaningful only when it is inclusive and sustainable. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, President Xi has proposed the vision of a global community of shared future and the Belt and Road Initiative. China is committed to pursuing the greater good and shared interests, and upholding the principles of sincerity, real results, affinity, and good faith for developing relations with other developing countries and the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness for expanding relations with neighboring countries. To this end, President Xi has taken advantage of many major international occasions to announce a broad range of cooperation measures. These present Chinas approach, offer its vision, and contribute its strength to resolving global development issues and implementing the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Right now, the world is caught between a pandemic of the century and momentous changes never seen in the last one hundred years. The journey to sustainable development would be a long and arduous one. At the critical moment, Chinas sense of responsibility is even more important. Facing the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has carried out its largest emergency humanitarian action since the founding of the Peoples Republic of China in 1949, and fulfilled its promise of making COVID-19 vaccines a global public good. It has made important contributions to building a global immunity barrier. Chief scientist Lin Zhanxi (third on the right) of China National Engineering Research Center of Juncao Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, explains how Juncao can improve ecology to African students, Aug. 12, 2021. (Photo by Lin Shanchuan/Xinhua) China, being the first country to recover positive economic growth from the pandemic, has played a vital role in safeguarding the secure and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains, and created more spillover effect for global recovery. Besides, the country has also stepped up efforts with relevant parties to jointly construct the Silk Road of Health, the Green Silk Road and the Digital Silk Road, as well as the Belt and Road Initiative, to deliver confidence in and strength of development to the international society. The COVID-19 pandemic is still ravaging the world, and global development is still imbalanced and inadequate. Countries must join hands and inject new energy into global development with more responsibilities and practical measures. China will keep advancing global anti-pandemic cooperation, enhancing global development cooperation, and shouldering international responsibilities, to offer as much assistance as it can for developing countries to achieve sustainable development and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind together with the rest of the world. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Bianji) Feature: Retired Cuban combat pilots mark 60th anniversary of studying in China Xinhua) 11:23, September 05, 2021 HAVANA, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- A batch of retired Cuban combat pilots on Saturday marked the 60th anniversary of the beginning of their study in China after the triumph of the socialist revolution on the island in 1959. The pilots laid a wreath of flowers here at the monument to Chinese fighters during Cuba's Independence War. Addressing the audience, Manuel Rojas, a former pilot and retired colonel, highlighted the strong links between the Chinese and Cuban people. "We all very much thank Chinese instructors for their support during the time we were away from home," he said. "Travelling to China was the greatest adventure of our lives. Chinese people have much love to give," added Rojas. The ceremony came ahead of the celebration of the 61st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Cuba which falls on Sept. 28. Jose Antonio Subires, another pilot who attended the event, told Xinhua that Chinese instructors contributed to his professional progress. "I was 19 years old when I first visited China," he said. "I will never forget the values and principles that Chinese colleagues instilled into me. Studying in China changed my life." After a two-year stay in China, 117 pilots and 106 ground technicians from Cuba graduated in 1963, before joining the Cuban Air Force and performing international missions in Angola, Ethiopia, Nicaragua, and other countries. Jorge Ricardo Gomez, a retired combat pilot in his 70s, told Xinhua that the brotherhood between China and Cuba has stood the test of time. "Chinese people gave us a strong sense of unity and friendship. The memories of our studies in China are rooted in our hearts," he said. The ceremony, which took place under social distancing guidelines and COVID-19 protocols, concluded with a martial arts performance by the Cuban Wushu School. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Bianji) China's Chongqing issues first QDLP approval Xinhua) 15:15, September 05, 2021 CHONGQING, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- ICHAM Pte. Ltd., a Singaporean company, has obtained a license for conducting Qualified Domestic Limited Partner (QDLP) business, making it the first fund manager to receive the qualification in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. The newly qualified firm has been granted a QDLP quota totaling 200 million U.S. dollars, according to the China-Singapore (Chongqing) Demonstration Initiative on Strategic Connectivity Administrative Bureau. The QDLP outbound investment scheme aims to offer channels for qualified domestic institutions to invest overseas. At the end of 2020, China launched the pilot QDLP program in Chongqing, with an assigned quota of 5 billion U.S. dollars. Previously, the pilot scheme had been launched in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen to promote the two-way opening up of financial markets. ICHAM Pte. Ltd. will set up a private equity fund management firm and raise funds in China to invest in global projects. (Web editor: Zhao Tong, Bianji) How do you feel about the fact that GPHG is often referred to as the watch industry Oscars? Its fantastic! The GPHG is indeed the most recognized award in the field, and we now have our own Academy! What is indeed the significance of the GPHG Academy introduced last year? The Academy enables broad industry involvement in the selection and voting process. Instead of the single jury of 30 personalities that used to officiate in the past, the Academy currently has a 500-strong membership. It thereby constitutes a vast network of ambassadors representing the passion for watchmaking and taking part in all the selections. They thereby jointly reward contemporary creations that they contribute to highlighting and promoting around the world. A dedicated and secure digital platform has been set up for the purposes of the Academy and brands now enter models for the competition via this new medium which facilitates interaction. The creation of the Academy represents an important development signaling ever greater openness and internationalization. Of the 20 previous GPHG editions since 2001, which one made the biggest impression on you? I didnt experience them all! The 2012 edition was the first edition under the aegis of the GPHG Foundation, which was established in May 2011, so for me personally it was significant because it was my first edition as director. We also had very pleasant editions in 2018 and 2019 with Edouard Baer, who brought a poetic touch to his role as master of ceremonies, as well as massive ovations such as when the Special Jury Prize was awarded to Jean-Claude Biver. I also fondly remember Carlo Lamprechts last edition as President of the Foundation, along with other particularly moving moments during the presentation of some prizes. The 2020 edition was also pretty memorable with only 50 people allowed in the theatre, surrounded by 1,000 red balloons representing the rest of the audience! Carine Maillard, director of the Grand Prix dHorlogerie de Geneve GPHG Which country do you think has the most GPHG fans? Wherever there are watch fans, so pretty much everywhere! Our exhibitions are a unique opportunity to see the 84 most beautiful watches of the year in one place. Since 2011, our traveling exhibitions have presented the selected watches in the four corners of the world in addition to Geneva: Beijing, Bern, Dubai, Hong Kong, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Macao, Mexico City, Milan, New Delhi, Puebla, Rome, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Taipei, Venice and Zurich. The winning watches were specifically honored after the award ceremony at exhibitions held in Dubai, London, Moscow, Paris, Singapore and Vienna. Watchmaking inspires dreams the world over. What is different about the 2021 edition? This year we are celebrating our 20th anniversary. On this occasion, we are organizing an exceptional exhibition at the Rath Museum in Geneva, which will be held in parallel with the presentation of the 84 nominated watches and which will bring together the 20 watches that won the Aiguille dOr Grand Prix between 2001 and 2020. In addition, we have a new Jury President: Nick Foulkes a historian, writer, journalist, and internationally recognized authority on culture, watchmaking and art. Drawn from the Academy, the Jury meets behind closed doors a few days before the ceremony to physically evaluate the 84 nominated watches and vote to determine the winners, with the vote of the entire Academy also taken into account in the final result (see details in our rules available on the gphg.org website). What is fundamentally lacking in order to take the GPHG to the next level and increase its reputation among the general public? We lack sustainable funding enabling the Grand Prix, whose stature is now firmly established, to pursue its development and in particular to boost marketing and communication around the competition and the awards ceremony (celebrities, red carpet, broadcasting, etc.) all in order to raise its public profile and to celebrate this industry as it deserves. Your browser does not support the video tag. | Welcome Guest! You Are Here: Rupee inches 1 paisa higher at 73.67 against US dollar in early trade. NEWSALERT-NKOREA-MISSILES Seoul says 2 missiles launched by North Korea were ballistic, Japan says they landed outside Japanese economic waters. (AP)Seoul says 2 missiles launched by North Korea were ballistic, Japan says they landed outside Japanese economic waters. (AP) Dalondo Moultrie is the assistant managing editor of the Seguin Gazette. You can e-mail him at dalondo.moultrie@seguingazette.com . If you are currently a print subscriber but don't have an online account, select this option. You will need to use your 7 digit subscriber account number (with leading zeros) and your last name (in UPPERCASE). Astronomers have found dramatic evidence that a black hole or neutron star spiraled its way into the core of a companion star and caused that companion to explode as a supernova. The astronomers were tipped off by data from the Very Large Array Sky Survey (VLASS), a multi-year project using the National Science Foundation's Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA). "Theorists had predicted that this could happen, but this is the first time we've actually seen such an event," said Dillon Dong, a graduate student at Caltech and lead author on a paper reporting the discovery in the journal Science. The first clue came when the scientists examined images from VLASS, which began observations in 2017, and found an object brightly emitting radio waves but which had not appeared in an earlier VLA sky survey, called Faint Images of the Radio Sky at Twenty centimeters (FIRST). They made subsequent observations of the object, designated VT 1210+4956, using the VLA and the Keck telescope in Hawaii. They determined that the bright radio emission was coming from the outskirts of a dwarf, star-forming galaxy some 480 million light-years from Earth. They later found that an instrument aboard the International Space Station had detected a burst of X-rays coming from the object in 2014. The data from all these observations allowed the astronomers to piece together the fascinating history of a centuries-long death dance between two massive stars. Like most stars that are much more massive than our Sun, these two were born as a binary pair, closely orbiting each other. One of them was more massive than the other and evolved through its normal, nuclear fusion-powered lifetime more quickly and exploded as a supernova, leaving behind either a black hole or a superdense neutron star. The black hole or neutron star's orbit grew steadily closer to its companion, and about 300 years ago it entered the companion's atmosphere, starting the death dance. At this point, the interaction began spraying gas away from the companion into space. The ejected gas, spiraling outward, formed an expanding, donut-shaped ring, called a torus, around the pair. Eventually, the black hole or neutron star made its way inward to the companion star's core, disrupting the nuclear fusion producing the energy that kept the core from collapsing of its own gravity. As the core collapsed, it briefly formed a disk of material closely orbiting the intruder and propelled a jet of material outward from the disk at speeds approaching that of light, drilling its way through the star. "That jet is what produced the X-rays seen by the MAXI instrument aboard the International Space Station, and this confirms the date of this event in 2014," Dong said. The collapse of the star's core caused it to explode as a supernova, following its sibling's earlier explosion. "The companion star was going to explode eventually, but this merger accelerated the process," Dong said. The material ejected by the 2014 supernova explosion moved much faster than the material thrown off earlier from the companion star, and by the time VLASS observed the object, the supernova blast was colliding with that material, causing powerful shocks that produced the bright radio emission seen by the VLA. "All the pieces of this puzzle fit together to tell this amazing story," said Gregg Hallinan of Caltech. "The remnant of a star that exploded a long time ago plunged into its companion, causing it, too, to explode," he added. The key to the discovery, Hallinan said, was VLASS, which is imaging the entire sky visible at the VLA's latitude -- about 80 percent of the sky -- three times over seven years. One of the objectives of doing VLASS that way is to discover transient objects, such as supernova explosions, that emit brightly at radio wavelengths. This supernova, caused by a stellar merger, however, was a surprise. "Of all the things we thought we would discover with VLASS, this was not one of them," Hallinan said. The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation, operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc. Please follow SpaceRef on Twitter and Like us on Facebook. Clinton Raceway wrapped up its 2021 season with a record-setting afternoon of harness racing on Sunday, Sept. 5. Two-year-old pacing colt Sports Fan lowered the track record in the fourth of five $21,450 Ontario Sires Stakes Grassroots divisions and fans wagered an all-time high $132,279 on the card, which featured the 41st annual Charity Drivers Challenge, won by Trevor Henry. Henry captured three of the eight challenge races and finished with 200 points, well ahead of Bob McClure and Clinton Raceways leading driver Natasha Day, who had 114 and 110 points, respectively. "It's great to see all the people come out and it's a beautiful day for it," said Arthur, Ont. resident Henry, who also won the challenge in 2007, 2013 and 2015. "It's just awesome to see people in the stands again." James MacDonald piloted Sports Fan to the 1:56.3 record-setting mile for two-year-old pacers, helping to ease the sting of his last-place result in the drivers challenge, which raised just over $10,000 for Branch 140 of the Royal Canadian Legion. A couple times I got to really hear the roar from the fans down the lane, because I was so far back. They were kind of done cheering when I got there, said MacDonald, with a wry chuckle. It was a great day; I would have liked to have done better, but at the same time, I am happy for Trevor (Henry) and happy to see everything go so well. Starting from post one, Sports Fan got away third as fan favourite Icey Shadow led the field to a :27.4 quarter. Heading for the :57.2 half, MacDonald tipped Sports Fan into the outer lane, but was able to duck into the pocket before the 1:26.1 three-quarters. Sliding out late in the stretch, Sports Fan matched strides with Icey Shadow through the wire and was revealed the winner when the photograph was printed. Juju Hanover finished two and three-quarter lengths behind the duelling leaders in third. The 1:56.3 mile took two-fifths of a second off the former freshman track record of 1:57 first set by Thinkofagameplan in 2014, matched by filly Sports Flix is 2018 and Century Grizzly in 2019, and equalled earlier this summer by Icey Shadow in an August 15 Prospect Series division. Track record holder Sports Fan and Chantal Vincent at Clinton Raceway. (Ryan Clements Photo) Hes a homebred that my wife owns. Hes been a nice little colt and is learning every start, said trainer Blake MacIntosh of the Sportswriter son owned by his wife Leanne Murphy of St. George, Ont., and Stuart McIntosh of Essex, Ont. He could be a little excitable at times, but hes starting to get it. MacDonald, who is currently Canadas leading driver, also won the third Grassroots division with Sports Advisor. Sent off as the fans top choice from post two, MacDonald tucked Sports Advisor in third behind Highborn through a :29 quarter and :59.3 half. Heading for the 1:29.3 three-quarters, MacDonald sent the Sportswriter son after the leader and the gelding battled to the lead on the final turn and then cruised home a 3-3/4-length winner in 1:58.2. Highborn settled for second and TJ Spitfire was third. He raced really good as well. Hes another big horse and they said he made a break warming up so I had to be a little careful with him, said MacDonald. I had to come first-up, but as soon as he got out there, he was terrific. Up the backside, he felt like he could have cleared Doug (McNair and Highborn), but we slugged it out in the turn and when I called on him at the top of the stretch he just opened up. The Guelph, Ont. resident engineered Sports Advisors first lifetime win for trainer Rick Zeron and his co-owner John Donato, both of Oakville, Ont. Century Iglesias scored his first Ontario Sires Stakes win in the last Grassroots division. Guelph, Ont. resident Jody Jamieson piloted the Shadow Play gelding to the 1:57.3 score, impressing owner/trainer Jack Darling of Cambridge, Ont. The time of the mile was a new track record for two-year-old geldings. Training down, he was very unimpressive. I really didnt think he would amount to too much, said Darling. He didnt really show me anything special, but when we got closer to racing, I put him in the race bike and boom he was much better, and then I put him behind the gate and hes kind of surprised me every time. Hes just a really nice colt, very honest. A native of Exeter, Ont., Darling also enjoyed the rest of Clinton Raceways season finale, both watching the races and visiting with old friends. They had a heck of a crowd here today, it was nice to see, said Darling. I like walking up to the stands, I just run into all kinds of people, old friends, people I havent seen for years. The other two Grassroots divisions were captured by Stews Watching and Chikaboom. Tyler Moore guided Hes Watching son Stews Watching to a 1:58.2 score in the first Grassroots split for his father, trainer Dr. Ian Moore of Cambridge, Ont., and owners Ratchford Stable NS of North Sydney, N.S. Outclassed and Stone Carver finished more than three lengths behind the favourite. With his third Grassroots win, Stews Watching currently sits atop the two-year-old pacing colt standings with 150 points. Fan favourite Chikaboom reeled in Ron for a 1:57.4 victory in the second division, with Messiah rounding out the top three. Bob McClure of Rockwood, Ont. drove the Betterthancheddar son to his first Grassroots win for trainer Julie Walker of Carlisle, Ont., and owner/breeder Harold Duguay of Pabos, Que. Chikaboom has won four of his five career starts, his only loss coming in his Grassroots debut at Woodbine Mohawk Park on August 16. The two-year-old pacing colts will wrap up their regular season at Woodbine Mohawk Park on September 16. The top 20 point-earners will then advance to the September 30 Semi-Finals and the top five finishers from each Semi-Final will compete in the Grassroots Championships on October 9. The point standings from the Charity Driver's Challenge follows. Final Standings Position - Driver - Points 1. Trevor Henry - 200 2. Bob McClure - 114 3. Natasha Day - 110 4. Doug McNair - 101 5. Travis Henry - 93 6. Jody Jamieson - 88 7. Brett MacDonald - 84 8. James MacDonald - 65 To view Sunday's harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results - Clinton Raceway. (With files from OSS) The betting favourites prevailed in the pair of eliminations for the Fan Hanover on Saturday (Sept. 4) at Woodbine Mohawk Park, with Hot Mess Express and Fire Start Hanover emerging victorious as decisive choices on the board. Hot Mess Express seized control early and held firm to the finish of a 1:50.3 mile to take the first $35,000 Fan Hanover elimination as the 1-5 favourite. Driver Andrew McCarthy grabbed the top with the Panther Hanover filly past a :27.2 first quarter, pocketing Game Of Shadows to the backstretch. Scarlett Hanover sat third to a :56 half, where a headstrong Lady Arthur angled first over before promptly retreating to the final turn. With the backfield circumventing the tiring horse, the top three scooted away to three-quarters in 1:23.2. Scarlett Hanover came first over coming for the top of the stretch and dug into Hot Mess Express through the lane. But Hot Mess Express turned away Scarlett Hanovers challenge to win with Mackie Hanover rallying for third, Game Of Shadows holding fourth and Best Head West having enough room at the pylons to make the top five. She was good enough tonight for sure, McCarthy said after the race. I know theres a little bit more improvement there. Shes a great horse, and Im sure if she had to go [1:]49 tonight she wouldve went [1:]49. But I feel like theres going to be a little step up next week too. Shes beautiful; shes really nice to drive. Theres some times shes in on the turns, out on the straights a little bit, but she prefers the bigger track and she got over this Mohawk surface great, McCarthy also said. She kind of just does what she has to when Scarlett [Hanover] came, she picked the bit up and got moving. I got the earplugs out and just wanted to make sure she got enough work into her for next week and she busted home pretty good. Owned by Sam Bowie, Hot Mess Express won her eighth race from nine starts this season and her 12th from 18 overall, earning $467,155. Tony Alagna trains the $2.40 winner. Fire Start Hanover was in no hurry as the 2-5 favourite and weaved through traffic to take the second $35,000 elimination for the Fan Hanover in 1:51.1. Voelz Delight dashed for the front before yielding command to Twin B Sunkissed past a :27.2 first quarter. Fire Start Hanover raced sixth up the backstretch as the field moved single file to a :56 half and caught cover to the far turn from Off The Record, who became rough gaited and forced driver Dexter Dunn to dive to the pylons with Fire Start Hanover. She made gains up the inside and slid off the pylons through a seam as the field clicked three-quarters in 1:23.3. Once fed racetrack, Fire Start Hanover rolled alongside her competition and soon blew by, strolling clear to win over Voelz Delight. Notorious Pink took third with Off The Record finishing fourth and Spellcheck Hanover completing the finalists. Shes obviously a classy filly, but when shes out there shes back to feeling really good, Dunn said after the race. Her races lately have been great, but she just hasnt been quite herself. But she was back tonight. Its a good bunch of fillies here, and shes up near the top with them. She was obviously great last year and put some good miles in this year, but really tonight the way she felt, made me really pleased. A daughter of Somebeachsomewhere, Fire Start Hanover won her third race from eight starts this season and her 11th from 21 overall, earning $802,272 for owners Pinske Stables, David Hoese and Lawrence Means. Richard Nifty Norman trains the $2.80 winner. To return to the News Centre, click here. The Arab Water Council is getting ready for the 5th edition of AWF scheduled to be convened from September 21 to 23 at a time the value of investments in water and sanitation projects in the Mena region is expected to reach $133.2 billion. Of the investments $19.1 billion have already been spent in 2019 and $30.8 billion in 2020. The value of the current investments in pre-establishment projects is $40.3 billion, and another $58.8 billion are expected to be invested during the main establishment stages. The value of projects under planning is $4.9 billion and projects in the pre-planning stage is $29.1 billion. If all the water and sewage pipeline projects are implemented as planned, the value of investments this year will reach $30.8 billion before declining to $7.3 billion in 2023. Against this backdrop the AWF, under the patronage of the UAEs Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, and supported by the League of Arab States (LAS) and the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of Egypt (MWRI), in cooperation with national, regional and international partners, will kick-off, in both hybrid and physical form, under the main theme Arab Water Security for Peace and Sustainable Development", at Grand Hyatt, Dubai. The forum, that will be attended by high-level participants from 22 Arab countries such as: governmental delegations and public and private sector representatives, will shed the light on some of the key topics such as: Water, Energy and Food Security Nexus, Climate Change Impact on Arab Water Security, Water Desalination as a Strategic Option for Sustainable Arab Water Security, Sharing Water and Benefits for Peace and Development, Effective Water Governance towards Achieving Peace and Stability, Hydro-diplomacy and Water Politics in Transboundary Water Management, Riparian Partnerships in Developing and Managing shared Water Resources and Governing Laws, among others. More than 800 high-level participants including government ministers and undersecretaries, high government officials, public and private sector organisations from 22 countries, are expected to attend the three-day Forum that will witness more than 50 experts discussing water scarcity and sustainable development across the region. During the event, the winners of the 2021 Arab Water Prize for Creativity and Innovation in the field of Water Science, awarded to institutions, scientists and other distinguished contributors in research and development in the field of Non-Conventional Water Resources, will be announced. During the preparatory meeting, which was attended by more than 80 participants, Prof Mahmoud Abu-Zeid, AWC President, said: "The aim of this meeting is to discuss the main agenda of the 5th Arab Water Forum. The 2021 edition of the Arab Water Forum will feature three days of panel sessions and scientific sessions, along with the Arab Water Expo. This year, the Forum will focus on three main priorities: Arab Water Security, Cooperation across Borders, and Water for Sustainable Development. We are waiting for your participation and experiences. He added: "The forum is held at a time when water scarcity is at a critical level as the demand for clean water increases due to population growth. The World Bank reports show that the Middle East and North Africa are home to 6% of the worlds population, with less than 2% of the worlds renewable water supply." Dr Mohamed Al-Mulla, Director of the Water Resources Department at the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, said: On behalf of the Ministry, I would like to express our great contentment to host this Forum, which includes high-level participants of water experts, government officials and other stakeholders, all uniting to make this vital event a success. He added: Our primary goal, as the Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, is to achieve sustainability in a number of fields such as: energy, water, mining and industry, which are all linked to each other, in order to achieve the well-being and prosperity of our society. The 5th edition of the Arab Water Forum will give us the opportunity to discuss many of the important issues and to exchange visions and experiences of the attendees. Prof Khaled Abu-Zeid, AWC Programme Technical Director, said: The Forum is going to witness a number of comprehensive meetings about Climate Change and its Impact on Water Resources, Water Desalination as a Strategic Option for Sustainable Development, and How to Provide Innovative and Non-Conventional Sources that lead to Water Security, along with achieving Water, Energy and Food Security Nexus. "GM Events," one of the leading turnkey event management companies, will organise the 5th edition of AWF 2021. The Company, located in Dubai, has organized numerous successful forums and exhibitions that tackle many economic issues and challenges worldwide. -- TradeArabia News Service Diyar Al Muharraq, a leading real estate development company in Bahrain, has announced the commencement of the next phase of the primary infrastructure works, which includes linking the main infrastructure network to Al Naseem, Mozoon and Era Homes projects. Al Ahlia Contracting Company has been appointed to complete the infrastructure work for this phase, which commenced as of mid-August, said the statement from Diyar Al Muharraq. The duration of the works is six months and the scope of work includes extension of the electricity, water, telecommunications, sewage, rainwater and irrigation networks in addition to roads, paving and road lighting works. On the ongoing work, CEO Engineer Ahmed Al Ammadi said: "We are pleased to have commenced work on the next phase of primary infrastructure within Diyar Al Muharraq, as this step comes as part of our continuous efforts to establish an integrated infrastructure for the city." "We are also working on implementing all these works according to our commitments to our residents and investors to better serve the residents and visitors of Diyar Al Muharraq. I would also like to express my pride in all the initiatives and continuous efforts that contributed to the development of the framework of the city, in addition to accelerating the pace of implementation in various projects," stated Al Ammadi. The Bahraini developer said these works constituted an important addition to the infrastructure of Diyar Al Muharraq, to provide all services to the Al Naseem project, as well as the residential communities and adjacent facilities, which go in line with Diyars continuous efforts to provide high quality infrastructure in all the citys projects and communities. Diyar Al Muharraq is one of the largest integrated residential cities in the kingdom, offering a variety of commercial, recreational and healthcare facilities which contributes to preserving the family values of the Bahraini community and providing a variety of housing solutions suitable for a modern lifestyle. It is equipped with a number of facilities that meet residents daily needs, including but not limited to mosques, parks, commercial complexes, hotels, schools and universities, it added. International and local experts are coming together on one platform to discuss the latest scientific advances in the field of infertility diagnosis and treatments during the upcoming 3rd HealthPlus Middle East Fertility Conference in Dubai, UAE. The event will be held from September 9 11 at the JW Marriott Hotel, under the theme Fertility Without Borders. The conference is organized by the leading HealthPlus Fertility, part of United Eastern Medical Services (UEMedical) and a Mubadala Health Partner. In its hybrid format, the conference will allow individuals to attend in-person while applying strict safety measures or attend virtually from the comfort of their homes or offices. Healthcare professionals attending would earn 23.5 hours of Continuous Medical Education (CME) for the in-person attendance, and 19.5 CME hours for the virtual format. Targeting IVF specialists, obstetricians & gynaecologists, IVF laboratory technicians, embryologists, nurses and pharmacists from the UAE and the region, the conference features key speakers from UK, Spain, Italy, Egypt and Saudi Arabia alongside numerous experts from different hospitals and fertility centers in UAE. Majd Abu Zant, CEO of UEMedical said: Through this conference, we aim to share the latest in the field of infertility through numerous renowned international and local speakers and participants. There has been a special focus on fertility and the latest in IVF giving hope to many couples seeking to get pregnant especially with the growing rates of infertility world-wide. Fertility preservation is also another important topic which should be thoroughly looked at by healthcare professionals involved in treating patients with cancer and gynaecologists or family medicine physicians providing care for women who may delay pregnancy or marriage due to socio-economic reasons, who may require fertility preservation. As a group, we pioneer in specialization and thus we have put special focus on fertility expanding regionally in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Jeddah and in Riyadh, with a plan of opening 3 new centers in KSA by end of 2022. At HealthPlus Fertility, our top-notch IVF experts apply the best international standards which has resulted in making us the largest IVF provider across the region, and helped generate clinical outcomes and success rates that are comparable to international published statistics in leading IVF centers world-wide. We are proud to have performed over 24,000 IVF cycles in the past decade across our different centers using the latest technologies in state-of-the-art IVF and genetic labs; eliminating the need of couples travelling abroad for treatment and giving many couples hope, Abu Zant added. Dr Bohaira Elgeyoushi, Conference President, and Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (IVF) Consultant at HealthPlus Fertility Center in Dubai said: The 3-day conference is hosting key speakers from Europe, Middle East and UAE discussing over 26 scientific topics targeting not only IVF physicians, gynaecologists, obstetricians, but also allied health professionals including nurses, pharmacists, embryologists, genetics, laboratory technicians and others. We are expecting 300 healthcare professionals to attend in-person while ensuring strict COVID-19 safety measures, and another 800 who will attend virtually from across the globe. Dr Walid Sayed, Group Medical Director of HealthPlus Fertility in UAE stated: The conference will discuss important issues such as the importance of pre-implantation genetic testing; infertility in men; varicocele management; ICSI; IVF; how to deal with fibroids; and the challenges in diagnosing and treating adenomyosis and many other fertility-related issues. Dr Wael Ismail Madkour, Medical Director of HealthPlus Fertility Center in Dubai said: What is unique in this conference is that it is in a hybrid format allowing more people to join. It will also run three hands-on workshops on embryology, bereavement and breaking bad news to couples, and cosmetic gynaecology, led by key physicians in their fields. The conference is also dedicating a session and a workshop for embryologists giving them the opportunity to debate and discuss pertinent topics. The team is highly committed to supporting continuous education specifically in the field of infertility given the vast expansions and advancements in this field in the region, and thats what we aim to achieve through this conference. TradeArabia News Service Arabian Internet and Communications Services Company (solutions by stc), a leading ICT services provider in Saudi Arabia, has announced the price range for its initial public offering (IPO)as well as the commencement of the institutional book-building period. HSBC Saudi Arabia, Morgan Stanley Saudi Arabia and SNB Capital Company are joint financial advisors for the IPO. The price range for the offering has been set at SR136 ($36.21) to SR151 ($40.21) per share. On 28 June 2021, the Capital Market Authority (CMA) approved the companys application for an initial public offering of 24,000,000 Shares (Offer Shares), representing 20% of solutions by stcs capital, by way of a sale of existing Shares by the Saudi Telecom Company stc and Telecom Commercial Investment Company Limited (a subsidiary of stc)(collectively, the Selling Shareholders). The final offer price of the Offer Shares will be determined at the end of the book-building period. Offering details: The price range for the Offering has been set at SR136 to SR151 per share The Offering is comprised of 24,000,000 existing Shares to be sold by the current shareholders - Immediately following listing, the Company is expected to have a free float of 20% of the Shares With respect to the Offering, the Company appointed HSBC Saudi Arabia, Morgan Stanley Saudi Arabia and SNB Capital as Financial Advisors, Underwriters and Bookrunners. The Company also appointed HSBC Saudi Arabia to act as Lead Manager. The Saudi British Bank (SABB), Saudi National Bank (SNB), Al Rajhi Bank, Riyad Bank, Alinma Bank and Bank Albilad have been appointed as receiving entities (collectively, the Receiving Entities) for the Individual Investors tranche. Key offering timeline: Bidding and Book-Building Period for Participating Parties: 5 September 2021 13 September 2021 Subscription Period for Individual Investors: 19 September 2021 21 September 2021 Announcement of Final Offer Shares Allotment: 27 September 2021 Refund of Excess Subscription Amounts (if any): 29 September 2021 Expected Start Date of Trading in the Exchange Trading of the Company's Shares in the Exchange is expected to commence after all relevant regulatory requirements are satisfied. Trading will be announced through Saudi Exchange website. TradeArabia News Service Rackspace Technology, a leading end-to-end, multicloud technology solutions company, has announced the launch of Rackspace Elastic Engineering for Security. The breakthrough security offering transforms cloud security operations by offering customers access to a pod of experts who work as an extension of internal staff to address complex cybersecurity and compliance challenges. Rackspace Technology is the only provider in the market offering a cloud-like way to consume security expertise and technology. Now more than ever it is critical for organisations to rapidly evolve and efficiently operationalise their cybersecurity capabilities, said Gary Alterson, Rackspace Technology Vice President of Security Services. Businesses working with multiple security providers and partners are facing a growing execution and operational management gap. With Rackspace Elastic Engineering for Security, our customers have access to a dedicated partner that has both a deep understanding of their environments and expertise in managing the end-to-end security lifecycle. Rackspace Elastic Engineering for Security encompasses security expertise in the areas of cloud migration, securing apps and data in the cloud, as well as ongoing management and support services. With the security landscape and array of threats constantly evolving, businesses require modern security services that align with agile, cloud-first operating models. The Rackspace Elastic Engineering for Security portfolio stack includes the following services and technologies: Dedicated & Personalised Pods: Each customer receives access to a dedicated security pod, which includes an engagement manager, a pod lead and lead architect, security engineer, and compliance expert, with access to additional security architects and security analysts/penetration testers to work alongside customers teams. Security Architecture & Engineering: Alleviating the complexity of designing and building cloud security architectures, Rackspace Technology security pods can design, build, and fully manage a defence-in-depth architecture for unified protection across multicloud environments, including AWS, Azure, VMware, and Rackspace Technology environments. Compliance Management & Support: Security pods can also work with customers to define, manage, and validate governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) through advisory scans and assessments for compliance mandates to modernise approaches to security while remaining compliant. Threat & Vulnerability Management: Rackspace Technology security pods proactively assess customer environments to identify, prioritise, and assist with remediation of vulnerabilities, cloud configurations and policies that do not align with industry benchmarks and best practices. Risk Management & Remediation: Rackspace Technology security pods work as an extension of your team to assess and reduce cyber risk. When a security event occurs, pods work directly with security operations to design and implement security controls to remediate threats and help prevent similar incidents in the future. Advanced Monitoring & Resolution for Security: Rackspace Technology provides 24x7x365 operational support, security technology health monitoring, incident containment support with security automation and pre-defined runbooks, and security help desk. Rackspace Technology global security experts hold more than 800 security certifications, including more than 100 cloud security certificates from AWS, Microsoft Azure, and other cloud providers, as well as Global Information Assurance Certifications (GIACs) in Cyber Defence, Digital Forensics & Incident Response, and Penetration Testing. Rackspace Elastic Engineering for Security is available on all Rackspace Technology platforms, as well as AWS, Microsoft Azure, VMware, and Microsoft Hyper-V.-- TradeArabia News Service Saudi Air Defense has intercepted and destroyed three ballistic missiles and three bomb-laden drones launched by the Iran-backed Houthi militia towards the Eastern Province, Jazan and Najran on Saturday, an official spokesperson of the the Ministry of Defense said. Saudi defenses intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by the terrorist, Iran-backed Houthi militia from Sanaa using civilian objects as a launch site towards the Eastern Province of the Kingdom, he said in a Saudi Press Agency report. The interception caused debris to scatter across the (Dahyat Al-Dammam) neighborhood, which resulted in injury to two Saudi female and male children, and minimal damage to 14 houses. "This brutal, irresponsible behaviour by the militia, through the attempted targeting of civilians and civilian objects, contradicts all divine teachings and humanitarian principles, and reflects the reality of the military operations conduct on the ground; as the militias positions in the battlefronts have severely deteriorated, and it has suffered heavy losses," he said. "The Ministry of Defense will undertake all necessary and deterrent measures to protect its territory and national capacities, stop these hostile, cross-border acts of aggression and safeguard civilians and civilian objects in accordance with the customary International Humanitarian Law, he added. Samsung Electronics Co has opened its largest customer service centre in the Al-Rabie district of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The new centre comprises several departments, including technology and smartphone spare parts, as well as a training laboratory. The centre offers a variety of services, including device repair and a complimentary service of receiving and delivering devices to customers throughout the Kingdom. Samsung will also educate visitors about the company's latest innovations, as well as provide consulting services and innovative solutions. Hyung Bin Joo, Managing Director of Samsung Saudi, said: "In recognition of our customers and their trust, we are pleased to open the region's largest Samsung customer service center, which will serve as a channel for listening to them and providing them with the quickest and best solutions. We intend to continue expanding in the Saudi Arabia over the next few years in order to meet our customers' needs and provide the highest quality service to which Samsung has always been committed. Samsung's new centre retains its distinguished relationship with customers by providing several departments to meet all their needs in one location, in addition to introducing the best repair services, which typically take less than an hour to resolve the most significant obstacles that users may face, such as repairing smartphone screens and others, the company said. Additionally, Samsung customers will have the opportunity to maximise the performance of their phones and devices through the consulting and solutions service, in addition to gaining access to the latest technologies and company products available at the centre, which will include private waiting and VIP rooms, as well as refreshments for visitors during their wait times, it said. TradeArabia News Service Panchali Mahendra, Managing Director of Atelier House Hospitality, has been honoured with the UAE Golden Visa, a long-term residence visa which was introduced by the government in 2019 that allows the recipient to live and work in the nation without any requirement of a sponsor for 10 years. One of the few women who run a global hospitality enterprise in the Middle East, Mahendra is currently the only woman in the F&B industry to be awarded the Golden visa for her contributions and accomplishments. As MD of Atelier House Hospitality, she has bought acclaimed Michelin star restaurant Marea to Dubai. Mahendra said: I am honoured and grateful for the recognition and privilege of being awarded the 10-year golden visa. I am thankful to the Federal Authority for Identity and Nationality and General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs - Dubai for recognising my efforts. "I look forward to fulfilling the expectations and mentoring and inspiring many other young women who want to succeed in this industry. This honour, without doubt, is also shared with our entire team and colleagues for their relentless efforts and support. Mahendra conceptualised and directed home-grown brand Mohalla, which is a Dubai homegrown Indian restaurant set to open 10 locations in Saudi as well as setting brand visions for opening in other international locations in the near future. She is also partnering a new concept with Atelier House called 11 Woodfire, in collaboration with a celebrity chef, in late fall of 2021. Mahendra has featured in the Power 50 List (only Indian woman to make the list) and The Power Women list in 2020 and 2021.-TradeArabia News Service The ordination ceremony will be held on 8 September in the Cathedral of St Joseph. The episcopal see had been vacant for 14 years. The appointment by government authorities was done less than a year ago. This will be the fourth ordination since the renewal of the Sino-Vatican agreement. There is a problem of jurisdiction with respect to three different episcopal sees. Rome (AsiaNews) Father Joseph Cui Qingqi will be the new bishop of Wuhan. The local diocese issued an official statement noting that the ordination will take place on 8 September, feast day of the Nativity of Mary, at 8.08 (local time) in the Cathedral of St Joseph. Several local sources confirmed the report to AsiaNews. Over the past year and a half, Wuhan has made headlines as the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic. The capital of Hubei province is a major episcopal see. This is where the first ordination of two bishops took place 13 April 1958 without Holy See approval: Bishop Bernardin Dong Guangqing of Hankou and Bishop Marc Yuan Wenhua of Wuchang. The consecration of the bishop of Wuhan had long been hoped for, as proof and symbol of the autonomy of the official Church recognised and controlled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). In 2007, the government picked Fr Joseph Shen Guoan as diocesan leader and had supported him as an episcopal candidate, setting his ordination date for 9 June 2011. Without any explanation, Fr Shens consecration was cancelled a few days after it was done. He continued to act as diocesan leader, but in December 2012, when he agreed with the clergy for a transfer of posts and offices, the authorities stopped supporting him and replaced him with Fr Cui, imposing the latter as diocesan administrator. A Franciscan of the Friars Minor, Fr Cui was born in 1964 in Changzhi (Shanxi) and was ordained a priest in 1991. In addition to being an administrator, he has also been diocesan secretary and vicar general. As an episcopal candidate, his "democratic" election took place on 27 September 2020. Church bodies loyal to the CCP submitted only his name to the Holy See. Obviously, the Vatican was unable to refuse the appointment, even if the concrete possibilities of assessing its suitability were evidently limited. Fr Cuis will be the fourth ordination after the renewal last October of the Sino-Vatican agreement on episcopal appointments in China. The first concerned the bishop of Qingdao (Shandong), the second that of Hongdong-Linfen (Shanxi), and the last, Fr Li Hui, was ordained as a new coadjutor bishop of Pingliang (Gansu) on 28 July. Fr Cuis consecration raises the issue of his jurisdiction as bishop. According to the Chinese government, the Diocese of Wuhan covers three other Catholic episcopal sees: Hankou, Wuhan and Wuchang. It is not known exactly on what legal basis the Holy See approved the new bishop since the problem of diocesan borders has not yet been officially resolved. During the Angelus, Francis appealed again for Afghanistan that its people may live in fraternity and peace with their neighbours. On the eve of his trip to Budapest and Slovakia, he urged Europe to bear witness to the faith not only in words but in deeds. He greeted the Missionaries of Charity on the feast day of Mother Teresa. Vatican City (AsiaNews) There is an inner deafness that is even more serious than the physical one, said Pope Francis. The best medicine to overcome it is silence, as well as listening to others and to the Word of God. From the window on St Peter's Square, the pontiff today entrusted his message to the faithful in the usual Sunday appointment with the recitation of the Angelus. He also made an appeal again for the Afghan people and urged the faithful to pray for his trip to Hungary and Slovakia scheduled for next week. Speaking about the Gospel passage in today's liturgy, which refers to the healing of the deaf-mute (Mk 7:33-34), Francis emphasised how the healing is told. Jesus took the deaf-mute aside, placed his fingers in his ears and touched his tongue with saliva, then looked heavenward, sighed and said: Ephphatha!, i.e., Be opened! In other healings, Jesus does not do so many gestures, Francis explained. Why does he do all this now? Perhaps because the condition of that person had a particular symbolic value and something to say to all of us. That man couldn't speak because he couldn't hear," he noted. This reminds us of an interior deafness, which today we can ask Jesus to touch and heal. It is worse than the physical one because it's the deafness of the heart. Caught up in a rush, by a thousand things to say and do, we do not find the time to stop and listen to those who speak to us. For the Pope, We risk becoming impervious to everything and not giving room to those who need to be listened. I am thinking of children, young people, the elderly, and many who do not need words and sermons so much as listening. This raises questions for everyone. How is my listening going? Do I let myself be touched by people's lives; do I know how to dedicate time to those close to me? Francis addressed them first to priests who must listen to the people, not go in a hurry, see how they can help after listening. Speaking about family life, the Pope said: How many times do we speak without first listening, repeating the same stories. Unable to listen, we always say the usual things or do not let others finish talking. The rebirth of dialogue often comes not from words, but from silence, from not getting stuck, from starting again with patience to listen to others, their pains, what they carry inside. The healing of the heart begins with listening." Such an attitude also applies to the relationship with the Lord. We do well to flood him with requests, said the Pope, but we would do better to listen to him first. Jesus asks for it. In the Gospel, when asked what the first commandment is, he replies: Listen, Israel. We are Christians but perhaps, among the thousands of words we hear every day, we do not find a few seconds to make a few Gospel words resonate in us. But if we dedicated time to the Gospel, we would find a secret for our spiritual health. This is the medicine: every day a bit of silence and listening, a few useless words less and a few more Words of God. After the Angelus prayer, Pope Francis turned his attention to the tragedy of Afghanistan. In such trouble times that see Afghans seeking refuge, I pray for the most vulnerable among them. May many countries protect and welcome those who seek a new life. I pray for the internally displaced. May young Afghans receive an education and all Afghans live with dignity in peace and fraternity with their neighbours. The pontiff also mentioned the victims of Hurricane Ida in the United States. And, on the occasion of the Jewish New Year, he wished the New Year be rich in fruits of peace and goodness for those who walk faithfully in the Law of the Lord. Francis invited the faithful to pray for the apostolic journey to Hungary and Slovakia that he will undertake next week. Remembering those who suffered persecution in these countries because of the Gospel, he expressed hope that remembrance will help Europe witness not only with words but also with deeds and works of welcome to the good proclamation of the Lord who loves us and saves us. Finally, on the feast liturgy of St Teresa of Calcutta, he greeted the Missionaries of Charity engaged throughout the world in often heroic service. Another man was fatally shot Saturday morning Officers responded around 11:19 a.m. to a ShotSpotter alert, which led them to a 49-year-old man suffering from gunshot wounds in the 2500 block of Biddle St., near the line between the Broadway East and Berea neighborhoods, police said. Condes whereabouts had been unknown for hours after the intense fighting Sunday in downtown Conakry until a video emerged showing the 83-year-old leader tired and disheveled in military custody. It was not immediately known when or where the video was taken, though a soldiers voice can be heard asking Conde whether the putschists had harmed him in any way. While we are at it, lets recount a few of President Bidens favorite hits. Remember out on the campaign trail when Mr. Biden called out a critic at one rally as a lying, dog-faced pony soldier? To this day I dont know what that means, but I do know that it was not a term of endearment. Or how about the time that then Vice President Biden told an audience that included hundreds of African American listeners that the Republicans would put yall back in chains. Im sure that Mr. Rodricks forgot that one. Both parties could benefit from some better manners. It is incumbent on each to criticize the other when policies fail, such as in Afghanistan or at the border, in a manner that is dignified and constructive. In response to your editorial of Sept. 2nd (Affordable electric vehicles must be a national priority), electric cars are not a practical means of transportation for a large number of people who lack a garage or a place to home charge. Electric car owners pay no gas tax and therefore have free use of the roads. Gas powered cars are cleaner than ever, and as technology progresses new ways will be found to make gas powered cars nearly pollution free. The vehicle emissions test ensures that our present cars are clean. Can coal burning power plants generate the electricity needed to charge millions of electric cars? What will happen to the millions of depleted batteries? Electric cars rob us of the freedom of choice and the convenience of fueling our cars in a few minutes with clean available energy. Gas powered cars have a long and bright future meeting our transportation needs. Councilwoman Cathy Bevins said she only learned about the settlement recently. She used the example of county contracts for goods and services as a parallel for the settlement. If contracts are more than $25,000, they require council approval; if a settlement exceeds $25,000, she said, the council should be notified. One day, my beloved father, Benjamin Kolker, was sitting at his desk, He received a phone call from a friend, Mose Speert, whom he greatly respected. Mose said, Ben, I have a special favor to ask of you. I would like to put in a request to deliver enough lumber, nails and other building material to increase space on a ship to accommodate 4,500 people. The ship was designed to carry 400 to 500 passengers. The materials must be delivered under cover of darkness. Less than a week after Troutners death, some of his family decided to meet at Davis Pub to look at old pictures and reminisce. They also sat down with the Capital Gazette to share some of those memories. Throughout the sit down many people stopped by to share their condolences. Police reform is an issue for the upcoming election and it should be. No issue has generated more discussion. We have had scandals in the police department, including one involving the alleged theft of money from civilians by police officers. At that time, there were no body cameras. Some 13.4 million Syrians throughout the beleaguered country are in need of assistance, the UN humanitarian office said on Saturday, calling for "greater access and expanded funding", to better help them. Concluding a seven-day visit to Syria, Lebanon and Turkey - his first official mission in the region since assuming the function of UN Emergency Relief Coordinator - Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths stressed that "the UN needs to be able to reach people who depend on its aid both from Turkey and from within Syria". "Humanitarians and donors must keep Syria high on our collective agenda to prevent an entire generation being lost", he underscored. During meetings with the Syrian Foreign Minister and his deputy, Griffiths emphasized the need to expand humanitarian access, protect civilians and help Syrians envision a future for themselves. His visit coincided with the first humanitarian cross-line operation into northwest Syria since 2017, which he welcomed as an important step to reaching more people in need with critical assistance. Travelling to Damascus via the UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), Griffiths held constructive meetings with senior government officials and the humanitarian community, including the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and Red Crescent Societies, among others. And in Beirut, he spoke with donors and discussed with the Deputy Prime Minister and Humanitarian Country Team, the country's fast-growing needs, including a severe fuel crisis that jeopardizes health care and safe drinking water. During his visit, the humanitarian chief announced a USD4 million allocation from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support an increased supply of fuel for the continued operation of essential services. Meanwhile, the UN and its partners have developed the 2021-2022 Emergency Response Plan for Lebanon to provide life-saving humanitarian support to 1.1 million of the most vulnerable Lebanese people and migrants affected by the ongoing crisis. The USD 378.5 million humanitarian plan complements the UN's programmes for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and the Lebanon Crisis Response Plan, which also includes Syrian refugees and the communities hosting them. (ANI) Also Read: New COVID-19 variant 'Mu' shows signs of resistance to vaccines: WHO Welcome to Sophi Knows. September 11 has come and gone but should stay in our minds every day. We came together as a nation and should strive for that again. About 3:20 p.m., the children were outside of a business in the 2900 block of West Fulton Street in the East Garfield Park neighborhood when a vehicle approached them, police said. Two people inside the vehicle fired shots at them. The archdiocese said Oreas inappropriate relationship took place when he was associate pastor at St. Genevieve Parish and that the other person came forward after Orea decided to take a sabbatical. She was offered the services of its victim assistance ministry, according to the letters. A 17-year-old boy and an 18-year-old man were shot while sitting inside a vehicle in the first block of East 55th Street in the Washington Park neighborhood around 2 a.m., police said. The boy was shot in the back, and the man was shot in the leg. Both were taken to University of Chicago Medical Center, where their conditions were stabilized. Neither, of course, are still islands. But the scenic and natural wonders on display on Mount Forest Island made it among the first land purchases by the nascent Forest Preserves of Cook County, when 80 acres were acquired in 1916 in Palos Township for $10,605, according to a history of the preserves published in 1965. By 1918, the Palos Preserves had grown to 2,370 acres and was still growing. Earlier this year the practice informed Advocate that its anesthesiologists would be following the contract guidelines and not doing any additional work for one day, Sutaria said. They wanted to demonstrate the services they provide that would go unfilled if they stuck to their contract, he said. At the time, Josko was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol with a .19 blood-alcohol level. He was released on bond. Before the charges were upgraded to reckless homicide and he could be taken into custody, he fled to Poland where he remained until he was extradited last summer. Narcotic drugs are a common enemy of mankind. The Chinese government takes a "zero tolerance" attitude to drugs. It has been rigorously combating drug production, trafficking and other kinds of drug crimes. The Chinese side empathizes with the American people who are suffering from the opioid crisis, and has been offering sincere and law-based assistance to the international community, including the United States, in dealing with fentanyl abuse. From 2017 to 2018, China scheduled six fentanyl substances and 2 precursor chemicals in two actions, which was more than the number of varieties listed by the United Nations at that time. On May 1, 2019, the Chinese government took the lead globally in officially scheduling fentanyl substances as a class, though there was no large-scale abuse or prominent hazards of them in China. This is an important step to implement the agreement between the two Presidents, and also a show of goodwill to address American peoples concern and do what we can to help the US in tackling its opioid crisis, with a view to the health, safety and wellbeing of the entire mankind. In contrast, as the biggest producer and user of fentanyl drugs in the world, the US has a fentanyl problem more rampant than other countries, but it has not officially scheduled fentanyl substances permanently yet. The reasons behind are worth pondering. Here, we urge the US side to permanently schedule fentanyl substances as soon as possible. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2020, the number of drug overdose deaths in the United States reached a record high of 93,000, among which 69,700 were caused by opioids overdose, up by over 30% year-on-year. Against the backdrop of increasingly strict control of fentanyl substances in the world, including in China, Americas worsening fentanyl crisis and rising deaths resulting from it have shown that it has not addressed the crux of the problem. China advised the US side, out of goodwill and for many times, to strengthen supervision and regulation of fentanyl related prescription and raise public awareness about it, which have been proved worldwide to be effective solutions. Since the class scheduling of fentanyl substances, the National Narcotics Control Commission and the Ministry of Public Security of China have maintained close, candid and in-depth coordination with American partners, including the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Bureau of the State Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Meanwhile, China has also made every effort on the formulation of related legal documents, inspection and examination, as well as investigation into and crackdown on online fentanyl sales. In particular, the postal and parcel industry is mandated to take specific measures aimed at combating the trafficking of fentanyl substances and other scheduled chemicals, such as asking for real names of senders and receivers, checking the parcel contents, using security screening equipment for security checks, and strengthening inspection on cross-border parcels to certain destinations such as the United States. These measures have produced notable results and have been widely recognized by US law enforcement partners, who have expressed appreciation on many occasions and called drug control a highlight in our bilateral law enforcement cooperation. According to the latest briefing from the US side, since September 2019, the US has not seized any fentanyl and its analogues originating from China. Wang Fengxi and Chen Jianping, whose cases had been jointly investigated by the Chinese and US sides, were given heavy sentences for their fentanyl-related crimes respectively in November 2019 and May 2021. The US side was invited to attend the announcements of their sentencing in Xingtai, Hebei Province and Shanghai, which demonstrated Chinas determination to bring the violators of drug control laws to justice. At the same time, China attaches great importance to multilateral international cooperation in drug control, and has been actively participating in global drug governance. China has scheduled fentanyl as a class, much more than the categories scheduled by the UN Conventions on drug control. On July 1, 2021, China class scheduled synthetic cannabinoids. 18 other new psychoactive substances, such as fluoroketamine, were also scheduled. Six chemicals, including Methyl -phenylacetoacetate (MAPA), will be listed as precursor chemicals on September 20. China has never stopped its efforts to exercise strict and law-based control on precursor chemicals, and will schedule other related categories in a timely manner based on serious and science-based evaluation. China is a country based on rule of law. Whoever violate Chinese laws will be brought to justice, no matter what means they may use to escape punishment. However, it is disappointing that for all the goodwill and sincerity of the Chinese side, for all its strenuous efforts and huge sacrifices, as well as the great achievements of China-US cooperation in drug control, some American politicians and media are still hyping up such disinformation as "American fentanyl mainly origins from China", "Chinese fentanyl precursors flow into the United States via Mexico". They even claim that China often delays the requests from the US side. These assertions are highly irresponsible and utterly false. Up to now, China has not found any scheduled precursor chemicals trafficked to Mexico, or received any notification from the Mexican side about seizing scheduled chemicals originating from China. Such made-up allegations show zero sense of responsibility towards American fentanyl abuse victims and their families, and seriously mislead the Chinese and American people. They are not in the least helpful for the United States to solve its drug problem and should be rectified as soon as possible. In addition, on May 22, 2020, without any evidence, the US Department of Commerce added the Institution of Forensic Science of the Ministry of Public Security and the National Narcotics Laboratory into its "entity list". This action has seriously affected Chinas examination and identification of fentanyl substances and hindered the operation of its fentanyl monitoring system. China has expressed serious concern and protest to the US side through various channels, as it has greatly affected China's goodwill to help the US in fighting drugs. China urges the US side to correct this wrong practice as soon as possible. The Chinese government has taken a consistent and resolute stance on drug control. We are ready to work with various countries, including the United States, to establish cooperative relations featuring equality, mutual trust and win-win, pragmatically carry out sharing of intelligence, exchange of investigation leads and joint investigation, promote international co-governance on the fentanyl issue, share experience in drug control, and address the drug problems together, with a view to contributing Chinese wisdom and efforts to global drug control for the benefit of people of all countries. At the same time, we want to remind the US side that the root cause of its fentanyl abuse problem is in itself. Blaming others is not conducive to solving the problem. It would be purely wrong to groundlessly criticize China and spread disinformation while appreciating China for support and help. This would only set up obstacles to our cooperation. It is hoped that the US side will face up to its own problems, come up with practical solutions, and learn from international experience to safeguard the health and wellbeing of the American people. We sincerely hope that the United States can solve its opioid abuse crisis at an early date. You are here: Business An international expo for electronics and electrical appliances Saturday opened in Guangzhou, the capital city of south China's Guangdong province. With a theme of embracing domestic demand and exploring the global market, the Guangzhou International Electronics & Smart Appliances Expo drew more than 1,000 exhibitors with over 60,000 products. The expo covers more than 40,000 square meters and comprises six sections including consumer electronics, mobile electronics and parts, intelligent wearable products, and home appliances. A dozen events, including forums and online shopping festivals, will also take place. More than 60,000 visitors are expected to explore the expo that will run through Sept. 6. Such expos showcase the advantages of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in industrial development and consumption capacity. They also promote the transformation and upgrading of foreign trade companies and support "dual circulation," said Wu Zhengping, director of the Trade Development Bureau of the Ministry of Commerce. "Dual circulation" refers to China's new development paradigm, where domestic and overseas markets reinforce each other, with the domestic market as the mainstay. Flash Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said Saturday that the nuclear talks between Iran and the world powers should result in the removal of U.S. sanctions against the Islamic republic. "We do not hesitate to negotiate... but what we are looking for is the lifting of sanctions... Negotiation must be outcome-oriented," he said in a televised speech on Saturday night. Raisi noted that Iran will not accept "negotiation for negotiation's sake." Iran and five remaining parties to the 2015 nuclear deal, commonly known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, started discussions over the revival of the deal after the U.S. unilateral withdrawal in May 2018. After six rounds of talks, the parties have said serious differences remain between Iran and the United States for restoration of the deal. Flash Another 37,578 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 6,941,611, according to official figures released Saturday. The country also reported another 120 coronavirus-related deaths. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths in Britain now stands at 133,161. These figures only include the deaths of people who died within 28 days of their first positive test. The latest data came as Britain's vaccine advisory body announced that coronavirus vaccines for healthy children aged between 12 and 15 should not be recommended. The Joint Committee on Vaccine and Immunisation (JCVI) provided the assessment, saying the COVID jabs should not be recommended to those in this age group on health grounds alone, but the body has advised the government to look at "wider issues" including the impact of the virus on schooling. The decision on healthy children was based on concerns over an extremely rare side effect of the Pfizer vaccine which causes heart inflammation, according to the BBC. A final decision, signed off by the chief medical officers Britain's all four nations, is expected next week, according to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). "COVID-19 cases are likely to increase once schools reopen - in the absence of any COVID-19 restrictions, as children are still unvaccinated and schools are high density, high contact environments, with relatively poor ventilation and long contact duration episodes," said Dr Julian Tang, honorary associate professor at University of Leicester. "Risks can be reduced by ideally, in principle, extending the COVID-19 vaccination programme to younger children, improving school ventilation, masking the older children and teachers, reducing overall class sizes, staggering break periods, but this may have various practical complications that may be unacceptable to some parents and teachers," said the clinical virologist. More than 88 percent of people aged 16 and over in Britain have had their first dose of vaccine and nearly 80 percent have received both doses, the latest figures showed. To bring life back to normal, countries such as Britain, China, Germany, Russia and the United States have been racing against time to roll out coronavirus vaccines. You are here: World Flash A senior military commander of the pro-government Yemeni forces was killed on Saturday in an explosion in the country's southern port city of Aden, a security official told Xinhua. The local security official said on condition of anonymity that "a bomb explosion struck a vehicle carrying Colonel Musa Mashdali while he was passing through a main roundabout in the northern entrance of Aden province." He said the explosion was caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and was likely to be detonated by remote control. "Musa died immediately at the scene while two of his bodyguards were critically injured by IED explosion," he said. Witnesses said security forces cordoned off the bombing area and members of the Criminal Investigation Department began investigating the incident. No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion. The pro-government forces are fighting the Houthi rebels. Local authorities are trying to maintain security and stability in the strategic Yemeni port city considered as the country's temporary capital. However, sporadic bombing incidents and drive-by shooting attacks still occur in Aden, where the Saudi-backed Yemeni government has been based since 2015. Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014, when the Iran-backed Houthi rebels seized control of several northern provinces and forced the internationally-recognized government of Hadi out of the capital Sanaa. Hillsong Senior Pastor Brian Houston has expressed his "shock" at police charges for allegedly "concealing child sex offences" committed by his late father Frank Houston. New South Wales police pressed charges against the 67-year-old on Thursday. "Police will allege in court [that Houston] knew information relating to the sexual abuse of a young male in the 1970s and failed to bring that information to the attention of police," the police said. Houston claims that he only came to know about his father's abuse 30 years after it happened. In a statement toThe Christian Post, he said, "These charges have come as a shock to me given how transparent I've always been about this matter. "I vehemently profess my innocence and will defend these charges, and I welcome the opportunity to set the record straight." In a separate statement released on Friday, Hillsong Church said, "We are disappointed that Pastor Brian has been charged, and ask that he be afforded the presumption of innocence and due process as is his right." The charges against Houston follow a two-year police investigation and a 2014 royal commission probe. Friday's statement said it was the victim's wishes that the police not be informed. "Upon being told of his father's actions, Brian Houston confronted his father, reported the matter to the National Executive Assemblies of God in Australia, relayed the matter to the governing board of Sydney Christian Life Centre, and subsequently made a public announcement to the church. Brian sought to honor the victim's multiple requests not to inform the police," it said. "The statements made by the victim to the Royal Commission in 2014 corroborate this timeline and the fact that the victim did not want the matter reported to the police. The law at the time granted an exception to reporting a crime of this nature when a person had a reasonable excuse not to report. This state law has since further clarified that this type of situationwhen an adult victim of child abuse explicitly does not want the matter reportedqualified as a reasonable excuse under the law." War, in its essence, has never been good. No doubt, it is an absolute necessity in many cases- to procure the liberty of nations, contain evil, preserve lives, and protect the weak. However, war has always involved damages, casualties, and suffering. War brings out the worst of humanity. It never has good endings for those who get involved. The long and dreadful war in Afghanistan has brought suffering and destruction to the people of Afghanistan and failed to achieve peace. In short, war is evil. Yet, in 1 Timothy 6:12, Paul writes, Fight the good fight of faith. There is only one good fight, and it is the Christian warfare. It is the fight of the soul. Here are three reasons why the Christian warfare is good. 1. We fight the enemies within and without It is good to fight because if we dont, the enemies will destroy us. We are fighting on two fronts: the outer front and the inner front. On the inner front, we are battling against our flesh. In 1 Peter 2:11, Peter writes, Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. Peter personifies the passions of the flesh as an army of rebels or guerrillas who search out and try to destroy our joy and usefulness. Therefore, as a soldier of the army of the gospel, we must abstain from the desires of the flesh to impact the world with the word of God. John Owen writes, Be killing sin, or it will be killing you. We fight not only the battle within but also the battle outside of us or the outer front. It is the battle not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Ephesians chapter 6 verse 12). This enemy is cunning and crafty. It has its schemes to deceive us (Ephesians chapter 6 verse 11). It prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter chapter 5 verse 8). Therefore, we must fight. 2. We fight with the best weapon It is a good fight because we fight with the best weapons. The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds (2 Corinthians chapter 10 verse 4). We have the armor of God that can enable us to stand against the schemes of the devil (Ephesians chapter 6 verse 13). We have the sword of truth, which is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). Jesus used the word of God as the weapon against the temptation of Satan, and He succeeded (Matthew chapter 4). Millions of sinners like you and me have used spiritual weapons, and they have never failed. Therefore, let us operate the best weapons that God gives us against the lies and schemes of the devils. 3. We fight the war in which victory is assured We fight under the command of our Captain, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will lead us to the final victory, and the Chief Shepherd (First Peter chapter 5 verse 4). Let me remind you of the words of Martin Luther in A Mighty Fortress is Our God: Did we in our own strength confide, Our Striving would be losing; Were not the right Man on our side, The Man of Gods choosing. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He; Lord Sabaoth is His name, From age to age the same, And He must win the battle. No doubt, the battle is going to be raging, painful, and costly. There will be wounds, bruises, and struggles. However, Jesus shall win the battle for us, and we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8 verse 37). What should motivate us in this fight is the promise of final victory. God will make His enemies a footstool (Psalm 110 verse 1). He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ (Philippians chapter 1 verse 6). Nothing will separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Jesus said, Of those whom You gave me, I have lost none (John 18:9). No soldiers of Christ shall be lost or left dead on the battlefield. Therefore, we can be confident that this fight is good for those who participate in it. Brothers and sisters, we are fighting an irreconcilable war, but it is a war where victory is assured. Press on. Note: The article is inspired by The Fight in Holiness by J.C. Ryle. Last weekend at the Capitol, more than 100 anti-mask protesters demanded that Connecticut children be allowed to go maskless in school. They waved Unmask our children signs and accusing public officials of medical tyranny. The event came only days after protesters carrying those same signs had chased Lamont from his event in Cheshire with profanity and comparisons to Nazi Germany, screaming and knocking on his SUV as he attempted to leave. In a phone interview from Washington, Frankel said she has known Rabbi Lazowskis story her whole life. Lazowski was from the same town as the Rabinowitzes, Zhetel, which was in Poland then but is now in Belarus. Lazowski last saw his mother and siblings in that town, after which he also went to live in the woods. He wrote his wartime memories in a book, Faith and Destiny, which was published in 1975. Kent is fortunate to have 13 new homes coming to a parcel near the village center, as that will be 13 fewer buyers bidding up the cost of existing homes in the area. The parcel is in the Village Residential zoning district, and will be on town sewer and water. It is within easy walking distance of the grocery store, restaurants, and other amenities. Zoning regulations would actually allow up to 19 homes to be built on the parcel, but the developers wanted to have only 13 homes, and on smaller lots than what was allowed for under Kents zoning regulations. The Planning & Zoning commission allowed the developers representative to create a new set of regulations to let them do what they wanted, with only minor feedback from the commission. The result is an attractive subdivision that looks like it came off a Pinterest page, with about 40% of the parcel set aside as open space. The former U.S. Army translator now living in New Haven had expected to stay two months, but he was stunned by the speed of the Talibans takeover of the country. A U.S. resident since 2019, hed been working to bring his family over but realized time was running out and he needed to get out quickly. As someone who played a key role in helping the Americans, Ahmadzai was at high risk. Bush may have been a conservative Republican, but Ackerman reminds us that liberal Democrats were complicit in starting and sustaining the forever wars. A growing popular disgust with both parties reflected how nativists and progressives understood a truth that centrists elided. The fringes on the right and the left could see how the war on terror was an extension of the countrys history, Ackerman says, with its settler colonialism and fantasies of a race war; the difference was that the nativist right insisted that settler colonialism was part of what made America great, while the progressive left found it morally despicable. By 2016, nativists were rejoicing at the prospect of Trump pursuing (nonwhite) terrorists without restraint; progressives wanted the war on terror abolished. OBrien has written a few books about race before, like The Racial Middle: Latinos and Asian Americans Living Beyond the Racial Divide. For this new book, she wanted to flip the script to shine more of a light on white privilege. The concept was one she felt she could discuss as a white author, she said, and there wasnt much work on it. COVID-19 notwithstanding, Priest has been on a creative roll the past few years. Firepower, released in 2018, was the bands last studio album and it straddled the past and present with production duties shared by longtime collaborator Tom Allom and Grammy-winning producer Andy Sneap. It became the bands highest-charting album in the U.S. after debuting at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 albums list during its first week of release. About the same time, founding member Glenn Tipton announced he was retiring from touring because of his battle with Parkinsons disease. It sent understandable seismic shocks through the Priest camp. It was decided that Sneap would step into Tiptons string-bending shoes. We are thankful for the collaborative interagency relationships and for all of the responders who supported this search effort, said Coast Guard Capt. Samson Stevens, Sector Virginia Commander, in a news release. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family throughout this unimaginably challenging time. Lubbock, TX (79409) Today A few passing clouds. Low around 65F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight A few passing clouds. Low around 65F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. The actor who was in movies like Tum Bin 2 (2016), Namaste England (2018) and Purani Jeans (2014) and acted in the series Fitrat (2019), shot to fame as Manav Randhawa in the 2019-hit film, Student of the Year 2 (SOTY2). After a notable performance in the 2020-film Indoo Ki Jawani, opposite Kiara Advani, the young man has left a deeper mark in the minds of his audiences with his performance as Humayun in the recently launched series The Empire. We speak with the actor who, by the looks of it, is now one of the casting favourites in many films and shows. Excerpts from the interview: Q How has the response been to your Humayun in The Empire? The response has been overwhelming and I am hoping we go into Season 2 as well. I do hope that Humayun will be able to do something more in the second season. The writing and the shooting has still not happened. As for the first season, Id met Nikhil Advani a while back after which hed approached me with the other producers Niranjan and Ryan for Indoo Ki Jawaani. Nikhilji seemed to like what he saw of me in that film and approached me for the role of Humayun. A show like this has a very high budget and is a bold step, and it was a task to make it. Q How has your journey been over two decades ? Its been a roller-coaster ride. A lot of people are not aware of the downs. They only remember the ups. Ive done my work and learnt a lot and hence I have no regrets about it. Q How tough was it to handle the downs in your career? It did not become that difficult because of my dad, Ravi Seal. He always supported me when my films did not do well. He just asked me to work and not worry about running the house or my next meal. So wherever I am, whatever dancing or martial arts or little bit of acting I can do is because of his hard work. That being said, it is easy to break when there are downfalls. For instance, Tum Bin 2 did not do well because it had released around demonetisation. My mother panicked and asked my dad to take me into the family business. Instead, my father had seen my work and was sure that Id make it. That kept me going. Q How different was it to move from films to web series? Apart from the number of days it takes to make a web series, I dont see any difference. Films and web series are at par. In fact, the production value of the series was high and even higher than many films. The treatment and the shooting also took place with top-of-the-line artists and technicians. While we had the OTT for people to park their time during COVID times, it has opened up a new avenue for filmmakers. With the kind of stories and projects being made on OTTs, even films set to release in theatres will up the ante of their content. Q SOTY2 turned out to be the breakthrough role for you. Your thoughts? I started getting a lot of compliments from the people and the film got me noticed. But the other side is that people had not seen my other roles, and felt that I could be only restricted to roles where there is not a lot of work on the character. Slowly, I had to prove people wrong. Q You were your teens when you did Ek Chhotisi Love Story. Any fond memories? There was a scene when I had cut my veins and Manisha Koiralaji was supposed to come and hold my hand. She realised that the scene would require her hand to be seen and asked for ten minutes to do her nails. It took around 20 minutes and I was lying on the bed and I somehow slept off because the main light went off. It was to be her last scene of the day. After 20 minutes when the lights came on and I woke up, I saw her with her hair tied back and no makeup. She was beautiful. I cannot ever get that memory out of my head even though it is over 20 years old! To address critical needs in the agricultural sector and rural areas, Pinduoduo announced that it would launch a dedicated 10 Billion Agriculture Initiative, which would not be driven by profit or commercial goals but strive to facilitate the advance of agritech, promote digital inclusion, provide agritech talents and workers with greater motivation and a sense of achievement. By arrangement Pinduoduo, Chinas largest online agricultural retail marketplace, said it would continue to waive the fees for farmers selling agricultural food products on its platform as it seeks to deepen its contributions to agricultural modernization. We are gratified that Pinduoduo serves over 16 million farmers, acting as their portal to the digital economy, said Chen Lei, Chairman, and CEO of Pinduoduo. We have seen first-hand how online agriculture retail and technology have benefitted farmers. We are pleased that farmers and our partners recognize it too, which is why they have spread the word and helped the number of farmers on our platform grow quickly. Chen pledged to maintain the companys zero commission policy for agricultural products to help farmers build more resilient, efficient, and profitable businesses. Pinduoduo is stepping up its focus on raising quality and service as it served 850 million annual active users in the quarter ended June, the slowest increase since 2019. Pinduoduo also posted second-quarter revenue that trailed the average analyst estimate, rising 89% to 23.0 billion yuan (US$3.6 billion). It recorded a rare profit but warned investors that it would be unlikely to recur due to heavy investments into agriculture. To address critical needs in the agricultural sector and rural areas, Pinduoduo announced that it would launch a dedicated 10 Billion Agriculture Initiative, which would not be driven by profit or commercial goals but strive to facilitate the advance of agritech, promote digital inclusion, provide agritech talents and workers with greater motivation and a sense of achievement. Profits from the second quarter and any potential profits in future quarters would be allocated to the Initiative, Chen said. This is an important and challenging task, which we will invest in patiently, he said. The 10 Billion Agriculture Initiative is the latest in a series of programs by Pinduoduo aimed at supporting agricultural modernization and rural vitalization. The company made promoting high-quality agricultural food products from hundreds of Chinas growing regions the focus of its annual harvest festival. Earlier this month, Pinduoduo launched its flagship Smart Agriculture Competition to gather top scientists and researchers to develop cost-effective agricultural technology that is suitable for Chinas smallholder farmers. This year, the company has included nutritional content and environmental sustainability as key measures for evaluation, in addition to yield and cost. Disclaimer: No Deccan Chronicle journalist was involved in creating this content. The group also takes no responsibility for this content. The parents, relatives and neighbours of the child are under observation. (Representational image: DC file) Kozhikode: A 12-year-old boy died due to Nipah virus infection at a hospital here, Kerala Health Minister Veena George said on Sunday. The samples of the boy, which were sent to the Pune National Institute of Virology, confirmed the presence of Nipah virus. The Central Government has rushed a team of the National Centre for Disease Control to the state, which will be reaching on Sunday.The team will provide technical support to the state. Nipah virus is spread by saliva of the fruit bats. Giving details of the case, the minister told reporters, "Unfortunately, the boy passed away at 5 in the morning. The condition of the child was critical on Saturday night. We formed various teams and have started the tracing. Steps have been taken to isolate those who were the primary contacts of the boy". The minister said the infection was confirmed by the Pune NIV on Saturday night. "Three samples-- plasma, CSF and serum-- were found infected. He was admitted to the hospital with a heavy fever four days ago. But on Saturday, his condition became worse. We had sent his samples for testing the day before yesterday," the minister said. George said none of the close contacts of the boy are showing any symptoms as of now and that the health department has already traced out the contacts of the child. "There is nothing to worry about. The health department is closely following up the situation. Special officers have been posted and special teams were formed. The patient was first taken to a private hospital, then to the medical college and from there again shifted to a private hospital. So we have traced all his contacts. The friends he played with in his locality, his cousins and others, the health department had completed the identification and tracing of all these contacts," George said. The minister also asked the neighbouring Kannur and Malappuram districts to remain cautious. Hospital sources said the boy will be cremated today itself following the health protocol. Police have cordoned off an area of three km radius around the house of the boy. In the wake of the virus resurfacing in Kerala, the Centre has advised some immediate public health measures which include active case search in the family, village and areas with similar topography especially in Malappuram. The measures also include active contact tracing for any contacts in the past 12 days, strict quarantine of the contacts and isolation of any suspects and collection and transportation of samples for lab testing, the ministry said. The first Nipah virus disease outbreak in South India was reported from Kozhikode district of Kerala on May 19, 2018. There have been 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases as of June 1, 2018. The court directed the state government to reopen the cancelled tenders and also provide an opportunity to Mclean India to take part in the bid. DC Image Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Saturday directed the state government to reopen the cancelled tenders to fix an agency for taking up maintenance of sanitation and housekeeping at the famed Kanaka Durga temple in the city. Kanaka Durga temple authorities had called for tenders at the temple earlier. The authorities did not allow one of the bidders, Mclean India Private Limited, to take part in technical bidding stating that it was ineligible to do so. However, Mclean India moved the High Court stating that it was not allowed to take part in the technical bid even though it was having the requisite criteria to be eligible to take part in the bid. Meanwhile, the authorities cancelled the tenders following the development and are continuing the existing agency to take up the works. Petitioners counsel M. Venugopala Rao argued that the temple authorities were delaying calling for fresh bids. The court directed the state government to reopen the cancelled tenders and also provide an opportunity to Mclean India to take part in the bid. In a separate development, the High Court directed the National Highway Authority of India to construct service roads on either side of the flyover at Benz Circle in the city. According to the EC, Mr Dwiwedi, who informed it that the Covid-19 situation was fully under control, no impact of the flood situation on the poll-bound Assembly constituencies and the state being fully geared to hold the election. PTI Kolkata/Berhampore: Ignoring West Bengal BJP's opposition, the Election Commission (EC) on Saturday announced that Assembly by-polls at Bhowanipore, where chief minister Mamata Banerjee will contest to become an elected Trinamul Congress member of the House, will be held on September 30. The EC's step came after state chief secretary H.K. Dwiwedi drew its attention to "a constitutional crisis" if the TMC supremo is not able to continue as the CM without winning elections after heading the government for six months. The EC also scheduled the Assembly polls at Shamshergunj and Jangipur seats in Murshidabad of the state, where polls were earlier adjourned following two candidates' death due to Covid-19, on the same day. The poll results of the three Assembly seats will be declared on October 3. After the announcement of the poll dates, Ms Banerjee cancelled her North Bengal tour which was supposed to start from Sunday. According to the EC, Mr Dwiwedi, who informed it that the Covid-19 situation was fully under control, no impact of the flood situation on the poll-bound Assembly constituencies and the state being fully geared to hold the election, "also cited that under Article 164(4) of the Constitution of India, a minister who is not a member of the legislature of the state for a period of six consecutive months shall at the expiration of that period cease to be a minister and there will be a constitutional crisis and vacuum in the top executive posts in the government unless elections are held immediately." It added, "He also informed that in view of administrative exigencies and public interest and to avoid vacuum in the state, bye-elections for Bhabanipur, Kolkata, from where Ms Mamata Banerjee, chief minister, intends to contest elections may be conducted... considering the constitutional exigency and special request from the state of West Bengal, it has decided to hold bye-elections in 159-Bhabanipur AC." TMC secretary general Partha Chatterjee said, "The EC, to the best of its wisdom, decided to hold the Assembly by-polls at Bhowanipore and polls at two other seats. Our party supremo will win at Bhowanipore with a record margin. Other Assembly constituencies will also be taken up by the EC." In Murshidabad, leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, who defeated Ms Banerjee at Nandigram but opposed early Assembly by-polls, claimed, "The announcement of dates shows the EC does not work on the BJP's instructions... But why has only a by-poll been declared apart from polls at Shamshergunj and Jangipur? What about the other vacant seats? The state chief secretary's argument of 'a constitutional crisis' proves that no other TMC MLA is fit to be the CM." The BPF also received a major political setback in Assembly polls this year with UPPL-led by Pramod Boro winning six of the 12 seats in the BTC area. DC Guwahati: Bogged down by political isolation in western Assam, the Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) has extended a hand of friendship to Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in an obvious bid to return to ruling BJP fold as an ally after walking out of the Congress-led Mahajot (Grand Alliance) which came into existence just before the Assembly elections in March this year. A few days ago Assam Congress decided to sever ties with AIUDF. The exit of BPF, another big ally, has come as a major setback to the alliance of Opposition political parties just before bypolls in six Assembly constituencies in Assam. BPF general secretary Prabin Boro told reporters, We met the chief minister on Friday and submitted a friendship proposal to the BJP. We have conveyed to him that BPF no longer wishes to be in the Opposition. Rather, we are interested to be with the government and work together for the people. Therefore, we want to be an ally of the BJP. He further said, The chief minister told us that he wants to have an inclusive government and if someone wants friendship with BJP, the party will deliberate on it. Though he has said nothing directly, we are optimistic. However, Assam minister Pijush Hazarika on Saturday clarified that BPF joining the ruling alliance would not affect their alliance with United People's Party Liberal (UPPL) which has been ruling the Bodoland Territorial Council Area. "In the larger interest of the people, the BJP would like to unite the like minded forces to protect and defend the interest of Assam, he said. For close to 20 years, Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) had been the biggest political outfit in Bodoland Territorial Council Area of western Assam. In December 2020, the United Peoples Party Liberal (UPPL) with the help of BJP managed to wrest control of Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), which was under BPF control for 17 years. The BPF also received a major political setback in Assembly polls this year with UPPL-led by Pramod Boro winning six of the 12 seats in the BTC area. The BPF, which had won all the 12 seats in the past three elections, had to be content with just four while the BJP made its presence felt by winning two seats. The BPF was also part of the BJP-led coalition in the state and had three ministers in the previous BJP-led alliance government in the state. The party parted ways with BJP in the BTC polls in December and in the Assembly elections it joined the Congress-led alliance. The BJP joined hands with UPPL. Friends and foes, allies and adversaries, just about everyone is criticising the US President either for his decision to pull American troops out of Afghanistan or for the way in which it was done. (AFP) It is not fashionable these days to say anything favourable about Americas President Joseph Biden. Friends and foes, allies and adversaries, just about everyone is criticising the US President either for his decision to pull American troops out of Afghanistan or for the way in which it was done. The countries directly impacted by the decision, such as India, feel that their security concerns ought to have been factored in and better addressed. The countries directly dependent on Americas security protection, such as Taiwan, worry about future the US commitment to their national security. Most others, however, merely taunt and ridicule Mr Biden for not being a Trump-like macho. The future course of events, especially across Eurasia, will determine Mr Bidens place in history. As for future developments in Afghanistan itself, there are three likely scenarios, and each one of them can end up showing President Biden in a good light. First, the Taliban could turn a new leaf, focus on stabilising their nation, provide an inclusive government and get involved with the countrys development; second, the Taliban may get bogged down in internecine quarrels among various ethnic and sectarian groups dragging Afghanistan into a civil war; and, third, the Taliban and other radical Islamic groups could consolidate their hold over Afghanistan and use it as a launch pad to create trouble all around in Iran, Pakistan, Russia, China and India. If the first scenario works out, Mr Biden will be hailed a hero. If, on the other hand, the second scenario comes about, many would regard Mr Biden as wise and prescient, getting US troops out and getting the Taliban bogged down in their own backyard. Many in the United States would happily welcome the third scenario playing out, while apologising to India for any collateral damage. History is likely to be kinder to Mr Biden than the contemporary media. While we in India have to clean up our own house and get our act together to be able to deal with the challenge of cross-border terrorism and religious radicalisation, Mr Biden would be busy renewing his own home countrys capacity to deal with the extant challenges of the twenty-first century. Mr Bidens August 31 address to the nation deserves closer reading. Mr Bidens six key propositions, in his own words, were as follows: (1) While making sure that Afghanistan can never be used again to launch an attack on our homeland The fight against terrorism, wherever in the world, does not require the occupation of territory. The US has over-the-horizon capabilities and can strike terrorists and targets without American boots on the ground. (2) The US will henceforth prioritise serious competition with China; challenges on multiple fronts with Russia; and the challenges posed by cyberattacks and nuclear proliferation. (3) The US has to shore up Americas competitiveness to meet these new challenges in the competition for the 21st century. (4) The US can do both, fight terrorism and take on new threats that are here now and will continue to be here in the future. (5) While staying clearly focused on the fundamental national security interests of the United States of America, Mr Biden assured the American people, the decision about Afghanistan is not just about Afghanistan. Its about ending an era of major military operations to remake other countries. (6) Finally, Mr Biden signed off letting his support base know that during his presidency, human rights will be the centre of our foreign policy. But the way to do that is not through endless military deployments, but through diplomacy, economic tools, and rallying the rest of the world for support. In its essence, what these propositions suggest is that even as the United States retains the capacity and will to deal with the challenge of terrorism, it will not place its soldiers in harms way since it has other means to achieve its ends. More importantly, Mr Biden has declared that not only would the US not engage in forever wars and military deployment to deal with terrorism but that that the real challenge to US power globally comes from a relative loss of competitiveness vis-a-vis its peer group of major powers, especially China. This worldview has been in the making. Slogans like President Donald Trumps America First and Mr Bidens Build Back Better and the focus on modernising soft and hard infrastructure are all part of an agenda of renewal aimed at ensuring that the US remains ahead of all challengers. Mr Bidens Budget proposals seek to increase public investment across the board, especially in Americas educational and social base and its technological capability. Any objective assessment of US capability, capacity and competence would suggest that America has the ability to bounce back and remain ahead of the competition well into the present century. America has done it before, recovering from defeat and renewing itself. It would, therefore, be premature to declare the end of Pax Americana or the arrival of a new Post-American Era. Mr Bidens Afghanistan decision has raised questions about trust among friends and allies, but these can potentially be addressed to the latters satisfaction. The questions about competence raised by the Kabul exit will fade away if Mr Biden pursues a new game, dealing with friends and foes. The bottom line is that the world still needs the United States. Even countries that maintain good relations with China want the US around, including Russia and Iran. The US can easily improve relations with both and with most neighbours of China to ensure its global relevance. The only joker in the pack would be if China too seeks better relations with the US. That would throw up new challenges for India. There are many signals coming out of China that suggest that its political leadership is now more concerned about domestic economic growth and political stability than wanting to challenge the US in the foreseeable future. If all major powers remain preoccupied with domestic challenges and regional stability, and if no major terrorist attacks emanate out of Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran, the new Biden doctrine has the potential to renew American power and make the world feel safer. Whatever the future may hold, for now President Biden can make a credible case for aspiring to a Nobel Peace Prize. The ISI chief's trip is the first high-level visit by a Pakistani official since the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15 in a move that surprised both their foes and friends. (AFP Photo) Islamabad: In a surprise move, Pakistan's powerful intelligence chief Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed on Saturday dashed to Kabul, according to media reports here, amidst the Taliban struggling to finalise and install an inclusive government in Afghanistan that would be acceptable to the international community. A delegation of senior Pakistani officials led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Lieutenant General Hameed arrived in Kabul to conduct discussions with the incoming Taliban government, the Pakistan Observer newspaper reported. The ISI chief is expected to meet top Taliban leaders and commanders. "Issues relating to Pak-Afghan security, economy, and other matters will be taken up with the Taliban leadership, the report said, quoting sources. According to the Express Tribune, Hameed will also meet Pakistan's envoy in Kabul to discuss the matter of repatriation and transit through Pakistan of foreign nationals and Afghans fleeing Taliban rule. "The issue of pending requests from countries and international organisations for the repatriation/transit through Pakistan and the need to determine the mechanism through which Pakistan could allow these, in coordination with the ground authorities in Afghanistan will be discussed during the meeting with the Taliban officials, it said, quoting sources. The intelligence chief will spend a day in the Afghan capital, the Geo News reported. Border management is another important issue that will come under discussion during the visit of Hameed, it said. Pakistan was often accused by the Afghanistan government of giving the Taliban military aid, a charge denied by Islamabad. The ISI chief's trip is the first high-level visit by a Pakistani official since the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15 in a move that surprised both their foes and friends. Since then, the insurgent group has been trying to form its government, but has been postponing the announcement. The Taliban have postponed the formation of a new government in Afghanistan for next week, their spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said on Saturday, as the insurgent group struggles to give shape to a broad-based and inclusive administration acceptable to the international community. This is the second time that the Taliban have delayed the formation of the new government in Kabul since their toppling of the US-backed Afghanistan government. The insurgent group was expected to announce the formation of the new government led by its co-founder Mulla Abdul Ghani Baradar on Friday, but later postponed it by a day to Saturday. Hameed's visit to Kabul came as Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab earlier in the day and said that Pakistan will assist in the formation of an inclusive administration in Afghanistan. Raab arrived in Islamabad on Thursday night to meet top Pakistani leadership and discuss the Afghanistan situation. Daisy Arvizu, left, participates in a street march in support of immigrant rights on Aug. 26. She was at work inside a Walmart in El Paso in August 2019 when a gunman opened fire in a shooting that killed 23 people, spurring her husband, Martin Portillo, to later to buy a handgun for their protection. Get 25% off of the regular $65 annual All Access rate. With this subscription you will get: Digital access to ElPasoInc.com and archives (value $45) Print subscription home or business delivered (value $65) Book of Lists (annual rate only, value $50) El Paso Inc. Magazine (value $20) El Paso Kids Inc. Special sections - OR - Get 15% off of the regular $45 annual Digital-only rate. With this subscription you will get: Complete digital access to ElPasoInc.com. Emporia, KS (66801) Today Cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 65F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Fighting gets fierce as National Resistance Front (NRF) push back Taliban attacks in the Panjshir Valley, an impenetrable natural fortress. The NRF report that the terror group has inflicted death on the fighters attempting to run over the last pocket of freedom after American president Joe Biden abandoned Afghanistan. Panjshir, which is 80 miles from Kabul, is where the Jihadi forces are struggling to overcome the defensive positions of the resistance. Pro-Afghan forces led by Amrulleh Saleh and Ahmad Massoud as the prominent leaders in the fight for freedom have proven to be a thorn on Kabul's conquerors. National Resistance Front stood ground against Taliban in Panjshir Valley The exact number of casualties on both sides is not determined; claims of the dead in the hundred are not confirmed. Fighter's of the NRF have pledged never to surrender an inch of the valley to the Taliban, who have never defeated protectors of this area ever, which is the only obstacle to the total domination terror group, reported the Sun UK. The Taliban declared the area had been conquered, prompting celebrations in Kabul. Guns were fired into the air by the Jihadis, where stray bullets killed 17. But, the NRF told the media the Taliban were telling a lie and were still unconquered yet, claims the fortress is about to fall is not even true. Panjshir is famed for lasting out the Soviet 80's invasions and the terror group, and both paid a high price in men and equipment. Almost a quarter million live in the valley, as the National Resistance Front strengthens its forces for Taliban attacks. Read Also: Joe Biden has Dropped it in Afghanistan; Allies Fear the US Fail Against China in the Future The composition of the noble resistance is local tribesmen, with former Afghan soldier and police force members, Afghan SAS commandos, and special ops troopers who vowed never to surrender. They could get US war hardware, including tanks, helicopters, howitzers, and trucks, to wait out a siege by the cruel Jihadis. Although the Jihadis are said to have a cache of US weapons seized after the US military left, some reports contradict their claim as most of the war machines were scuttled by US servicemen. Still, the Mullahs claim they have the resources to repair the damaged hardware, cited Alarabiya. Adding to the natural defenses are wrecked hulks of armor vehicles destroyed by fighters in the Soviet Era. Prominent leaders in the fight for freedom Ahmad Massoud, son of the 'Lion' who led the 'Lions of Panjshir' during the '80s and '90s, is feared for his prowess. He is one of the best commanders who have given the Jihadis defeat after defeat. Giving legitimacy to the NRF forces is Amrullah Saleh, the last VP of a free Afghanistan who risks a terrible death but chooses to make his final stand in Panjshir. It could be his grave if the Taliban succeed. Everyone will fight up to the last man. He told the BBC many fighters are ready for the consequences of the difficult scenario. Adding surrender is no option for all the men. However, the Jihadis spread fake news that he left like the disgraced president, accused Pakistan as a regional actor supporting the terror group, but was denied. Saleh went about in traditional garb as he was seen with the fighters in the field, declared that the resistance is alive and strong. Saleh stated that National Resistance Front is ready to counter Taliban attacks, though the insurgents cut electricity, phones, and internet lines, leaving many Jihadis trapped with no support. However, with the leadership of Massoud and Saleh, the resistance is united under the Northern Alliance. Related Article: Taliban Releases Bizarre Video of Jihadis Doing Martial Arts Moves After Resistance Fighters Training Footage Aired @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The Democrat president allegedly prioritizes his public image, and his military commanders did not do their jobs. White House ex-national security adviser said the military should not allow incompetent leaders to stay and ask how they can fail the withdrawal and evacuation at the same time. Biden failed to protect US interests Last Thursday, the Washington Examiner interviewed with retired Army Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, who used to be the adviser of former President Donald Trump and Vice-President Mike Pence. Citing that military strategist made errors and said those mistakes sank the US army in such a short time. Kellog did not directly point at Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Mark Milley, who helped in the Trump administration's withdrawal plan and negotiations with the Taliban. He said that heads should roll and be held to account for the failure, reported Newsmax. Kellog argued that the administration could fail the mission in keeping the Mullahs in place. This terror group lacked artillery fire support, with no air or logistics to supply the critical forces. Furthermore, he questioned how did they defeat the 20 years of US presence. It prompts who made the wrong decisions there, who must pay for the disaster, said the Ex-White House adviser. Read Also: Joe Biden has Dropped it in Afghanistan; Allies Fear the US Fail Against China in the Future It impacts the generals of the US military with the three- or four-star rank that should be looked into. He then remarked how those tasked with the Afghan occupations would ask where did everything go wrong. Kellog said that Secretary of Defense Loyd Austin was his subordinate two times, and Mark Miley was under him in the White House, as chief of staff or chairman of the Joint Chief. He added his comments were not meant to free them of blame. Biden's leadership must be held accountable All the responsibility for the devastatingly spectacular missteps was on Joe Biden, who tried to spin his way but said he followed their advice to leave Bagram Air Base. But he said that the president could have silenced Miley even after he made his views clear. Furthermore, the Afghanistan withdrawal was designed as a September 11 photo op, said House Minority Leader Rep-Kevin McCarthy, noted Fox News. He added that Biden decided on the declarations of his advisers, who must account for the error. Though, others think the president carries the brunt of the decision. One of his fears is that the pullout and insufficient evacuation will be wrong on the veterans who bled and lost a lot in the service of their country. The bad image of the US will be the cause of the demoralization of many. Saying these veterans have dispensed their duty to serve, which should be highlighted not the terrible pullout orchestrated by the administration. Ex-White House Adviser Kellog sternly mentioned if those who failed at top miserable are allowed to spin and avoid accountability for the Afghan debacle. It will be another alleged attempt of the current administration's wanting a way out of this dishonorable stain on the US, costing money and lives. Related Article: Joe Biden Forsakes Afghan Interpreter Who Rescued Him in Blackhawk's Forced Landing Due to Snowstorm in 2008 @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. China has pledged to keep its embassy in Afghanistan open and to boost humanitarian assistance to the war-torn nation, according to a Taliban spokesperson. Stronger Relationship Between Taliban and China In a recently published article in South China Morning Post, Wu pledged that China will continue diplomatic ties with the new government by keeping its embassy in Afghanistan open, according to Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid, adding that their "relations would strengthen up as opposed to the past." Following the Taliban's capture of Kabul on Aug. 15, the Islamist group is now faced with transitioning from insurgency to governmental authority. According to a Taliban spokesman, China is their most significant partner and provides them with a fundamental and exceptional chance since it is willing to invest and reconstruct Afghanistan. Furthermore, The Taliban have said that Afghanistan would continue to engage in China's Belt and Road Initiative, expressing optimism for Beijing's investment and assistance in rebuilding the war-torn nation while pledging to safeguard Chinese interests, according to a published report in MSN News. Read Also: Taliban, Chinese Officials Meet Ahead of US Withdrawal From Afghanistan China To Increase Investment and Humanitarian Aid The Taliban spokesperson said that China will continue and increase its investment and humanitarian efforts most especially in providing COVID-19 vaccines. However, Beijing did not yet confirm the claim of the Taliban, according to a published article in The Straits Time. Last month, China condemned the U.S. decision's "hurried departure" from Afghanistan but said that it would be willing to communicate with Washington's leaders in order to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe amid the chaos escalating in the war-torn country. Afghanistan is strategically situated and abundant in natural resources for China. While Beijing has long wanted to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) into Afghanistan, owing to the country's unpredictable environment and China's concern of spillover effects from Afghanistan's instability, it has made little headway over the years. China Did Not Yet Recognize Taliban Government Beijing, on the other hand, has not recognized the Taliban as the de facto administration and is suspicious of the terrorist group's backing for Muslim-minority Uyghur separatists attempting to enter China's sensitive Xinjiang border province. Although Beijing started evacuating Chinese people from the nation months ago as security worsened, China's embassy in Kabul remained open, according to a published report in Yahoo News. However, it is not yet clear how many Chinese citizens were evacuated from Afghanistan. According to experts, a stable and cooperative government in Kabul would open the path for Beijing to expand its overseas development push. Meanwhile, the Taliban may see China as a vital source of investment and financial assistance. Taliban Formed a New Government In the midst of growing worldwide speculation over the new government's makeup, Taliban sources confirmed on Friday that Mullah Baradar, the movement's co-founder, would lead the new cabinet, which is scheduled to be presented on Saturday. According to three sources, Baradar, who is in charge of the Taliban's political office, would be joined in key posts in the government by Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, the son of the late Taliban leader Mullah Omar, and Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanikzai. Related Article: Taliban, China to Work Closely in Reconstructing Afghanistan @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. President Joe Biden will pay his respects to the almost 3,000 individuals who died in the September 11 attacks by visiting all three 9/11 memorial sites on the 20th anniversary of the attacks. Biden and First Lady To Visit All Three Sites In a recently published article in CNN News, the White House said on Saturday that President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden would visit all three sites of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the 20th anniversary of the tragic day to give honor and respect. On Saturday, Biden and his wife, Jill, will travel to New York City, where two planes crashed into the World Trade Center, killing 2,753 people; Arlington, Virginia, where a third plane crashed; and Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where passengers forced down a fourth plane believed to be headed for the US Capitol or White House. Meanwhile, before joining the President and first lady at the Pentagon, Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff will go to Shanksville, the site of the United Flight 93 disaster, for a separate ceremony, according to a published report in Yahoo News. Read Also: China Pledges Taliban To Remain Its Embassy in Afghanistan, Communist Country To Increase Humanitarian Aid Biden Ordered Department of Justice To Review 9/11 Terrorist Attacks Documents President Joe Biden has directed the Department of Justice earlier this month to examine records from the FBI's investigation into the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, for declassification and release, according to a published report in Reuters. As part of a declassification examination of records linked to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the order compels U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to make the declassified papers public over the next six months. Relatives of 9/11 victims requested a US government watchdog to look into their claims that the FBI misled about or destroyed information connecting Saudi Arabia to the terrorists. In a letter to Department of Justice Inspector General Michael Horowitz, the request said that circumstances indicate that one or more FBI employees engaged in intentional wrongdoing with the aim to destroy or conceal evidence in order to prevent exposure. Saudi Arabia has denied any involvement in the hijacked airliner assaults. Moreover, many relatives urged Biden to boycott 20-year commemoration ceremonies unless he released papers they believe prove Saudi Arabian authorities were complicit in the attacks. The Justice Department said in a court filing three days later that it had chosen to examine previous claims of a privilege it had made about why it couldn't disclose certain material sought by families. Travell Iternerary of Former U.S. Presidents In a recently published article in US News, Obama's spokesperson informed a news outlet that former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama would attend the memorial service in New York. However, it is not clear if he will deliver a remark. Former President George W. Bush and Laura Bush, the former first lady, will also visit Shanksville. The George W. Bush Presidential Center stated that the 43rd President will give the keynote address at an event accessible to the families of those lost on United Flight 93 as well as invited visitors. Related Article: Taliban Claims Usama bin Laden is Not Behind the 9/11 Attack @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A study concludes that mammals and birds evolve faster in isolated regions like mountains. This kind of evolution is dependent on several factors that determine how creatures adapt to their environment. Authors from Cambridge University in the evolutionary study of animals say it is driven if the location is highland or lowland in the last three million years. Noticeably this has affected the adaptations of every animal living since then, which is the primary driver of change in nature. Study finds a process that leads to evolution Speciation is a process caused by higher elevations to be a factor in creating new species more so than the rapid change of temperature or climate change, reported the Daily Mail. When landmasses get higher in altitude, especially in mountain ranges, it will influence unique habitats. Height will kick in the creation of new animals that are specialized for it. One species resulting from these unique conditions is the Kea and several birds living in the New Zealand alpine regions. Much of the results of speciation also brought about the bighorn sheep of the Rocky Mountains. The Kea is a large parrot inhabits the higher Alpine region in the South Island and Mount Cook National Park. According to Dr. Andrew Tanentzap, the mountain tops have unique species which cannot be seen anywhere. One assumption was the climate and its conditions that would nudge the creation of new species. Still, it is the elevation or location of the habitat which serves as the main factor. Mammals and birds evolve faster in elevated regions like mountains due to variables in these environments. Read Also: Otters Seen Eating Shark Internal and Sex Organs in the South African Coast. Examination of how higher altitudes can drive how a new species is adapted for exotic environments instead showed that mammals were evolving faster than birds, noted the study authors. Implication of increased altitude habitats Birds can fly and cross more areas to look for a mate over a broader range than mammals. Other findings are that birds are likely to feel modern-day temperatures than mammals. Next, Dr. Tanentzap specified two essential variables to explain why higher elevations push evolution faster than usual, cited Texas News Today. New habitats allow species to adapt to unique niches that are exploited to specialize in. Used as an example are the maps of the Victorian naturalist Alexander von Humboldt's iconic maps, outlining habitat changes in increasing elevations. One more reason is that barriers keep mammals locked in areas, compared to birds that can fly out. The isolation caused a lack of unique mates, and inbreeding occurs, unlike interbreeding. Having barriers on different levels on the mountainside keeps them separate over longer distances. Dr. Tanentzap suggested that land barriers would be more of a hindrance to mammals which evolves differently from birds. Flight is the variable that determines speciation in birds, noted National Geographic. Researchers made a model that tracked changes in elevation of the earth's surface in the last three million years, combined with climate change in the same period-combining the locations of birds and mammals where they lived. What differed in the land increased with lower temperatures, with more complex habitats in locations that are in mountainous regions. Isolation of mammal groups that breed amongst themselves gives another avenue for evolution that will occur. Getting isolated starts creating new species, which is an exception in the case of the Kea, a large parrot that evolves faster in elevated regions like mountains. Related Article: NASA Send Squids and Tardigrades to the International Space Station To Study How They React in Zero Gravity. @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. On Saturday, a tiny number of Afghan women braved the Taliban-controlled streets of Kabul once again to demand equal rights and the opportunity to have roles in the government. Women's Demonstration Became Violent In a recently published article in CNN News, on Saturday, Taliban guards and some of the ladies got into a fight. In the video, a guy with a megaphone tells the tiny audience that their message will be passed on to the elders. His tone seems to be soothing. Women can be heard screaming towards the conclusion of the video, with one activist exclaiming, "Why are you hitting us!" After Taliban troops allegedly stopped the Afghan ladies from moving on to the presidential palace, which reported the deployment of tear gas on demonstrators, violence erupted. As they attempted to travel from a bridge to the presidential palace, the Taliban attacked them with tear gas and pepper spray, according to the organization. A video of Afghan activist Narjis Sadat bleeding from the head was extensively circulated on social media, with the allegation that she was assaulted by militants during the demonstration. Sadat has been contacted by a major news organization for comment, according to a published article in DW. Read Also: Taliban Bans Music, Requires Afghan Women With Male Chaperone; New Rules Contradict Promises Taliban Dismissed the Violence and Pledged Women Will Be Valued in the New Government Taliban officials have rejected footage of violence during women-led demonstrations that have been circulated on social media. According to Muhammad Jalal, the chairman of the Cultural Commission, these protests are an intentional effort to create difficulties, and that the individuals involved represent less than 0.1 percent of Afghanistan's population. The militant organization is still in discussions about establishing a government, but they have warned women to remain at home, and in some cases, militants have even ordered women to quit their jobs, according to a published article in BBC News. Furthermore, the actions contradict pledges made by the rebel group's leaders, who have said publicly that women would play a major part in society and will have access to education. However, the group's public comments about sticking to its version of Islamic principles have fanned concerns of a return to the Taliban's harsh rules, which saw women virtually vanished from public life two decades ago. Clashes in Panjshir Valley, north of Kabul Continues In another report, fighting has persisted in the Panjshir Valley, north of Kabul, where resistance forces have been resisting Taliban takeover attempts. However, there was a claim and a counter-claim. The Taliban claim to have seized control of two additional districts and are on their way to the province's center. Heavy combat is still going on, according to a spokesperson for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF), and hundreds of Taliban have been encircled. The Panjshir Valley, which is home to between 150,000 and 200,000 people, was a hotbed of resistance during the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s and throughout the Taliban's prior reign, according to a published report in FOX5 Vegas. Ahmad Massoud, the NRF's head, hailed women's demonstrations in Herat and vowed Panjshir will continue to fight. However, none of the NRF's or Taliban's allegations could be independently confirmed. Related Article: Afghan Woman Mutilated by Evil Taliban, Had Her Nose, Ears Chopped Off After Trying to Escape @ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. A U.S. reconnaissance aircraft was spotted Sunday over the Korean Peninsula, a flight tracker said, amid speculation that North Korea might be preparing for a military parade to mark major national anniversaries. The Global Hawk plane was seen flying in the skies along the border with North Korea, such as the greater Seoul area and the country's northeastern Gangwon Province, according to Flightradar24 and other sources. The Global Hawk is a high-tech unmanned drone that can perform tasks to a range of up to 3,000 km and distinguish objects on the ground as small as 30 centimeters in diameter. Its detection came after a large number of troops were reportedly seen gathering in Pyongyang, a sign that North Korea might be preparing for a military parade ahead of its state and ruling party founding anniversaries on Thursday and Oct. 10, respectively. The possibility of a military parade in North Korea draws attention as North Korea recently warned of a "serious security crisis" in protest over the combined military exercise staged last month by South Korea and the United States. North Korea usually uses such national anniversaries to hold military parades and showcase its state-of-the-art weaponry. Last October, North held a massive military parade to mark the 75th party founding anniversary and unveiled a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) and several other advanced military assets. The North's latest military parade was held in January right after its rare party congress. During the event, leader Kim Jong-un pledged to bolster the country's nuclear arsenal. (Yonhap) President Moon Jae-in speaks during a luncheon with National Assembly leaders at Cheong Wa Dae, Friday. Yonhap By Nam Hyun-woo The conservative main opposition People Power Party (PPP) is increasingly urging President Moon Jae-in to veto a controversial media law revision, widely referred to as the "fake news" bill. But it appears unlikely that Moon will use his right, in a bid to prevent his moves from affecting the liberal ruling Democratic Party of Korea's (DPK) popularity in the upcoming presidential election. According to the National Assembly, the DPK will table the proposed revision at a plenary session on Sept. 27. The revision was initially set to be put to vote at an Aug. 30 plenary session, but the plan was postponed amid strong protest from opposition parties, media organizations and civic groups. If the DPK and the PPP fail to reach an agreement, the revision, which sets out punitive damages for news outlets or reporters that produce incorrect or fabricated reports, will likely go to a vote at the upcoming session and be legislated, because the DPK holds more than half of the 300-seat Assembly. Due to this, the PPP has been calling for President Moon to exercise his veto right, with which a president can send an Assembly-passed bill back for review. PPP floor leader Kim Gi-hyeon said on Aug. 30, "If the President does not exercise a veto, we will prepare every possible process to determine his responsibility for such a decision." However, Moon and Cheong Wa Dae have been taking an equivocal stance. According to PPP lawmakers who attended a meeting between Moon and National Assembly leaders on Friday, the President said "fake news is a threat to democracy, and it is also democracy that prevents society from controlling fake news," adding it is "such an irony." Moon also said on Aug. 31 after the Assembly postponed the voting, "Laws and rules related to the fake news bill should be considered thoroughly to prevent possible abuses, but it is also important to prevent malicious fabricated reports and protect those who suffer from such reports." Along with Moon's ambiguous remarks, other Cheong Wa Dae officials are taking a neutral stance on the fake news bill as well as other key pending political issues before the presidential election in March next year. People Power Party floor leader Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon speaks during a rally against a media law revision outlining punitive damages to be paid by news outlets that produce "fake news" in front of the National Assembly on Yeouido, Aug. 30. Yonhap Gyeonggi Governor Lee Jae-myung, a leading presidential contender of the ruling liberal Democratic Party of Korea, raises his arms after giving a speech during a party event at CJB Convention Center in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, Sunday, when he won 54.54 percent in the party's presidential primary vote for Sejong and the province. Korea Times photo by Oh Dae-geun By Kwon Mee-yoo Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung is solidifying his dominance in the liberal ruling Democratic Party of Korea's (DPK) primary for next March's presidential election. As he took more than half the votes in the primary held in two key regions over the weekend, speculation is that it may be difficult for the runner-up, former DPK Chairman Rep. Lee Nak-yon, to keep up. At the DPK's primary vote for party members and the public of Daejeon and South Chungcheong Province, Saturday, Governor Lee earned 54.81 percent, doubling the support rate of his main rival Lee Nak-yon, who is also a former prime minister, at 27.41. The DPK's other four presidential contenders gained support rates of between 0.84 percent and 7.84 percent. On Sunday, Governor Lee scored another landslide win at the primary vote for the region of Sejong and North Chungcheong Province with 54.54 percent of the votes, followed by Lee Nak-yon with 29.72 percent. Among the six contenders of the ruling party, the governor and the former chairman were seen as forming a rivalry; the former has been leading opinion polls, with the latter wishing for a reversal. But the results of the first two regional votes just consolidated Governor Lee's chances of victory. Governor Lee emphasized that he is the most competitive candidate of the DPK, saying that the only criteria for voting in the primary should the candidate's competitiveness in the final race. "I believe the party members actively threw their support behind the contender who has the biggest potential in terms of competitiveness with opposition candidates," Governor Lee said after the results were announced. Gyeonggi Governor Lee Jae-myung, left, bumps fists with former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon during a joint speech event held ahead of the liberal ruling Democratic Party of Korea's first presidential primary voting at Daejeon Convention Center in Daejeon, Saturday. Governor Lee earned 54.8 percent of the votes with a landslide win. Yonhap The DPK plans to hold nine additional primary votes across the country, with Seoul as the final stop on Oct. 10. The overall votes of the entire primary elections are expected to exceed 2 million, so the 52,820 total votes from Daejeon and South Chungcheong Province and 23,803 from Sejong and North Chungcheong Province do not take up a significant part of the total result. But Daejeon, Sejong and the Chungcheong provinces are often considered swing regions in elections, so Governor Lee's two wins signify his dominance within the DPK. Former Prime Minister Lee said he humbly accepts the results and will do his best in the remaining primary votes. However, the chances of him reversing the final results seem slim considering the large gap between the two, as party members' and the public's participation in the primary votes in other regions will be affected by the first region's results. If no contender earns a majority in the primaries of the 10 regions, the party will hold a final vote, so former Prime Minister Lee was hoping for a two-way race. However, if the governor's huge lead continues in other regions, it seems unlikely the primary race will go to a final vote. Governor Lee said he expected a slight edge over the former prime minister but received more votes than he expected. "I will focus on what I could do for the country and the people. I will also concentrate on competition in policy rather than smear campaigns against other contenders, as we are one team," Governor Lee said. By Choe Chong-dae I took a romantic train trip recently to Seocheon County, South Chungcheong Province, from Seoul to Janghang railway station. What was most inspiring in that coastal town was the site of Gibeolpo Naval Battle at the Geum River Estuary. In commemoration of the naval battle, a small monument stands at the end of Janghang Skywalk, an observation deck. Unlike Hansan Naval Battle and Myeongnyang Naval Battle where the Korean hero Admiral Yi Sun-sin (1545-98) repelled Japanese invaders in 1597, Gibeolpo Naval Battle in Janghang, Seocheon, is not as well known to the public. Throughout Korean history, Gibeolpo Naval Battle has been regarded as a great naval victory because Silla forces annihilated Tang Chinese forces. The Samguksagi, a collection of Korean historical records of the Three Kingdoms (Goguryeo, Baekje and Silla), describes Si-deuk, later called Admiral Kim Si-deuk, as having played a decisive role in bringing about victory to Silla in the Battle of Gibeolpo in 676. Although Admiral Si-deuk lost the first battle against Tang General Xue Rengui's forces, he triumphed over the Tang's invasion, destroying many of their warships and causing several thousand causalities of Tang's soldiers in 22 battles despite being vastly outnumbered. His remarkable leadership, outstanding tactics and expert knowledge of the geographical features led to Silla's victory. Subsequently, Silla took the lead in the war on the western sea of Korea and ended the seven-year-long war. Ultimately, victory of the Gibeolpo Naval Battle brought about establishment of the first independent and entirely unified Korean kingdom by uniting Goguryeo and Baekje under Unified Silla. Accordingly, the Gibeolpo Naval Battle site in Janghang port town enshrines the identity of our ancestors who sought to protect Korea. Watching the panoramic view of the endless sea at the site of Gibeolpo Naval Battle, I was transported back to the time of Tang China's invasion and the echo of Silla's shouts of victory in the 7th century. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries honored Admiral Kim Si-deuk by recognizing him as a Korean maritime historical figure in October 2016 in honor of his outstanding dedication in the naval battle between Silla and Tang. In addition, more than two centuries ago two British naval vessels, Lyra and Alcete, anchored off Maryang Estuary in Seocheon towards the west sea of Korea and local officials went aboard for a look while those vessels conducted a survey of the area to produce a nautical chart in 1816. While in Maryang, Captain Waxwell of the ships presented to the Korean officials a copy of the King James Bible. According to Ilseong-rok, an official daily journal of state affairs during the reign of King Seongjo (r:1830-1834) of the Joseon Kingdom, Captain Maxwell handed a copy of the King James Bible to Cho Dae-bok, maritime officer of Maryang port town. Notably, a travelogue called "Voyage of His Majesty's Ship Alceste, Along the Coast of Corea, to the Island of Lewchew," was written by John McLeod, the ship's doctor, in 1818. It contains detailed illustrations depicting the historical encounter between Westerners and Koreans. In recognition of the historical site, a Bible Memorial Hall was established at Marang Village in Seocheon in 2016. The historical significance of Seocheon should not be undervalued. Regrettably, its population has been declining gradually. We should be fostering domestic tourism to not only invigorate regional economic growth but to also educate future generations of Koreans on how Seocheon contributes to Korea's cultural richness. Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and director of the Korean-Swedish Association. Korea should be careful in joining Five Eyes alliance The U.S. House Committee on Armed Services passed a defense authorization bill Thursday that would require the U.S. administration to consider expanding a five-way intelligence alliance to include South Korea and three other countries. If the bill gets approval from both the House and the Senate, it will be sent to President Joe Biden to be signed into law. The National Defense Authorization bill for fiscal year 2022 is drawing attention because of the envisaged expansion of the so-called Five Eyes, an intelligence-sharing agreement between the U.S., Australia, Britain, Canada and New Zealand. It proposes to expand intelligence sharing with South Korea, Japan, India and Germany. If the bill becomes the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for next year, the four countries will be invited to join the Five Eyes alliance which evolved during the Cold War as a mechanism for monitoring the now-defunct Soviet Union. As far as South Korea is concerned, such an invitation may mean that its international status has improved to keep abreast with the five mostly English-speaking members of the intelligence-sharing alliance. Seoul has so far closely cooperate with Washington on military intelligence under seven decades of the bilateral alliance to cope with security threats from North Korea. South Korea's potential inclusion in the Five Eyes could provide opportunities for the country to have access to more extensive intelligence shared by the member states. It could also help strengthen its alliance and partnership with the U.S. and other countries. Nevertheless, South Korea cannot be all smiles to welcome a possible invitation to the Five Eyes. The expansion of the intelligence-sharing alliance could be a double-edged sword. Such an expansion could be seen as part of U.S. efforts to stem the rise of China, as the Biden administration is stepping up an anti-China alliance amid the escalating great power rivalry. In fact, the Biden administration wants South Korea to join the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, better known as the Quad comprised of the U.S., Japan, Australia and India. However, Seoul is reluctant to do so, fearing retaliation from China which sees the Quad as a coalition against Beijing. President Biden is expected to focus more on rallying U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific region to tighten its noose around the neck of China after he completed the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan at the end of last month. Thus, South Korea will likely face more pressure to join the U.S.-led campaign against China. But Seoul needs to take a careful approach in order not to be caught in the crossfire between the two powers. The Moon Jae-in administration should engage in active diplomacy to protect South Korea's national interests. It must enhance the country's alliance with the U.S. to ensure its security. At the same time, it should do all it can to maintain stable relations with China as our largest trading partner. South Korea also must go all-out to avoid a worst-case scenario in which it will be forced to choose sides. By Jason Lim A recent AP article titled, "New Asian American bakeries find bicultural sweet spot," tells the story of Asian-American bakeries innovating on traditional American cookies with ingredients from their cultural culinary traditions. For example, the article highlights a "Dimsum Cookie" that's infused with sesame seeds and red beans. But if you lived near a "Korea Town" in well-known center with a Korean population, bakeries that sell traditional Korean baked goods next to American staples infused with ethnic flavors is nothing new. At least in the Northern Virginia area where I live, Korean bakeries seem to have a large and ever growing following among non-Asian Americans for offering new, interesting, and tasty treats for the whole family. This is a natural phenomenon that happens when cultures come together in the same space. Adding this culture to that one, mixing them together, and producing something new is a natural evolution of people and traditions colliding in a largely friendly way. It's food production as a means to new identity production. As the article says, "From ube cakes to mochi muffins, bakeries that sweetly encapsulate growing up Asian and American have been popping up more in recent years. Their confections are a delectable vehicle for young and intrepid Asian Americans to celebrate their dual identity." Identity is not a static thing. It's something that morphs and churns as you encounter new kinds of people, information, environments, and stimulation. It's also very localized. For example, my Indian American friend and I will both self-identify as Asian American when asked in the U.S. But if we find ourselves in Singapore, for example, identifying ourselves as Asian American doesn't make too much sense. We would default to either Americans or Indian or Korean. It's not just baked goods, of course. It's not uncommon to see food trucks that sell bulgogi tacos these days. Or, as the headline of Eater, Washington DC says, "At revamped Succotash, Edward Lee serves smoked steaks with a southern-Korean touch." Southern-Korean touch wouldn't even make sense twenty years ago, but now, it's a headline text that actually delivers an articulated meaning. And we celebrate this, as we rightfully should. It enriches the world we live in. However, we also see outrage erupt when a white woman in Portland writes a company blog essay titled, "How I discovered the miracle of congee and improved it," as a part of a marketing effort to sell prepackaged congee kits called, "Breakfast Cure." Her apparent fault was that she dared to claim that she improved on a traditional Asian staple by adding fruits, nuts, and other sundry ingredients. There were supposedly many reasons for the outrage, but what I can gather in essence is that people were irate that a white woman claimed intellectual ownership over something that Asians considered their own. Oh, apparently, she also called herself the, "Congee Queen." As with similar cases, claims of cultural appropriation were thrown about, whatever that means, as a means to shut down any meaningful discussion than to facilitate one. There was the assumption of the "righteousness" of Asians to feel anger at the white woman's presumption that she could be any good at making congee, let alone pollute it with non-traditional ingredients. Then the argument would also point out that the ingredients that the woman used to make congee better were already being used in China to make congee better. So, she shouldn't have been messing with congee but, whatever she did, an Asian already did it? Why couldn't a white woman be a congee queen, just as a Korean-American chef became famous for his southern cooking? Is a bulgogi taco Korean or Mexican? What if you put kimchi shavings on top? If I can barbecue a mean steak in my backyard during Labor Day, can I call myself the BBQ Prince of Virginia? Or do I have to look like a middle-aged white man? Then again, is it OK if I sprinkle Korean red pepper powder over the meat? Does that give me more claim? Let's be honest. Purveyors of cultural appropriation accusations are not trying to defend indigenous culture per se. They are actually anti-culture, bad-tempered beavers that want to build dams to prevent cultural tributaries coming naturally together to form larger, deeper rivers of human experience. They'd rather keep the water all bottled up and static in their little beaver ponds so as to be able to claim pride of ownership. But who really owns culture in any case? It's not something that you can patent. Culture is a set of undulating narratives that dynamically, but always temporarily, draws boundaries around certain social identities. It's meant to be inclusive, diverse, and ever-changing. Cultural appropriation, especially over food, is a concept meant to divide us into "us vs. them" so that "we" can feel safely victimized and indulge in righteous anger over "them." Grow up already and bon appetit. Jason Lim (jasonlim@msn.com) is a Washington, D.C.-based expert on innovation, leadership and organizational culture. Prisoners wait to be tried in Jemulpo (modern Incheon) circa 1902. / Robert Neff Collection By Robert Neff On Oct. 27, 1884, three policemen accused of badly beating a British citizen were put on trial in Incheon. This may have been the first mixed court in Korea involving a British citizen. Although he had insisted that he would attend, W.G. Aston, the British Consul-General, decided not to (possibly because the Korean governor was not presiding over the trial) and instead sent his assistant, James Scott. Scott was "courteously received" by Hong Sun-hak, the prefect of Incheon, who assured his guest that "he was prepared to inflict punishment there and then in [his] presence." Scott suggested that it might be well to ascertain conjointly the facts of the case and hear any defense the accused might have to make." Apparently this suggestion pleased Hong and he immediately began making preparations for a real trial and not just a display of punishment. The trial took place in the prefect's hall which, located on a low ridge overlooking the town, was "a very convenient and picturesque courtroom," he described. "Two European chairs were brought forward and motioning me to occupy the one on the east, the place of honour due to a guest, the Prefect quietly seated himself on the other and called upon the clerk to form the court." Minor officials, attendants and runners soon gathered on the terraces surrounding the courtyard and the clerk read aloud the prisoners' dispositions taken at Namyang. After this was completed, the clerk called for the prisoners to be brought. Within a few minutes, several runners and attendants appeared with "the three prisoners who, heavily cangued, threw themselves as best they could with such large planks of wood encircling their neck, prostrate on the ground facing the court. The runners and attendants drew themselves up on either side as guards." Korean prisoners in cangues, circa 1890s-1900s / Robert Neff Collection The three prisoners Jeong Sai-hui, Lee Bang-seok and Park Gwi-han each acknowledged their name by "kowtowing and prostrating themselves" when called. Jeong, the senior prisoner, was commanded to give his account of the events that transpired near Namyang. "In a long statement delivered with considerable fluency and rhetorical effect," he admitted that he was with seven or eight people who, "armed with coarse sticks," beat the Englishman, D.R. Thomas, as he was lying beneath a tree. Fearing that Thomas would attempt to escape, they bound his hands behind his back and marched him to Namyang. Jeong claimed he never struck the Englishman but acknowledged his fellow prisoners were among the assailants who had administered the beating. Thomas, accompanied by the British consulate's constable (Leonard A. Hopkins), was the next to appear before the court. He presented his side of the story and claimed that "he had never threatened, either in language or manner, any of the police." The Englishman's injuries were then examined by the prefect. Although the beating had occurred almost a month earlier, the bruises and swelling were still very much evident and the prefect professed "extreme regret" and "assured [Thomas] of his sympathy under the sufferings which he must have undergone" both during the beating and the subsequent painful walk to Namyang. "He was truly sorry for the whole affair, and hoped that Thomas would soon recover from his wounds." Awaiting judgment in the late 19th century / Robert Neff Collection Thomas was asked to look closely at the three prisoners and identify which if any had taken part in the assault. The prisoners, "who hitherto had remained kneeling with their faces towards the ground, were now ordered to look up." Thomas verified that each of the men had been present but Jeong had never struck him. This was too much for Lee. He claimed he never struck the Englishman and had treated him with kindness gave him water to drink and even "wiped the perspiration from his forehead." Thomas admitted Lee had given him water and wiped his face but insisted Lee had taken part in the beating. When asked why he would accept water and minor kindnesses from his attacker, Thomas explained that have been so severely beaten and with "his hands so firmly tied behind his back, he could not help himself, and that under the circumstances he was glad to appeal to anyone for assistance." Having heard the evidence, the prefect turned to Scott and, "in palliation of the conduct of the police," explained that when they were given the arrest warrant they were fully aware that if they failed to return with Thomas they were subject to being punished a severe flogging. Hong suggested the police were truly "apprehensive, as they declared, of Thomas effecting his escape," and for this reason they had tied his hands behind his back. There was, however, no doubt that the police had severely mistreated Thomas and would need to be punished. Both Scott and Hong agreed that, considering the incident had become a diplomatic issue, the matter of punishment should be decided by Kim Hong-jip, the governor of Gyeonggi Province. A Korean prisoner receives his punishment in the late 1890s. / Courtesy of Diane Nars collection General Motors Chevy Camaros sit in a lot at the GM Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant on Sept. 2 in Lansing, Mich. GM has had to temporarily shut down most of its North American plants due to a semiconductor chip shortage. AFP-Yonhap 'Key risk' to M&A outlook is 'increased regulatory scrutiny': Goldman Sachs By Kim Yoo-chul Despite the justice ministry's decision to release Samsung leader Lee Jae-yong from prison with expectations for his help in addressing shortages of semiconductors and vaccines, the company is facing some difficulties along the road in terms of pushing major deals because of anti-competition concerns in the geo-political landscape. The U.S.'s continued trade tussle with Beijing mostly over intellectual property rights has awakened demands for Washington to put more focus on supply chains. Also, because of a shortage in semiconductor chips hitting wider U.S. industries, the Biden administration is in the process of combining an industry-centric strategy with expanded revitalization of alliances. That means semiconductors and electric vehicle (EV) batteries are increasingly being seen by many countries in terms of national security interests. Given South Korea's close ties both with China and the United States, this emerging trend will make it difficult for South Korean makers of semiconductors and batteries to pursue multi-billion-dollar deals with both countries. The rationale is that any mergers and acquisitions (M&A) suggestions which would have greater impact on affected industries are attracting keen attention of antitrust bodies globally, as these M&As normally require approval from major countries. Watchdogs are positioned to throw global companies' M&A strategies into disarray as the final barrier. Goldman Sachs, a top U.S. investment bank, recently warned that a key risk to M&As is "increased regulatory scrutiny due to antitrust concerns." "Governments around the world are taking an increasingly active interest in M&A proposals. A key point is antitrust watchdogs around the world are assessing M&A proposals as national security matters," a senior executive in the local semiconductor industry said, Sunday. Samsung chief Lee plans to fly to the United States during the Chuseok long weekend starting next week, sources said. Considering the two reasons behind his parole, the vice chairman is widely expected to meet Moderna's top decision-making executives and to discuss the best ways to strengthen its semiconductor business in the United States. But amid worries over national security and the impact on American jobs, it's unlikely the Samsung chief will make any big M&A decisions during the trip. Despite the company's denial, Samsung is said to have been rethinking its bid to acquire NXP Semiconductors due to regulatory issues, and sources said it will look for ways to hedge investment risks and avoid regulatory challenges by pursuing M&As that top investment banks describe as "blockbuster" deals. "The Biden administration is apparently cracking down on possible monopolies, which is worrying Wall Street. But based on Biden's July executive order for antitrust agencies to inspect M&As deeply, now isn't the right time for Samsung to pursue mega deals," another high-ranking industry executive said. Nvidia's acquisition of British chipmaker Arm has also hit regulatory challenges, as it's unlikely for the U.K. government to have more time to review this deal based on both national security and anti-competition grounds. Google, Amazon and Tesla are said to have opposed Nvidia's acquisition of Arm due to antitrust concerns. Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong exits a detention center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province, Aug. 13. AP-Yonhap Hyundai Mobis future concept vehicle / Courtesy of Hyundai Mobis Hyundai Motor fuel cell truck XCIENT / Courtesy of Hyundai Motor By Kim Hyun-bin The government aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with plans to invest 12 trillion won into related industries and policies next year as the first step. In order to back up the government's initiatives, several major conglomerates are set to update their investment plans for hydrogen-centric businesses this week, according to company officials, Sunday. Top-tier companies including Hyundai Motor Group, SK Group and Lotte Group have formed an alliance to launch a "hydrogen council" aimed at cutting carbon emissions. The official launch ceremony, to be held on Sept. 8, will be attended by Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Euisun, SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won and Lotte Group Chairman Shin Dong-bin. The council will be officially launched Wednesday, following the H2 Business Summit held on the sidelines of the H2 Mobility + Energy Show 2021 at KINTEX Convention Center in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province. Hyundai Motor will play a central role in the upcoming show, as it plans to host the "Hydrogen Wave" event to specify the key hydrogen-related technologies, strategies and next-generation fuel cell systems that have evolved under the firm over the last 23 years. Hyundai Motor was the world's first to commercialize fuel cell vehicles in 2013, and it aims to produce 500,000 vehicles annually by 2030. POSCO Chairman Choi Jeong-woo, Doosan Chairman Park Jeong-won, Hyosung Chairman Cho Hyun-joon, Hanwha Group heir Kim Dong-kwan and senior executives at GS Caltex and Kolon are set to participate in the event, according to the companies. From a policy standpoint, Korea recently passed a bill to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 35 percent by 2030 under the Climate Crisis Response Act, becoming the 14th country to pass such a legislation. Reducing emissions to net zero has emerged as a global agenda to fight climate change since the Paris climate accord went into effect in 2016. Korea aims to go carbon-free by 2050 by transforming the country's fossil fuel economy to an eco-friendly one. The EU and the U.S. vowed to go carbon neutral by 2050 and China by 2060. According to a Goldman Sachs report last year, the global hydrogen market is predicted to reach $12 trillion by 2050, which is the reason why local conglomerates are starting to invest heavily in the field. On a related note, SK said it will invest 18.5 trillion won into hydrogen-centric businesses, aiming to create a hydrogen value chain from production, distribution to consumption by 2025. POSCO aims to generate 30 trillion won in sales from the hydrogen-focused business by 2050 with the country's steel giant planning to produce 5 million tons of hydrogen by 2050. A Taliban fighter, left, stands guard as Afghan women take part in a protest march for their rights under the Taliban rule in the downtown area of Kabul, Sept. 3. AFP-Yonhap Taliban special forces in camouflage fired their weapons into the air Saturday, bringing an abrupt and frightening end to the latest protest march in the capital by Afghan women demanding equal rights from the new rulers. Also on Saturday, the chief of Pakistan's powerful intelligence agency, which has an outsized influence on the Taliban, made a surprise visit to Kabul. Taliban fighters quickly captured most of Afghanistan last month and celebrated the departure of the last U.S. forces after 20 years of war. The insurgent group must now govern a war-ravaged country that is heavily reliant on international aid. The women's march the second in as many days in Kabul began peacefully. Demonstrators laid a wreath outside Afghanistan's Defense Ministry to honor Afghan soldiers who died fighting the Taliban before marching on to the presidential palace. ''We are here to gain human rights in Afghanistan,'' said 20-year-old protester Maryam Naiby. ''I love my country. I will always be here.'' As the protesters' shouts grew louder, several Taliban officials waded into the crowd to ask what they wanted to say. Flanked by fellow demonstrators, Sudaba Kabiri, a 24-year-old university student, told her Taliban interlocutor that Islam's Prophet gave women rights and they wanted theirs. The Taliban official promised women would be given their rights but the women, all in their early 20s, were skeptical. As the demonstrators reached the presidential palace, a dozen Taliban special forces ran into the crowd, firing in the air and sending demonstrators fleeing. Kabiri, who spoke to The Associated Press, said they also fired tear gas. The Taliban have promised an inclusive government and a more moderate form of Islamic rule than when they last ruled the country from 1996 to 2001. But many Afghans, especially women, are deeply skeptical and fear a roll back of rights gained over the last two decades. For much of the past two weeks, Taliban officials have been holding meetings among themselves, amid reports of differences among them emerging. Early on Saturday, neighboring Pakistan's powerful intelligence chief Gen. Faiez Hameed made a surprise visit to Kabul. It wasn't immediately clear what he had to say to the Taliban leadership but the Pakistani intelligence service has a strong influence on the Taliban. The Taliban leadership had its headquarters in Pakistan and were often said to be in direct contact with the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence agency. Although Pakistan routinely denied providing the Taliban military aid, the accusation was often made by the Afghan government and Washington. Faiez' visit comes as the world waits to see what kind of government the Taliban will eventually announce, seeking one that is inclusive and ensures protection of women's rights and the country's minorities. The Taliban have promised a broad-based government and have held talks with former president Hamid Karzai and the former government's negotiation chief Abdullah Abdullah. But the makeup of the new government is uncertain and it was unclear whether hard-line ideologues among the Taliban will win the day and whether the rollbacks feared by the demonstrating women will occur. A man paints over murals on a concrete wall along a street in Kabul, Sept. 4. AFP-Yonhap Afghan resistance movement and anti-Taliban uprising forces take part in a military training at Malimah area of Dara district in Panjshir province on Sept. 2 as the valley remains the last major holdout of anti-Taliban forces. AFP-Yonhap An anti-Taliban Afghan resistance group on Sunday claimed their fighters cleared a district in north-eastern Panjshir province from the radical militants and inflicted heavy casualties on them. The spokesperson of the National Resistance Front (NRF), Fahim Dashti, wrote on Twitter that Paryan district has been completely emptied of Taliban fighters. Nearly a thousand Taliban fighters?have been either killed, wounded or taken captive after the exit route behind them was closed off, Dashti said. The information could not be verified independently A Taliban spokesman, Bilal Karimi, claimed on Twitter on Sunday that their forces have seized five of the province's seven districts. Panjshir is the only one of Afghanistan's 34 provinces that is not yet under Taliban control. It is a mountainous and hard-to-reach region north of Kabul, giving anti-Taliban fighters an advantage. A resident of the Shutul district, which is located at province's entry point, said Taliban militants had entered their village on Saturday and shot at several parked cars. The majority of civilians had already fled farther into the mountains before they entered. He added the fighters left again. There were unconfirmed reports they were ambushed on their way out. Ahmad Massoud, the son of famous Afghan leader Ahmad Shah Massoud who was assassinated just two days before the September 11, 2001 attacks is leading the resistance front. In addition to the fighting, former local politicians reported that the Taliban have blocked humanitarian access to the province. "They are not allowing food, nothing, to be entered into Panjshir," Zal Mohammad Zalmay Noori, a former parliamentarian from the province told dpa on Sunday. Afghanistan fell to the Taliban militants three weeks ago. Since then, the country has been in a state of crisis and uncertainty. Tens of thousands have already fled while the majority of state institutions remain closed. The Taliban have said for days they are close to forming a government, but there has been no announcement. (dpa) A man looks at a partially collapsed building in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, in Houma, La., Sept. 4. AP-Yonhap Hurricane Ida's toll rose to 12 storm deaths in Louisiana on Saturday, still far outpaced by the dozens killed in flooded Northeast U.S. states where President Biden is heading next week to assess damage. New York and New Jersey were among the four northern states that started the Labor Day holiday weekend digging through debris left by the deadly deluge that killed more than 44 people and caused public transportation in New York City to grind to a halt. Transportation operators promised to restore some lines before the start of the workweek on Tuesday. U.S. President Joe Biden will visit storm-ravaged New Jersey and New York on Tuesday, just days after he traveled to hard-hit Louisiana where the storm made landfall almost a week ago. His Northeast travels will include Manville, New Jersey, and the Queens borough of New York City, the White House said. This file photo shows a bent stop sign in a storm damaged neighborhood after Hurricane Ida in Grand Isle, La., Sept. 4. AFP-Yonhap The confirmed storm-related death toll in Louisiana rose to 12 on Saturday, Governor Bel Edwards told a news conference. He warned those numbers could increase because so many people are relying on power from generators, which were blamed for four carbon monoxide deaths among the 12 deaths, the governor said. More than 718,500 customers in Louisiana are still without power, down from the 1.1 million people that Hurricane Ida's devastation initially left in the dark, the governor said. After Biden mentioned the possibility of using a cruise ship to house workers trying to restore power, the Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line said it would deploy its Grand Classica flagship to New Orleans to house 1,500 front line workers under a charter agreement with Entergy Corp. "Hurricane relief and humanitarian charters are something we've done several times in the past, and we are proud to be able to move quickly to action now in this way, helping facilitate relief for the thousands of people who remain without power across the region," Kevin Sheehan, president of the cruise line, said in a statement. This file photo shows storm-damaged houses after Hurricane Ida in Grand Isle, La., Sept. 4. AFP-Yonhap Two new deaths in Louisiana were among evacuated nursing home residents at a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse now under state investigation after reports of squalid conditions. "Sadly, we also can now confirm 2 additional deaths among nursing home residents who had been evacuated to the Tangipahoa facility," the Louisiana Department of Health tweeted on Saturday. "This brings the death toll of nursing home residents evacuated to this facility to 6," the health department tweeted. Hot weather continues in the area nearly a week after Ida made landfall in Louisiana on Sunday as a Category 4 hurricane, downing trees, power lines and debris with wind gusts that reached 172 miles per hour (276 kph). Amid the cleanup in the Northeast, commuters using public transportation to venture into their offices amid the COVID-19 pandemic may not be completely in the clear with Hurricane Larry intensifying as it churns about 1,055 miles (1,700 km) east of the Leeward Islands. "Higher swells could approach the Northeast coast by the end of the week, with Larry staying off shore," meteorologist Bob Oravec of the National Weather Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland, told Reuters. (Reuters) U.S. President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden walk between tombstones as they leave St. Joseph on the Brandywine Catholic Church in Wilmington, Del., after attending a Mass, Sept. 4. AP-Yonhap President Joe Biden will visit all three 9/11 memorial sites to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks and pay his respects to the nearly 3,000 people killed that day. Biden will visit ground zero in New York City, the Pentagon and the memorial outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where United Flight 93 was forced down, the White House said Saturday. He will be accompanied by first lady Jill Biden. Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Shanksville, Pennsylvania, for a separate event before joining the president at the Pentagon, the White House said. Harris will travel with her spouse, Doug Emhoff. Biden's itinerary is similar to the one President Barack Obama followed in 2011 on the 10th anniversary of the attacks. Obama's visit to New York City coincided with the opening of a memorial at the site where the iconic World Trade Center towers once stood. In this Sept. 13, 2001, file photo, fire and rescue workers search through the rubble of the World Trade Center in New York. The 20th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil will be observed on Sept. 11. EPA-Yonhap Atiyeh Brothers Rugs & Carpeting is seeking a Warehouse Delivery Technician for our Tigard retail location. Main job duties include receiving and storing materials within the warehouse, preparation and delivery of products, maintaining the property for cleanliness, and ensuring accuracy and timeliness of all tasks. We offer a starting wage of $17/hour as well as vacation pay, holiday pay, a retirement plan, health insurance, and supplemental insurance (dental, vision, life insurance, short term disability). Atiyeh Brothers is a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the Portland Metro Area since 1900. KEY DUTIES: Accurate and timely completion of written work orders including cutting padding and carpeting. Ability to drive a forklift. If you are not certified to drive a forklift, Atiyeh Brothers will provide payment for training and certification costs. Receive and inspect incoming merchandise. Assist salespeople with showing rugs in showroom and in the home. Prepare and complete delivery of rugs/carpets in a company vehicle. Provide a high level of customer service with clients. Maintain cleanliness of exterior of building, grounds and vehicles. Load carpets for installers. Maintain cleanliness of interior of building including warehouse, showroom, and bathrooms. Maintain van by completing preventive maintenance requirements; arranging for repairs. Perform inventory controls. Assist with Cash & Carry cleaning department. QUALIFICATIONS: Good driving record. Effective communication, time management, and organizational skills. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this job you will be frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit and climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift objects up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift objects that weigh more than 100 pounds. The employee is required to drive in a cleaning van or other vehicle. recblid w9o8czhjdkl2ztza5qdlz0mhs9a9d5 Schedule: Mon-Friday 6:30am start time. 8-11 hour shifts, occasional weekend deliverys A Commercial Driver License (CDL) Driver job in Tualatin, OR is available at Milgard Windows and Doors. STARTING PAY $28 AN HOUR. Potential candidates must possess a valid Class A license based on specific location delivery vehicles and requirements. You will be responsible for the delivery and unload of finish products, parts and materials to customer locations (Dealers place of business, homeowners residence or job site). Milgard Windows and Doors is the leading manufacturer of windows and doors in the Western United States with operations in Washington, Oregon, California and Colorado. Milgard was recently acquired by MI Windows, which creates additional opportunities for growth and synergies between these two industry leaders. Commercial Driver License (CDL) Driver job responsibilities include: Responsible for the delivery of Milgard products to dealers, contractors, and jobsites throughout the locations geographic region. Complete corresponding paperwork of deliveries and return to the Distribution Department. Ensure truck is properly loaded and load secured; truck is in operational condition and product is delivered without any damage sustained. Demonstrate Milgards Core Values in all business interactions. Adhere to all facets of safety policies and procedures, including wearing required Personal Protective Equipment. Qualifications: Minimum of two to four years of delivery and/or professional driving experience. Valid Motor Vehicle (MV) License for state of employment; valid Class A license based on specific location delivery vehicles and requirements Clean Department of Motor Vehicle record Read and navigate using a GPS (Global Positioning System) Exceptional customer service skills Ability to lift 75 pounds unassisted Milgard is growing with a track record of strong financial performance, which creates opportunities for team members. A great opportunity to learn our business and show what you can do to build a great team and organization. We have a robust total reward offering including: Performance Bonus Incentive your efforts are rewarded! $600 retention bonus after 3 months Vacation and Sick pay Medical/Dental/Vision Milgard picks up the majority cost of these important benefits! 401k Savings Plan Tuition assistance continue your education; we will help! Career growth opportunities take on more responsibility and grow! recblid wwfozehq4sijvtdtbwg3c6zlsanlmt Description System ID 728116 Category Facilities Relocation Type Yes - According to Grade Employment Status Full-Time Unit Description Relocation assistance available! You are a strategic, innovative Facilities Operations Manager ready to help clients optimize their business! Bring your leadership skills and willingness to learn and lead your team to success and we will provide competitive salary, full benefits, and a challenging and rewarding work experience with a great team! It is an opportunity to be part of the blueprint for success. Sodexo Corporate Services Division is seeking an experienced Facilities Operations Manager to support a location for one of our global partners. This location is located in Inwood, West Virginia. This position has full oversight to a fast-paced team of about 5 employees in two locations. This manager is the # 2 manager onsite reporting directly to the Director of Facilities Operations. Are You the One? Our clients depend on your expertise to help them to optimize their business. If you are a Strategic Facilities Manager with the ability to develop innovative technical solutions while successfully managing key performance indicators to drive strong business results, this may be the opportunity for you! Key Responsibilities: Plans, organizes, maintains, and manages the operations and reliability of client's facilities and general infrastructure systems. Establishes and monitors preventative maintenance processes and programs and facility inspection processes for on-going review of maintenance work internally or by subcontractors Supervises skilled administrative services and technical/support staff. Hires, evaluates, trains, disciplines and recommends dismissal of staff as necessary Develops, recommends, and administers policies, procedures, and processes in support of grounds and building maintenance operations; implements and monitors compliance with approved policies, procedures, and processes Administers procurement and fiscal management activities associated with building and grounds maintenance activities, which may include: RFPs, and contracts for storeroom and maintenance related work to acquire trades and professional assistance; monitoring spending on project and cost account basis; recommending and implementing corrective spending plans; reviewing and authorizing purchase orders; administering contracts; obtaining price quotes and bids; purchasing and approving employee purchases; ensuring compliance with company policies; and/or, performing other related activities Trouble-shoots and responds to after-hour issues as needed regarding the operational aspects of the facilities such as HVAC issues, fire alarm malfunctions, electrical outages, water leaks, etc. Monitors the safety and accessibility of the client facilities. Serves as the point of contact for the department for code (e.g. ADA, Fire Life Safety) compliance issues, accessibility improvement projects, and/or other code related issues Updates and maintains list of in-scope facilities equipment, including life-cycle and replacement costs Monitors and oversees the work of external contractors to ensure terms of agreements are met and work is completed satisfactorily Participates in the development and administration of grounds and building maintenance budget; coordinates the allocation of resources following budget approval; recommends approval of expenditures Collects and analyzes a variety of complex data and information, including utility costs and usage. Performs statistical analysis and summarizes findings in applicable reports or other communication mediums Participates in/on a variety of client facing engagements (e.g. meetings, committees (including chairing), task forces, and/or other related groups) to communicate information regarding services, programs, areas of opportunity, and/or other pertinent information as appropriate Serves as a liaison with other departments/business units and external agencies (as applicable) in order to provide information on available resources, projects, and/or services As part of the department's Emergency Management (Incident Command System) essential personnel requires after hour and 24/7 on-call for response as needed Positions in this classification may perform all or some of the responsibilities above and all positions perform other related duties as assigned Is this opportunity right for you? We are looking for candidates who have: Proficient computer skills including MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Outlook, MAXIMO, and SAP 5 + years' management experience in hands-on operational roles within an industrial or manufacturing environment Ability to promote good working relationships with management team, frontline team members, and the client Active participant who is self-motivated, always demonstrates a positive & professional demeanor Proven leader and has led a team of managers to become a high performing team Excellent planning/organizing skills, ability to communicate at all levels of the organization Excellent analytical skills, comfortable presenting information to large groups Excellent working knowledge of processes in production, quality, and familiar with FDA requirements Attention to detail The ability to effectively prioritize work with competing priorities Ability to manage complex, multi-discipline projects involving multiple locations Can demonstrate large operational improvements in production processes, equipment, operating procedures, and working conditions to successfully achieve positive results Someone who has experience Lean manufacturing is a plus Proven safety record that has creative ways to enhance and improve the safety culture Ensure proper data management and accurate client invoicing Work Environment and Physical Requirements: Work is generally performed in both an office, manufacturing plant floor spaces, and outdoor environments, with frequent interruptions and irregularities in the work schedule Frequent walking, standing, climbing, lifting, stooping, or carrying of equipment and materials may be required Incumbents may be required to lift and carry up to 40 pounds Incumbent may be exposed to extreme temperatures, close quarter situations, high and precarious places, moving mechanical parts, and vibrations Applicant must be able to operate motor vehicles Learn more about Sodexo's Benefits Not the job for you? At Sodexo, we offer Facilities Management positions in Corporate, Schools, Universities, Energy and Resources, Government and Agencies, Health Care and Senior Living locations across the United States. Continue your search for Facilities Management jobs. Working for Sodexo: How far will your ambition, talent and dedication take you? Sodexo fosters a culture committed to the growth of individuals through continuous learning, mentoring and career growth opportunities. Make an Immediate Impact. Sodexo is the North American leader for Quality of Life Services. More than 150,000 Sodexo employees work to improve the quality of daily life for our 13,000 client sites in North America. Sodexo partners with clients to help them attain their strategic vision by developing Facility Management service solutions that increase the effectiveness of their people, enhance their business processes and optimize their infrastructure, which deliver tangible outcomes. Our client portfolio spans multiple markets across the nation including education, corporate services, health care and government services, which means we can offer a career full of variety, challenge and tremendous growth opportunities. Position Summary Back up to GM; 2nd in command; Supervises the account as the #2 manager and has full responsibility including supervision of other managers. Responsible for entire account when the Director of Facilities Ops is not present. Two scenarios for this position in Univ.: A) Has all facilities rolling up - Custodial / maintenance and grounds, and FM who reports to GM; very large integrated operation. B) Mega account - multiple managers of maintenance; PM function; other specific managers - unifying position. Key Duties - Manage other managers; manage by walking around (rounding); Staffs, trains, and is responsible for employee development - client interface; - payroll oversight; - budgetary oversight on some services; - Oversees and coordinates projects - Manages work orders/CMMS - Manages mechanicals (i.e. HVAC) - Manages QA and Safety Qualifications & Requirements Basic Education Requirement - Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience Basic Management Experience - 5 years Basic Functional Experience - 3 years work experience in facilities maintenance, plant operations or engineering services Sodexo is an EEO/AA/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran employer. Requirements See Job Description ImOn Communications is the LOCAL choice for cable TV, high-speed Internet and phone service. We value the relationships we have with colleagues, customers, and members of our community and look forward to serving Eastern Iowa for many years to come. As we expand our service availability we are looking for a Network Maintenance Technician to be a part of the ImOn Difference!employees share a passion for building a culture of Creating Connections One Person at a Time and fostering a fun and rewarding work environment. The Network Maintenance Technician will perform tasks necessary for service order and repair activity associated with network facilities (copper, coax, and fiber). Focuses on the overall operations of the network, including network performance, installation, and/or maintenance. Conducts routine network operations activities, including translations and other duties involved with the preparation needed prior to installation or the tracking and analysis of network elements. Essential Job Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Splicing of 25/22 MS2 Pads Splicing of 19 gage power Coax Splicing Splicing 860 and 715 coax cables Complete Ariel and Underground locations Pole Transfers completed to IUB (IA Utility Board) specifications Fiber Splicing Fiber optic cable (loose tube, Ribbon, Multi-mode) fiber together, customer and company termination panels. Do the prep work for Loose Tube, Mid-Sheath, and Splitting Ribbon Buffer Tube. Fiber optic cable. Ability to Operate Optical Time Domain Reflector meters to test fiber, analyze trace, store and save trace, use of visual fault light and power meter loss and readings. Maps for HFC and Phone, and FTTH Fiber Splice documentation Turn up hard line splicing, phone, fiber, pole transfers, and network projects Take part in a rotation of on call level 2 duties. Troubleshooting and support of the HFC Plant, VOIP, Litespan, FTTH plant, Calix Ensure rapid response to service issues in order to minimize downtime and get ImOn customers active as quickly as possible. Ensure rapid response to service issues in order to minimize downtime and get ImOn customers active as quickly as possible Perform all work as necessary to conform to quality control guidelines (includes compliance with requirements outlined in applicable regulations such as: OSHA, FCC, and NEC, etc and following Procedures as outlined in the Installation, Technical, Operations, and Safety Manuals, and Employee Handbook). Display leadership by providing an example to fellow co-workers though knowledge and work ethic and encouraging the flow of communication in and out of the field Responsible for verifying, and tracking preventative maintenance and needed repairs within the HUBs Requirements 5+ years experience in one or combination of equipment installation, cable splicing, line work, installation and repair. Experience with single mode, multi-mode and splicing both loose tube and ribbon fiber strongly desired. Must accommodate on-call after-hours work as required. High School Diploma or equivalent. Valid Iowa CDL Class DII Drivers License for bucket trucks and a driving record that allows employee to be insured by ImOns insurance carrier. Must accommodate various working conditions such as: Poorly ventilated areas such as attics during extreme heat, dust, dirt, noise, insects, cleaning solutions In addition to competitive pay, you will be provided a company truck, laptop and cell phone. ImOn also offers health & dental insurance, 401(k), discounted Cable, Internet & Phone services, and additional perks such as FREE vision and life insurance as well as FREE short term/long term disability, vacation & holiday pay, and community volunteer opportunities. If you are interested in being a part of the ImOn Difference, apply today! recblid 1txqrcf29b3ru35m0580avzwsgqoi6 The Montgomery Job Corps Center is seeking self-motivated individuals who promote a positive and desirable atmosphere for our students. The following position is available: Full-Time Recreation Specialist- Organizes and supervises on and off-center recreation activities for students. Assists in developing and implementing diverse programs to include: arts and crafts, intramurals, cultural events and other recreational and enrichment programs. Guides students to make informed life style choices concerning fitness, nutrition and healthy life styles. Prepares schedules and calendars for all recreation activities. Coordinates student field trips. Maintains recreation facilities, equipment, and materials to Center standards. Tracks and records program attendance. Orders and maintains recreational equipment, supplies and materials. Provides transportation of students to and from center-sponsored events. Recognizes and reinforces students positive behavior. This position requires an Associates Degree in Physical Education, Recreation, or a related field or 1- year related experience working with youth. recblid 10t2j89j1d1c3ew5p8uhe95i8fhzim Area Manager - AMR Channel Service Support Austin , Texas , United States Support and Service Summary Posted: Sep 2, 2021 Weekly Hours: 40 Role Number: 200282661 Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. The people here at Apple don't just craft products - they build the kind of wonder that's revolutionized entire industries. It's the diversity of those people and their ideas that inspires the innovation that runs through everything we do, from amazing technology to industry-leading environmental efforts. Join Apple, and help us leave the world better than we found it. AppleCare Area Managers in Channel Service Support are responsible for leading multiple teams of AppleCare Team Managers and individual contributors and have direct accountability and ownership for the team's results. Area Managers are accountable for supervising service quality, staffing productivity, efficiency and ensuring consistent extraordinary customer satisfaction. They achieve a high standard of excellence by demonstrating mastery in functional areas, anticipating broader business needs and translating strategic goals into tactical plans. Area Managers have a balance of customer and business focus and have a passion to develop future leaders. This role involves the management of the front line escalation team who provides support to Apple's Authorized Service Providers (AASP), Apple Retail Stores, Distributors, Independent Repair Service Providers and Apple internal partners in solving technical and administrative issues. Key Qualifications Previous people management experience 3-5 years experience running a very fast paced Customer Service or Customer Support organization. Demonstrated experience in successfully mentoring diverse teams Solid understanding of systems such as SAP, GSX, GCRM, iLog, GSX and Mobile Genius a plus. Solid understanding of Service Channels and Programs Broad supply-chain operations experience with knowledge of inter process complexities Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. A proven track record of communicating clearly at all levels of the organization Excellent forward thinking capabilities. Ability to see beyond the current state, identify risks/opportunities and drive project teams toward the desired program outcome. Ability to learn quickly, adapt to change and consistently multi-task Excellent analytical and problem solving skills. Action and detailed oriented. Customer-centric attitude with demonstrated ability to work independently with the utmost professionalism, integrity and dependability Ability to maintain a positive attitude in a high stress/fast paced work environment Works effectively within a global business environment where engagement with global counterparts is required to standardize business practices and processes across regions. Coordinating efforts with other regions, often requiring additional hours and late/early phone calls Highly tactical in nature, approaches problems and projects systematically and is energized by working in a fast paced and ever-changing environment. Demonstrated background in continuous improvement and application in a program/project oriented role Description Understanding of AppleCare service processes and programs Experience in managing technical and administrative front line chat and back office off-line support Communicates regularly to key partners to ensure quality of support and strategy alignment Effective management of employees via provision of development plans, career goals and consistent employee performance monitoring and feedback. Influence decisions and facilitate change management through collaboration and leadership Anticipate potential problems/risks and work proactively to implement solutions to a wide range of cross functional issues Foster trust of key AppleCare partners by ensuring flawless execution on projects and support Ability to handle at times a very challenging workload and continue to drive improvements and efficiencies Provide reports to management on projects and highlight any issues with proposed preventative actions Find opportunities for automation, integration and process improvement Education & Experience BA/BS degree a plus with a minimum of 3-5 years of related experience MBA a plus but not required Spanish and / or Portuguese a plus Six Sigma certification a plus In this Feb. 11, 2020, file photo Democratic presidential candidate former South Bend, Ind., Mayor Pete Buttigieg acknowledges supported as he stands on stage with his husband Chasten Buttigieg at a primary night election rally in Nashua, N.H. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has announced that he and husband Chasten have become parents. Buttigieg, the first openly gay Cabinet secretary confirmed by the Senate, posted a photo of their two children on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, on his personal Twitter account. (Mary Altaffer/AP) The American people can debate and disagree about the wisdom of pulling out of a 20-year military occupation of Afghanistan. However, a decision was made in 2020 to negotiate a withdrawal of American military forces from the country and it was swiftly implemented in the summer of 2021. Claudia DePamhlis' sisters hold her picture as she is honored during the ceremony. She recently passed away from 9/11 cancer. Frank Siller, chairperson and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, will walk from the Pentagon to Shanksville and then on to the World Trade Center in New York City, covering more than 500 miles through six states during The Never Forget Walk. Siller passed through Easton Saturday on his journey and participated in a parade and ceremony. (Amy Shortell / The Morning Call) Coyle was 47 then, a Catholic chaplain for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. With his friendly Irish face and soft-spoken manner, and just over two decades of experience as a priest, he was well-suited to the task. Clergy help people every day with hardships large and small. This, of course, was hardship on a scale no one had seen outside of war. International Taliban suicide bomber blows himself up in Pak; 4 killed Security officials examine the site of suicide bombing in a checkpoint on the outskirts of Quetta, Pakistan, Sunday. (AP/PTI) KARACHI, SEP 5 (PTI) | Publish Date: 9/5/2021 11:05:21 AM IST A suicide bomber of the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan blew himself up in the countrys restive Balochistan province on Sunday, killing at least four security personnel and injuring 20 people, a top police official said. The attack targeted a Frontier Corps (FC) check post on the Mastung road in Quetta, the provincial capital, Deputy Inspector General of Quetta police Azhar Akram said. Akram told reporters that an initial investigations suggested that the suicide bomber drove an explosives laden motorcycle into a vehicle carrying Frontier Corps. The bomb disposal squad has estimated that the motorcycle was laden with six kilogrammes of explosives, he said. Akram confirmed that four people were killed in the blast while 20 others, 18 soldiers and 2 bystanders, were injured in the attack. Condition of some of the injured is critical and the casualties could rise, he said. According to the Counter-Terrorism Department of Balochistan, the blast was a suicide attack and was carried out near the Sona Khan check post. The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack, sending a grim signal that the change of government in Kabul might not end the woes of Pakistan as the country looks towards the Taliban to rein in the TTP rebels who are hiding in Afghanistan. According to security forces, the vehicle targeted in the attack was providing security to vegetable sellers belonging to the Hazara community of the province. Condemning the attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan took to Twitter to offer condolences to the families of those killed. Condemn the TTP suicide attack on FC checkpost, Mastung road, Quetta. My condolences go to the families of the martyrs & prayers for the recovery of the injured. Salute our security forces & their sacrifices to keep us safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorists designs, he said in a tweet. Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove also condemned the attack and sought a report. Security forces have given countless sacrifices in the war against terrorism. The whole nation is indebted to the martyrs. We are fighting the terrorists with our full strength and will continue to do so. These violent attacks will not lower the morale of the forces, he said, adding that the war would continue until total peace was achieved. Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari said: Condemnable TTP attack today on FC checkpost in Quetta today. Condolences and prayers go to the families of the martyrs. President of the Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack and said that the deterioration of law and order was a cause of concern. Balochistan has been facing low-level violence by the TTP rebels and Baloch nationalists. The suicide attack took place less than two weeks after three Levies police personnel were killed and as many injured when their vehicle hit a landmine in the provinces Ziarat district. Regional Woman among 3 drug peddlers arrested with Heroin in Manipur Three persons including a woman arrested by police with a huge quantity of Heroin powder by Thoubal police Correspondent IMPHAL, SEP 5 | Publish Date: 9/5/2021 1:56:29 PM IST Manipur police have arrested three alleged drug peddlers, including a woman, with a huge quantity of Heroin (No.4) in Thoubal district. A team of Thoubal district police arrested the three persons, during an operation based on credible information regarding movement of drug peddlers at Lilong area Saturday evening, around 4 pm. The arrested woman drug peddler was identified as Deineihoi Haokip (25) wife of Hemminson Haokip from the border town, while the other two were Md Mujibur (43) of Lilong Atoukhong Maning Leikai, and Minlan Tuboi (37) son of Jangpou Tuboi from Moreh. Addressing a press conference, Thoubal district SP Jogeshchandra Haobijam said that the contraband drugs packed in 22 soap cases were seized during an operation on Saturday evening at Lilong area of the district, based on credible information. He said that a police team comprising commando personnel of the district on frisking and checking at Lilong Idigah Road detained Md Mujibur who was moving on foot in a very suspicious manner. During a check to a polythene bag he was carrying, the police detected 22 soap cases containing suspected Heroin powder. On spot interrogation, police came to know that the item was handed over to him by two persons who came on a Bolero vehicle, around 10 minutes earlier. Then, the police team chased after the vehicle immediately by contacting them through Md Mujiburs phone. The team intercepted the vehicle at Lilong Bazar, near an oil pump. Two occupants in the vehicle including a woman were detained along with the vehicle (NL 03 2267). The SP suspected that the two occupants of the vehicle transported the illegal drug from the border town, Moreh, and handed it over to Md Majibur. The police seized the illegal drugs along with three mobile phones and the vehicle and handed it over to concerned Lilong police station for further investigation. Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-04 13:33:03|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close A staff member cleans balcony railing of a school in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Sept. 5, 2021. The Bangladeshi government has announced the reopening of schools and colleges in the country from Sept. 12 after a closure of around 18 months. (Xinhua) DHAKA, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- The Bangladeshi government has announced the reopening of schools and colleges in the country from Sept. 12 after a closure of around 18 months. Education Minister Dipu Moni made the announcement on Friday, saying only candidates of public examinations would attend classes every day after the reopening. Students of other classes would have in-person classes once or twice every week. According to the minister, the number of the class days would be increased depending on the COVID-19 situation in the country. The Bangladeshi government had earlier announced reopening of the universities in the country from Oct. 15. In phases since March last year, the government extended the closure of the all secondary and higher secondary educational institutions to Sept. 11 due to COVID-19. Bangladesh first announced on March 16 last year to close all educational institutions in the country in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. Since March last year, the virus has spread to nearly every Bangladeshi district, and the total number of cases has risen to 15,10,283 with 26,432 deaths so far. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-04 23:27:31|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Chinese President Jinping presides over the opening ceremony of the Group of 20 (G20) summit in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Sept. 4, 2016. (Xinhua/Li Tao) BEIJING, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- It was five years ago at a meeting of leaders of the world's major economies, President Xi Jinping comprehensively expounded on China's vision of global economic governance. To leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) who gathered in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou in September 2016, Xi proposed that global economic governance should be based on equality, embrace openness, be driven by cooperation, be a mechanism of sharing, and the G20 should transform from a crisis response mechanism focusing on short-term policies to one of long-term governance that shapes medium- to long-term policies. The G20 is a grouping of major advanced economies and emerging markets, accounting for nearly 90 percent of the global economy. Five years on, the legacy of the G20 Hangzhou summit shines on. DEVELOPMENT AND OPENNESS Placing emphasis on development, the summit has brought tremendous benefits to the global community. Over the past five years, China's vital role in promoting and improving global governance has been consistent. In 2021, a time when the world is still reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Xi called on G20 members to enhance their preparedness and capacity for coping with major public health emergencies. "G20 members need to shoulder responsibilities in global cooperation against the virus," Xi said at the Global Health Summit in May. During the past five years, China's economy has maintained healthy growth, all the while bringing more opportunities to the world. The country has held a series of expos, continued to improve its business environment, expanded its efforts in developing pilot free trade zones, worked for the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and kept a positive attitude toward joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. To date, China has signed more than 200 documents on Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation with 140 countries and 32 international organizations. According to a World Bank research report, the initiative will help lift 7.6 million people out of extreme poverty and 32 million out of moderate poverty. SENSE OF RESPONSIBILITY "We will work to ensure that growth and development benefit all countries and peoples and that the livelihood of all people, especially those in developing countries, will get better day by day," Xi said at the G20 Hangzhou summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a press conference after the 11th summit of the Group of 20 (G20) major economies in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, Sept. 5, 2016. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) "Major countries shoulder important and special responsibilities in terms of openness and cooperation," said Ruan Zongze, executive vice-president of the China Institute of International Studies. Ruan said China's sense of responsibility as the largest developing country is clear for all to see. Rather than being an onlooker and a passive follower, China chose to actively participate, promote and lead, said Zhang Lili, a professor with China Foreign Affairs University. Zhang referred to the G20 Hangzhou summit as a milestone in China's participation in reforming the global governance system, noting that since the summit, China's efforts in this regard have become much more prominent. For instance, China led the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). Over the last five years, the AIIB has invested roughly 22 billion U.S. dollars in 108 projects. In the meantime, China has held high the banner of multilateralism. In many of his speeches, Xi has voiced China's resolve to counter unilateralism and protectionism, and help shape a fairer and more reasonable world order. On Thursday, the 2021 China International Fair for Trade in Services kicked off in Beijing, attracting over 10,000 enterprises from 153 countries and regions. The COVID-19 pandemic did not stop the trend of cooperation and development. China's stance has won the praise of many, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Emphasizing that the goal of practicing multilateralism is building a community with a shared future for humankind, Guterres said China is now a significant advocate of multilateralism. In fields such as responding to climate change and promoting green development, China made important contributions. China has pushed for the issuance of the first Presidency Statement on Climate Change in the G20's history, advanced the building of a green BRI, and announced its plan to peak its carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, while helping other developing countries boost their capacity to address climate change. With the spirit of cooperation and partnership as highlighted in the G20 Hangzhou summit, China stands ready to work even closer with other countries to build a brighter future for humanity. Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 00:05:17|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova attends a weekly briefing in Moscow, on Sept. 2, 2021. (Russian Foreign Ministry photo) Russia has previously voiced its opposition to the politicization of COVID-19 origins tracing, Zakharova said. MOSCOW, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova has blasted a so-called investigation report on COVID-19 origins recently released by the U.S. intelligence community. "I would like to note with regret that the publication only led to another round of insinuations around a generally important and, I emphasize, a purely scientific issue," Zakharova said at her weekly briefing earlier this week. She stressed that such steps increased tensions in society and the international arena and impeded joint actions to counter the spread of the virus. Russia has previously voiced its opposition to the politicization of COVID-19 origins tracing, Zakharova said. "We consider it necessary to focus on finding ways in which we can develop international cooperation in fighting the pandemic, instead of using this global, human tragedy to settle scores at the interstate level and manipulate public opinion," she added. Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 03:15:23|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close A resident sorts waterlogged furniture outside a house, in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York, the United States, Sept. 3, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Ying) The service centers will provide those affected with in-person support and information on resources and services available, said a release by NYC Emergency Management. NEW YORK, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- The emergency management and social service departments in New York City (NYC) on Saturday announced the establishment of five service centers across the city in a bid to support individuals and families affected by flash floods brought by the remnants of hurricane Ida. The service centers will provide those affected with in-person support and information on resources and services available, said a release by NYC Emergency Management. "New York City government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community-based organizations will be on-site to help connect families and individuals to critical services, including enrollment in public benefits and health insurance, housing, food assistance, and mental health counseling," said the release. It was noted that visitors to these sites will not be asked about their immigration status. People move waterlogged belongings outside a house, in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York, the United States, Sept. 3, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Ying) The American Red Cross in Greater New York will assist in disaster relief management including referrals, distribution of emergency supplies, and applying for assistance as well as mental health counseling, according to NYC Emergency Management. Meanwhile, NYC's Department of Sanitation said it would continue to pick up storm debris at curb over the weekend including the Labor Day holiday next Monday. New York City and surrounding areas in the northeast of the United States suffered from tornadoes and flash floods and lost the lives of near 50 people in total as the remnants of hurricane Ida hit the area on Wednesday. The federal government has approved an emergency disaster declaration in 14 counties of New York State including New York City and is expected to provide up to 5 million U.S. dollars in immediate federal funding to support response operations in the early stage, according to a statement by the New York State government on Friday. The Federal Emergency Management Agency began damage assessment on Friday and would expedite the process with the support of local governments, said New York Governor Kathy Hochul. Waterlogged vehicles are seen in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York, the United States, Sept. 3, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Ying) Power supply to over 8,200 customers affected by Tropical Storm Ida has been restored as of Thursday and planned to restore 95 percent of service interruptions by midnight on Friday, according to Consolidated Edison, Inc., which provides power in NYC and Westchester County. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio on Friday announced a climate-driven rain response plan involving more severe warnings, basement apartment evacuations and a 30-day extreme weather response task force to devise solutions quickly and expedite implementation. Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 08:02:17|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close A sound and light show is seen at the Cave of Han in Han-sur-Lesse, Wallonia, Belgium, on Sept. 4, 2021. As an important tourist destination famous for its geological scenery in Wallonia, the Cave of Han has been visited by over 23 million tourists. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 14:05:21|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close People visit the 7th World Conservation Congress (WCC) in Marseille, France, Sept. 4, 2021. (Xinhua/Gao Jing) On further improving global ecological environmental governance, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang called on the world to adhere to the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, and strive to promote the construction of a fair, reasonable and win-win global environmental governance system. by Liu Fang, Yu Shuaishuai, Chen Chen MARSEILLE, France, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Starting Friday, tens of thousands of representatives from some 160 countries and regions have gathered at the nine-day World Conservation Congress (WCC) in France's port city of Marseille to address Planet Earth's ecological plight. The congress, held jointly by the French government and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) under the theme "One Nature, One Future," prepares for the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP15) set for October in Kunming, China. From Marseille to Kunming, France and China are working steadfastly for global action on nature conservation. Addressing the WCC, French President Emmanuel Macron called it "part of a dynamic" which makes 2021 a very important year, as a third global event on environment, the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26), is slated for November in Glasgow, Scotland. He urged the world to "re-synchronize" the two agendas -- one for climate and the other for biodiversity. Journalists are seen in front of a screen showing French President Emmanuel Macron's opening speech during the 7th World Conservation Congress in Marseille, southern France, on Sept. 3, 2021. (Xinhua/Gao Jing) "The urgency is to re-synchronize these two agendas, to get everyone understand that the battle for climate is linked intrinsically to the battle for preserving and restoring biodiversity," said Macron. "We are already too late in terms of biodiversity. We must catch up," he noted. By organizing this congress, France expects to confirm its commitment to supporting the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems, and more widely, its international role in environmental and climate issues. Six years ago, it was in Paris that climate negotiators of 196 parties to the UN conference on climate change sealed the milestone climate pact aimed at reversing the trend of temperature rises mainly caused by carbon emissions. China, which helped bring about some key breakthroughs during the negotiations, remains steadfast and active in addressing climate change and implementing the Paris Agreement. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, via video link, told the WCC that China's national carbon market, the world's largest in terms of the amount of greenhouse gas emissions covered, was launched recently, and China stands ready to work with all parties to build a clean and beautiful world. On further improving global ecological environmental governance, Li called on the world to adhere to the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, and strive to promote the construction of a fair, reasonable and win-win global environmental governance system. Photo taken on June 17, 2021 shows part of the Qinghai-Henan UHV DC power transmission line in Henan Mongolian Autonomous County of Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, northwest China's Qinghai Province. (Photo by Xie Lirong/Xinhua) Actually this is one of the core missions of the Marseille congress. During a series of in-person and online events, states, local governments, scientists, private sector and civil society representatives will discuss the major objectives of the post-2020 global framework for biodiversity, a key milestone expected to be achieved during the COP15 in Kunming. "Our post-2020 nature and biodiversity framework must be universal, innovative and transformative. It should support a post-COVID economic recovery respecting Nature while being just and inclusive," said IUCN President Zhang Xinsheng at the WCC opening ceremony. "The theme of the CBD COP 15 in Kunming, China, next month is 'Ecological Civilization -- Building a Shared Future for All Life on Earth.' It is the proper segue towards what we all should seek to achieve," he added. In 2010, parties of the CBD set 20 goals during a summit in Japan's Aichi for the decade 2011-2020. "However, many of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets have been difficult to achieve," Zhang told Xinhua in an interview on the eve of the congress. "The degree of biodiversity loss and the degradation of the ecosystem have been approaching planetary limits and tipping points," he said. "If this loss and degradation still cannot be reversed by 2030, we will not be able to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals." "This IUCN congress can be seen as a prelude to the Kunming Conference. Both are milestones to see whether mankind can set a 10-year agenda to turn crisis into opportunity," said the IUCN president. For Patrick Giraudoux, a professor of ecology at the University of Franche-Comte, "we can already wait for a lucid assessment of the status quo, which is what IUCN in Marseille will tell us, such as which species are threatened, how fast they are threatened, etc. Then there are the decisions to be taken by the governments and this will follow what will be decided at COP15." A woman walks past a poster during the 7th World Conservation Congress (WCC) in Marseille, France, Sept. 4, 2021. (Xinhua/Gao Jing) "Practically all the governments of the great powers agree to move forward in this direction. The question is what will be done in reality," he said. China has vowed that it will continue to work to ensure the success of COP15. The first part of the COP15, including an official opening and a high-level segment, will take place both online and offline on Oct. 11-15. The second part, to be held in-person in the first half of 2022, will see broad and deepened negotiations towards an ambitious and practical post-2020 global biodiversity framework, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. For the post-2020 nature and biodiversity framework, working sessions and negotiations were in delay due to the sanitary context, France's Secretary of State for Biodiversity Berangere Abba told the press. "At the end of this congress, the Union (IUCN) and France will issue a 'Declaration of Marseille,' which will write down the ambition resulting from the reflections and negotiations that will take place in the coming days," she said. "We are very mobilized and attentive that this declaration, which will be a roadmap for the months to come and for the negotiations at the moment of COP15, is indeed the most ambitious possible," she added. Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 16:24:22|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Passengers with face masks are seen in a bus in New York City, the United States, Aug. 2, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Ying) "The United States should learn some good manners to work cooperatively with China, rather than trying to impose its will on that nation," said renowned U.S. economist Jeffrey Sachs. KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United States must work with China to find a global solution to end the raging COVID-19 pandemic, said renowned U.S. economist Jeffrey Sachs in an interview with Malaysian media published on Sunday. In an email interview with Malaysian newspaper the Star, Sachs said the global response to the pandemic has been wholly inadequate and one of the main geopolitical problems might have been the failure of the United States to work with China for global solutions. "This is tragic, since China has done an excellent job of suppressing the pandemic, and the world could and should have learned a lot more from China's response," said the U.S. economist, who heads the Lancet COVID-19 Commission, which has been created to help speed up global, equitable, and lasting solutions to the pandemic. "The United States should learn some good manners to work cooperatively with China, rather than trying to impose its will on that nation," he said. Staff members disinfect the entrance of the Tianmen Mountain scenic spot in preparation for its reopening in Zhangjiajie, central China's Hunan Province, Aug. 26, 2021. (Xinhua/Chen Sihan) Sachs, who is also the director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, pointed out U.S. failures to contain the disease at home. "The culture in many societies such as the United States has put personal behavior ahead of the social good," he said. "In the name of 'liberty,' Americans have failed to follow basic rules and protocols, and the disease has therefore been allowed to run rampant in the United States." Rich countries have also not generously shared their knowledge, especially on vaccines, Sachs said, urging greater efforts by countries and different parts of the world for coordinated responses. Meanwhile, the global financing system has favored rich countries, providing too little support to the developing world, he added. "We should be investing far more resources into epidemiology, disease surveillance, disease prevention, and disease treatments," he concluded. Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 20:24:24|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- China's central authorities have issued a general plan for building a Guangdong-Macao in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin. The plan, issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, was made public on Sunday. It said building the zone is a major arrangement to enrich the practice of "one country, two systems," and will be an important driving force for Macao's long-term development. Hengqin is located in the southern part of Zhuhai City in Guangdong Province, just across the Macao Special Administrative Region. The total area of the cooperation zone will be about 106 square km, according to the plan. The plan defines the strategic position of the zone as a new platform to boost Macao's appropriate economic diversification, a new space that provides convenience to Macao residents' life and employment, a new model to enrich the practice of "one country, two systems," as well as a new high ground for building the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The plan sets the goal for the zone to fully demonstrate the strong vitality and strength of "one country, two systems" by 2035, when the goal of Macao's appropriate economic diversification will be basically realized. NEW INDUSTRIES According to the plan, the cooperation zone will develop new industries to help promote Macao's economic diversification. Sci-tech research and development and high-end manufacturing will be developed. Traditional Chinese medicine and other Macao's signature businesses, as well as industries including culture and tourism, conventions and exhibitions, and modern finance will be promoted. Preferential policies concerning corporate income tax will be improved, the plan said, adding that measures will be rolled out to attract talent from home and abroad. NEW HOME The cooperation zone will be a new home for Macao residents to live and work, said the plan. Macao residents are encouraged to find jobs there or create their own businesses. Cooperation between the zone and Macao society will be strengthened in areas concerning people's livelihood. Infrastructure connectivity will also be boosted. HIGH-LEVEL OPENING-UP The plan also stressed building an integrated new system with Macao featuring high-level opening-up. Under the system, declaration procedures for outbound and inbound goods between Macao and the cooperation zone will be further simplified. Inbound and outbound travel will also become highly convenient. Innovative measures will be introduced in terms of cross-border financial management. A highly convenient mechanism for market access will be established, and efforts will also be made to facilitate the safe and orderly flow of internet data across the border. An organization will be jointly established to develop and manage the cooperation zone, said the plan. Party leadership and Party building should be enhanced in an all-around manner to ensure the smooth operation of the cooperation zone. Legal guarantees should also be strengthened, it added. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 20:50:47|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close -- Entering 2021, the start of China's new five-year plan period, authorities have stepped up regulatory oversight in a number of sectors. -- Analysts from global financial service firms viewed the regulatory measures as part of China's long-standing efforts to make growth more sustainable and inclusive, which will benefit the regulated sectors and the broader economy in the long run. -- The regulations are conducive to the long-term growth of the Chinese economy and the capital market, analysts said. BEIJING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Some global investors have seemingly observed a "turn" in China's economic governance recently. In addition to multiple anti-trust probes and data security checks on the country's biggest internet companies, regulators have imposed tough regulations on the off-campus tutoring sector and stepped up food safety checks on popular food brands. The intensive regulations across sectors have made these investors wonder: Is there a change of course in China's policy direction? How will the regulatory moves affect the capital market and China's economic structure in the long run? Analysts from global financial service firms viewed the regulatory measures as part of China's long-standing efforts to make growth more sustainable and inclusive, which will benefit the regulated sectors and the broader economy in the long run. Staff members of the provincial market supervision bureau check food products at a supermarket in Hejian, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 24, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhu Xudong) CONNECTING DOTS Entering 2021, the start of China's new five-year plan period, authorities have stepped up regulatory oversight in a number of sectors. In April, the country's top market regulator vowed to strengthen anti-trust law enforcement, imposing record fines on the country's tech behemoth Alibaba and launching anti-monopoly investigations into internet giant Meituan. The off-campus tutoring businesses were put on the brakes in July, when central authorities published guidelines that restricted financing for the for-profit off-campus training companies, in a bid to ease the burden of students. The country's market regulators have also stepped up crackdowns on food safety violations, carrying out on-the-spot checks on a number of chain stores of popular food brands and urging rectifications from the involved firms. "The regulatory moves should be framed against the broader context of China's economic transition," said Robin Xing, chief China economist with Morgan Stanley. For instance, the anti-monopoly regulations addressed issues such as the over-concentration of market power in a few tech giants, which could squeeze the profit margins of small and medium-sized companies, he said. "The recent policy indicated more emphasis on social equity, which will facilitate a healthier economic structure, more stable growth and happier lives for the people," said Wang Peng, an analyst with Hangzhou-based Yongan Futures. Shi Jialong, head of China internet and new media research with Nomura, said the regulatory actions on China's internet sector were not aimed at curbing its growth, but a signal to let the big platforms channel their resources and energies away from excessive competition into research on advanced technologies. "We believe the internet industry, known for its resilience, should be able to adapt to the environment and sustain healthy growth," Shi said. A truck loads containers at Tangshan Port, north China's Hebei Province, April 16, 2021. (Photo by Li Lei/Xinhua) PREDICTABLE MOVES The emphasis of quality rather than mere speed of development has long been going on. Since the idea of "high-quality development" was highlighted at the 19th Communist Party of China National Congress in 2017, China has been restructuring its economy in an effort to make growth more sustainable and inclusive. Battles have been waged to defuse financial risks, eliminate absolute poverty and tackle environmental pollutions. Meanwhile, the deepening of reforms on all fronts has been high on the government agenda to foster a new development paradigm. The recent meeting of the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs, attended by the country's top policymakers, once again stressed high-quality growth, while emphasizing "common prosperity" in the pursuit of it. "If you look back, you will find that all the policies can be traced back to the development philosophy outlined in public documents," Wang said. "Some people missed the signs or failed to fully understand it," he said. For instance, social equity has always been a policy priority, Wang said. China is on track to meet its 2021 growth target of "above 6 percent", with a GDP expansion of 12.7 percent in the first half of this year. "This means the country has left enough room to push policies that are key to long-term development," said Victoria Mio, director of Asian Equities at Fidelity International. Aerial photo taken on Aug. 26, 2021 shows a view of Xincang Village of Haining City in Jiaxing, east China's Zhejiang Province. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) BULLISH PROSPECTS The regulations are conducive to the long-term growth of the Chinese economy and the capital market, Mio said. Bullish on the prospects of the Chinese market, Fidelity International has applied to set up a fund management company that it fully owns. The application was approved by China's top securities regulator in August. Other global asset management giants are increasingly becoming China bulls. In an interview with the Financial Times in August, an investment strategist with BlackRock's research unit recommended investors lift allocations to China's markets. For Wang, investors have reasons to stay upbeat on Chinese assets. From the financial market perspective, China's bond yield is among the highest in major economies, while its stock market valuation is lower than most developed economies, Wang said, pointing to the long-term investment value of China's assets. "Staying confident in China and in its assets is out of question," he said. (Video editor: Zhao Yuchao) Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 09:24:57|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close KHARTOUM, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Sudanese Health Minister Omer Al-Najeeb on Saturday announced his infection with COVID-19. "Since the beginning of the week, I felt some symptoms suggestive of infection with the coronavirus. I made the test and the result was positive," said Al-Najeeb in a statement. Working from home where he is quarantined, the minister said he is recovering now, thanks to the vaccine he had previously got. The minister urged citizens to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible so as to protect themselves and their families. Sudan has so far recorded a total of 37,715 COVID-19 cases, including 2,837 deaths, according to the ministry. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 14:16:43|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- At a landmark summit three years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping and African leaders drew an ambitious blueprint for China-Africa cooperation, with Xi proposing eight major initiatives. Three years on, China-Africa friendship and cooperation have grown even deeper and closer, and that grand plan is turning into reality, bearing rich fruit across the African continent. "THIS IS NOW REALLY A MODERN PORT" A total of 5,000 jobs and a 15-fold increase in customs revenue were generated by Kribi deep-sea port, the first deep-water port in Cameroon, said Alain Patrick Mpila Ayissi, director of planning and environment at the port. The port, established in March 2018 and built by China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), is jointly operated by China, France and Cameroon, with its second phase to be completed in 2023. "Cameroon is on the fast track of development, and China is accompanying it," said Mpila Ayissi. With the port, Kribi has become a thriving city with an expanding population. "This is now really a modern port, and it will benefit future generations," said Armand Guehoada, who joined the CHEC eight years ago. "I started with human resources management, and have now become an import and export salesman. I am quite comfortable with my life," he told Xinhua. "WE NEED CHINESE EXPERIENCE VERY MUCH" In 2017, the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences signed a memorandum of understanding with the Pan-African Agency for the Great Green Wall on promoting the ecological environment in Africa. The "Great Green Wall" initiative, launched in 2007 and led by the African Union, plans to build a shelterbelt spanning more than 8,000 km across Africa, from Senegal in the west to Djibouti in the east, in order to prevent the Sahara Desert from expanding southward. Zhou Na, an assistant researcher at the XIEG, and her colleagues have traveled back and forth between the Taklamakan Desert and the Sahara Desert to share their experience with African people. She said it is her wish to "bring China's experience to Sahara, promote green development, and improve the livelihood of African people." In recent years, she and her colleagues have adopted different strategies according to local conditions: sand control and quicksand fixation technology in Mauritania; ecological restoration of shrub grassland in Ethiopia; and technical support for sustainable management and protection of a shelterbelt in Nigeria. Mohamed El Houssein Mohamed Legraa, director of the National Agency of the Great Green Wall of Mauritania, spoke highly of China's technical support. "The Chinese are ahead in the fight against desertification. They have turned deserts into forests," he said. "Here in Mauritania, we are suffering from desertification, low rainfall and the impact of climate change. Therefore, we need Chinese experience very much." "I HAVE MADE A DECENT LIVING" "The hut has been replaced with a concrete house, and furniture and household appliances have been added. I have made a decent living by planting rice in Wanbao," Milagre Abel Massingue, a farmer, said proudly of the dramatic changes in his life. Located in the Xai-Xai district of the southern Mozambican province of Gaza, the Wanbao Mozambique rice farm, invested by the China-Africa Development Fund, is China's largest project of its kind in Africa. With vast arable land, a favorable climate, abundant water resources and support from China, the project is scheduled to cover 20,000 hectares (20 square km). Massingue, one of the more than 500 contractors, joined the Wanbao project five years ago by contracting two hectares of land. He said he can at least double the output nowadays with Chinese technology. "The Chinese government has been supporting Mozambique and this project has enhanced our traditional friendship," said Dalilo Latifo, provincial director of Agriculture and Rural Development (Gaza). The project, added Latifo, effectively promoted the vitality of local agricultural production and would strongly boost the agricultural development of Mozambique. "I BELIEVE KENYA'S RAILWAY NETWORK WILL GET BETTER AND BETTER" Concilia Owire was one of the first seven women drivers recruited by the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Kenya, and witnessed the opening ceremony of the railway. For her, operating a locomotive under the gaze of her country's president is the "best memory" of her life. In May 2017, the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway, which was built and operated by China Road and Bridge Corporation, was officially opened to traffic. This railway connects Mombasa, the largest port city in East Africa, and Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, with a total length of about 480 km. It is the first railway built since Kenya's independence, shortening the journey between the two cities from 10 hours to five hours. In December 2019, the first phase of the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway extension line was completed and opened to traffic. Owning a modern railway had long been a dream of the Kenyan people. This is the beginning of the transformation, which will create jobs, hope, opportunities and prosperity for all Kenyans, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said during a test ride. Galloping on the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway, Owire also caught the "express train" of her career. She has been successfully promoted to a driving instructor, responsible for training students, and her Chinese language proficiency has also improved. As a landmark project of Belt and Road cooperation between China and Kenya, the Mombasa-Nairobi SGR created more than 30,000 local jobs during the construction period alone, and contributed 1.5 percentage points to Kenya's economic growth. Owire said she believes that the Mombasa-Nairobi SGR will revitalize the logistics industry in Kenya and promote economic development in East Africa. "I believe Kenya's railway network will get better and better in the future just like China's railway network," she said. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 19:39:48|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close KHARTOUM, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Sudan officially denied the Ethiopian statements about the "infiltration of its rebel groups through the Sudanese territories to target the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD)." "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has followed, with regret, the misleading statements alleging that an armed group entered the Sudanese border to target an Ethiopian facility," said Sudan's Foreign Ministry on Saturday in a statement. "The ministry denounces such baseless and blatantly purposeful statements," it added, stressing Sudan's full commitment to the principles of good neighborliness and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. The ministry stressed Sudan's control of all its territories and internationally recognized border with neighboring Ethiopia. "Sudan will not allow its land to be exploited by any party," the ministry said, noting that Sudan has no intention of invading or seizing the land of others. On Friday, the Ethiopian army reportedly announced that the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) has attempted to attack the GERD, which resulted in casualties. The Ethiopian army said in a statement that its forces killed some 50 fighters of the TPLF and wounded 70 others after infiltrating through the Almihal area on the border with Sudan. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 21:24:50|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close A student of Mansoura University receives a dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt, Sept. 4, 2021. Egyptian universities started to vaccinate employees in the education sector, teaching staffs and students above 18 against COVID-19 pandemic ahead of the new academic year that begins next month. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa) MANSOURA, Egypt, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian universities started to vaccinate employees in the education sector, teaching staffs and students above 18 against COVID-19 pandemic ahead of the new academic year that begins next month. Amid the campaign, the Egyptian Health Ministry has distributed locally produced Chinese Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines to universities nationwide. The vaccines are manufactured by Egypt's state-owned vaccine maker VACSERA as per an agreement signed in April with Chinese biopharmaceutical company Sinovac. The campaign is urged by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, who stressed during a ceremony on Sunday that the country seeks to achieve high vaccination rates in a very short time to acquire herd immunity. "In education, whether at schools or universities, we're keen that by the beginning of the new academic year, we will have vaccinated all teaching staffs and university students," the Egyptian president said, noting that there might be a chance to later vaccinate high school students as well. Several universities have already started vaccinating its teaching staffs and some of its students over the past few days, including Cairo University, Ain Shams University and Helwan University in the capital Cairo, while others have just started to follow suit such as Minia University in Upper Egypt and Mansoura University of northeastern Dakahlia province. Mansoura University has started vaccinating its students on Saturday, with the goal of getting all of its nearly 170,000 students, in addition to over 30,000 freshmen that will join the university, vaccinated by the beginning of the new academic year. The 18 faculties of Mansoura Universities saw dozens of students receiving the jabs on the first vaccination days by medics from the university's general administration for medical affairs. "I believe it's necessary to get the jab so that one can attend the classes safely and it will decrease the serious and deadly COVID-19 cases," Ahmed Ghazi, a senior student at the Faculty of Computers and Information Sciences (CIS) at Mansoura University, told Xinhua while sitting with his sleeve up to get the shot. Omnia el-Siri, a doctor at the university's hospital, was organizing the vaccination process at the CIS faculty and insisting that all those present in the room or waiting outside must be wearing medical face masks. "Vaccinating the youths at universities is a very good step to fasten the vaccination rate among young people. In addition, the new academic year is expected to start with attendance not online, so the move will help reduce the spread of the disease among students," she added. Her colleague Abeer Ahmed, also from the university's general administration for medical affairs, said that the Chinese vaccine given to students is approved by the World Health Organization and the Egyptian Health Ministry "so it's certainly safe." Mohamed el-Bayoumi, Mansoura University's vice president for education and students' affairs, pointed out that the campaign is instructed by the country's political leadership and implemented via cooperation between the ministries of health and higher education, noting that the Chinese vaccine received by the students was already proven to be "safe and efficient." "Most of the population of Egypt are youth, and students of Egyptian universities are nearly 3 million. So, targeting them will surely raise the vaccination rate in the society," the university's vice president told Xinhua, stressing that vaccinating students is also a form of protection for their parents against COVID-19 infection. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 09:25:58|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- A new book by French sinologist and geopolitical expert Lionel Vairon, exploring how the Communist Party of China (CPC) leads the new social revolution, has been published in the Chinese language. The key publication, titled "Question of the Times," expounds on the CPC's governance practice and experience since the Party's 18th National Congress in 2012. It gives an objective narrative of multiple facets of China through many stories and cases, such as civilian life, education development, social security, the poverty battle, public health, and social governance. The book, which provides a valuable reference for a better understanding of China, is now available at bookstore outlets across the country. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 13:54:19|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CHICAGO, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- "Twenty years after the September 11 attacks, America is poorer, more militarized and more polarized," said Juan Cole, a professor of history at the University of Michigan (UM) who studies the ongoing political change in the Middle East. Instead of a lean, targeted counterterrorism policy, the United States launched big, messy wars, Cole said. "The unnecessary wars and long-term military occupations for which Washington elites made September 11 a pretext cost trillions ... running up the national debt to alarming levels," he said. Tens of thousands of veterans suffer from war injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder and suffer high suicide rates. Police departments that received excess war material became distant from their own communities and often seemed like occupation forces themselves. "The wars and occupations manifestly failed, diminishing U.S. standing in the world," Cole stressed. Adam Horwitz, an assistant professor of psychiatry at the UM, holds that Sept. 11 is unique in that it has an impact and holds meaning for all Americans. "In many ways, it is more of a 'memorial day' than the actual Memorial Day in the United States." "Sept. 11 is an opportunity for a more somber reflection of those we lost on that day, as well as the veterans and their families who experienced losses in the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq," Horwitz said. "The tragedy" of Sept. 11 "resuscitated a politics of fear that was directed against Arab and Muslim immigrants in the same way that the politics of fear was turned against Italian immigrants in the early 20th century, German immigrants in World War I and Japanese immigrants in World War II," said Ann Lin, associate professor of public policy at UM's Ford School of Public Policy. "But the evidence of history, and of the past 20 years, shows that immigrants fight for the U.S. in wars, create the technology that keeps America safe and strengthen our knowledge and understanding of other societies and nations," the professor said. Yasmin Moll, an associate professor of anthropology from the UM, echoed Lin's words. "The narrative of a clear-cut 'us' versus a clear-cut 'them' was easy to adopt in the aftermath of September 11." Moll said the narrative depicts Arabs and Muslims as fundamentally terrifying. "These media representations left room neither for the ordinary experiences of individual Arabs or Muslims nor for the collective trauma of Arabs and Muslims as themselves victims of political violence and terrorism, whether here in the United States or abroad." Javed Ali, an associate professor of practice at UM's Ford School of Public Policy, holds that 20 years after Sept. 11, the United States is at an inflection point with respect to its posture against terrorism, with a shift more towards combating domestic terrorism as against international terrorism. Unlike the immediate years following Sept. 11 and through the campaign against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria in the mid-2010s, counterterrorism is no longer the dominant national security issue that draws an outsized level of policymaker and public attention, as well as money, resources and personnel, Ali said. Despite a smaller focus on counterterrorism in the years ahead, "terrorism will continue to present challenges both domestically and abroad," he said. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 16:00:42|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United States must work with China to find a global solution to end the raging COVID-19 pandemic, said renowned U.S. economist Jeffrey Sachs in an interview with Malaysian media published on Sunday. In an email interview with Malaysian newspaper the Star, Sachs said the global response to the pandemic has been wholly inadequate and one of the main geopolitical problems might have been the failure of the United States to work with China for global solutions. "This is tragic, since China has done an excellent job of suppressing the pandemic, and the world could and should have learned a lot more from China's response," said the U.S. economist, who heads the Lancet COVID-19 Commission, which has been created to help speed up global, equitable, and lasting solutions to the pandemic. "The United States should learn some good manners to work cooperatively with China, rather than trying to impose its will on that nation," he said. Sachs, who is also the director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, pointed out U.S. failures to contain the disease at home. "The culture in many societies such as the United States has put personal behavior ahead of the social good," he said. "In the name of 'liberty,' Americans have failed to follow basic rules and protocols, and the disease has therefore been allowed to run rampant in the United States." Rich countries have also not generously shared their knowledge, especially on vaccines, Sachs said, urging greater efforts by countries and different parts of the world for coordinated responses. Meanwhile, the global financing system has favored rich countries, providing too little support to the developing world, he added. "We should be investing far more resources into epidemiology, disease surveillance, disease prevention, and disease treatments," he concluded. Enditem THE countrys porous border posts will soon be under tight surveillance following Governments decision to acquire drones worth US$2 million to patrol the borderline to curb smuggling. The drones will be used at all ports of entry to reduce smuggling with plans also at an advanced stage to place a CCTV camera system at border posts. The tendering of the required equipment to improve security is at an advanced stage. The country is losing millions of dollars in potential revenue as a result smuggling of goods into the country through official borders and undesignated points. Zimbabwe is a landlocked country surrounded by South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, Namibia and Botswana. These countries provide a direct link to seaports through which the goods can be imported to Zimbabwe or exported. Zimbabwe has 16 designated ports of entry along the borderline with neighbouring countries through which goods can be imported or exported. Huge consignments of goods such as clothing items, footwear products, fuel, restricted or controlled goods, electrical items, alcoholic beverages, motor vehicles, wildlife, minerals, tobacco products and many others are smuggled into or out of the country using both the designated and illegal crossing points resulting in Government losing revenue. Finance and Economic Development Deputy Minister Clemence Chiduwa recently told Parliament that drones will soon be deployed following the announcement in the 2021 National Budget. The tendering process of the drones project is now at an advanced stage. In addition, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority has appointed a manager responsible for border surveillance who will work with the security management unit and security forces in order to ensure the borderline is secure, he said. Deputy Minister Chiduwas remarks were in response to issues raised by the Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance and Economic Development after its familiarisation tour of the six border posts last year. The team visited Kariba, Chirundu, Forbes, Beitbridge, Plumtree and Kazungula border posts. Deputy Minister Chiduwa said the staff establishment of Zimra is under review following the approval of the utilitys structure by the board. I wish to advise that progress has been made to capacitate Zimra with operational motor vehicles which are key for staff mobility, particularly at border posts, he said. Deputy Minister Chiduwa said last year Zimra received 20 vehicles and this year it bought 20 Land Cruiser off-road vehicles. He said plans to purchase additional 85 vehicles comprising 35 double-cabs and 50 Sedans are at an advanced stage with the first batch expected soon. In a statement recently, Zimra said plans are at an advanced stage to place a CCTV camera system at border posts and strategic areas. The CCTV system will be linked to a loss control command centre at Zimra head office that will have sight of the footage live feed from the border post. Zimra also said it will continue to enforce controls to avoid importation of restricted or prohibited goods through the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS). Last year, it sealed 35 076 trucks which gave the authority about US$1 million in sealing fees and $217 000 from fines. The ECTS uses GPS/GPRS technology for tracking. Electronic seals are affixed to cargo containers, box trucks, soft sided trucks (flat decks with side curtains), tankers and break bulk (goods under tarpaulin). The electronic seals send regular signals to the control room to show the location of the cargo. Zimra said it will submit position papers to ensure the system which was imported will be produced locally in partnership with other domestic players who will be required to benchmark against international best practice. The ECTS that Zimra uses is from Malaysia and there is a keen interest from the Government to use a locally produced system. The aim is to expand the transit economy with Zimbabwe acting as a transit hub in the region. Zimbabwe intends to adopt and implement the concept of dry ports in areas such as Makuti and Forbes. Chronicle Lawyers representing Dr Gatsha Mazithulela have written to the three erstwhile directors of Kershelmar Farms in Nyamandlovu, Matabeleland North Province, challenging them to disclose the circumstances under which they disposed of shares in their farming enterprise to Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa director Siphosami Malunga and his two partners. Kershelmar Farm is at the centre of a dispute pitting Malunga and his partners, Zephania Dhlamini and businessman Charles Moyo, on the one hand and Dr Mazithulela and the Government, which has since spilled into the High Court. Malunga and his partners accuse Dr Mazithulela of influencing Government to acquire the farm after he tried with no success to force his way into the ownership structure of Kershelmar Farm. In his opposing papers filed at the High Court on August 30, Dr Mazithulela said he had no interest in acquiring the farm. For the record, I wish to state from the outset that I have no interest in acquiring any portion of Kershelmar Farm and have never been offered any letters on the same, reads the papers. My alleged interest in acquiring the farm, only exists in the fertile imagination of the applicants. The material omission, done so deliberately in my view, is that first applicant (Dhlamini), neglects to state that I was actually part of the original consortium seeking to acquire the farm he mentions as far back as 2016. It must be noted that first applicant was a colleague of mine at the National University of Science and Technology. Last December, Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Resettlement Minister Dr Anxious Masuka published a notice of acquisition of the farm for purposes of agriculture resettlement in terms of Section 72(2) of the Constitution. Malunga is challenging the acquisition arguing that he bought the farm along with his partners from Messrs Barry Brice, David Power and Jeffrey Swindles directors of Kershelmer Farms nearly four years ago. However, Kershelmer Farms (Private) Limited is listed as the owner of the farm in official records. In a letter dated September 1, Dr Mazithulela, through his lawyer Gerald Mlotshwa of Titan Law, invited the trio of Messrs Brice, Power and Swindles to file an application for joinder in the ongoing High Court case and explain in detail how the alleged sale took place. We are instructed by our client, Dr Gatsha Mazithulela to respectfully draw your attention to the above litigation pending before the High Court of Zimbabwe, sitting in Bulawayo, wrote Mr Mlotshwa. Our client is cited as the fourth respondent therein, along with six other respondents. It is our considered view that all of you, as the alleged erstwhile directors and owners, respectively, of Kershelmar Farms, take the necessary and urgent steps to file an application for joinder in respect of the said proceedings. From the woefully inadequate, if not incompetent, application filed by Mr Siphosami Malunga and his co-applicants, it seems to us that it will become absolutely necessary for the both of you to explain the circumstances relating to the disposal and transfer of shares in Kershelmar to Messrs Malunga, Dhlamini and Moyo. In particular, we trust that your affidavit/s will provide the necessary detail as to precisely how the alleged sale and transfer of shares in Kershelmar Farms (Private) Limited was executed in the clear absence of a certificate of no present interest. Mlotshwa argues that in terms of Section 4(1) of the Land Acquisition (Disposal of Rural Land) Regulations, no one is allowed to transfer shares in a land-owning company, unless he has notified the Minister of Lands, Agriculture and Rural Resettlement his intention to transfer the shares. In addition, the Minister must first issue a certificate of no present interest. Mr Malunga and his fellow applicants allege, under oath, that they bought Kershelmar Farms (Private) Limited, and its underlying assets, being the foregoing pieces of farm land, on 2nd February, 2017. They do not, however, provide any evidence of compliance with the said regulations. That onus, it must be said, rests with the seller of the shares. And from the Court application, we note that Mr Brice signed the share purchase agreement under power of attorney on behalf of the seller, Jeffrey Swindells. Mr Mlotshwa challenges the trio to provide proof of the transaction by showing that it was done in compliance with the Capital Gains Tax Act. David Power, as the company secretary of Kershelmar Farms (Private) Limited, would have been responsible for registering the transfer of these shares. He will need to enlighten the High Court on whether or not there was full compliance with the Capital Gains Tax Act in light of the omission to provide documentary evidence of this by his alleged successor as company secretary, the third applicant in the proceedings, Charles Moyo. He goes further to challenge Mr Swindells, who is resident in Australia, to show that no exchange control regulations were flouted when the payment for the shares was made. Mr Mlotshwa said Mr Malunga and his co-litigants state, under oath, that Mr Swindells, owner of Karshelmar Farms, is resident in Australia. They further swear that they paid at total of US$248 500 for the entire issued shares in the company. For the purposes of the Exchange Control Regulations, 1996, the seller, Mr Swindells, is a non-resident. There is absolutely no proof of compliance with these regulations in Mr Malungas court application. Separately, in his notice of to Malungas application at the High Court, made through the Civil Division in the Attorney-Generals Office, which was filed on September 1, 2021, Minister Masuka said the applicants case was flawed because they do not have an offer letter. The applicant (Mr Dhlamini) has no locus standi to institute these proceedings for the reason that he is not the offer letter holder as stated in the Gazetted Lands (consequential provisions) Act Chapter 20:28, reads Minister Masukas opposing papers. In addition to this, the applicant is not even, at law, the owner of the land in that the title deed used for the acquisition is in the name of the former white farmer. It would make legal sense if he (the former white farmer) was the one making this application. The applicants locus standi on acquisition issues would be established through a direct link to the land which in this particular case has not been established. Minister Masuka said the relief being sought cannot be granted because the land does not belong to the applicants. The acquisition process is governed and provided for in Section 72 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which makes it clear that once a piece of land is gazetted it immediately becomes State land and this process cant be challenged through the courts. The question that then arises is that of in terms of what law or legal effect is the reversal of a properly done acquisition of agricultural land, being brought. Clearly the applicants are way out of their depth in terms of the appreciation of land laws and their application. The relief they are seeking is baseless both at law and on the facts and cant be granted. The Minister added that if the applicants were the rightful owners, they should have used internal remedies as provided for in the Constitution (Amendment No 20 and the Land Commission Act). Its trite that one approaches the courts after exhausting all the internal remedies. The applicant in this case has not followed due procedure and this application simply amounts to forum shopping and is a classic case of abuse of the court process, hence the matter must be dismissed, he said. The matter is still to be set down for hearing. Sunday Mail SOME private clinics in Harare are overcharging their Covid-19 vaccination administration fees, while others are refusing to accept local currency payments, The Sunday Mail has established. In July, Government extended the vaccination programme to private health institutions in order to increase the number of points where people can get their Covid-19 jabs. The institutions were directed to charge a nominal administration fee of $434,35 for the administration of an injection by a doctor and $220,64 for one administered by a nurse. Vaccination remains free in public institutions. Investigation by this publication show that some facilities are charging inflated fees as high as $700 or US$8 for an injection administered by a doctor, while others are demanding $320 or US$3,50 for being jabbed by a nurse. Under their arrangement with Government, private clinics get the vaccines, syringes, vaccination cards and registers free of charge from the Ministry of Health and are only allowed to charge administration costs. Investigations show that some clinics operating in the Avenues area in Harare are charging administration fees above the gazetted prices. At one clinic (name supplied) operating along Baines Avenue, the doctors administration fee has been pegged at US$6 while the nurses fee is US$3,50. An official at the clinic said they only accept payment in US dollars. It is either you pay in hard currency or we use the parallel market rate of the day which is ZW$145:USD1, she said. Another facility (name supplied) is only accepting payment in US dollars or an equivalent in Zimbabwean dollars at the parallel market rate. Efforts to speak to management at both establishments were fruitless. Public relations and communications officer at the Ministry of Health and Child Care Mr Donald Mujiri said clinics charging above the gazetted prices were in violation of their agreement with Government. Private institutions should not charge anything beyond what the Government gazetted as this is considered a breach of what the private institutions agreed with the Government, he said. Anyone charging exorbitant fees is acting outside the confines of the law. Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association (MDPPZA) president, Dr Johannes Marisa, a body representing medical practitioners in private practice, said private clinics should stick to the gazetted price. He said a circular has been sent to association members encouraging them to abide by the stipulated fee. Please do not charge beyond the gazetted tariffs as these vaccines are secured and delivered from central Government. Any member or private practitioner who is charging more than the stipulated fee is doing so outside the confines of the law, Dr Marisa said. This comes as Government is planning to extend the vaccination programme to include pharmacists in the private sector. Already, pharmacists under the Retail Pharmacists Association (RPA) are undergoing training to safely administer Covid-19 jabs. Sunday Mail BULAWAYO High Court judge Justice Nokuthula Moyo will on Wednesday preside over the case of a nine-year-old pupil from Gwanda who is suing teachers unions and Government. Amuhelang Ulukile Dube, a pupil at Mafuko Primary School in Gwanda district in Matabeleland South is seeking an order barring teachers at public schools from striking over poor salaries and working conditions. The minor, who is being represented by her grandmother, Ms Senzeni Nyathi, through her lawyers Ndove and Associates, have filed an urgent chamber application at the Bulawayo High Court. In papers before the court, the Zimbabwe Teachers Association (Zimta), Zimbabwe Confederation of Public Sector Trade Unions, Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ), Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ), the chairperson of the Public Service Commission, Dr Vincent Hungwe, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Cain Mathema, Minister of Public Service, Labour and social Welfare Professor Paul Mavima and Minister of Finance and Economic Development Professor Mthuli Ncube, were cited as respondents. The application follows the recent threats by teachers not to resume work until their demands for better salaries are met. Teachers are demanding to be paid US$550 or its equivalent in local currency a month. In her founding affidavit, Ms Nyathi said the actions of the cited teachers unions and their members to refuse to take up classes over salary grievances and improved working conditions coupled with the non-intervention of the Government constitutes a violation of the childrens right to education as enshrined in sections 75 and 81 of the countrys Constitution. She wants the teachers unions together with their members interdicted from boycotting classes with all teachers being directed to report for duty within 48 hours of the granting of the order. I further seek ancillary relief to the effect that the Government be ordered and mandated to provide teaching staff to ensure that there would be no interruption of teaching services or classes at all public primary and secondary schools in Zimbabwe so that the rights of the children are not violated, said Ms Nyathi. The applicant said in the event that the teachers refuse to comply, Government should be directed to take all measures to ensure that there is no interruption of classes. Chronicle President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday ordered the ruling party to immediately start campaigning for the crunch 2023 elections and declared that Zanu PF will never be removed from power. Mnangagwa told a Zanu PF politburo meeting that the party was targeting to grab MDC Alliance strongholds in urban areas and pleaded with party supporters from the grassroots to bankroll the 2023 campaign. Zanu PF rule is here to stay. We are the only revolutionary party with an indisputable rich past and the progressive and inclusive vision for a brighter, more prosperous future, Mnangagwa said. Over and above these constitutional programmes, all leagues of the party must begin to prepare in earnest, for the 2023 harmonised general elections. Mnangagwa went on to issue a stern warning to members of his party who sought to pursue secret agendas within the party, saying they would be exposed and dealt with severely. As we approach the 2023 harmonised elections, our electorate must keep alert and never be deceived by individual fantasies and unbridled political ambitions disguised as political wisdom. Proxies and conduits of neo-imperialism bent on sowing division and disunity among us must be exposed and defeated all the time, he said. The Zanu PF leader accused the opposition of failure to deliver on service in urban areas hence the need to vote them out. The opposition has dismally failed our people in urban areas. All party wings must therefore work extremely hard to ensure that we mobilise the urban vote for a resounding party victory, Mnangagwa said. Our people in urban areas have been short-changed by the opposition parties for too, too long. Zanu PF will never leave our urban dwellers behind. They too deserve a better quality of life. Turning to sanctions, Mnangagwa said: We remain unbroken in the face of illegal sanctions and are in fact emerging more united and stronger to deliver that which is outlined in the aims and objectives of the party. He said the party structures must find ways to mobilise financial resources while urging his supporters to make use of social media for mobilisation. I also challenge the partys structures to find innovative ways to ensure financial and material resources are mobilised in support of the various activities of the wings of the party at every level, Mnangagwa said. All wings of the party are encouraged to exploit social media as a contemporary tool for political mobilisation. This must see increased dialogue and debate aimed at popularising our party, its ideals and successes as well as the good policies and programmes of the government. The positive following and publicity of the party on the ICT platforms must ultimately translate into increased membership and party votes in the 2023 election polls. It is, therefore, incumbent upon the party wings to roll out broader election and voter education programmes across all provinces and districts. We must leave nothing to chance. Mnangagwa then paraded a group of alleged MDC Alliance politicians who reportedly defected to the ruling Zanu PF party. But the MDC Alliance scoffed at Mnangagwas claims of defections of key opposition officials saying the people paraded at the Zanu PF headquarters were not from their party. Mnangagwa paraded seven people to the politburo claiming they were from the Nelson Chamisa-led party. They included former Harare deputy mayor Emmanuel Chiroto, former Marondera mayor Farai Nyandoro, among others. In presenting them, Mnangagwa said: This morning we received seven former MDC Alliance members, mostly original founders of MDC. They told us that they realised home is home. You can go all over, but you will eventually come back home. We are receiving them wholeheartedly. But the MDC Alliance secretary-general Chalton Hwende said Mnangagwa was panicking and desperate as the officials he paraded were not part of the MDC Alliance. ED is panicking and desperate. keep on pressing for the #RegisterToVote2023 campaign. Most of the names of the alleged senior members, I have seen for the first time, Hwende said. They have even created a new post of secretary-general for veterans, a post that is not in our constitution. Zanu PF is all about deception and fraud, Hwende said. Chiroto who was among the defectors left the MDC in 2015 to join the Zimbabwe People First party led by former Vice-President Joice Mujuru. He and Nyandoro then reportedly joined the Douglas Mwonzora-led MDC-T before tendering their resignations in July this year to pursue private business. Among the defectors is former MDC Zengeza West Member of Parliament Simon Chidhakwa, who was fired from the party after contesting as an independent candidate. Chidhakwa said he has re-joined Zanu PF on his own volition and promised to work for the development of the country. Former MDC Alliance national secretary-general for veterans association, Charles Musimuki, who was suspended from MDCA party in July, said the partys continuous splits was a clear indication of lack of ideology in the opposition camp. Mnangagwa said the new members must be integrated into the party and be embraced by all structures. Standard Classes will begin for some students as early as 7:15 a.m., nearly an hour earlier than the school used to open, and will end close to 5 p.m., about an hour later than in past years. The school day will consist of 14 class periods instead of 10, and students will weave in and out of the building in roughly six separate, overlapping shifts, according to Principal David Marmor. The disruption to daily life due to the COVID-19 pandemic has hit those with substance use disorder hard, said former federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert Redfield, after the organization released data pointing to a nationwide uptick in overdoses during the pandemic. As we continue the fight to end this pandemic, its important to not lose sight of different groups being affected in other ways. We need to take care of people suffering from unintended consequences. Battery blaze: A 9-year-old Queens boy died Wednesday in a fire sparked by a charging moped battery. Remi Miguel Gomez Hernandezs parents struggled in vain to rescue their trapped son from their Ozone Park home. The boys family moved into the illegally subdivided basement apartment on 102nd Road near 84th St. just hours earlier, authorities said. The FDNY said the flames were sparked by a charging lithium-ion battery and there were no smoke detectors. The mom said she heard the boy saying Mom, help me, recounted the stunned friend, Humberto Gilbert. The childs father suffered burns on his hands trying to get to his son, FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro said. Remi was supposed to start fourth grade at Public School 97 in Brooklyn on Monday. Cruz, who lives in another building in the complex, on Delancey St., came by often to help Cardona get in and out of the bathroom, the victims grandson told the Daily News. A short distance down the road, two other people saw the man, later identified as Bryan Riley, 33, and said he was looking for Amber, according to Sheriff Grady Judd. Riley had said God had sent him there because Amber was going to commit suicide, the sheriff said. The Murdaugh family has suffered through more than any one family can ever imagine, his family said in a statement Saturday night. We expect Alex to recover and ask for your privacy while he recovers. Murdaugh was rushed to an area hospital, Griffin said to the Island Packet. He did not disclose any further about his clients condition or wounds that he sustained. Its unclear how that will work without an active U.S. military presence in the country and the Taliban-controlled Kabul airport, a major way out of the country, now closed. But an undersecretary of state said this past week that all American citizens and permanent residents who could not get evacuation flights or were otherwise stranded had been contacted and told to expect further details about routes out once those have been arranged. Two firefighters from Cosumnes Fire Department carry water hoses while holding a fire line to keep the Caldor Fire from spreading in South Lake Tahoe, Calif., Friday, Sept. 3, 2021. Fire crews took advantage of decreasing winds to battle a California wildfire near popular Lake Tahoe and were even able to allow some people back to their homes but dry weather and a weekend warming trend meant the battle was far from over. (Jae C. Hong/AP) Im operating under the assumption that this could happen again in another 10 days, Hochul said, echoing a sense of disbelief among many New Yorkers who were hit by two major storms in less than two weeks. On Aug. 21, Tropical Storm Henri also drenched the Northeast. The U.S. is in touch with all of them who weve identified on a regular basis, White House chief of staff Ron Klain said on CNNs State of the Union, though he was vague about plans to get U.S. citizens out of the Taliban-controlled nation. Yeah, it will change the fabric a little bit for a little while in EB, thats for sure, one witness, Aaron Armstrong, said of Emerald Beach in an interview with the Australian Broadcast Company. Bidens executive order signed Friday as nearly 2,000 9/11 victim family members warned him not to bother showing up at memorial remembrances lest he make good on a campaign promise to declassify many materials does not guarantee that all information heretofore deemed secret will suddenly be published. Nor does it ensure that if and when it does see the light of day, it wont be so full of black redaction bars as to be rendered useless. While she may not have had the chance to develop the relationships Carey did in his time, Hochul was well-liked in the House and worked hard for the people of her district while she was there. That work ethic and any relationships she managed to cultivate will serve her and all New Yorkers as she navigates at least the next 17 months on the job. While the footage is heartbreaking and difficult to watch, documentaries and movies help ensure the world never forgets what happened on Sept. 11, 2001. History has to be remembered, the good part and the bad part, says Jules Naudet, one of the filmmakers behind the 9/11 documentary, who captured video inside the World Trade Center that fateful day. I stayed away and warned people about him. I remember telling Jonny (Lee Miller), my first husband, who was great about it, to spread the word to other guys dont let girls go alone with him. I was asked to do The Aviator, but I said no because he was involved. I never associated or worked with him again. It was hard for me when Brad did. Troubles started for Chester soon after his marriage in 1898 to Nina Larre Smith, who came from a prominent Boston family. Four years and one child later, the separation of this high-society couple was big gossip, appearing in newspapers across the country, sometimes on front pages. As early as the honeymoon, she said he hit her, flirted with other women, and screamed curses at her. He became more violent when he was drunk, which was often. Since then, theyve doubled in space, taken on a new partner in Chon Nguyen and racked up accolades from Best Chef to Best Restaurant to write-ups in Food + Wine and James Beard Foundation nods (Alvarez was a semifinalist in 2017), but even with Cinco Jotas Iberico Ham and Osetra caviar and Miyazaki A5 on the menu, youre still going to hear uncensored hip-hop on the speakers. Gleason and the 33-year-old female victim told Riley there was nobody named Amber there and that he should leave before they called law enforcement, the sheriff said. Deputies were then summoned and searched the area but did not find Riley. Judd said, about nine hours later, around 4:30 a.m., a Polk County lieutenant who was nearby heard volleys of automatic gunfire coming from the area of the original call. Alethia and Diane Jones struggled for years with drug addictions. For Alethia, it led to mostly petty crimes including shoplifting to pay for her drug habit. Alethia had a lot of struggle and trauma as a child. She became pregnant in the 11th grade and dropped out of high school. She fell into an abusive relationship with her childs father, who kicked her in the stomach in her last month of pregnancy. She began drinking and using cocaine as a way to deal with her situation. At one time she tried to help a friend and got stabbed. An infection resulted in a leg amputation. Port-Louis, Mauritius (PANA) - The Mauritian Ministry of Health and Welfare announced Saturday it had recorded a total of 291 positive cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) and one death, with seven others in serious condition at the hospital, official sources told PANA here Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - Ethiopia's Ministry of Defence says that three divisions of the Tigray People's Defence Front (TPLF), which has been battling the federal army in various parts of Amhara region, have been "wiped out" News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Rupee inches 1 paisa higher at 73.67 against US dollar in early trade. NEWSALERT-NKOREA-MISSILES Seoul says 2 missiles launched by North Korea were ballistic, Japan says they landed outside Japanese economic waters. (AP)Seoul says 2 missiles launched by North Korea were ballistic, Japan says they landed outside Japanese economic waters. (AP) New York Times, September 4, 2021 By Adam Nossiter The women were assaulted with rifle butts, tear gas and metal clubs, while anti-Taliban rebels in the north vowed to repel an assault by the Islamist group. Taliban fighters violently suppressed a womens protest Saturday in Kabul, while 70 miles to the north ex-Afghan army and militia members battled the Islamist group in Panjshir Province, as pockets of anti-Taliban resistance continued to flare up. Several of the women, who were demanding inclusion in the yet-to-be named Taliban government, said they were beaten by Taliban fighters some of the first concrete evidence of harsh treatment of women by the group. RAWA: A protester carrying anti-US/NATO slogan. RAWA: A protester carrying anti-US/NATO slogan. Since they swept to power last month the Taliban leaders have been on a charm offensive seeking to convince the world, aid groups and their own population that the harsh rule they imposed in their last stint in power, from 1996 to 2001, was a thing of the past. But there was little restraint in evidence at the Kabul protest. A 24-year-old participant said in a telephone interview that the Taliban tried to rout the gathering of about 100 women using tear gas, rifle butts and metal clubs or tools. She said she received five stitches to close a head wound after she was knocked unconscious with a blow from one of the metal objects. When I tried to resist and continue the march, one of the armed Taliban pushed me and hit me with a sharp metal device, said the woman, who the Times is identifying only by her first name, Nargis, to guard against retribution. They pushed everybody away and forced us to leave while chasing us with their spray, weapons and metal devices, said Nargis. The Taliban kept cursing, using abusive language. Video of the incident on Afghan news media outlets showed a bearded Taliban member, surrounded by gunmen, exhorting the women to disperse through a megaphone, which was then snatched from his hand by one of the women. Pakistan, whose intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence, or I.S.I., has provided funding and sanctuary to Taliban leadership for two decades, showed its hand Saturday. Both the Afghan and Pakistani news media reported that the head of the I.S.I., Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, flew into the Afghan capital for talks. A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. By SA Commercial Prop News Izak Petersen, CEO of Dipula Income Fund Dipula Income Fund (JSE:DIA/DIB) today announced the R247,8 million acquisition of three strategic retail properties. Increasing its retail portfolio exposure to low-income households, which are expected to outperform higher-income households in terms of growth in the short- to medium-term, Dipula has concluded an agreement to acquire Bochum Plaza and Blouberg Plaza, adjacent retail centres totalling some 12,500sqm both in Bochum, Limpopo, and the 15,000sqm Nquthu Plaza in Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal. Bochum and Blouberg Plaza are situated near a commuter taxi rank and anchor tenants include Pick n Pay and Cashbuild. Nquthu Plaza is anchored by Shoprite and Cashbuild. Both properties are 100% let. These strategic acquisitions will grow Dipulas portfolio and achieve the increased quality, average size and geographic diversification of our portfolio, says Dipula Income Fund CEO Izak Petersen. Dipula Income Fund, which offers an A and B unit structure, listed on the JSE in August 2011 with excellent BEE credentials thanks to a black-owned asset manager, a sizable stake in the fund by management and a highly acquisitive growth strategy targeting income-enhancing assets. The company owns a diversified property portfolio, located throughout South Africa, with a retail bias to low income households. The Dipula portfolio consists of over 170 properties representing good sectoral and geographical diversification. The new acquisitions will grow the portfolio to 178 properties valued at in excess of approximately R2.3 billion and spanning a total of 463 000sqm. For good continuity and an excellent track record, McCormick Property Development, developer of all three properties in the transaction, and will continue as appointed property and rental manager of these properties. The acquisitions remain subject to a number of conditions, including Competition Authorities approval and Dipula securing financing, which may be done by way of debt or equity funding. We continue to build a portfolio that will deliver capital appreciation and annuity income growth to investors in the long-term, while increasing our critical mass, asset quality and diversification. These acquisitions will have financial effects on Dipulas performance, which will be announced in due course, notes Petersen. The Central government on Sunday reiterated its position that it has always been ready for talks with the farmers. Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur's comment that the government has always been ready to talk with the farmers came in wake of Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait's reported announcement towards the end of Muzaffarnagar Kisan Mahapanchayat that the farmers would run a campaign against Prime Minister Narendra Modi to protest the three farm laws. The government has repeatedly maintained that it has always been ready to discuss farm laws with farmers. "We have deposited Rs 1.5 lakh crore directly into accounts of the farmers under the Kisan Samman Nidhi for helping the farmer. During Covid-19 time too, we have ensured that farmers get all the more help through banks," Thakur told media persons. "Our government has also raised an Agricultural Infrastructure Fund for Rs 1,00,000 crore. Many more agriculture mandis have been opened during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's time and they have been connected to e-NAM," he added. Earlier in the day, thousands of farmers under various banners had assembled at Muzaffarnagar in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh to protest the three farm laws, and also to announce a political campaign ahead of upcoming Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28: 29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951 /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 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(0x7f6398f21910)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398e39f20)', '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(0x7f6398f21910)') 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(0x7f6398e39f20)') 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(0x7f6398f2e008)') 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(0x7f6398e39f20)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398e39f20)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398e14c48)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f63989ab388)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f63989ab388)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951 /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 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(0x7f63992756e0)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f63997816f0)', '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(0x7f63992756e0)') 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(0x7f63997816f0)') 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(0x7f639928ea38)') 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(0x7f63997816f0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f63997816f0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f639897b428)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f6399781380)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f6399781380)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951 /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 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(0x7f639934dd10)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398eaeb40)', '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(0x7f639934dd10)') 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(0x7f6398eaeb40)') 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(0x7f639960a468)') 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(0x7f6398eaeb40)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398eaeb40)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f639897b268)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f638db72290)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f638db72290)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:951 /var/cache/mason/obj/1784076917/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 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(0x7f63995e3438)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 951 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398ebc2e0)', '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(0x7f63995e3438)') 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(0x7f6398ebc2e0)') 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(0x7f6399646d70)') 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(0x7f6398ebc2e0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f6398ebc2e0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x7f639897b0e8)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f63993bc9e0)') called at (eval 487) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x7f63993bc9e0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 El Aaiun Occupied, 5 September 2021 (SPS) - President of the Sahrawi Body against the Moroccan occupation (ISACOM), Aminatou Haidar, said that the Makhzen regime was "the first beneficiary" of the observer status granted to Israel at the African Union (AU), as it serves its colonial and expansionist agendas in the region, including Western Sahara. In an interview with the website "The Algerian Information Network" (El Akhbar), the Sahrawi activist said that "the Moroccan occupier is the first beneficiary of the granting of observer status at the AU to the Zionist entity, because he thinks it will allow to decide in his favor the conflict in Western Sahara. The Moroccan regime "believes that its ties with Israel would allow it to form a kind of balance with Algeria, which is a regional force, and this, taking advantage of the military technology of the Zionist entity, she said. However "by obtaining observer status in the pan-African organization, Israel seeks institutional access to influence African decision-makers and undermine the liberating heritage of the continent," she warned. Referring to the Moroccan elections planned in the Sahrawi territories, Haidar recalled the "illegal and illicit" nature of this process contrary to the provisions of the Constitutive Act of the AU, in that the Western Sahara is under occupation and is, therefore, not included in the territories of the Kingdom inherited from the colonization. International law classifies Western Sahara as a territory where the right to self-determination has not yet been exercised, she said. Furthermore, the president of ISACOM described the appointment of a new representative of the UN Secretary General in Western Sahara as a "routine procedure that has no impact on the settlement process or on the holding of a referendum. 062/700 The failure from inadequate administrative means is thus conspicuous and evident. The problem with corruption relentlessly persists. The whole picture cannot be taken in. This article confines itself, therefore, to the corruption within the current COVID-19 crisis. by Tassie Seneviratne The fact that corruption has become a way of life in Sri Lanka is accepted by all and sundry. It has been described as a virus as virulent as the coronavirus. But who is worried? Not the all-pervasive Crown. The most disconcerting area of corruption at this moment is in the Health sector. In the wake of the current COVID-19 crisis, corruption has taken on a new dimension of free rein for corruption. Bribery was a limited concept for over a hundred years when the Penal Code provisions were, for so long, sufficient for its control. In the late 1900s, however, the term corruption was brought in to supplement bribery as a criminal offence. In the mid-1960s, a Bribery Commissioner (BC) was appointed. With this appointment, instructions went out that all matters of bribery petitions, information etc. are to be reported to the BC for action. The Public Service was stripped/relieved of action and responsibility for bribery and corruption. As a result, bribery and corruption became a criminal offence to be dealt with under the law and the courts. Bribery was no longer to be treated as the administrative offence it was till then. By this, the Establishment Code (EC) went completely into disuse. Sole responsibility and action on bribery was with the BC, the law and the courts, to the exclusion of the Public Service and the EC whose concern it is to keep its own house in order. This relegation of the administrative authority was in breach of UN Convention against Corruption: 2003, Article 5 Prevention, Section 3, prescribing Legal and Administrative Measures. Sri Lanka was a signatory to the UN Convention. To date, however, there has been no will to reinstitute the EC administrative measures for control of bribery and corruption. The result is that this useful means in the EC to control corruption is blatantly disregarded. One wonders if respective BCs are even aware of the UN Convention. By reason of the way judicial adjudication is determined in cases of bribery and corruption, the administrative transgression of the public servant gets lost in the courts determination. And, as a result, the superior officer is unable to make due assessment of the subordinate officer for promotion etc. Every offence of corruption carries with it features that are material to determination of his promotion. Thus, each EC rule, figures around the bribery case: discreditable conduct, disobedience to orders, lack of integrity, neglect of duty, and much more that are relevant to the bribery case. But when the case in courts fails, it precludes administrative sanction against the officers concerned. It has been the general experience that court cases fail on the slightest of technical grounds. Thereby, corrupt officers have come back with clean (laundered) sheets to serve as supervisory officers directing subordinate officers. The Bribery Act, in effect, only provides a safety valve to errant officers. The failure from inadequate administrative means is thus conspicuous and evident. The problem with corruption relentlessly persists. The whole picture cannot be taken in. This article confines itself, therefore, to the corruption within the current COVID-19 crisis. Action on the covid crisis started well. Many plaudits were extended to the Army in all aspects of quarantine control. The food, the courtesy, accommodation, toilets etc. were mentioned in glowing terms by Dr Lucien Jayasuriya, a former Medical Administrator. But that was for a very brief time. Under the Task Force, the situation changed dramatically to the opposite. At every turn corruption is the order in the covid crisis. Hotel quarantine, vaccine warfare, drugs, ventilators, and tenders, hospital overcrowding, beds reserved for the selected who are willing to pay and for other considerations, COVID-19 Fund collections of questionable repute with no audit, corruptible use of quarantine regulations for political purposes as at Mullaitivu, clearing of forests under cover of covid curfew, the list goes on. All this is while patients are dying like flies in most uncongenial conditions in corridors, nooks and corners. However, an occasional light is brought to shine through the darkness. The church in some places offered temporary accommodation for quarantine and health purposes. The Association of Medical Specialists (AMS) came out with its 24/7 Programme to help the affected people with medical assistance which the government was unable to offer. In effect, the AMS help cuts across corruption problems in direct service to the people. Significant too is the Opposition proposal to donate its funds direct to the hospitals than channel it through the government funds. The Bribery Act has had a chequered run on its programmes. A former Bribery Commissioner, Sarath Jayamanne, PC, a couple of days back spoke on How to do away with Corruption in Sri Lanka/Role of Law. There was much publicity on this at colossal expense. Plainly, the propaganda was in lieu of effective action to control corruption. Forward action was not in their agenda. Not in the manner that Ian Wickramanayake as BC took positive action. He obtained the assistance of senior Police officers with experience in the Police CID, to formulate strategies that kept all public servants on their toes. I know it because I was in the BC Department then. Will we ever come right again? (The writer is a Retired Senior Superintendent of Police. He can be contacted at seneviratnetz@gmail.com ) Bob Ansell, Shelter Services Manager at Humane Society of Broward County receives a dog from a flight with Greater Good Charities from storm ravaged Baton Rouge, Louisiana on Saturday September 4, 2021 at National Jets in Ft. Lauderdale Florida. Over 80 cats and dogs arrived on the flight, and were taken to the Humane Society of Broward County, Big Dog Ranch Rescue and Sarasota Humane Society facilities. The animals should be ready for adoption in the next 2 to 5 days. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Rio Vista is broken, said Miles McGrane, another homeowner who doesnt like what he sees. Sidewalks are cracked and are dangerous to walk on. Construction by the city has no end. To top it off we have the fiasco of the park. The fence closing it probably cost more than it would to complete the project. The body of the man, who has yet to be identified, was covered with a yellow tarp after deputies arrived on the scene, the station said, They also cordoned off the area with yellow tape, That information wont be known for certain until the results of autopsies and the completion of the investigation. As of this time, none of the investigators have mentioned that this was a possibility, he said. The conflict between the government and the families over what classified information could be made public came into the open last month after many relatives, survivors and first responders said they would object to Bidens participation in 9/11 memorial events if the documents remained classified. The Afghan official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said it was four planes, and their intended passengers were staying at hotels while authorities worked out whether they might be able to leave the country. The sticking point, he indicated, is that many did not have the right travel papers. As the parent of three children, Ive heard lots of talk about civil rights from those opposed to masks, citing a parents right to choose whether to send a child to school with a mask. On the advice of my pediatrician, I reluctantly withdrew two of my children from a charter school that does not practice masking or distancing. I found it ironic that anti-masking parents claimed a right to have their child mask-less, but I did not have a right to ensure that my child did not sit next to a child without a mask. They had a right to their medical decisions, but I did not have a right to follow my pediatricians recommendation. Marbella's hospitality sector has built its reputation on Michelin star restaurants and fine dining establishments that attract the rich and famous from all over the world, and yet the town also offers some of the best traditional bodegas in the area. Away from the glitzy eateries of Puerto Banus, one will find long-serving taverns and tapas bars that present authentic local cuisine in the most nostalgic surroundings. One of these is the Bodega La Venencia, a small Jerez-style tavern that was founded in San Pedro Alcantara in 1985, but which is now situated in Avenida Miguel Cano in the heart of Marbella. The bodega takes its name from the instrument used for extracting sherry from the aging barrels. Consisting of a small cylindrical steel cup at the end of a long flexible shaft, the wine is poured into a glass from above head height, a tradition that goes back to the 19th century Andalusian sherry merchants. The bar, which has a cosy interior with typical Andalusian decor, has built its reputation on its extensive selection of wines of denomination of origin from different areas in Spain, such as Ribera del Duero, Rioja and Condado de Huelva. The tapas menu is based on authentic Spanish cuisine, and specialities include Iberian sausage and succulent hams, along with various rice dishes, meats, fresh fish and seafood. This is one of the most popular establishments with the locals and a place where visiting tourists head to enjoy welcoming Andalusian hospitality. Another celebrated establishment is Guerola, a rustic-style tapas bar located close to the casco antiguo (the old town) that serves some of the best tapas in Marbella. The interior decoration is unique and includes a large collection of caricatures of some of the bar's regular clientele, along with hand-painted ceramics, wooden beams and cultural memorabilia highlighting local customs and traditions. The menu offers classic tapas, like papas ali oli, meat balls, calamares, croquettes and gazpacho, along with a varied wine list that includes a selection of Malaga's sweet wines, sherries and Vermouth. The bar, which was established in 1960, is one of the town's hidden gems and offers a truly authentic experience to culture-seeking visitors, especially those looking for excellent cuisine at extremely reasonable prices. One tapas bar that is frequented by both local Spanish and the town's expat community is Taperia de Jamon y Vino, which, as the name suggests, specialises in Iberian ham and wine. Here, one will discover that the act of eating ham is a semi-spiritual event, seeing as there are numerous different types to tempt the taste buds, including, of course, Pata Negra. Although the interior is inviting, elegantly decorated with racks of superior wines and dangling legs of ham, during lunchtime the main action takes place on the outside terrace area. August 4th, 2020. A world which was starting to relax a little more after the first impact of Covid-19 looked at its mobile phone and was astonished to see dozens of videos of an explosion that devastated Beirut, the Lebanese capital. Now, one year after the disaster, official figures show that 205 people were killed and thousands more were injured, and an incalculable trail of damage has left an indelible scar on the city. When the clouds of dust and the rubble gave way to silence, the international community mobilised itself. On board one of the hundreds of flights that carried aid to the epicentre of the catastrophe was a contingent of volunteers from Malaga province - firefighters who, without knowing it, were creating a humanitarian link between one end of the Mediterranean and the other. That first expedition was organised by a group of specialists who use dogs to rescue victims of disasters, following the Arcon method (Gerccma). They were: the head of the Provincial Fire Consortium of Malaga, Javier Luque; a corporal of the consortium, Jair Pereira; a firefighter from the same group, Pedro Luque. They travelled with Jaime Parejo, who founded the Arcon method and is a member of Seville city fire brigade, and David Cabrero, a firefighter with Almunecar council. New contingent Now a new contingent is about to head to Beirut, led by Manuel Lavigne, a retired fireman who has worked for Marbella council for half of his life. Javier Luque, from the first expedition, will be with him, and so will J. Antonio Solano, from the Marbella fire brigade, and Antonio Medina, Fran Macias and Sergio Hernandez, from the consortium. Pedro Mena, the founder of a new method of fighting forest fires, is not able to go with them, but is providing materials. At the end of August they will travel to the Lebanese capital, where the consequences of the accident are combined with an economic, social and government crisis which is affecting the whole country. "They need basic items such as clothes, food, medication and training," says Lavigne. These firefighters from Malaga province will be received by the Lebanese Cadets, a youth organisation similar to the Scouts, which is going to create a voluntary force to fight forest fires. Tamer, the leader of this NGO, told SUR via WhatsApp (the phone line continually cuts out) that right now they are in need of "fire-fighting equipment, outfits and first aid items". He also said that the training needs are maybe as important as the equipment, so he is very grateful for the volunteers who will be travelling to the city. As well as the firefighters who will be on their way soon, the cooperation of Marbella council has been very important in creating this humanitarian link. They have provided equipment and materials and also allocated storage space at the Department of Festivals to serve as a logistics base during the preparations for the trip. La Canada donations La Canada shopping centre has also taken part by collecting donations, and is covering the cost of an industrial container which will be sent to Lebanon with everything that has been collected. Schools in Marbella have participated by donating clothes and other materials, and an anonymous business owner has donated new shoes, moved by the wave of solidarity sparked by that the Marbella firefighters, who have also mobilised families and groups elsewhere on the Costa del Sol to support the cause. The training sessions for the Lebanese Cadets will be organised in cycles, and a lorry which has been adapted for firefighting will also be delivered for them to use. The first stage of their training will take place in the late summer and, precisely because of the time of year, it will focus on fighting forest fires. Later, thanks to this link which has been created between Marbella and Beirut, other specialists will travel to Lebanon to provide training in first aid, fires in industrial buildings, urban fires and other essential aspects of the job. Lebanon is suffering a severe economic and political crisis as a result of the collapse of its financial system. The country has been without a fully functioning executive since the last government, led by the interim prime minister Hassan Diab, resigned after the explosion in August 2020. The World Bank has described the crisis which Lebanon is experiencing as one of the deepest in the world since the middle of the last century. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Arab, AL (35016) Today Cloudy this evening with showers after midnight. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Cloudy this evening with showers after midnight. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%. Opinion columnist Zach Freeman discusses the American worker and the impact of U.S. immigration and border controls in his latest piece. . : Morehead, KY (40351) Today Thunderstorms likely. High 76F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms mainly before midnight. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. The Saudi Export-Import Bank (Saudi EXIM Bank) has signed an agreement with the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), to launch a special insurance product. The agreement will help Saudi banks to provide more credit facilities for the export of Saudi non-oil products, and enable them to increase their ability to enhance letter of credit received from foreign banks for the benefit of Saudi exporters, reported Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The agreement, which was signed by the CEO of the Bank, Saad bin Abdulaziz Al-Khalb, and the CEO of the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit, Osama bin Abdulrahman Al-Qaisi, on the sidelines of the annual meeting of the Islamic Development Bank Group in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This agreement comes within the bank's continuous efforts to reduce risks and increase the volume of export of national products through strategic partnerships with international and local financial institutions. Al-Khalb praised ICIECs role in developing the credit system in the region and the Kingdom, noting that the bank is working to diversify and expand its partnerships with local and international financial and credit institutions. He added that the bank will continue to engage in partnerships and agreements to support and diversify financing products and innovate attractive financing and credit solutions that meet the aspirations of all partners and beneficiaries and enable Saudi banks to support the export of Saudi non-oil products. The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) is leading the Emirate's trade mission to Russia, which will take place from September 7 to 12 in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. The visit aims to enhance the economic, commercial, and investment cooperation between the two sides, as the UAE-Russia relations are witnessing a remarkable development at all scales. The SCCI delegation will be led by Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman, SCCI, and includes a number of the Chamber's board members, representatives of government bodies, and the private sector as well. The visit aims to attract more foreign investments to Sharjah and open new and emerging markets before the SCCI members, thus helping them develop their businesses abroad and increase their local exports, said Abdullah Sultan Al Owais. This falls within the SCCI's commitment to boosting the economic ties of the Emirate of Sharjah by organizing business forums with the bodies concerned with trade and investment worldwide, he added. Al Owais pointed out that the SCCI-led trade mission to Russia comes at a time when the UAE-Russia ties are seeing significant growth in various economic spheres. This could be seen in the direct flights between the two countries and the signing of several agreements throughout the past years, which contributed to increasing the trade volume and facilitating bilateral trade. The SCCI Chairman made it clear that the mutual governmental and commercial visits and delegations between the two sides clearly reflect a sincere desire to take commercial ties to new heights, in addition to developing joint investment in the area of information technology, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and smart services, as well as promoting innovation and economic diversification. The UAE-Russia relations are a strategic and sustainable one, based on important and vital economic partnerships, including the tourist sector, said Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), noting that the visit seeks to explore further cooperation prospects in investment, trade, tourism, innovation, and modern technology. The tourism sector is one of the most important sectors that strengthen bilateral relations, as the Russian market is one of the most important markets exporting tourism to the UAE, while Sharjah, in particular, witnessed a steady increase in the second quarter of 2021 at a rate of 9,000%, following the gradual return of travel and air traffic due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Al Midfa added: "The development of the tourism sector is at the forefront of Sharjah's development priorities. This is evident in the increasing number of tourist facilities and the provision of advanced and innovative tourism services and sophisticated infrastructure projects." To ensure the comfort of passengers and to provide world-class travel services, the Sharjah International Airport has been expanded, its services and facilities have been upgraded, and the number of destinations and flights has been increased, he noted This is in addition to other attractive and stimulating factors for foreign companies wishing to enter the region's markets and expand their tourism and economic activity. Abdulaziz Shattaf, Assistant Director-General, Member Services Sector, Director of Sharjah Export Development Center, said: "The missions program includes a number of forums in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, in cooperation with the two cities' Chambers of Commerce, under the title 'Sharjah-Russia Business Forum. "On September 7, the mission will attend the Manufacturers Forum and the Russia-UAE Business Council Forum, in addition to a number of bilateral meetings between the business communities in the UAE and Russia. During these forums, the SCCI, together with the participating government institutions, will deliver several presentations highlighting the emirate's distinctive qualities and its stimulating and promising investment climate. TradeArabia News Service The Middle East has seen a major surge in construction over the last decade, and this trend is set to continue as close to $2.5 trillion in projects are being planned across the region. With real estate and construction already accounting for a sizable portion of global carbon emissions, the region is primed to lead the transition to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) compliance, according to Savills, the leading global real estate advisor. Savills recently launched its Middle East Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report, which aims to understand the status quo of ESG compliance across the real estate and construction sector and the way forward. Its research analysed the various factors impacting the ESG strategies across real estate developments in the Middle East. Today, 55% of the world's population lives in cities, a figure that is projected to increase to over 68% by 2050 as the global population grows and urbanises, cautioned the real estate expert. As per OECD data, with more people expected to live in cities, the global building stock is expected to double by 2050. According to Savills, By 2050, temperatures in the Mena region are expected to rise by an average of 4C. Temperature records have been broken repeatedly in the region in recent years, with Kuwait recording the highest recorded temperature of 54C in 2016. Some of the world's historically driest regions have also experienced flooding. In Oman, 60% of urban residents live along the Muscat and Al-Bathina coasts, which are particularly vulnerable to storm surges and the abrupt onset of sea level rise. This has raised significant awareness on the importance of looking beyond just the impact of the initial construction stage, but rather the day-to-day operations and their significant contribution to climate related issues, satted the report. As per the International Energy Agency (IEA), electricity consumption in buildings represents nearly 55% of global electricity consumption. Following the release of the report, Savills is set to host a webinar dedicated to the topic led by Sophie Chick, Head of World Research at Savills who will be joined by Nadimeh Mehra, Vice President of District 2020; Qais Bader Alsuwaydi, Expert at the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment; Rob Devereux, Chief Executive Officer at ICD Brookfield, and Dan Jestico, Sustainable Design Director at Savills. Together the panellists will discuss sustainability principles, regional and global ESG best practices, government initiatives, challenges on implementing ESG principles and the way forward for ESG and real estate in the Middle East. Chick said: "The environmental challenges facing us are very real. The fact that the built environment accounts for 40% of global annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions demonstrates the urgency with which our industry needs to address this issue." "This has already begun as the value of achieving a 'green' building status is increasingly recognized and there is a growing drive towards more sustainable structures for the benefit of not only the environment, but also our overall wellbeing," she added. Swapnil Pillai, Associate Director Research at Savills Middle East said: "As urbanisation and population growth continue, the built environment will play a critical role in combating climate change. There are already solutions available to assist in the reduction of carbon emissions." "These include innovative construction techniques and retrofitting existing structures. The use of technology and the growth in smart buildings will improve energy efficiency and performance, whilst enhancing customer experience," he added. According to Savills, in the Middle East, governments are now focused on growing sustainably. This is being ensured through regulatory guidelines and development initiatives. The two biggest economies, UAE and Saudi Arabia are currently leading when it comes to such initiatives. "The UAE leads the way with the highest share, 63% of LEED certified sq.ft in the Middle East, followed by Saudi Arabia at 20%, said Pillai. Moreover, the recent government initiatives such as Future Saudi Cities Program and Mostadam in Saudi Arabia and The Estidama Pearl Rating System (PRS) in Abu Dhabi and Safa rating in Dubai indicate a positive trend, he added. Dan Jestico, Sustainable Design Director at Savills, said: "Sustainability is rapidly becoming part of our daily lives, as we try to mitigate the impacts of the climate emergency. Buildings and communities with integrated ESG strategies present real opportunities for improving operational building performance and encouraging sustainable lifestyles." "Global case studies and success stories should be developed to spread the word about world-class building efficiency and sustainability practices," he added.-TradeArabia News Service DP World has agreed to jointly study with Fesco, Russia's largest intermodal transport operator, the technical and economic conditions for developing a new container berth in the far east of Russia. The new berth will help to expand Vladivostok Commercial Seaport as a major transshipment hub connecting cargo from countries in East Asia to North-West Europe via the Northern Sea Route. It follows an earlier agreement between DP World and Rosatom to explore sustainable development of the route, which will increase the resilience of global trade. Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, signed the agreement at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok with Andrey Severilov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fesco. Bin Sulayem said: "DP World supports President Vladimir Putin's vision for the Northern Sea Route, which is one of the last great trading routes in the world to be developed. Opening up an alternative route to the Suez Canal between East and West will increase the resilience of world trade. It has great potential to develop economic activity and prosperity in Russia's far north. It must be done sustainably to protect the pristine waters of the Arctic." Severilov said: "We are delighted to be working closely with a company such as DP World that is handling roughly 10 percent of the global container traffic. We thank our partners and personally thank Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem for this unique opportunity." The berth in Vladivostok is part of the infrastructure needed for full development of the northern route. Under the plan cargo will be brought to Vladivostok by feedering ships and rail from countries in East Asia and loaded onto Arctic-class container ships. Murmansk will be further developed as a transshipment hub in the west to connect cargo to ports in North- Western Europe. DP World's feedering operations will serve both Vladivostok and Murmansk offering faster and cleaner cargo transport solutions to customers and improving supply chain resilience. The Northern Sea Route will allow DP World to continue to offer customers end-to-end logistics solutions. A record 33 million tonnes of cargo was carried along the route in 2020. President Vladimir Putin has set a target of 80 million tonnes by 2021. The project cuts some 4,000 nautical miles from voyages between East Asia and North-Western Europe, cutting shipping time by around two weeks and reducing CO2 emissions.-- TradeArabia News Service UAE ministers have announced the first set of bold strategic projects aimed at fostering the UAEs new phase of growth both domestically and internationally under the "Projects of the 50" initiative. The initiative is an ambitious growth strategy as the nation celebrates its golden jubilee and embarks on the 50 years to come, said a Wam news agency report. The "Projects of the 50" is a series of developmental and economic projects that will be rolled out throughout September, which aim to accelerate the UAEs development and consolidate into a comprehensive hub in all sectors and establish its status as an ideal destination for talents and investors. At a press conference held on Sunday, UAE ministers and senior officials announced the first set of projects, which include new and amended visa schemes, comprehensive global campaigns to attract foreign investment, national initiatives to support emerging Emirati companies and boost the quality of national products, partnerships with major economies across the world, and programmes to support the applications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in all sectors. All of these projects seek to establish the UAE as a global nation and a testbed for technologies and innovation. The ministers and officials who spoke at the conference on Sunday were: Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Teleworking Applications; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Sarah bint Yousif Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Sciences; and Saeed Al Eter, Chairman of the UAE Government Media Office. Al Gergawi explained that the vision for the next 50 years is to make the UAE the global capital of investment and economic creativity, an integrated incubator for entrepreneurship and emerging projects, and an advanced laboratory for new economic opportunities. He stressed how the "Projects of the 50" provides impetus for investment in the digital and circular economies, and those based on the applications of artificial intelligence and the fourth industrial revolution. He said: "Over the past five decades, the UAE has opened its doors, ports, skies and economic sectors to become a destination for all, and we will continue on this path as we establish a pathway for 50 more years of development and opportunity. Projects of the 50 presents to the world a unified economic and investment identity for the next developmental stage in the UAE, establishing an agenda for the next 50 years based on development and opportunity." Projects of the 50 cover several key sectors including economy, entrepreneurship, advanced skills, digital economy, space and advanced technologies. The series of development and economic projects aim to accelerate the UAEs economic growth and diversification to ensure a decent life for its citizens and residents, enhance both the public and private sectors, and build a brighter future for the next generations. Modernisation of visa and work permits One of the key legislative changes being introduced as part of "Projects of the 50" is a restructuring of the entry and residency system, which is being upgraded to confirm the UAEs position as an ideal destination for work, investment, entrepreneurship, education and life. Among the package of new regulations is the introduction of the Green Visa, which expands the self-residency status to investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled individuals, top students and graduates, and the federal Freelancers Visa for self-employed workers based in the UAE and overseas in specialised fields such as artificial intelligence, Blockchain and digital currencies. The new regulations also include expanding the Golden Visa eligibility to include managers, CEOs, specialists in science, engineering, health, education, business management and technology, while the pathway has been smoothed for highly skilled and specialised residents, investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, pioneers, leading students and graduates. New visa schemes include: - Green Visa, which distinguishes between work permits and residencies, enables highly skilled individuals, investors, entrepreneurs and top students and graduates to sponsor themselves; - Green Visa involves: Sponsorship of young people until the age of 25 instead of 18; extending the grace period for leaving the country upon job loss or retirement to 90-180 days instead of 30; and sponsorship of parents; - Freelancers Visa, which is the first federal scheme of its kind, and enables self-employers to sponsor themselves. Other specific regulatory changes include: * Extension of business trip permits from 3 months to 6 months * Sponsorship of parents under the visa of direct family members * One-year residency extension for humanitarian cases Comprehensive economic partnership agreements As part of the efforts to consolidate the UAEs position as a main gateway for global trade and investment, the UAE Government is undertaking comprehensive economic partnership agreements with eight key global markets around the world. The agreements aim to achieve an AED40 billion annual increase to the UAEs current AED257 billion trade volume with these markets. The agreements fall under the UAE's global economic partnerships strategy, which aims to double the size of the national economy from AED1.4 trillion to AED3 trillion over the next 10 years. The countries with which deals were signed are distinguished by large markets that constitute 10 percent of the worlds GDP, with an economic exchange among these countries worth $80 billion. Besides being home to 26 percent of the worlds population, the eight countries possess large markets with high demand for goods and services, in addition to strong trade and economic relations in their respective regions. The initiative will help develop the UAEs network of trade and investment partners, ensure the flow and growth of Emirati trade with the world, and confirm the important role of the UAE in developing and facilitating global trade. In conjunction, the UAE Government also approved the "Higher Committee for Economic Agreements" to oversee the expansion of partnerships with new markets and seize new investment and economic opportunities to sustain the growth of the national economy. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy , was appointed as the committees chairman, while Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, has been appointed as the vice chairman. Committee members are: Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Obaid bin Humaid Al Tayer, Minister of State for Financial Affairs; Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade; Ali Al Neyadi, Commissioner (Chairman) of Federal Customs Authority; Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the UAE Central Bank; Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, member of Abu Dhabis Executive Council, Founding Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority of the Government of Abu Dhabi and Group CEO of Mubadala; and Abdulla Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai. Digital initiatives to prepare for the UAEs future The digital economy will be a major element of "Projects of the 50", reflecting the integral role that technologies and artificial intelligence will play in driving the countrys next phase of its development. UAE Data Law The UAE Data Law is the first federal law to be drafted in partnership with major technology companies. The law will empower individuals to control how their personal data is used, stored and shared in a move that aims to protect privacy of individuals and institutions and limit entities use of personal data for profit. 100 Coders Every Day This programme aims to attract 3,000 coders every month to the countrys workforce, increasing the number of coders from 64,000 to 100,000 in 12 months, and to facilitate the establishment of programming companies in the UAE through a set of incentives and benefits. PyCon Summit As part of the nations drive towards a knowledge economy, the UAE will host "PyCon Summit", the largest programming summit to be held in the Middle East. The event, set to take place in the second half of 2022, will help develop digital talent and expertise, inspire innovative technology projects, and connect a global community of programmers with the public and private sectors, as well as academic institutions. The summit will bring together experts, leaders, talents, specialists and interests in the field from all over the world, and hold workshops, panel discussions and training sessions to showcase the latest trends and developments in programming and the digital economy. The Fourth Industrial Revolution Network As part of the "Projects of the 50", the UAE Government launched the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network to promote the adoption of advanced technologies in the national industrial sector. The project, which aims to establish and grow 500 national companies equipped with the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, will be key in creating an attractive business environment to meet the needs of local and international investors, support the continuous growth of national industries, improve their competitiveness, and enhance the UAEs position as a global destination for pioneering future industries with world-class infrastructure and a skilled and technologically advanced workforce. The network is designed to provide a platform that brings together 15 leading national companies in technology adoption to transfer knowledge, share best practices and train 100 CEOs in the industrial sector on the latest digital trends. Through the network, the Smart Industry Readiness Index will be developed to support the digital transformation of 200 industrial companies after evaluating the efficiency of digital operations. Adnoc, Strata, EDGE and Emirates Global Aluminium will be joined by leading global companies in technology development such as Siemens, Microsoft, Cisco and IBM to share successful implementation of advanced technology and applications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Enhancing the competitiveness of the UAE business environment As part of "Projects of the 50", the UAE Government has launched three initiatives designed to strengthen the UAEs ability to keep pace with the ever-evolving global economy and consolidate its position as one of the worlds most attractive countries for foreign direct investment. 10x10 The 10x10 programme aims to achieve an annual increase in the countrys exports by 10 percent in 10 key markets: China, the UK, the Netherlands, Italy, Russia, Poland, Luxembourg, Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia. Through an integrated system of incentives and benefits, the project will work to achieve a 14 percent growth in cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) outflow by 2030, and a growth of FDI directed to the targeted countries of 24 percent by 2030. Invest.ae The UAE Government has also announced the launch of a new electronic portal invest.ae that will act as an umbrella for all investment-related local entities and 14 state economic entities and present all investment opportunities across the UAE. The portal will also provide comprehensive information on the local investment environment, as well as business and bank account set-up services. It will also highlight entrepreneurial success stories. This electronic platform is designed to showcase the UAE to major international companies and unicorn companies (billionaire companies), and encourage major global sovereign wealth funds to funnel investments to the country. It will also facilitate the identification of investors unable to invest in their own countries, open communication with them and incentivize the transfer of their investments to the UAE. The Emirates Investment Summit The UAE will host the Emirates Investment Summit, a global summit that will connect investment funds with the public and private sectors to create investment opportunities that will attract AED550 billion in FDI over the next nine years. Scheduled to take place during the first quarter of 2022, the Summit seeks to build lasting partnerships between public and private sectors. National In-Country Value Program One of the key elements of "Projects of the 50" is the adoption of the National In-Country Value Program at a federal level, which will facilitate the redirection of procurement and contract expenses to the local economy. The program reflects the UAE governments commitment to enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy, promoting domestic products and supporting local small and medium-sized companies. By 2025, the program aims to create a demand for local products and services by redirecting more than 42 percent of procurement of the federal government and major UAE companies to local products and services, gradually implementing the program through 45 federal entities and 15 major national companies, and increasing local suppliers from 5,000 to 7,300. It aims to contribute to advancing the economic and social development of the country by redirecting more than 50 percent of the spending of government agencies and national companies on purchases and services to the national economy by 2031. It will seek to raise the procurement volume from AED33 billion to AED55 billion by 2025 and to provide competitive financing solutions to local suppliers. Implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, the program will enable the UAE to reduce its dependence on imports in priority sectors, localize supply chains, support the national industrial sector and increase manufacturing and industrial output. The program will also encourage the industrial sector to adopt the advanced technologies and solutions of the Fourth Industrial Revolution to improve production capacity and elevate product quality. In addition, it will motivate suppliers and international companies to increase spending on research and development, increasing the competitiveness of local products. The program was first adopted in Abu Dhabi in 2018, and resulted in the redirection of nearly AED88 billion to the local economy, while the number of approved suppliers exceeded 5,000 in various sectors. AED5 billion to support Emirati projects To help facilitate the goals of "Projects of the 50", the UAE Government has announced Project 5bn, which involves the allocation of AED5 billion to support Emirati projects in priority sectors. The AED5 billion is part of the Emirates Development Banks April 2021 allocation of AED30 billion to help accelerate industrial development, adopt advanced technology, and support entrepreneurship and innovation by 2025 all to support its wider mission of increasing productivity, enhancing the industrial sectors contribution to GDP and creating job opportunities for UAEs citizens. Supporting emerging Emirati businesses follows a forward-looking vision to diversify the economy and improve competitiveness, considering that SMEs in the UAE constitute a major part of the national economy. Tech Drive to support 4th IR The UAE Government launched "Tech Drive", a AED5 billion programme to support advanced technology adoption in the industrial sector. Established in partnership with the Emirates Development Bank, the fund will support the industrial sectors shift towards the applications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution over the next five years. It will also provide programmes and incentives to support entrepreneurs in the industrial sector, aiming to achieve a AED25 billion contribution to the GDP and raise productivity by 30 percent. Through providing the necessary financing for companies and industrial institutions seeking to adopt the applications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Tech Drive aims to establish an attractive business environment for local and international investors and support the growth of national products. The funds packages include financial and non-financial programs, direct and indirect lending, capital investment in emerging and small and medium-sized companies, and advisory and guidance services. Tech Drive operates as part of the efforts to advance the UAEs economic diversification and industrial transformation. Aramcos chemical arm, SABIC, has signed a joint venture contract with China's Fujian Petrochemical Industrial Group (FJPEC) to build a mega petrochemical complex in China, the Xinhua News Agency reported. The complex will be built at the Gulei Industrial Park in Zhangzhou city, east of China's Fujian Province, at a total investment of 40 billion yuan ($6.18 billion). It will consist of a mixed feed steam cracker that holds an annual ethylene capacity of 1.5 million tons, as well as a series of downstream facilities including a mono ethylene glycol (MEG) unit, two polyethylene (PE) units, two polypropylene (PP) units, one polycarbonate (PC) unit and several by-product units. Sabic had announced in September 2018 that it had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Fujian provincial government to build a world-class petrochemical complex in China's southeastern province. Tradearabia News Service For decades, Disney Cruise Line has given families dreams to wake up excited about. From seeing Disney stories come to life, to splashing the day away on Disneys private island Disney Castaway Cay, to embarking on an epic ocean voyage. Its all the magic you love, and the reassurance of knowing that your family will be cared for the moment you step aboard. Because here, dreams really do come true In summer 2022, a new collection of destinations will be part of the Disney Magics grand tour of Europe, which begins with sailings through the Greek Isles and Mediterranean before heading to northern Europe for cruises to the Baltic, the British Isles, Iceland and the Norwegian fjords. Five new ports of call in Europe include Chania, Greece; Porto, Portugal; Riga, Latvia; Maloy, Norway; and Nynashamn, Sweden, near Stockholm. Greece From Rome, eight-, nine- and 12-night cruises to Greece will whisk families to the beautiful landscapes and archeological wonders of destinations like Piraeus, the gateway to Athens, and to the spectacular Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos. One nine-night sailing will mark Disney Cruise Lines first call to Chania, Greece, on the island of Crete, known for its charming harbor and Venetian and Florentine influences. Mediterranean sojourn Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, Spain, will visit a mix of must-see locales including Rome and Naples, plus French Riviera coastal towns like Villefranche and Cannes. During a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Dover, England, Disney Cruise Line will make its first-ever visit to Porto, Portugal, a coastal city with old-world charm nestled in one of the worlds leading wine regions and made famous for giving Port Wine its name. New ports of call Additional new ports of call in northern Europe include Riga, the capital of Latvia and the largest metropolis in the Baltics; Nynashamn, Sweden, a beautiful seaside town just outside Stockholm; and Maloy, Norway, a charming coastal village bordered by silver-sand beaches and historic lighthouses. Pre-cruise escapes In summer 2022, Disney Cruise Line guests can extend the magic of their cruise vacation in Europe with a pre-cruise escape in select cities from Adventures by Disney, a leader in family guided group vacations. Adventures by Disney offers popular pre-cruise vacations in Rome, London, Barcelona and Copenhagen. These two- to three-night escapes feature unforgettable experiences in iconic cities, such as a private, after-hours visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome. In addition, activities like flamenco dancing, mosaic making and preparing locally inspired cuisine immerse families in the culture of each region. Oman Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has signed a strategic agreement with tripsnstay, part of the Khimji Ramdas Group, to enhance its offering of local and international package holidays. The agreement follows the recent announcement of Omans easing of travel restrictions and reopening to vaccinated travellers with a negative PCR test result effective from September 1. Abdulaziz Al Raisi, CEO of Oman Air said: Both Oman Air and Oman Air Holidays play an essential role in Omans tourism ecosystem. Connecting guests from international markets to custom holiday packages and tailored stays in Oman is part of our tourism reboot strategy for the country as it reopens to vaccinated travellers. Our strategic agreement with tripsnstay enhances our already expansive inventory of hotels and ancillary products with real-time pricing and product availability. It equally provides locals in Oman with access to competitive flight and hotel packages in destinations across Oman Airs network. Pankaj Khimji, Director Khimji Ramdas said:This partnership is of great pride to the Khimji Ramdas group. Being our national carrier Oman Air and Oman Air holidays is representative of our countrys progress and expansion. Oman has been one of the most sought-after fresh destinations in the past years and through this collaboration we can bring Oman further to the forefront. TradeArabia News Service Normal, IL (61790) Today Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Clear. Low near 55F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Fish and Wildlife Officials Take Action Against Chronic Wasting Disease Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-04 11:30:57|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CANBERRA, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Australia's medical regulator has approved Moderna's coronavirus vaccine for children as young as 12 as the country continued to battle the third wave of COVID-19 spread. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) on Saturday announced that provisional approval for the messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine, which was granted for Australians aged 18 and over in mid-August, has been extended down to individuals aged 12 years and older. The recommended dose and dose interval is the same as that for the adult population -- two full doses given 28 days apart, according to TGA. It joins the Pfizer mRNA jab as the second vaccine approved for Australian adolescents. On Saturday morning, Australia reported a record 1,755 new locally-acquired cases of COVID-19, the third day in a row for a new record number. Of the new cases, 1,533 were from New South Wales (NSW), Australia's most populous state with Sydney as the capital city, where the state health department also recorded four deaths on Saturday morning. "There have been 123 COVID-19 related deaths in NSW since 16 June 2021," said the statement the from NSW Health. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) reported 32 new cases - its most in recent days - on the 23rd day of a lockdown that is due to end on Sept. 17. Of the new cases in the Australian capital at least 19 were in the community during their infectious period. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the number was of concern. "These headline numbers are not what we wanted today," he told reporters. "One of the challenges, and the reasons for people being infectious in the community often for even just a day more than they should be is that they're waiting to come forward for testing." Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 13:21:52|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close ISLAMABAD, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Three people were killed and 10 others injured when a bomb went off on the outskirts of capital city Quetta of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Sunday morning, local reports said. The incident happened on the outskirts of the city and its nature and target are being checked, the reports quoted police as saying. The injured people were shifted to a nearby hospital where several of them are said to be in critical condition. Police and paramilitary troops rushed to the area and cordoned it off for investigations. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 14:21:18|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Fire rages from a motorbike at the blast site in southwest Pakistan's Quetta on Sept. 5, 2021. At least three people were killed and 20 others injured when a suicide bomber ripped himself off at a vehicle of paramilitary troops in Quetta, the capital city of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Sunday morning, rescue teams said. (Str/Xinhua) ISLAMABAD, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least three people were killed and 20 others injured when a suicide bomber ripped himself off at a vehicle of paramilitary troops in Quetta, the capital city of Pakistan's southwest Balochistan province on Sunday morning, rescue teams said. The incident happened at about 7:30 a.m. local time when the bomber hit his explosive-laden motorbike into one of the vehicles of the Frontier Corps (FC) convoy, on the outskirts of the city, Muhammad Zeeshan, manager operations at the rescue department of Edhi Foundation Quetta, told Xinhua. Police sources from the city told Xinhua that the FC convoy was assigned to provide security to the minority ethnic group of Hazara community in the city, and it was on its routine patrolling when it came under attack. The injured people including FC personnel and passersby were shifted to a nearby hospital where several of them were said to be in critical condition, the rescue official said. After the investigation, the bomb disposal squad said that about 5 to 6 kg of explosives were used in the attack. No group has claimed the attack yet. The area was cordoned off for further investigations, and the bomber's remains were sent for a forensic test. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 15:01:53|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NEW DELHI, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of thousands of farmers congregated in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, demanding that the federal government repeal three farm laws enacted last year. The congregation of farmers is taking place in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar district under the banner of the "Samyukt Kisan Morcha" (Joint Farmers Front). Farmers from various states, particularly hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, have gathered together pressing for their long-standing demand. TV channels showed women farmers were also present on the occasion. The agitated farmers have declared that they will not return home unless their demand (of withdrawal of the three farm laws) is met. The farmers' congregation is in continuation of their protests that have been going on for more than nine months at different entry-points of national capital Delhi. Convenor of the congregation and well-known farmers' leader Rakesh Tikait told media that there is no other alternative with the federal government than repealing the three farm laws enacted by the country's parliament last year. "We will be discussing strategies to continue the agitation across the country," said the convenor who also heads the "Bharatiya Kisan Union" (India's Farmers Union). Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 15:44:43|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close KABUL, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Afghanistan's flag carrier airline Ariana Afghan Airlines has resumed domestic flights, a local television channel reported Sunday. "The Ariana Afghan Airlines resumed its flights from Kabul to Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif and Kandahar cities," Tolonews said in its news bulletin. The Ariana Afghan Airlines is the first local airline to resume domestic flights since the completion of the U.S. forces pull out in late August, and facilities of the Kabul airport were reportedly destroyed following their withdrawal. Another local private airline, the Kam Air, has reportedly shifted its planes from the Kabul airport to Mashhad city of Iran, fearing a chaotic situation arising out of Kabul after the Taliban's takeover of the Afghan capital on Aug. 15. A technical team of Qatar, according to the media outlet, is ready to help resume flights at the Kabul airport. A Qatari plane carrying ranking officials and another plane from the United Arab Emirates carrying humanitarian assistance landed at Kabul international airport a couple of days ago. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 16:06:51|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close KUNMING, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a ceremony on Sunday in the city of Ruili in southwest China's Yunnan Province to donate medical supplies for COVID-19 prevention to Myanmar's Shan state. This is China's second batch of anti-pandemic materials donated to Myanmar, after the first batch for Kachin state, worth more than 1.55 million yuan (about 240,000 U.S. dollars), reached Myanmar on Aug. 27 via Houqiao Port in Yunnan's border city of Tengchong. The new supplies, worth approximately 2.97 million yuan, include surgical gloves, masks, hazmat suits, medicine, nucleic acid testing kits and oxygen generators. The materials will head to the destination via Wanding Port after the ceremony. The governments of the border regions of China and Myanmar have cooperated and supported each other in fighting the pandemic, including establishing a joint prevention and control mechanism to curb the cross-border spread of the virus. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 16:24:42|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close ULAN BATOR, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Mongolia registered 3,628 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, marking the fifth consecutive day that daily cases have exceeded 3,000, bringing the national tally to 232,313, the country's health ministry said Sunday. The ministry said three of the latest confirmed cases were imported from abroad and the others were all locally transmitted. Meanwhile, five more people over 40 years of age died in the past day, pushing the death toll to 962. The resurgence of COVID-19 infections has continued with the highly contagious Delta variant spreading fast in most of the country's 21 provinces. The Delta wave is expected to peak in late September, the country's health authorities said, urging the public to follow all relevant health guidelines to protect themselves and their loved ones. Nearly 65 percent of Mongolia's population has been fully vaccinated since the Asian country launched a nationwide COVID-19 vaccination campaign in late February. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 20:03:48|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close KATHMANDU, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Nepal's foreign trade surged by 79.71 percent during the first month of the current 2021-2022 fiscal year that began in mid-July despite COVID-19 impact, data from the Department of Customs showed. Exports grew by 115.85 percent to 20.76 billion Nepali rupees (177.22 million U.S. dollars), with imports up by 75.66 percent to 150.73 billion rupees (1.28 billion dollars) year-on-year during the period. "Both trading and industrial activities were allowed to operate in a relatively unrestricted manner during the first month of this fiscal year, compared with the same period of last fiscal year," Punya Bikram Khadka, information officer at the department told Xinhua. " After more than a year since the pandemic hit the country in early 2020, we have learned to live with the virus while continuing the economic activities." Nepal lifted a nearly four-month-long national lockdown on July 22 last year when the 2020-21 fiscal year began. Even though the second wave of the coronavirus hit the country hard this year, the government did not re-impose a national lockdown but allow local authorities to move on their own. With fewer COVID-19 cases reported, local authorities had eased the restrictive measures, and the three districts in the Kathmandu Valley lifted the lockdown. According to Khadka, Nepal's exports were boosted by a massive shipment of palm oil to India, which is basically re-export. The imports surged due to a growing demand for medical equipment amid the pandemic, electronic items, including mobile phones and computers, gold, petroleum products and vehicles, among others, according to the department. Nepal's trade with India and China, its two largest trading partners, grew significantly in the first month of the current fiscal year. The country imported goods worth 89.48 billion rupees (763.87 million dollars) from India, while the exports stood at 16.86 billion rupees (143.93 million dollars), as against 56.39 billion rupees (481.38 million dollars) and 6.31 billion rupees (53.86 million dollars) over the same period of last fiscal year. As to China, Nepal's imports and exports grew to 209.70 billion rupees (1.79 billion dollars) and 82.78 million rupees (706,718 dollars) from 111.78 billion rupees (954.24 million dollars) and 56.01 million rupees (478,145 dollars) respectively. Nepal was facing a trade deficit of 70.59 percent during the period. "If the trade deficit widens in the same way, it will mount pressure on the foreign exchange reserves of the country," Nara Bahadur Thapa, former executive director of Nepal Rastra Bank, the country's central bank told Xinhua. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 21:10:52|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NEW DELHI, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- Indian authorities are stepping up contact tracing after the death of a 12-year-old boy from the Nipah virus on Sunday in the southern Indian state of Kerala, officials said. According to Kerala's Health Minister Veena George, so far 158 people who came in contact with the victim have been identified. "Two health workers who came in contact with the 12-year-old boy are also showing symptoms of getting infected by the virus. One of them is a staff employee at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital, and the other is a staff member at a private hospital in Kozhikode where the boy was under treatment," George told media. "158 people have been identified who came in contact with the boy, and 20 of them are on the primary contact (high-risk category) list. These 20 will be admitted to the Medical College hospital," he said. The health department has sounded an alert in Kozhikode, Kannur and Malappuram districts, besides setting up a Nipah control room in Kozhikode. Officials said one ward at the medical college was being converted into a Nipah ward and Nipah positive patients will be on one floor, while symptomatic people will be treated on another floor of the ward. George told media that the area where the boy had been living will be declared as a containment zone. Reports said the area has been sealed off and other localities in its vicinity have been put under lockdown. The samples of the boy who died early Sunday were sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune, and a test revealed that he was positive for Nipah. Kerala has witnessed an outbreak of the Nipah virus in 2018 in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, which claimed 17 lives. In 2019, Nipah reappeared in the state's Ernakulam district. According to the World Health Organization, Nipah virus infection is a newly emerging zoonosis that causes severe disease in both animals and human. The natural host of the virus are fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, Pteropus genus. Typically, the human infection presents as an encephalitic syndrome marked by fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, mental confusion and coma, which can potentially lead to death. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-05 23:43:46|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JAKARTA, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least 330 people were affected by one-meter-high floods that submerged 90 houses and plantations in Polewali Mandar district of Indonesia's South Sulawesi province, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) said on Sunday. The agency's acting spokesperson Abdul Muhari said the flooding occurred on Saturday night after heavy rains caused the rivers of Andau, Kanusuang, and Salu Kadundung to overflow. "The floods also submerged 21 hectares of cocoa plantations and 100 hectares of rice fields, and made two bridges almost collapse with their foundations eroded," said Muhari. The floods began to recede on Sunday, while officials cleared settlements and streets of garbage. The Meteorological, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency said heavy rains with lightning and strong winds are possible in the region on Monday. The BNPB said 13 sub-districts in Polewali Mandar are threatened by moderate to high flooding. Enditem The Federal courts are: the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court. The State courts include: the High Court of a State, the Customary Court of Appeal of a State and the Sharia Court of Appeal of a State. How many types of courts do we have in Nigeria? There are eight types of courts in Nigeria and each of them performs specific functions. What are types of courts? India: Hierarchy Of Courts For Civil Cases In India Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has original, appellate and advisory jurisdiction. High Courts. High Courts have jurisdiction over the States in which they are located. District Courts. Lower Courts. Tribunals. What are the 7 types of courts? Learn more about the different types of federal courts. Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States. Courts of Appeals. There are 13 appellate courts that sit below the U.S. Supreme Court, and they are called the U.S. Courts of Appeals. District Courts. Bankruptcy Courts. Article I Courts. What are the four types of courts? There are 94 district courts, 13 circuit courts, and one Supreme Court throughout the country. Courts in the federal system work differently in many ways than state courts. The primary difference for civil cases (as opposed to criminal cases) is the types of cases that can be heard in the federal system. Which is the lowest court in Nigeria? The lowest courts in the country are all state courts (there is no federal court in this group). They include (i) the Magistrate Courts that handle English law cases (ii) the Customary Courts that handle Customary law cases and (iii) the Sharia Courts that handle Sharia law cases. What are the 2 types of courts? California has 2 types of state courts, trial courts (also called superior courts) and appellate courts, made up of the Courts of Appeal and the California Supreme Court. What are the three kinds of courts? Metropolitan Trial Courts (MeTC) are first level courts in Metro Manila. Municipal Trial Courts (MTC) are first level courts in each municipality. Municipal Trial Courts in Cities are first level courts in each city outside Metro Manila. What are the three most common types of civil cases? These are some of the most common types of cases to appear in civil court. Contract Disputes. Contract disputes occur when one or more parties who signed a contract cannot or will not fulfill their obligations. Property Disputes. Torts. Class Action Cases. Complaints Against the City. Who hears criminal cases? More specifically, federal courts hear criminal, civil, and bankruptcy cases. And once a case is decided, it can often be appealed. What types of courts exist in most states? Three types of courts are found in most statesgen- eral trial courts, appeals courts, and a state supreme court. Lower courts generally hear minor cases, including misdemeanor criminal cases and civil cases involving small amounts of money. Do all states have supreme courts? Each state within the United States, plus the District of Columbia, has at least one supreme court, or court of last resort. The supreme courts do not hear trials of cases. They hear appeals of the decisions made in the lower trial or appellate courts. What is the rule for four? The rule of four is the Supreme Courts practice of granting a petition for review only if there are at least four votes to do so. The rule is an unwritten internal one; it is not dictated by any law or the Constitution. PayPal accounts in Egypt can use Visa, MasterCard, and American Express cards to make PayPal payments. PayPal accounts in Egypt are able to withdraw funds to Visa cards issued in Egypt, or US bank accounts. Can you use PayPal in Egypt? Does PayPal work in Egypt? Yes, it does. PayPal Egypt allows you to sell your products or services to customers and clients from around the world. You may use your credit or debit card to make payments online with ease, but to receive payments from companies or clients the only available option was Bank Transfer. Which banks does PayPal support in Egypt? Visa Classic Credit Card National Bank of Egypt (NBE). Visa Classic Credit Card Qatar National Bank in Egypt (QNB). Visa Credit Card Commercial Internation Bank (CIB). What app can i use to receive money from Egypt? Providers such as Transferwise, Xoom, Xpress Money, Transfast, OFX, Azimo, and Xendpay can help you quickly and safely move money across borders to Egypt. Where I can use PayPal to pay? Over the years, though, PayPal has also dabbled in creating options for users to pay with their PayPal balances in brick-and-mortar stores. However, PayPal put together a list of some of the bigger PayPal-friendly sellers that includes the following names: Best Buy. Walmart. Bed Bath & Beyond. Dell. eBay. Expedia. Ikea. Lowes. Can I withdraw money from PayPal in Egypt? To receive payments with PayPal, choose a Visa card issued in Egypt or a bank account in the U.S. to link to your PayPal account. You can also withdraw payments from your available balance to your linked card or bank account at any time. Is paying with PayPal free? Theres no fee to use PayPal to purchase goods or services. However, if you receive money for goods or services (such as from selling an item on eBay), there is a fee for each transaction. Is PayPal banned in Egypt? Paypal has finally announced that you can start selling using Paypal in Egypt. Today Paypal removed all these restrictions on Egypt and now you can not only buy using Paypal account but also can sell and receive money using a local visa card issued from an Egyptian bank. How can I put money in my PayPal account? How do I add money to my PayPal account? Click Wallet. Click Transfer Money. Click Add money to your balance. Select your bank and enter the amount you want to transfer and click Add. Does Egypt use cash App? Cash App does not work internationally you cannot make payments to someone in a different country. Cash App can only be used to send money within the country you live, and the service is only available in the US and UK. Whats the best way to send money to Egypt? The best ways to send money to Egypt Bank Transfer. Bank transfers are usually the cheapest option when it comes to funding your international money transfer with Wise. Debit Card. Paying for your transfer with a debit card is easy and fast. Credit Card. PISP. Swift. How much does it cost to transfer money to Egypt? Cheapest options to send money to Egypt from the USA Total cost Speed Pay-out 4.35 USD 2 days Bank account 5.55 USD 3-5 days Cash pickup 6.10 USD Same day Bank account 6.10 USD Same day Cash pickup Does Egypt use Bitcoin? Egypt is growing in bitcoin usage and is a popular place for people to buy bitcoin. Here are the 17 best exchanges in Egypt to buy bitcoin. Does Amazon accept PayPal Credit? Since you can use your PayPal Credit account everywhere PayPal is accepted, buying Amazon gift cards with PayPal Credit gives you the opportunity to use your PayPal line of credit to shop on Amazon. All you have to do is buy the gift cards first! Can you use PayPal for Walmart? Walmart.com is among the many stores that accept PayPal as a payment method alongside options like Walmart gift cards, credit cards and Affirm financing. Youll find the option to pay using PayPal if you locate the +More payment option and then select the PayPal logo. Can I use PayPal without a bank account? Can I have a PayPal account without a bank account? You dont need a bank account to send or receive money through PayPal. However, you do need a bank account if you want to withdraw money from your PayPal account. Pakistan was often accused by the Afghanistan government of giving the Taliban military aid, a charge denied by Islamabad The ISI chief's trip is the first high-level visit by a Pakistani official since the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15 in a move that surprised both their foes and friends. (AFP Photo) Islamabad: In a surprise move, Pakistan's powerful intelligence chief Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed on Saturday dashed to Kabul, according to media reports here, amidst the Taliban struggling to finalise and install an inclusive government in Afghanistan that would be acceptable to the international community. A delegation of senior Pakistani officials led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Lieutenant General Hameed arrived in Kabul to conduct discussions with the incoming Taliban government, the Pakistan Observer newspaper reported. The ISI chief is expected to meet top Taliban leaders and commanders. "Issues relating to Pak-Afghan security, economy, and other matters will be taken up with the Taliban leadership, the report said, quoting sources. According to the Express Tribune, Hameed will also meet Pakistan's envoy in Kabul to discuss the matter of repatriation and transit through Pakistan of foreign nationals and Afghans fleeing Taliban rule. "The issue of pending requests from countries and international organisations for the repatriation/transit through Pakistan and the need to determine the mechanism through which Pakistan could allow these, in coordination with the ground authorities in Afghanistan will be discussed during the meeting with the Taliban officials, it said, quoting sources. The intelligence chief will spend a day in the Afghan capital, the Geo News reported. Border management is another important issue that will come under discussion during the visit of Hameed, it said. Pakistan was often accused by the Afghanistan government of giving the Taliban military aid, a charge denied by Islamabad. The ISI chief's trip is the first high-level visit by a Pakistani official since the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15 in a move that surprised both their foes and friends. Since then, the insurgent group has been trying to form its government, but has been postponing the announcement. The Taliban have postponed the formation of a new government in Afghanistan for next week, their spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said on Saturday, as the insurgent group struggles to give shape to a broad-based and inclusive administration acceptable to the international community. This is the second time that the Taliban have delayed the formation of the new government in Kabul since their toppling of the US-backed Afghanistan government. The insurgent group was expected to announce the formation of the new government led by its co-founder Mulla Abdul Ghani Baradar on Friday, but later postponed it by a day to Saturday. Hameed's visit to Kabul came as Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab earlier in the day and said that Pakistan will assist in the formation of an inclusive administration in Afghanistan. Raab arrived in Islamabad on Thursday night to meet top Pakistani leadership and discuss the Afghanistan situation. Montenegro police have used tear gas against rock-throwing protesters during the enthronement of a Serbian Orthodox Church cleric as the country's religious leader, with dozens reported injured. The enthronement of Joanikije II at a monastery in the town of Cetinje has stirred divisions within Montenegro over ties with neighbouring Serbia. Montenegro left its union with Serbia in 2006 but its church remained under the Serbian church. Police used gas to disperse hundreds of protesters, some of whom threw rocks, bottles and firecrackers as church figures arrived by helicopter. Some people burned tyres and sat on roads. Montenegro's deputy police director Dragan Gorovic told state TV that 20 officers were hurt while a state clinic in Cetinje said about 30 civilians sought help for injuries. Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic described attacks on the police as terrorism. He blamed President Milo Djukanovic's Democratic Party of Socialists, which ruled for three decades before losing elections last year, for organising protests. Djukanovic, who opposes the enthronement, accused police of excessive force. "Today we witnessed the embarrassment of both the Church and the government," Djukanovic said on TV. The embassies of Germany, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union condemned violence around the enthronement of Joanikije II, who is known as the Metropolitan of Montenegro and Archbishop of Cetinje. Djukanovic's adviser Veselin Veljovic was arrested for participating in an attack against police on Sunday, state TV reported. If the district does have to be shut down again, he continued, it will be ready because every child will have access to a device they can use at home. "If the health department closes us down or there's a huge spike (in COVID-19 cases,) we'll be able to switch over hopefully without any interruptions," Pirozzolo said. Many local district superintendents said they have plans in place in case their districts need to shift back to online-only learning, with some specifically mentioning that if the district has to shutter again, any student who needs a device to use at home will be given one. Southern Cayuga Central School District Superintendent Patrick Jensen said in an email that the district believes students learn best in the classroom and will not provide for remote learning. "We simply do not have the staff to run multiple models in an effective manner," he said. He noted that if put into quarantine, "classrooms are (equipped) to switch to remote learning for brief periods of time as all students have a one-to-one device." Jensen also said the school year will start with the same precautions that were in place in May and June. Those measures were extremely effective at minimizing infection within the school community, he said. None of that water entered the Baraczek house. The garages there and at their other house, however, were flooded. He estimates half their contents will have to be thrown away due to water damage or mold. That includes memorabilia like pictures, Eagle Scout awards, and duck decoys from carvers who have passed away. He's afraid of losing a stamp collection started by his father, a World War II veteran, and he doesn't look forward to telling his grandchildren that their cherished 5-foot stuffed Spider-Man had to go away. A couple kayaks and a canoe are missing as well. Even part of Burtis Point will probably be lost to erosion, Baraczek said. But no material loss matters as much as the fact that no one was hurt. "You can replace a house, you can replace things," he said. "But you can't replace people." Like Galbally, Baraczek is still cleaning and working with crews on mold control and repairs. Unlike Galbally, Baraczek does have flood insurance, so he's also working with adjusters. Enough standing water remains on Burtis Point that mosquitos have been "horrendous," he said, and the silt washed into the area from nearby Dutch Hollow Brook carries a strange, musty odor. Particularly striking, Sapienza said, was how Judge interacted lovingly with others, whether they were homeless people or wealthy celebrities. He met people exactly where they were, Sapienza said. The macho group of fire department guys, they kind of claimed him for their own. The Catholic gay community also claimed him, thinking Father Mychal is our guy, because he was really able to connect with everybody. The turnout of more than 2,000 people at Judges funeral proved that point. The mourners included Bill and Hillary Clinton, as well as hundreds of firefighters. Sapienza had joined the Marist Brothers, a Catholic order, and took a pledge of celibacy after years of an active gay social life. But within a few years, he left the church, no longer able to reconcile his faith with a disapproving view of homosexual relations as intrinsically disordered. He remains grateful to Judge for supporting that decision. It was really a struggle, and Mychal helped me figure out what was best for me, Sapienza said. He was all about how God loves you. No matter what you decide, God is not going to love you any less. During a hearing on the reorganization plan last month, experts said it could be impossible to force payments without a settlement because much of the family's fortune is overseas. The bankruptcy judge said some family members are foreign citizens, potentially putting their assets further out of reach. A further complication: Purdue pleaded guilty last year to federal criminal offenses, agreeing to a $2 billion forfeiture. Under their plea deal, the company has to pay only $225 million of that to the federal government as long as it settles its other opioid lawsuits and uses proceeds to fight the crisis. If the bankruptcy settlement is upended, Purdue would have to pay the federal government another $1.7 billion and that would leave far less money to divide between the states, local governments and opioid victims. If they continue to appeal, if they win, what do they get?" said Lindsey Simon, an assistant law professor at the University of Georgia School of Law who teaches bankruptcy law. "The answer is, probably complete chaos and less money. That's a view that many state government lawyers have adopted. Dissatisfaction in that department is nothing new. The workforce doing something about it is. With more than 9 million open positions, inflexible employers are struggling to find workers as businesses open up more. A lot of that can be attributed to young people demanding change. More than half of Gen Z respondents to the survey said they plan to look for a new job in the next year. Some 66% of Gen Z and 73% of millennials say they will switch jobs to get more control of their schedule. More than 60% of both groups want to find new jobs for a chance to work remotely. In a week in which many of us found ourselves wondering if anything would get better, the report gave me hope that they could. That they are. American capitalism has long required workers to find a balancing act between the push to work hard to achieve the American dream and the pull to enjoy the life that economic security is supposed to bring. In recent decades, the push has only gotten worse and workers have had to accept the premise that even hoping for a work-life balance was counterproductive or worse, possibly a sign of personal mediocrity and a failure of ambition. IAA is one of the largest automobile shows in the world, historically held in Frankfurt. This is the first time, the auto show is being held in Munich. The biennial auto show was marred by environmental protests, poor visitor numbers and several missing automobile brands in 2019. This time too, the auto show is opening under the cloud of climate concerns and Covid-19 pandemic woes. Also Read: Mercedes-Benz teases upcoming EQE electric sedan Interestingly, the car show has reinvented itself as a mobility fair with the spotlights on electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles etc. Electric cars, scooters, even bicycles have found their special spot at the show. The one-week-long fair is going to be the biggest exhibition in Germany since the beginning of the pandemic. Right after the country coming out of the pandemic's fourth wave, the show organisers are taking several measures to reduce infection risk. The daily visitor numbers have been capped at 80,000 and guests have to show proof of vaccination, recovery or a recent negative test before entering the venue. However, despite the high expectations, this time too several automobile brands are skipping the show. The key brands among these include Stellantis. This means the show will not see a presence from Peugeot, Fiat, Chrysler, Citroen etc. World's second-largest car brand Toyota and largest electric car maker Tesla too will give the show a miss. Electric vehicles are expected to dominate the exhibits by the various automakers. For example, Volkswagen will debut its plug-in hybrid T7 multi-van. Audi will showcase a fully electric sedan with semi-autonomous driving systems. Mercedes-Benz will launch a battery-powered luxury Maybach concept car at the event. The group's Smart brand will showcase a small electric SUV as well. BMW too plans to showcase a hydrogen-powered SUV, as well as its vision for a fully recyclable electric car that will be made entirely from recycled material and renewable resources. This year, more than 70 bicycle exhibitors are likely to showcase their products. Among them, the majority would be electric bicycles. Once known as the "car chancellor" for her efforts to shield German carmakers from tougher EU pollution rules, German Chancellor Angella Merkel will give a speech on Tuesday when the fair opens to trade visitors. She is likely to touch on the issues like auto industry's costly transition towards greener engines. Meanwhile, the climate activists have vowed again to disrupt the IAA with protests on Friday and Saturday, just like the 2019 event. Greenpeace and Germany's DUH environmental group on Friday have threatened to file lawsuits against Volkswagen, BMW and Daimler if they do not speed up efforts to reduce tailpipe emissions. They want the German car manufacturers to stop producing petrol and diesel cars by 2030. With an increasing number of hearing aids and PSAPs being sold directly to consumers, advocates are eager for the FDA rules to come out, because they worry about the confusion caused by the array of choices with none having the FDAs full seal of approval. The FDA delaying regulations has done more harm than good, because the direct-to-consumer market is filling the void and people are doing what they want, and we dont know the quality of these devices, said Barbara Kelley, executive director of the Hearing Loss Association of America, a consumer advocacy group. The law, sponsored by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), gave the FDA until August 2020 to issue regulations. Last year, after missing that deadline, FDA officials said the covid-19 pandemic had delayed the rule-making process. Many in the hearing aid industry are concerned about the unchecked competition likely to come with allowing consumers to buy aids on their own without an evaluation by a hearing specialist. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Brandon Sawalich, CEO of Starkey, the largest U.S.-based hearing aid company, said consumers need expert assistance to test their hearing, buy an appropriate aid, properly fit it and fine-tune its settings. How to Clip Click and hold your mouse button on the page to select the area you wish to save or print. You can click and drag the clipping box to move it or click and drag in the bottom right corner to resize it. When you're happy with your selection, click the checkmark icon next to the clipping area to continue. I think what troubles me is were saying, Lets do these studies to learn, and then if we do in fact learn something, we have locked ourselves in to a benchmark where we can no longer change it, even if it is to the detriment to an avian species or a wildlife species, Ontiveros said. But Vice Chair Don Walters interjected, saying he believed a compromise language could be created. Walters suggested the wording of a condition could be along the lines of, NextEra will work with [wildlife managers] to achieve reasonable goals, in terms of addressing wildlife impacts. And in the end, the fact that Babbitt Ranches, which has a long history on the land and a reputation for conservation and collaboration, was behind the project seemed a significant factor in bringing commissioners on board. Public input The commission did hear from some members of the public who both supported and opposed the project. Mickey Crank, who said she owns a home near the project site, said she was adamantly opposed. He had previously said that NAU would focus more on long-term planning and higher-education-specific issues at the university once the fall semester started. Cruz Rivera said in Wednesdays statement that they would now be working to develop a three-year strategic framework to sharpen our focus, organize our work, and pace our efforts, maximizing our ability to deliver on the promise of equitable post-secondary value. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} The plan will focus on six areas that Cruz Rivera had previously listed as priorities for NAU, including academic excellence, equitable student access and success in a number of areas, faculty and staff recruitment, retention and development, community engagement and stewardship of place as well as of resources. Cruz Rivera said of a similar list of priorities in July that these are areas that higher education has always had to tackle, its just a different landscape now because of the COVID-19 pandemic. He said in the statement the school would provide a strong foundation and cohesive framework for organizing the work ahead. The statement set up the challenge as ensuring that NAU provides value to its students, especially after COVID-19. Its interesting he had Kruger tattooed on his head, Lukas said. He fought with the British against (Kruger). (Quick aside: All these mementos came from a trunk that Lukas grandmother left behind at her death. Her father, Francis, wanted nothing to do with the artifacts of his father and let Judy rummage around as a girl. Eventually, as an adult, the trunk came into Lukas possession and she realized the history of the contents.) Back to U.S. and sideshows By 1912, J.T. and family felt the restless need to move on, and back to America they came, first to New York and then settling in Chicago, where The Professor set up pop-up tattoo shops in empty storefronts and plied his trade along with Bertha (when she wasnt taking care of the kids) in circus sideshows in the Midwest. That tape worm from the Boer War never went away, though, and Clark grew sicker, Lukas said. He died in Montreal in 1918. Bertha lived until the 1950s and kept the trunk of J.T.s work in the basement. After she died, her father opened the trunk, but had no interest in tattooing. My grandmother wanted my father to be a tattoo artist, but he wasnt interested, Lukas said. My father worked for the railroads and then worked for a metal fabrication company. WASHINGTON The top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says some Americans who have been trying to get out of Afghanistan since the U.S. military left are sitting in airplanes at an airport ready to leave but the Taliban are not letting them take off. Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas says there are six airplanes at the Mazar-e-Sharif airport with American citizens on board, along with their Afghan interpreters, and the Taliban are holding them hostage right now. A worker at the Mazar-e-Sharif airport confirmed several aircraft he believes were chartered by the U.S. are parked at the airport. Taliban have prevented them from leaving, saying they wanted to check the documents of those on board, many of whom do not have passports or visas. The airport official did not want to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject. McCaul, speaking on Fox News Sunday, says the Taliban have made demands. He gave no specifics but said hes worried Theyre going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan. He said the aircraft have been at the airport for the last couple days. MORE ON AFGHANISTAN: TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) The father of an Arizona elementary school student was arrested after he and two other men showed up to the campus with zip ties, threatening to make a citizen's arrest on the school principal over a COVID-19 quarantine, school officials said Friday. Diane Vargo, principal of Mesquite Elementary School in Tucson, said the parent came to her office Thursday with his son in tow. The father was upset the child would have to isolate and miss a school field trip because of possible exposure to someone with COVID-19. She said two other men also barged in. One was carrying military, large, black zip ties and standing in my doorway. Vargo said she tried to de-escalate the situation while explaining the school had to follow county health protocols. I felt violated that they were in my office claiming I was breaking the law and they were going to arrest me, a visibly shaken Vargo said in a video statement released by the Vail Unified School District. Two of the men weren't parents at our school, so I felt threatened. In a video posted on social media, Vargo can be heard calmly asking them to leave. One of them replies they aren't leaving because they're not going to let her control the situation. The principal called Tucson police. Tapachulas shelters are full, leaving many asylum seekers to live in unsanitary conditions while they wait. Without the ability to work, many have few options. Frustrated by the delay and their living conditions, some began to organize in groups of hundreds. Last Saturday, several groups began walking out of Tapachula headed north. The groups have so far been dispersed and-or detained by Mexican authorities, sometimes with excessive force. MEXICO'S NORTHERN BORDER Concern has been growing in northern Mexico since the U.S. Supreme Court ordered the restart of the controversial program that made asylum seekers wait in Mexico while their cases are processed. The Trump-era policy called the Migrant Protection Protocols, but better known as Remain in Mexico, led to more than 70,000 asylum seekers waiting, mostly in dangerous Mexican border cities. The Biden administration ended the program earlier this year and said it would appeal the court decision even as the Department of Homeland Security takes steps to comply. On the ground, asylum seekers trying to enter the U.S. have been frozen out. Shelters in northern Mexico fear they could soon be overwhelmed again by returned asylum seekers. The Mexican government has not said how it will respond. Dr. Marjorie Bessel, chief clinical officer at Banner Health, said, Our pediatric population is experiencing a high level of COVID, higher than what weve seen previously, but most pediatric patients do not require intensive care. Bessel said levels of RSV respiratory syncytial also are on the rise much earlier than normal this season, causing some concern for what the upcoming fall and winter months could bring. She had three recommendations for students, faculty and parents to prevent further spread of COVID-19: Children should wear masks in school, everyone who is age eligible should get vaccinated and anyone who is experiencing symptoms should not go to school. We see some signs that our numbers are not exponentially increasing over the last week or so, Bessel said. Our ICU cases are increasing, however. We will continue to see increases, which is why were here to ask you to do your part and get a COVID vaccination. Bergin and Franks Snedecor also are a part of an organization of parents and physicians that provides resources to families who want to advocate for safer pandemic practices in schools. A new Texas law that bars abortion after about six weeks of pregnancy took effect this week, after the Supreme Court declined an emergency request from state healthcare providers to block it. Heres a look at what the law does, and whats next for the legal controversy surrounding the new Texas rules and similar proposals being considered by state legislatures around the country. What does the law do? The Texas Heartbeat Act, also known as SB 8, passed into law earlier this year by the Republican-controlled Texas legislature and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott in May. It says a physician cant knowingly perform an abortion if there is a detectable fetal heartbeat. In practice, this restricts most abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy and makes Texas the most restrictive state in the nation for abortion access. The act provides an exception for medical emergencies that could affect the health of the mother but none for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest. The Texas law differs from other states recent attempts at restrictions to severely limit abortion access, because it creates a new enforcement structure that allows private citizens to bring a civil lawsuit against abortion providers and to collect at least $10,000 in damages plus legal costs per abortion challenged successfully. In addition, the law also allows potential lawsuits against not only clinics and doctors, but also anyone who aids or abets an abortion, including insurance companies and transportation providers. What did the Supreme Court say about the Texas law? After a federal appeals court declined to intervene, a coalition of state health providers filed an emergency application on Aug. 30 with the U.S. Supreme Court to block the Texas law, two days before its effective date. The court remained silent as the law went into effect as scheduled on Sept. 1 and then issued a 5-4 decision just before midnight declining to intervene. In an unsigned order, a conservative majority acknowledged there were serious questions regarding the constitutionality of the Texas law but said the court might lack the jurisdiction to act because of procedural technicalities. The three liberal justices and Chief Justice John Roberts filed dissents. How does the Texas law conflict with current Supreme Court precedent on abortion? In 1973, the court ruled in Roe v. Wade that women had the right to an abortioneffectively outlawing numerous restrictions around the country. The court said women possessed a constitutional right to privacy that protected their ability to obtain an abortion, but that right could be limited in some cases. The court said abortions in the first trimester of pregnancy couldnt be regulated, and abortions later in the pregnancy could be more regulated, or restricted outright, though with exceptions if the health of the mother was at stake. The court over the years has reined in the broader abortion right established by Roe. In a landmark 1992 case, Planned Parenthood v. Casey, a controlling opinion by three Republican-appointed justices sought to find middle ground, affirming womens right to end pregnancies before fetal viability but providing lawmakers greater power to regulate the procedure after the fetus was deemed capable of survival outside the womb. Subsequent cases have upheld bans on some late-term abortions, while also striking down some state laws that have tried to restrict the procedure. What does this mean for Roe v. Wade? The order didnt directly address longstanding Supreme Court precedents on abortion rights. The justices were considering only what rules should be in place in Texas for now, while litigation challenging the ban continues. The ruling doesnt mean the court will ultimately uphold the Texas law. But it does signal that future challenges to abortion rights could get a sympathetic hearing from a new court with additional conservative justices who may want to retreat from the courts previous decisions. Whats next for the Texas law? The law will remain in effectfor now. However, both sides in the abortion debate are likely to continue to clash over the state measure. There may be other ways to challenge the Texas ban, especially if a doctor or healthcare provider is willing to perform an abortion in defiance of the law, which could trigger a fresh case. How todays Supreme Court sees abortion rights remains unclear, in part because nominees have refused to discuss positions on potential hot-button issues during their confirmation hearings, citing the need to remain impartial and open-minded if actual litigation came before them. In some cases, however, their prior records suggest skepticism about abortion rights. There are six Republican-appointed justices on the court, and choosing nominees skeptical of abortion rights has been a longstanding Republican goal. During his 2016 campaign, former President Donald Trump said he would appoint pro-life justices who automatically would vote to overrule Roe. His three appointees, Justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett, joined Wednesdays majority with Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. Many conservatives are banking on Mr. Trumps prediction. In a pending case to be argued in the coming months, Mississippi, whose law barring most abortions after 15 weeks has been blocked by lower courts, asks the justices to overrule Roe and return the legal clock to 1973, when states had full power to regulate or outlaw abortions. Just five days after students returned to school in Montgomery County, Maryland, approximately 1,000 students and staff are in quarantine. As dozens of reports of individuals whove tested positive for COVID-19 at Montgomery County schools are recorded, the school system updated the quarantine guidance for unvaccinated students. STORY CONTINUES BELOW We understand the concern. We understand the disruption for families, but we have to ensure the safety of our students and staff, schools spokesperson Gboyinde Onijala told WTOP. The school system is ensuring that theres continuation of instruction and minimal disruption by having students still interacting live with their teachers. Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight sent an update Friday night explaining that the updated policy comes under the direction of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services and that its in alignment with state health and education agencies. After a four-month hiatus, the state began releasing hospital capacity data this week that seemingly conflicts with what several hospitals and physicians have publicly conveyed about being maxed out of intensive-care beds. State Health Commissioner Lance Frye on Thursday afternoon acknowledged that the state had hospital capacity data despite not making it public again until Monday. Three days earlier, Oklahoma City-area hospital systems had banded together to provide transparency by publishing their own point-in-time capacity data with bleak snapshots so far. In each of their three updates since Aug. 27, INTEGRIS Health, Mercy and SSM Health St. Anthony reported having zero ICU beds available. OU Health each time has reported no more available beds for COVID patients. Some inpatients in Oklahoma are being transferred out of state, including as far as South Dakota, to find an ICU bed. The states point-in-time reports this week have listed anywhere from 19 to 34 available staffed ICU beds in Oklahoma County. The hospital region surrounding Oklahoma County had two to six open ICU beds. A return to Knavesmire to bring out the best in Pivoine Leg 1: Back Pivoine @ 13/2 in the 16:50 at York No. 1 (4) Pivoine (Ire) SBK 6/1 EXC 7.2 Trainer: Andrew Balding Jockey: Silvestre De Sousa Age: 7 Weight: 10st 0lbs OR: 93 Sunday sees Andrew Balding's grand servant Pivoine line up on the Knavesmire and he looks massively overpriced at 13/2. While he has some young guns to contend with in a decent 1m2f handicap, a return to York is a huge plus. It's a track he seems to save his best for, especially on quick ground, and back in 2019 he enjoyed a big payday by winning the John Smith's Cup. That season he went on to compete at Group Level, and at the prices, I would rather have him onside than Aramaic, who at 6/4 looks pretty short judged on a Musselburgh maiden win. He was unlucky over course and distance in May in a big field 0-100, as he met trouble inside the final couple of furlongs. Today represents a drop in class and his record in Class 3 races reads 1011. Holding out for a Tuer hero Leg 2: Back Emaraty Hero @ 9/5 in the 17:20 at York No. 6 (9) Emaraty Hero SBK 11/8 EXC 1.2 Trainer: Grant Tuer Jockey: Pierre-Louis Jamin Age: 4 Weight: 9st 1lbs OR: 74 It's been an excellent 2021 for trainer Grant Tuer, who from 162 runners has had 40 winners and 42 placed horses. Maintaining a 25% win-rate is very impressive for any yard and his skills have been well advertised time and time again. Six Strings is one runner, who has improved nearly 20lb this term, and he sends out Emaraty Hero in the final race at York. He holds strong claims from a personal best last time out at Musselburgh. The step up to 1m4f was very much what he needed and his closing sectional three from home was the quickest in the field as he was shaken up off a good pace set. Once the front-runner waved enough in that, the 4yo asserted strongly, even at a speed track, and he saw out the distance very well. Another 0-80 awaits, but he won with so much in hand last time, he could still be ahead of his 6lb higher mark - although half of that is offset by Pierre-Louis Jamin. *** Daily Multi-Sports Double Leg 1: Back Master Milliner - 16:20 York @ 6/1 Timeform says: "Master Milliner has been in better heart than recent form figures would suggest and he can cash in on a lenient mark. Master Milliner won at Kempton on his final start last season and he returned with a victory at Goodwood before striking at Salisbury. He was disappointing on his next outing but hasn't been beaten far the last twice and the handicapper has given him a chance." Leg 2: Back Italy to beat Switzerland (KO: 19:45) @ 19/20 Dan Fitch says: "Italy's long unbeaten record was preserved in midweek, but the European Championship winners dropped points in a 1-1 home draw with Bulgaria. That result makes this game a very important one, with Switzerland four points behind, but with two games in hand. Italy beat Switzerland 3-0 during the group stage of the Euros and even as the visitors, the 19/20 for the away win is value." Barkey also noted that a large number of workers may have moved from dual-earner to single-earner households. With the increased demand of remote learning, a large number of parents may have stayed home to care for children. Additionally, with wages on the rise at many companies, its now more economically feasible for a family to have a single breadwinner. Even though jobs are short of where we were before, wages and income are actually up, said Barkey. Besides confirming some of the data from the DLI, Barkey added another factor in the labor shortage: displacement and reevaluation. A worker who abruptly loses their job might reconsider their place in the workforce altogether, or make new decisions about the kinds of work or wages they are willing to take. You see in every recession, at least in my career, there has been a decline in the labor force, said Barkey. By and large, its a story of displacement and reassessment. Numbers that matter Joshua Hill, assistant professor of economics at Montana State University Billings, not only supports some of Barkeys conclusions, but also sheds light on some of the data provided by the DLI. PRYOR Under a clear sky and with a light breeze, four flags led the opening ceremony for the Day of Honor on Saturday at Chief Plenty Coups State Park. One honored the Crow Nation, one the United States, and one the state of Montana. The fourth bore the name of the man now buried at the state park. In about two months, that same flag will fly at Arlington National Cemetery, commemorating Chief Plenty Coups role at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier 100 years ago. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, especially having my military background, what it means to me is a lot like standing for the Star Spangled Banner. I get goose bumps. I get overcome with emotion...Its hallowed ground, said Elsworth Goes Ahead, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who has carried the flag since 2017 as member of the Chief Plenty Coups Honor Guard. Born in 1848 in the area that is now Billings, Chief Plenty Coups lived through the end of the Indian Wars and the subjugation of the continents first peoples to forced assimilation and the federal reservation system. He also saw every Indigenous person in the United States finally recognized as a citizen in 1924. He died on his allotment near Pryor, where his log cabin, and the cottonwood and apple trees that he planted still stand. Late last month when Brian Jensen, a registered respiratory therapist at St. Peters Health in Helena, worked a few consecutive nights in the hospitals emergency room, the department physician told him something concerning. We had ambulances coming in from all over the region with patients that didn't have COVID, but their hospitals didn't have any beds, Jensen said. We were the only receiving facility in the state that night. Cases of the coronavirus are spiking again in Montana after a relatively quiet early summer. The surge of unvaccinated patients sicker with the Delta variant mean hospitals around the state are increasingly having to make difficult decisions like diverting cases from their emergency departments, delaying elective procedures or asking for the National Guard to assist with staffing shortages. As employees inside hospitals struggle through crisis, the buildings theyre working in can feel like a sort of reverse oasis as severely ill people struggle to breathe on ventilators and families line up at first-floor windows for glimpses of loved ones, the communities around them have incongruently moved on from a pandemic that is still killing Montanans weekly. Dr. Shelly Harkins, the president and chief medical officer of St. Peters Health, said the disconnect between whats happening in medical units and outside the hospital walls is jarring. I think many people in our community have no idea that we are surging again, that we have COVID again and that our staff are suffering, having to care for these very sick patients that honestly we can do little for other than hold their hand and provide supportive treatment and hope, Harkins said. The states larger hospitals who responded to questions for this story all reported high patient volumes, several topping records. There are more strokes, heart attacks and trauma cases than in years past. And the resurging pandemic is bringing more COVID-19 patients, who consume more intensive hospital resources. Our COVID patients have been, in the new surge of COVID, pretty ill and ... on a typical day about 50% of our admitted hospitalized (COVID) patients are in our critical care unit, said Dr. Kathryn Bertany, a pediatrician who is president of Bozeman Health's Deaconess Hospital and Big Sky Medical Center. That wasnt necessarily the case in the first surge. Administrators, doctors and nurses fear with lagging vaccination rates and fewer mitigation measures like mask requirements or distancing measures that were in place through parts of 2020, the sharply rising curve tallying those hospitalized with the virus will reach the highs of last November. Back then, the state had nearly 500 beds filled with COVID-19 patients for several days. On Friday the state reported 266 people hospitalized with the virus, a 29% increase over the last 14 days. Scarce resources Over the last few months, Harkins said there were days when St. Peters could not admit a patient and had to find another hospital for the person to go to. The facility has also boarded patients, which means those who should really be in an inpatient room, end up waiting in the emergency department for hours or sometimes days for a bed to open. We actually are talking a lot here in Montana about exactly what to do when we get a call from another state looking for a bed," Harkins said. " Typically we would say yes, but then again, we've never quite been in this situation before. Do we say yes or do we keep all of our Montana beds for Montana people? These are scarce resource conversations we've never had in health care before in the U.S. of A., in any of our lifetimes. We've never had to talk about scarce resources and who gets them and who does not. At Benefis Health Systems hospital in Great Falls, capacity is also pushed, sometimes over the brim. We are extremely busy. We are operating at greater than 100% of our typical capacity and have been very consistently for the last couple months, said Kaci Husted, the system vice president of communications and business development. Hospitals around the state already took steps early in the pandemic to increase the number of beds and spaces they have to treat patients. Benefis opened the eighth floor of a patient tower that typically wasnt operational as a dedicated unit for COVID. We were able to close that floor this spring and have now had to re-open it, Husted said. Every Monday the state puts out a report of hospitalization data. Last week it showed 70% of Montana's facilities had limited bed availability or were near capacity and half had limited intensive care unit availability or were near capacity. But hospitalization status changes hour to hour, so the information is out-of-date by the time its published. Counting beds also doesnt give a great picture of what capacity is really like. It is important to note that the bed capacity reported this week from the state for our hospital includes our NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), women and newborns and pediatric beds, which does not provide an accurate picture of adult bed capacity, wrote Megan Condra, the director of marketing and community relations for Community Medical Center in Missoula, last week. Not enough staff Along with seemingly every other industry in the nation, another universal challenge for Montana's hospitals is an acute shortage of employees in every department from medical care providers to nutritionists and housekeeping. The problem existed before the pandemic and is exacerbated by it. Burnout is high for people working in health care, with its grinding physical and emotional demands. COVID-19 made it worse, bringing risk to workers' own health, heartache for sick patients with long roads to recovery and even hostility from patients and their families over measures to slow the spread of the virus. A number of individuals have chosen to leave, Bertany said. We absolutely have experienced staffing shortages and have had times we did not have enough staff to be able to care for patients that needed beds in our facility. Fewer employees compounds the fatigue for those remaining. People are picking up extra shifts and working extra hours to help cover the needs we have, said Rick DePaso, a nurse in the intensive care unit at St. Peters. During the earlier wave of the pandemic in 2020, there was reprieve from travel nurses, but theyre not available to help with this spike since so many other hospitals across the country are in the same position. At Bozeman Health, the facility was able to find a couple dozen contracted staff to alleviate some of the problems. Benefis in Great Falls is considering an app that allows people to order their own meals and pick them up. Everybody pitches in and does their best to make things work and take the best care possible of our patients, but that being said its gotten significantly more challenging in the last several months to do everything we need to do with staffing issues that weve been running into, Husted said. Hospitals around the state have asked for assistance from the National Guard, and last week Montana Public Radio reported the Montana Hospital Association asked for the governor to approve using federal COVID-19 aid to pay for temporary workers. Unvaccinated, sicker with Delta As the Delta variant proliferates though the state, making up nearly every Montana variant specimen sequenced in a report released last week, younger and previously healthy people are requiring more critical care and higher levels of ventilatory support, Bertany said. And the vast majority of those people are unvaccinated. Since Feb. 15, when the state started tracking breakthrough cases, less than 9% of new cases were among vaccinated people. About 96% of patients who have ended up in the critical care unit in Bozeman since the vaccine became available were unvaccinated. All the current COVID-positive critical care patients on ventilators were unvaccinated, Bertany said when interviewed last week. Roughly 90% of the COVID patients at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell have been unvaccinated since the recent surge started, said Dr. Corey Short, Logan Health Medical Center hospitalist and physician executive of Acute Care Services. The hospital recently launched a status report that showed all eight patients last week in the intensive care unity were unvaccinated and all three on ventilators were also unvaccinated. Only five of the 38 hospitalized were vaccinated. DePaso said every COVID-19 patient on a ventilator at St. Peters the day he was interviewed last week were unvaccinated. Over a Zoom call, still wearing his scrubs and a surgical mask, DePaso explained what struck him about helping patients battle COVID-19 now versus a year ago. We had no ability to prevent it and now were in a different situation where we do have a way to prevent it and unfortunately people arent utilizing it, DePaso said. When you come to the emergency room or get admitted to the ICU, you trust us and you listen to us to guide your course through to get better as health care professionals. And so we just plead with you: Listen to us now, before you end up in the hospital. Harkins stated it bluntly. Even as the Delta variant is making patients more sick and spreading more easily among the unvaccinated, the immunized aren't the problem. Those that are vaccinated that still get COVID are over it like a common cold. They do not use hospital resources, they do not die from COVID, Harkins said. Those that are in the hospital for weeks on end, those that are dying from COVID, are the unvaccinated. Those that are transmitting the virus throughout our community, are those that are unvaccinated. Illustrating the resources it takes to treat very sick COVID-19 patients, Jensen explains what it takes to perform a procedure called "proning" to alleviate fluid buildup. The process involves taking a patient and flipping them over on their stomach to aid in breathing. Its not an easy process, given the number of IVs a COVID patient is generally on, not to mention a possible ventilator. It easily takes five strong people to carefully maneuver someone without pulling a line, removing an ET tube or at the same moment causing pressure sores, Jensen said. The hospital has been so short-staffed its had to pull over the ambulance crew at night to help with the process or nurses off other floors. Depending on the size of the patient, it might take even more to do the procedure safely. 'Compassion fatigue' Treating people who are so sick exacts an emotional toll. Its matter of weeks, not days, receiving critical care for those who are the most ill but still recover. No matter how someone lands in the intensive care unit or their vaccination status, DePaso said nurses provide care to their full ability, which can be incredibly draining. It's hard emotionally to watch these families of people ... struggle with the fact that their loved ones are in the ICU for 20 days or longer, in isolation, where they can't come visit and and see their loved one except for the occasional Zoom call or looking through the window because we happen to be on the first floor of the hospital, DePaso said. Kallie Kujawa, who leads the incident command team for Bozeman Health, said employees are also experiencing compassion fatigue, fueled by adversarial interactions with patients and their family members. Theyre trying to do their best, theyre working extra shifts and with decreased support staff and then on top of that they are having confrontational situations with patients and their family members about things such as wearing a mask in our facility and having limited visitors for patients to decrease the viral load in our building, Kujawa said. Its critical for the hospital to help employees avoid exposure to COVID-19 because if they get sick, the facility is at risk of not having enough staff to care for patients. Whats next Last week in a letter to colleges, administrators at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula halted scheduling new non-emergency and inpatient procedures because of capacity issues, citing the COVID spike. Billings Clinic CEO Dr. Scott Ellner said his facility is still doing medically necessary procedures to prevent conditions from worsening, but others are being postponed in order to maintain resources and avoid further burnout in nurses. Bozeman Health hasnt had to limit elective procedures, but there was a day we were talking about it recently, Bertany said. St. Peters looks at its operating room schedule daily to determine if it has enough beds to do surgeries that require patients to stay in the hospital overnight or longer. Its touch-and-go and every day we take a look to see if we need to cancel and we have had to cancel a few this summer, Harkins said. Last year St. Peters learned our lesson when it canceled elective surgeries, Harkins added. It took us well over a year to catch up, Harkins said. People got really sick and their pain levels increased. Elective doesnt mean unnecessary. Eyeing the steeping curve in new COVID-19 cases, schools opening with limited mitigation measures in place in some parts of the state and colder weather pushing people indoors, it's hard to look ahead and be hopeful. I think its very realistic for us to expect this fall and winter season to be really hard for us, Bertany said. We dont really know what the flu season is going to like this year, especially with the lax compliance with masking in our community. Hospitals are begging, pushing and pleading with their communities to get vaccinated, use face coverings and avoid large crowds. St. Peters posted what the hospital called the Longest Facebook Post of All Time last week asking for help from the community. The letter was signed by more than 500 hospital employees and implored Helena to get vaccinated, ending with a message of unity: As always, were in this together and together well get through this. But it doesnt always feel that way. You walk down the halls of the hospital and (it) feels like we step back in time to January again, DePaso said. The weirdest juxtaposition of that is when you leave the hospital, it feels like nothing ever changed, whereas when you left the hospital in the winter of last year, you knew we were in a pandemic because the grocery stores weren't as busy, people were wearing masks constantly. The weirdest thing now is is that when you leave work, nothing is different and it's business as usual. Billings Gazette reporter Emily Schabacker contributed to this story. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The fall of the Afghan government and the return of the Taliban has left policymakers and the public grasping for answers and apportioning blame. The deaths of 13 U.S. servicemen and -women and 170 Afghans at the Kabul Airport punctuate this tragic state of affairs. Many ask how the Afghan government, after an injection of $89 billion over 20 years, could collapse so quickly. Critical to this debate is Montanas support for our veterans as well as the Afghan people. We tend to assign failure to anyone who easily concedes or changes sides, like the Afghan Army. What we may not see is the premium placed on survival of family and community. Afghans acting to save their families and villages surrender as a means to survive. This is understandable in a society which has survived generations of conflict. The rapid fall of the Afghan government is also due to its corruption and poor governance. Despite U.S. funds and support, the Afghan government failed to create a cohesive rule of law that benefited society at large. The Taliban represent the return of a brutal regime: no one knows this better than the Afghan people. But for many Afghans who do not have a choice, they will seek to live with them rather than to die by them. Working Montana families are the backbone of our state. From teachers and police officers to pipe fitters and nurses, union workers play an enormous role in our lives: keeping us safe, taking care of us, and building the infrastructure we need to thrive. As we celebrate Labor Day this year, I am reminded of the struggles the labor movement has fought and won on behalf of working women and men all across this country, and the work we still need to do to meet their needs. Montana played a central role in the labor movement, and that legacy is felt everywhere you look, from safer workplaces and a 40-hour work week, to improved gender equality and health benefits. The early success of the movement helped transform Montanas economy, and led to greater opportunity for everyone. But its a legacy under threat. Montana workers are facing an uphill battle to fight for safe working conditions and liveable wages on the other side of a pandemic that upended our economy and put essential workers' lives at risk. These conditions - on top of skyrocketing costs for housing, child care and mental health services - are keeping Montanans out of the workforce and hurting our working families. It's fair to say that Gov. Greg Gianforte has never been a fan of public education. As soon as he moved to Montana, he helped fund a private, "Classical Christian" school and has donated millions of dollars to it in the 25 years it has existed in Bozeman. All of his children graduated from this Petra Academy. So, it's not surprising that he is opposed to local public school boards who mandated masks for school children in the midst of a pandemic. But I was a little surprised by state Superintendent of Public Instruction, Elsie Arntzen, who enthusiastically joined an anti-masking-mandate rally in Billings. The purpose of mandating masks is to try to keep children safe as a new, more infectious version of coronavirus is getting more widespread in Montana every week. I wondered what plan or recommendations the OPI might have for schools if neither masks nor vaccinations could be required for children's safety. I called Arntzen's office to ask. She wasn't available, but eventually I spoke with a fellow in her public information office. He said she believed local people should be in charge. I said, "Me too! School Boards!" He said families should decide. Although I asked more than once, he was not able to supply any plans or recommendations from the OPI for families or school boards to keep kids safe in school. I was saddened to read House Majority Leader Sue Vintons op-ed in the Aug. 27 Gazette expressing how disheartening it was that Democratic legislators had criticized Republicans for sponsoring pro-COVID legislation. The thought that elected officials might be publicly criticized for endangering the health of their constituents was almost too much to bear. My sadness increased when The Gazette on Sept. 1 published what those Democratic legislators actually had written to upset Vinton. Their op-ed was a disturbingly fact-filled account of the many ways in which Montanas government has failed to adequately cope with the states worst health crisis in a century. To attack opponents with personal insults is one thing; to attack them with facts is far more troubling. We should all join Vintons call for increased bipartisanship and improved working relationships in America. But her words might carry more weight if she started within her own party instead of picking on the loyal opposition. The GOPs most prominent member personally insulted about 850 people in thousands of tweets from June 2015 until Twitter banned him this year. The ad hominem attack was practically the only implement in his rhetorical toolbox. Those with stomachs strong enough can read the entire list at the New York Times website. Randy Newberg, the Bozeman-based host of the hunting series Fresh Tracks with Randy Newberg, says in the film that hes backed away from the controversy surrounding corner crossing, despite vocal support of a bill in the 2013 Montana Legislature that sought to enshrine the activity in law. At the time, advocates said corner crossing would provide access to about 800,000 acres in Montana. Every attorney has told me this does represent civil trespass, Newberg said in the film. As someone who believes strongly in our constitution, someone who believes property rights are absolutely paramount to the society, the economy, the way of life that weve built, I cant bring myself to do it. I have that much respect for private property rights. FARGO North Dakota's vaccination picture is defined by a vertical line that runs from the Canadian border to South Dakota via Jamestown. To the east, health officials say, the rates are fair to poor. To the west, they're worse. Twenty-two counties, all in the eastern third of the state and all of them connected, have vaccination rates of at least one dose between 50% and 60%. Of the remaining 31 counties, only two have rates above 50%, with many much lower than that, according to the state Department of Health. We clearly have more vaccine hesitancy in the western part of the state, said Dr. Doug Griffin, Sanford vice president and medical officer in Fargo. I think theres a much more frontier, independent nature and philosophy out there. Politics are part of it, but I think its more they dont want to be told what to do. But really, Im not sure I have a good answer for that. That's translating to higher incidence of COVID-19 in the western part of a state that the Centers for Disease and Prevention Control rates 45th in the country in percentage of fully vaccinated people. Truesee's Daily Wonder Saturday, September 4, 2021 Archives Truesee presents the weird, wild, wacky and world news of the day. 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But with some 86 billion neurons in our brains, well, that makes for a pretty complicated machine. Lots of potential, sure, and fascinating details to explore as they develop, but it's still a lot to handle. Writing in IEEE Spectrum, Frances Chance proposes a simpler but more efficient solution: modeling AI off of dragonfly brains. In my research at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, I study the brains of one of these larger insects, the dragonfly. I and my colleagues at Sandia, a national-security laboratory, hope to take advantage of these insects' specializations to design computing systems optimized for tasks like intercepting an incoming missile or following an odor plume. By harnessing the speed, simplicity, and efficiency of the dragonfly nervous system, we aim to design computers that perform these functions faster and at a fraction of the power that conventional systems consume. [] If you have ever encountered a dragonfly, you already know how fast these beautiful creatures can zoom, and you've seen their incredible agility in the air. Maybe less obvious from casual observation is their excellent hunting ability: Dragonflies successfully capture up to 95 percent of the prey they pursue, eating hundreds of mosquitoes in a day. The physical prowess of the dragonfly has certainly not gone unnoticed. For decades, U.S. agencies have experimented with using dragonfly-inspired designs for surveillance drones. Now it is time to turn our attention to the brain that controls this tiny hunting machine. If nothing else, I feel like this should alleviate some concerns about AI gaining sentience and turning against mankind. A dragonfly ain't gonna go all Skynet on us, right? Fast, Efficient Neural Networks Copy Dragonfly Brains [Frances Chance / IEEE Spectrum] Image via Public Domain Pictures Everyday carry (EDC) has exploded in popularity over the past decade, and it isn't too difficult to find enthusiasts who ogle over multifunctional wallets, pocket knives, and even flashlights. Now maybe you're looking for something more low-key, in which case, you'll be absolutely head-over-heels for this little gadget. The Safetul is a 3-in-1 copper alloy multi-tool that attaches to your keychain, allowing you to dip your toes into that EDC lifestyle without attracting too much attention to yourself. It'll save you from having to touch elevator and door buttons, but it can do so much more. Right now, it's on sale for just $24.99. The Safetul is made of high-quality copper, making it tough, lightweight, and resistant to age. It can act as a door opener, a button pusher, a stylus for your phone or tablet, and even a bottle opener. The button pusher and the stylus are both spring-loaded, which makes them easy to access and keeps the tool from becoming too bulky. You're probably wondering why anyone would want a button pusher of all things. It's particularly ideal if you want to avoid touching germ-infested surfaces while out in public (we are in the midst of a pandemic, after all.) The best part is that this tool retracts the button pusher tool so that it goes back inside and doesn't touch anything you put your hands on. They truly thought of everything when it came to keeping you germ-free. The Sateful has a little loop that lets you can easily attach it to your keychain, and it's small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, perfect for slipping into your pocket without excess bulk. Finally, it comes with a manufacturer's 1-year warranty, so you don't have to worry about it failing on you any time soon. If you've been on the hunt for a way to you avoid germ-infested public surfaces, the Safetul: 3-in-1 Copper Alloy Multi-Tool is seriously the perfect solution. Grab it now for $24.99, or 16 percent off. Since the early 17th century, the small town of Muff in County Cavan, Ireland has celebrated summer with a Muff Festival. See the town's name actually comes from a bad Anglicization of Magh, which means "plain." What else did you think "Muff" might mean? As recorded in some schoolchild's handwritten essay about the holiday: There is a fair held once every year, on August 12, and Muff cross, between the ruins of the castle of Muff and the rock of Muff. On the rock, there are several tents put up for the occasion, in which there are refreshments and amusements. People come very early in the morning to buy and sell their cattle. When the buyer chooses a beast, he goes to the owner and asks him for the price. He gives him a slap on the hand and they keep dividing until the bargain is made. When the bargain is made, the money is given to the seller and a luck penny is given back. They then put a mark on the animal sold. When they buy more than one beast, they tie them to each other. Visitors come from a very far distance to dance at the fair in the evening. The Wall Street Journal even covered the Muff Fair in 2010. In addition to some delightfully tacky spinning clip art GIFs, IrishIdentity.com explains the fair as such: There are other annual horse fairs in Ireland in places like Killorglin, Ballintubber, Ballinasloe, Ballycastle and Ballyduff but the fair of Muff has a special magic of its own. The annual fair of Muff survives from the 17th century. It is conducted on the conventional carnival style, retaining much of its traditional popularity and continues to attract a large crowd. Sometimes called the pattern or patron fair, its origins may be traced to the year 1608 when King James 1 granted to Garrett Fleming of Cabragh, a licence to hold a Tuesday market at the Castle of Clanchye in Co. Cavan and a fair on the 1st August and the two following days. This may have been the revival of an earlier O'Reilly fair. However, it is said that Fleming's interest was chiefly to secure the customary tolls. I don't know how reliable of a source that website is; it also suggests that the Muff Fair has some roots in the traditions of indigenous Irish Traveller community, also known as Minceirs, but I can't find any other sources to confirm that. So it may or may not be true. But comedian Justine Stafford's visit to Muff Festival, as seen in the video above, is really all the information that you need. If you don't want to visit Muff Fair yourself, you can always buy a Muff Hoodie to show your love of Muff. Image: TenthEagle / Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA 3.0) Ryan pointed to campaign contributions Sinatra's former law firm, Hodgson Russ, has made in the past to Brown's campaigns, as well as legal work the city has paid the firm to perform. The state senator also raised concerns about Sinatra's brother, Buffalo real estate developer Nick Sinatra, who has donated to Brown's campaign and has received tax breaks for his developments in the city. At Friday's federal court hearing, Sinatra said he was aware some had suggested he recuse himself because of his brother's political support for Brown and that he consulted recusal rules before presiding over the hearing. "There's no basis for recusal. I will apply the facts to the law as best I can," Sinatra said, adding that he intends to have his integrity intact at the end of his judicial career. Ryan also said he believes Brown's push for the independent line and accompanying the federal ruling will likely allow him to stay on the ballot because there's no guarantee an appeal would be heard before ballots must be finalized. "Clearly, the timing of when the lawsuits were filed, when they asked for the determination, was all designed to make it so there was no runway left in federal court to get a appeal and the judge knew that." Anyone who thinks that having insurance for their car, or house, or even their health, will automatically indemnify them from any loss they might sustain, has probably never had a claim. Insurance companies routinely dispute claims if the insured is at fault in causing the damage, or has done something to disqualify themselves from coverage. For example, if you have insurance on your house and it burns down, you don't collect if you're the one who set the fire. Or, if you intentionally cause an accident with your car, it is unlikely that your insurance company will pay for the damage. So, I'm curious: How long will it be before health insurance companies refuse to cover the claims of those who test positive for Covid-19 when they appear at hospitals and require treatment after they have refused to be vaccinated? While many of us believe that the assertion of "individual rights" is just a smokescreen for a misguided political statement, even if there are some for whom it is an honestly held belief, they must understand that rights come with responsibilities. As our health care system is burdened to the breaking point, and care is rationed because there are no beds for the man or woman with the heart attack or the burst appendix, shouldn't the "defender of individual rights" be told that they're on the hook for the cost of their care? Written by Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf, MBA at The Motley Fool Canada Do you have some cash to invest in the stock market? If you dont know which Canadian stocks to buy, here are two Canadian stocks to buy this instant. CloudMD Founded in 2013 and based in Vancouver, CloudMD Software & Services (TSXV:DOC) is a healthcare service and technology company focused on the digitization of healthcare delivery. CloudMD also owns and operates 100% of several clinics offering on-site and telemedicine services. CloudMD is one of the fastest-growing Canadian tech stocks. The company reported revenue of $15.7 million in the second quarter. Compared to the second quarter 2020 revenue of $2.8 million, the year-over-year increase was 461%. CloudMD has completed the realignment process in three main verticals: Clinical Services & Pharmacies (CSP), Digital Services, and Enterprise Health Solutions (EHS). CSP accounted for $6.6 million in revenue for the quarter, up from $2.3 million in the same quarter last year, digital services accounted for $4 million in revenue versus $500,000 in the second quarter of 2020, while the remaining $5 million came from the EHS vertical, which was zero in Q2 2020. The company reported a net loss of $6 million for the quarter, although $2.9 million of the loss for the quarter was charged to acquisition-related costs. CloudMD completed a pair of acquisitions during the quarter, first closing a $60 million transaction for VisionPros, a vertically integrated digital eyewear platform, then closed a transaction of $68 million for Oncidium, a healthcare management company with a clientele of more than 500 companies and public sectors clients n various industries. With several acquisitions completed in 2020 and the first half of 2021, the company will likely focus on organic growth across its ecosystem of businesses and customer bases to create cross-selling opportunities. Manulife Manulife Financial (TSX:MFC)(NYSE:MFC) provides life insurance and wealth management products and services to individuals and groups in Canada, the United States, and Asia. Story continues The insurer beat analysts estimates for its second-quarter earnings as strong revenue growth from its asset management units helped boost its results from the prior-quarter. Core profits from Manulifes global wealth and asset management businesses jumped nearly 50% to $356 million in the quarter ended June 30 from the same period last year. Profits at Manulife, Canadas largest insurer, were also supported by 7.6% business growth in Asia, helping to offset weakness in Canada and the United States, where core earnings fell by 7% and almost 21% respectively. Manulife posted earnings excluding special items of $0.83 per share, down from $0.78 a year earlier, beating estimates of $0.77. Manulife Financial will expand operations in China as COVID-19 restrictions ease. The company plans to build customer service centers in the Greater Bay Area, while the return of mainland tourists in the future could also boost the life insurance industry. The citys sixth-largest life insurer is looking to expand its local market share while exploiting new opportunities in Chinas Greater Bay Area, which connects Hong Kong and Macau to nine mainland Chinese cities. Manulifes 7,300-square-foot Manulife Prestige Center, due to open in Tsim Sha Tsui, in the heart of the city, is the latest manifestation of how the company plans to boost sales from mainland visitors who have not traditionally been the target customers when Hong Kong reopens its border. Manulife is raising the bar for its operations in Asia in order to grow its insurance and wealth management business in Asia to 50% of the companys profits by 2025. The post 2 Canadian Stocks to Buy This Instant appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. 5 Canadian Growth Stocks Under $5 Limited Time Only: Get 5 of Our Top Growth Stocks for FREE. We are giving away a FREE copy of our "5 Small-Cap Canadian Growth Stocks Under $5" report. These are 5 Canadian stocks that we think are screaming buys today. Get Your Free Report Today More reading Fool contributor Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. 2021 Leaders from several major faiths in Manitoba say they're not aware of any religious reason to refuse to get immunized against COVID-19. But that hasn't stopped some people from using their faith as a reason to push back. (Evan Mitsui/CBC - image credit) As vaccine mandates continue to pop up at schools and workplaces across Manitoba, so does opposition to them based on personal and religious convictions. And while leaders from several major faiths in the province say they're not aware of any religious reason to refuse to get immunized against COVID-19, that hasn't stopped some people from using their faith as a reason to push back. At a rally this week in Steinbach, Man., about 300 people gathered to oppose vaccination and mask mandates in schools, including one who invoked Christian values as part of her reasoning. "I am a Christian, I am a God-fearing woman and these are our temples, and we have to treat them well," Sheena Friesen told the crowd. "And that decision, how you treat your body well, is up to you." Last week, Borderland MLA Josh Guenter wrote to then-Premier Brian Pallister saying mandates will only heighten vaccine hesitancy among his constituents, including many descendants of Mennonites who came to Canada fleeing persecution. "The deep-seated historical and cultural mistrust of government still exists, and for very legitimate reasons," Guenter wrote. James Turner/CBC Cheryl Pauls, president of Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg, said while some Mennonites point to their religion as to why they won't get vaccinated, those reasons aren't grounds for a religious exemption. "A lot of them are citing religious reasons, but not religious reasons that are part of the tradition of the denomination or part of the tradition of that faith community. In a lot of ways, it has to do with what's happened over the last hundred years or so," Pauls said. While she understands how that history of persecution and mistrust of government might initially lead to some hesitation, it's been "baffling" how strong and unwavering that reaction has become among a small number of Mennonites. WATCH | Cheryl Pauls on Mennonite vaccine hesitancy: Story continues "Generally, the communities that right now are resisting vaccine[s] would actually be very sympathetic to caring for the other, to living and doing things that wouldn't be about their own 'What's best for me?' but would be about what is best for the other," Pauls said. "So there's something that actually feels out of character of what these communities tend to care about and be about." Individual approaches Within many religions, there's often room for individuals to interpret teachings in their own ways. That's the case in Winnipeg's Jewish community, though on this topic things are a little different, said Rabbi Kliel Rose of Winnipeg's Congregation Etz Chayim. "There's always a multiplicity of opinions within the Jewish community," Rose said. "That being said, something of this magnitude like COVID-19 has to be looked at and dealt with in a very different way. This is not an ordinary situation." While there's a small number of Jewish people in Winnipeg who oppose vaccine mandates, he said, there's nothing in the Talmud that would outlaw COVID-19 vaccines. In fact, it's the opposite. WATCH | Rabbi explains Jewish obligation to save lives: "Saving a life ... overrides every other legal requirement," Rose said, referring to a Jewish obligation known as pikuach nefesh. "So if that means doing something that is contrary to the Jewish legal system in order to save a life, that is the absolute priority." There's a similar sentiment within Islam, said Idris Elbakri, chair of the Manitoba Islamic Association's board. "There aren't any religious objections to vaccines from an Islamic perspective. None whatsoever. It's to the contrary," he said. "We're encouraged to seek the cure where we can find it, and preservation of life is one of the higher purposes of the faith." Jeff Stapleton/CBC Similarities across religions Other faith leaders say they also have a religious obligation to get vaccinated and protect others. That ranges from the United Church's belief of loving your neighbour, to the responsibility of Anglican Church members to lead the world to a place of health and safety, to the Buddhist teachings that focus on developing the mind. And all of those Winnipeg leaders United Church executive minister Shannon McCarthy, Anglican Diocese of Rupert's Land Bishop Geoffrey Woodcroft and Banthe Sugathasiri of the Manitoba Buddhist Vihara and Cultural Association say there's nothing in their religions' teachings that would prevent people from getting vaccinated against COVID-19. While several say they've heard of members within their institutions refusing the shots, the root of their worries often comes down to something outside religion: people not having their fears addressed by credible information. Pauls said though Mennonites pushing back against vaccine mandates have been receiving more attention recently, she thinks their reasons are actually similar to the ones people in other communities hold. "While a religious reason might be part of that blend that's coming together, three or four of those factors might be very much the same in other communities," she said. "I'm not sure that the Mennonite one is any different than the ones that are happening elsewhere." The University of Wisconsin System owns a critical responsibility to open our classrooms this September to deliver the in-person education students deserve and parents expect. And we are planning to do just that. Unfortunately, some want us to ignore our unambiguous authority and duty under Wisconsin law to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the university. As soon as I accepted the UW System Presidency in July 2020, I put my experience as former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and Wisconsin Governor to work, with chancellors, to ensure we keep our universities open and safe. Together over the last 14 months we have been Johnny-on-the-spot, building a robust student testing program, cultivating a culture of responsibility on campus, and providing tests and vaccinations to Wisconsin residents steps praised by some of the top federal health officials and scientists. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) A 14-year-old girl died in a fire that razed her home in Barangay Pulang Lupa Dos, Las Pinas City on Sunday morning, the Bureau of Fire Protection said. The fire, which was reported shortly before 8 a.m., was put out after an hour, according to the BFP-National Capital Region. Its report stated that the blaze started in a bedroom on the ground floor of the two-storey house in Camella 5. The father of the victim said the girl was on the second floor. He told CNN Philippines that he was out to bring the victims' three siblings to a vaccination site when the fire started. The incident caused structural damage estimated at 380,000. Its cause is still being investigated. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) Quezon City could be the next city in Metro Manila to implement the No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP) following its approval on second reading by the city council. The program calls for enforcement cameras to be installed along the city's major roads in order to catch traffic violators. Officials assured traffic enforcers that they will not lose their jobs. "First of all there's only 15 sites na may camera. 'Yung sa mga DPOS (Department of Public Order and Safety), hindi sila mawawalan ng trabaho. It's very timely if you will look at what's happening, sila yung nae-expose masyado," said city councilor Franz Pumaren. [Translation: There are only 15 sites that have cameras. Rest assured, traffic enforcers under the DPOS will not lose their jobs. It's very timely if you will look at what's happening, they are the ones very much exposed.] When the NCAP is fully implemented, a notice of violation will be sent directly to the residence of the motorist caught violating traffic rules through the installed cameras. But some groups have reservations regarding the program. Laban TNVS says it was not given a heads up regarding the matter. "Tinututulan natin ito dahil tingin natin na ito ay negosyo ng mga lokal na gobyerno sa mga drayber. Napakataas ng penalty. Nangyayari na sa ibang lugarpag kinokontes, hindi pinagbibigyan," say Laban TNVS chief Jun de Leon. [Translation: We are against it because we think it is a money-making project by local governments. Penalties are too high. Its already happening in other cities, the violations cannot be challenged.] They say their penalties will be bumped up from 2,000 to 5,000 depending on the violation. Pumaren, however, said it's possible to contest the violations. "You can contest this one, just in case you feel na mali yung nasabi [that there was a wrong accusation] or there was an emergency, you can always contest that," he said. According to the city government, the transport group was consulted twice regarding the plan. City officials also gave their assurance that the system will be fair. The NCAP is up for third and final reading on Monday. Once passed there will be a one-month dry-run to determine if the plan is effective in encouraging more drivers to follow traffic rules and regulations. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) Foreign nationals who want to work in the country for more than six months can now apply for a permit via their prospective employers based in the Philippines. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) made the announcement on its website Sunday, saying the work visas may be applied for at the Philippine Consulate in the country where the foreigner lives. "Essential foreign workers, through their Philippines-based employers, may now apply for AEP/COE and 9(g) work visas at their concerned DOLE regional offices before entering the country," said Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III. AEP is the Alien Employment Permit, while COE stands for Certificate of Exemption/Exclusion, both necessary documents that foreign workers in the Philippines must submit. "Under the new guidelines, issuance of the work visa may be done at Philippine Consulate General at the foreign national's place of origin and will no longer require an entry stamp from the Department of Foreign Affairs," added Bello. "The lead time for the issuance of the AEP is five working days upon completion of labor market test or publication in a newspaper of general circulation while three days after receipt of the application for COE," he added further. Among the documentary requirements asked of applicants are a contract of employment, a photocopy of their passport, as well as a taxpayer identification number. After the permit is granted, the employer can apply for an appropriate work visa for the prospective employee with the Bureau of Immigration or other visa-issuing agencies. Meanwhile, Joint Memorandum Circular No. 001, series of 2019 states foreign nationals who are in the country under temporary visitor's visa must secure pall necessary permits and file an application for a work visa with the Bureau of Immigration. (CNN) -- A small group of Afghan women braved the Taliban-controlled streets of Kabul once more on Saturday to demand equal rights and the ability to participate in government, CNN has confirmed. In a bold public challenge to the militant group's rule, female activists have staged at least three small demonstrations across the country in the past week. Footage shared by Afghan news network TOLO news Saturday showed a confrontation between Taliban guards and some of the women. In the video, a man on a megaphone is heard telling the small crowd "we will pass your message to the elders." His voice appears to be calm. But towards the end of the video, women can be heard screaming, with one activist saying "why are you hitting us?" Violence reportedly broke out after Taliban forces prevented the women from marching on to the presidential palace, according to TOLO, which reported the use of tear gas on protesters. "Together with a group of our colleagues, we wanted to go near the former government offices for a protest. But before we got there, the Taliban hit women with electric tasers, and they used tear gas against women. They also hit women on the head with a gun magazine, and the women became bloody. There was no one to ask why," Soraya, a former government employee present at the protest scene on Saturday, told Reuters. A video of Afghan activist Narjis Sadat bleeding from her head was shared widely on social media, claiming she had been beaten by militant fighters at the protest. CNN has reached out to Sadat for comment. Taliban leaders on Twitter dismissed the videos being shared online of violence at the women-led protests. The head of the Cultural Commission, Muhammad Jalal, said that these demonstrations were "a deliberate attempt to cause problems," adding that "these people don't even represent 0.1% of Afghanistan." The militant group are still involved in talks over forming a government, but have signaled women should stay at home, and, in some instances, militants have ordered women to leave their workplaces. The moves are at odds with promises from the insurgent group, whose leaders have insisted publicly that women will play a prominent role in society and have access to education. But, the group's public statements about adhering to their interpretation of Islamic values have stoked fears of a return to the harsh policies of Taliban rule two decades ago, when women all but disappeared from public life. Some Afghan women are already opting to remain indoors as fears mount over their safety, with some families purchasing full-length burqas for female relatives. Dozens of women staged a similar demonstration on Friday in Kabul, and on Wednesday in the western Afghan city of Herat. A prominent Afghan activist said she did not take part in the Herat demonstration because of a direct threat. She spoke to CNN on the condition of anonymity, fearing even expressing interest in the demonstration could subject her to reprisal. Kabul airport could reopen in days ahead Meanwhile, a technical team was able to reopen Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport to receive aid Saturday, amid ongoing preparations to prepare the facility for civilian flights, Qatar's Ambassador to Afghanistan Saeed bin Mubarak Al-Khayarin Al-Hajar said in a statement. Two domestic flights flew from the capital's airport to the cities of Mazar-i-Sharif and Kandahar, bin Mubarak Al-Khayarin Al-Hajar confirmed. A team of Qatari technicians are carrying out repairs at the airport, which could start receiving flights in the coming days, the statement added. The airport has not been operational since the final withdrawal of US troops last week. Qatar's Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Counterterrorism and Mediation in Conflict Resolution, Mutlaq bin Majed Al Qahtani landed in Kabul Friday. Qatari officials in Kabul are engaging in talks with the Taliban on transitioning to a government and the reopening of Kabul airport. The Gulf state's goal is to help establish a political settlement for lasting peace in Afghanistan ensuring security, stability and development in the country, a Qatari source with knowledge of the situation told CNN Friday. There are three parties engaged in discussions to resume operations at Kabul airport, the source said. Qatar is also working closely with the international community, particularly those embassies relocated to Doha from Kabul, including the US, the UK, the Netherlands, and Japan, to provide safe corridors and freedom of movement for those in Afghanistan and continue cooperation in the fight against terrorism to prevent any future instability in the region, the source added. Fighting intensifies in remote holdout region Elsewhere, clashes have continued in several parts of the Panjshir Valley in northern Afghanistan, the last province holding out against the Islamist takeover. Fighters of the National Resistance Front (NRF), a multi-ethnic group that includes former Afghan security force members and reportedly numbers in the thousands, have been battling a Taliban offensive for the past two weeks. Panjshir Valley, a mountainous, inaccessible region north of Kabul, has a long history of resisting the insurgent group. In the late 1990s, it was a center of resistance against the Taliban during their rule. A Taliban spokesman told CNN Saturday that its forces had made "considerable advances" and taken four districts of the mountainous province. The Taliban have attacked Panjshir from several directions and appear to be targeting the provincial capital, Bazarak. An international NGO working in the area, Emergency International, said in a post on Twitter that Taliban fighters had reached the village of Anabah, which is located a few kilometers from Bazarak, on Friday night. "During the night of Friday 3 September, Taliban forces pushed further into the Panjshir Valley, reaching the village of Anabah where EMERGENCY's Surgical Centre and Maternity Centre are located. There has so far been no interference with EMERGENCY's activities. We have received a small number of wounded people at the Anabah Surgical Centre," the tweet read. In a video message Friday, the former Vice President of Afghanistan, Amrullah Saleh, said there had been casualties on both sides. Saleh fled to Panjshir when the previous government fell in August. "There is no doubt we are in a difficult situation. We are under invasion by the Taliban," he said, before adding: "We will not surrender, we are standing for Afghanistan." Earlier Friday, the National Resistance Front claimed it had fought back enemy attacks and surrounded Taliban militia at the Khawak Pass in the north-east of Panjshir. In Kabul, the leader of the Hezb-e-Islami Afghanistan party, Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, issued a warning Friday to the population of Panjshir, which is largely Tajik. Hekmatyar, a former prime minister and veteran power broker in Afghanistan, said people should not sacrifice themselves for the benefit of others. Some people in Panjshir were resisting the Taliban for personal gain and if defeated, they could go to other countries, he continued. "Our Panjshiri brothers will be aware that the worst consequences of this war are on you more than anyone else. You will be harmed," Hekmatyar told supporters in Kabul Friday, according to Afghan media. This story was first published on CNN.com "Women's protest in Taliban-controlled Kabul turns violent". (CNN) -- One of the greatest success stories of the Covid-19 crisis has hit an alarming bump in the road. The initial stages of the vaccine rollout earlier this year in countries such as Israel, the United Kingdom and the United States provided hope that the misery of lockdowns and isolation would soon be a distant memory, in a small group of rich nations, at least. Both Israel and the UK appeared on track to hit the rough target of 80-90% of fully vaccinated citizens that each of the experts CNN spoke with for this article said is required to drop restrictions, while America had legitimate cause for optimism. But then came a drop in the number of daily vaccinations." Much to the dismay of officials and public health officials, the slower uptake has seen daily vaccinations plateau, while each country remains well below the target at 63% (UK), 62% (Israel) and 52% (US). The reasons for this are varied. Some people believe they are fit healthy and young, so getting vaccinated is not a priority. Some have poor digital literacy, or limited access, and have found it too complicated to book a vaccine so gave up. And some simply don't trust their government to the extent that they've become susceptible to misinformation. Despite recent upticks in vaccination doses being administered, the reality that most countries will not hit that 80-90% goal while the Delta variant spreads presents a serious threat. Not only does it affect the speed at which these specific countries can wave goodbye to Covid but, on a global level, it also creates an opportunity for the virus to spread, mutate and break their borders to countries with lower vaccination rates. In other words, it could incubate the next disaster in this pandemic. In the UK, inner-city areas with diverse communities have seen these dynamics play out many times. Philip Glanville, mayor of the London borough of Hackney, explained that in "Turkish and Kurdish communities, there is a high level of trust with doctors and the NHS, but they've sometimes found it difficult to book appointments. Whereas in some Black-British communities, misinformation has sadly spread about the vaccine affecting pregnancy and fertility." Hackney has seen a drop from around 1,000 daily first doses administered to around 100 in the space of roughly two months. And while of course many of those who want to get jabbed have now done so, the group of holdouts is bigger than most countries want it to be. And given the young age groups currently being encouraged to get their first vaccines, this is a real cause for concern, as younger people tend to have more social contacts, creating more opportunities for the disease to reproduce. Glanville, who has himself volunteered at Hackney's vaccination centers, criticized the UK government for playing an overly centralized role by not allowing local authorities to make decisions based on their knowledge of their own communities. "The messaging and rules have been unclear for lots of people who want to be vaccinated," Glanville said. "It's not been the fault of people on the ground in Hackney, but as a volunteer, I've had to turn people away who turned up with an elderly relative and asked if they could have one too. The sad reality is, if people have poor literacy or digital skills, don't really understand the rules and get turned away, they might just give up." In another corner of the UK, Northern Ireland is seeing a similar vaccination decline, despite a recent surge in infection. Gabriel Scally, a former public health official in the province, explains that many Northern Irish citizens do not trust the health service or areas of the government. "There are currently three public inquiries into dreadful failures of the health service, hospital waiting lists are appalling and the sectarian nature of our politics means that certain groups are incredibly distrustful of one part of the government or another," he explains. In Northern Ireland, the government is run on a principle of power sharing between Republicans (who broadly favor a united Ireland) and Unionists (who want Northern Ireland to remain part of the UK), with the aim that no group will feel marginalized. The most radical ends of either group are historically less trustful of leaders from the other, even when it comes to public health. Israel wowed the world with its speedy vaccination rollout and high initial uptake. Yet in recent weeks, the international poster child of immunization has also experienced a slowdown. The reasons for this are largely societal, Asher Salmon, the deputy director general of the country's health ministry, explains. "There are issues within small minorities of the ultra-Orthodox and Hasidic communities where some people have strange ideas based on anti-vaccination misinformation," he said. "There are also problems in Bedouin societies, where distrust in the Israeli authorities is typically quite high." Salmon also says that people who hold fringe political beliefs have been exposed to misinformation that complements their anti-establishment, anti-globalist views. "There are people who believe that the pharmaceutical industry has a vested interest in making the pandemic appear worse than it is." Meanwhile in America, misinformation and partisan distrust in the authorities has become a challenge for some doctors trying to convince their patients to get vaccinated. Dr. Mark Horne, chief medical officer at South Central Regional Medical Center in Mississippi, told CNN there is "a significant, hardcore group of people who mistrust advanced medical science" in his local area because of their politics. "This is a very Christian, conservative place. I try and explain to my patients that I am a Christian and conservative, but that this is just science. One of my patients who has diabetes told me he won't get the vaccine because he thinks it's a political conspiracy. Even people I've treated for 25 years tell me that they trust me, but don't trust the vaccine or the science behind it." One recurring theme in all these countries is many young people are perfectly willing to get the vaccine, but don't see it as a priority. This is possibly because of the evidence that the disease affects older people more dramatically. "For a lot of young people there is a trade-off: potential side-effects versus the fact they are young and healthy, so unlikely to get seriously sick," said Melanie Leis, director of the Big Data and Analytical Unit at Imperial College London, which recently published a report on global vaccine confidence. "When asked about the reasons for not having received a vaccine yet, only 4% of the 40+ group stated concerns about side effects, compared to 10% of those 18-29," she added. These might seem like small numbers, so why is this such a problem for the global response to Covid? "If one were to draw a graph of vaccine coverage versus danger, it would be a linear progression, the greater the vaccine coverage, the less the dangers and the other way around," said Bharat Pankhania, senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter, in western England. "Of course, we want to get to 90% coverage, it is a tall order globally. If we get to 70% and stay there, there will be many sporadic outbreaks which may overwhelm health services. Worse, it will create more chances for the virus to mutate and variants of concern to emerge." These mutations and variations of the disease risk blowing a huge hole in the vaccination effort, undermining the hard work that has already taken place in so many countries. Simon Clarke, associate professor in microbiology at the University of Reading in southern England, said that "every time a new virus particle is created, the virus has an opportunity to mutate and build resistance to the vaccines that we currently have. So, if you are not vaccinated, not only are you putting yourself at risk, but also the people who have done the right thing and had the jab." If this is dangerous for highly vaccinated countries, it is a terrifying prospect for those unable to get hold of enough jabs for their citizens. "It is virtually impossible to stop viruses crossing borders, so a weakness in any country is a problem for every country," said Clarke. All of this raises a question of moral obligation for countries that are sitting on vaccines or giving people their third shorts while others simply don't have enough doses. "There is certainly a big question over what these high-income countries should do if they have reached saturation, while poorer nations have significant numbers of people desperate to get vaccinated," said data analyst Leis. Pankhania added it is a "disgrace" that so much of the world is unvaccinated and that if richer countries were to distribute their stockpiles "we would see a huge uptake all over the world." Back in the US, UK and Israel, what can be done to encourage those final holdouts to take the plunge and get vaccinated? "We have introduced schemes where you cannot enter cultural venues, clubs, bars without getting tested if you've not had the jab," said Salmon. "A secondary advantage of the passport, alongside reducing the rate of infection, is to encourage young people to be vaccinated." Horne says that he has encouraged his patients to be good ambassadors and tell their friends about family members getting sick and share their positive experiences of getting vaccinated. "It takes more than physicians and government for people who inherently distrust the state. Lots of the holdouts who eventually came round that I've encountered either saw a family member get sick or get vaccinated and all the things they feared not happening," he said. The race to get as many people vaccinated before the virus spreads further or mutates into something more dangerous is going to be won with a mixture of carrot and stick, with other countries seeing similar incentives to getting the jab as Israel. However, the next phase of this battle is going to be an uphill struggle, taking place at a time when many of the countries struggling with vaccine hesitancy enter their winter months. All of which raises a very alarming question. If even wealthy Western countries are unable to emphatically win the race against Covid, what hope do other parts of the world -- low on vaccines, poorer in infrastructure and with less access to reliable information -- have of ending their pandemic in the next year? This story was first published on CNN.com "Vaccine slowdowns in the wealthy West could incubate the next disaster in the Covid crisis". (CNN) Health experts are reinforcing the point that full vaccination remains highly effective against severe illness and death caused by COVID-19 as federal regulators consider the possibility of authorizing a third dose in the upcoming weeks. "What's the goal of this vaccine? The stated goal by (CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky) and others is to prevent serious infection, and all the data today, published by the CDC, presented by the CDC, is it's done exactly that," Dr. Paul Offit, a top vaccine expert and US Food and Drug Administration adviser said Friday. "There's been no evidence of clear erosion of protection against serious disease," he said. The conversation around vaccines has fluctuated because health experts are learning new information about the coronavirus and its variants. But amid the debate, experts are consistent in noting the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccines. "Remember, even the current doses of vaccines still protect you so well from hospitalization and death. We are not back in early 2020 or even early 2021 for those of us that have not received boosters yet. We are still protected against the worst effects of this virus," Dr. Megan Ranney, professor of emergency medicine at Brown University, told CNN on Friday. A CNN analysis of US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data from last month suggests that more than 99.99% of fully vaccinated people have not had a breakthrough case of COVID-19 resulting in hospitalization or death. And it's because of such a high degree of protection that Offit emphasized that America can make significant headway against the pandemic by simply vaccinating the unvaccinated. He added that the federal government's messaging on booster shots has been confusing and frustrating. "It's confusing to people. I've had a number of calls and emails from people saying, 'Wait, so I'm not fully protected anymore?'" Offit said. "I think the message that should come out right now is if you received two doses of mRNA vaccines, you have a very high chance of not having serious infection, and that that has lasted up until the present moment, that you should consider yourself protected against serious illness." Roughly 62.2% of the US population has received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose while about 52.9% is fully vaccinated, CDC data shows. Of the 10 states with the worst COVID-19 case rates over the past week, seven of them also had among the 10 best vaccination rates, according to the agency. Plan for booster shots is 'confusing people,' top FDA official says The US Food and Drug Administration is set to meet September 17 to discuss COVID-19 booster shots. Last month, the White House said people who got the two mRNA vaccines the two-shot vaccines made by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna may receive boosters starting September 20. However, on Thursday, FDA Acting Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock said the administration still doesn't have enough safety data on booster shots. "Why would you announce this? Well, we need to have a plan and the plan would involve the vaccination of very large numbers of people in the United States with a booster dose," Woodcock told Dr. John Whyte of WebMD during a virtual interview published online Thursday. "We have to make a plan somewhat before we have all the data and I think that, John, is what's confusing people," Woodcock said. "The trends that we're seeing in resistance to the virus in fully immunized people lend us to believe that at some point we're going to cross that threshold and we're going to see hospitalizations and more serious disease and when that happens, we want to be ready," Woodcock told Whyte. To be sure, White House officials announced that the booster rollout would be subject to the green light from the FDA and sign-off from the CDC. Woodcock said on Thursday that data already shows some waning immunity among vaccinated people. On Friday, officials told CNN there have been conversations within the Biden administration about scaling back the booster plan due to concerns the FDA might only be prepared to recommend boosters for people who had the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. Currently, the agency doesn't have enough data on Moderna to make that recommendation, an official told CNN. Pfizer/BioNTech applied for a booster shot FDA approval last month, and Moderna said it applied Wednesday. Florida sees decline in COVID-19 cases Meanwhile, there was some good news from Florida, which broke its own record for new COVID-19 cases multiple times last month. Over the past week, there was a decline in cases, according to data published Friday by the state health department. The state averaged about 18,463 daily new cases last week, equivalent to 588.1 new cases per 100,000 people each day between August 27 and September 2. That is a drop from the prior week, when the average of daily new cases was 21,678. Florida has fully vaccinated slightly more than half of its population, according to CDC data. Meanwhile, the mask mandate feud between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and public school districts continues. DeSantis has been sparring with school officials for weeks because he banned mask mandates in schools, but some implemented them anyway. Florida Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran sent individual letters to nine districts demanding the districts "document how your district is complying with Florida Department of Health emergency rule" as part of a non-compliance investigation. He also threatened to withhold state funds if districts did not fully comply with DeSantis' order to include a parent opt-out in school mask mandate policies. CNN has confirmed all nine districts have now responded to Corcoran's August 27 letter. They argued they are in compliance with Florida law and consider the mandate a necessity for health and safety. Some of the districts also mentioned last week's ruling by a Florida judge that indicated DeSantis does not have the authority to make a blanket ban on mask mandates. DeSantis on Thursday filed a notice to appeal the judge's ruling. This story was first published on CNN.com, "Already vaccinated against Covid-19? Experts say you're protected, even without a booster shot." (CNN) The ghostly outlines of limbs emerge through the mist along the Setit River in eastern Sudan. As the river's path narrows, the drifting bodies become wedged on the silty clay bank and their forms appear more clearly; men, women, teenagers and even children. The marks of torture are easily visible on some, their arms held tightly behind their backs. On a trip to Wad El Hilou, a Sudanese town near the border with Ethiopia, a CNN team counted three bodies in one day. Witnesses and local authorities in Sudan confirmed that in the days after the team's departure, 11 more bodies arrived downstream. Evidence indicates the dead are Tigrayans. Witnesses on the ground say the bodies tell a dark story of mass detentions and mass executions across the border in Humera, a town in Ethiopia's Tigray region. CNN has spoken with dozens of witnesses collecting the bodies in Sudan, as well as international and local forensic experts and people trapped and hiding in Humera, to reveal what appears to be a new phase of ethnic cleansing in Ethiopia's war. Humera is one of many towns involved in the conflict that has ravaged the 112 million-strong east African country since the Ethiopian government launched an offensive in the country's northern Tigray region in November 2020. Despite Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's initial declaration of victory in late November, the region is still wracked by fighting and CNN has previously reported on the many atrocities including torture, extrajudicial killings, and the use of rape as a weapon of war. At the end of June this year, balance of power shifted suddenly as Tigrayan forces recaptured the regional capital, Mekelle, and the Ethiopian government began withdrawing troops from the region. The fighting continued, however. In mid-July, Tigrayan forces announced a new offensive to recapture areas taken by the Ethiopian government. This new offensive, witnesses told CNN, was what prompted the government forces and militia groups holding the northern town of Humera, close to the border with Eritrea and Sudan, to launch a new phase of mass incarcerations of resident Tigrayans. CNN's investigations indicate that the ethnic profiling, detention and killing of Tigrayans bears the hallmarks of genocide as defined by international law. 'We're told to look out for the bodies' In recent weeks, a community of Tigrayans living in the Sudanese town of Wad El Hilou, 65 kilometers (40 miles) downstream from Humera, has assumed the role of excavators and grave diggers for the bodies drifting down the river known in Sudan as the Setit and in Ethiopia as the Tekeze. It is arduous and distressing work. The stench from the bodies fills the air as they first extract each corpse from the riverbed and then dig new graves for them, before performing the burial rites. Gebretensae Gebrekristos, known as "Gerri," is one of the community's leaders; he helps coordinate the grim task with a solemn determination. In total the community estimates at least 60 bodies have been found so far. He explained how the group is certain the bodies are Tigrayans from Humera. "We get calls from people in Humera that witnesses -- often escaped detainees -- saw people marched down to the river in one of the facilities and heard gunshots, or that a number of people were taken by soldiers from the detention facilities and never returned. We're told to look out for their bodies coming down the river." The bodies first appeared in Sudan in July when the river was at its highest volume due to the rainy season. Sudanese water engineers told CNN the speed of its flow then would enable the bodies to drift from Humera to Wad El Hilou in approximately two to three hours. Wad El Hilou is a natural pinch-point in the river's path -- and so, when the bodies arrived, they floated towards the banks. According to Gerri, his community usually finds the exact number of bodies it has been told to expect. Sixteen-year-old Natay and 17-year-old Gebrey, whose names have been changed for their safety, are among the Tigrayans who said they fled prison camps in Humera. Now in Wad El Hilou, they confirmed to CNN that they heard reports of men, with their hands tied, being marched in single file towards the Humera riverfront, to the area between St. Mary's and St. Michael's Church. The boys both say they heard shots ring out and the men did not return. Natay said he remembered feeling paralyzed: "I was so fearful, thinking that they would kill me and throw me [in] too." Sudanese authorities in Wad El Hilou have filed police and coroner reports for each body found in their territory, documenting evidence of the extensive torture and "execution-style" bullet entry wounds found on many of the bodies, the authorities told CNN. Both local Sudanese authorities and forensic experts say all the bodies retrieved so far were likely dead before they hit the water. In a statement issued via US public relations firm Mercury, the Ethiopian government said it was investigating the allegations. "In light of several inconsistencies in the allegations, we are working with the relevant authorities to gather evidence and will prosecute any individuals found to have committed crimes to the fullest extent of the law," a spokesperson said. "The government is keen to reiterate our desire to ensure a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Tigray and is actively working to secure a ceasefire." 'Everyone was sick' For so many of the Tigrayans in Sudan, these bodies could have been people they knew. Many have fled from Humera and still have families there. Temesgen, 24, and Yonas, 25, say they escaped together from a warehouse in Humera, called Enda Yitbarek, which they describe as being used as a makeshift mass detention camp for thousands of Tigrayans. CNN has changed their names for their safety. They were both imprisoned for just over two weeks. "I was playing around my house, then they collected me and took me because I am Tigrayan," Temesgen recalled. "We didn't do anything, they just collected me and detained me." Inside the warehouse, people were crammed together on the floor without rooms or partitions to create privacy, he said. "They weren't providing us food and we didn't even have access to the toilet," Yonas said. "Some people were toileting inside the warehouse." For Temesgen the real horror was the lack of medical assistance. "Everyone was sick with flu and not getting medical help. They weren't sending us to hospital," he said. Former detainees described to CNN prisoners of all ages squeezed tightly together -- from mothers with young children to teenagers to men in their 70s. Temesgen and Yonas say they escaped while on a rare toilet break permitted by the guards, and made the journey to Sudan. They both talked of multiple prison camps dotted around the city of Humera. CNN spoke to dozens of other escapees from these camps and, based on their accounts, estimates there are up to nine locations where it is thought thousands of Tigrayans are being detained. Ethnic profiling Tigrayans still inside Humera told CNN that they live in constant fear of being detained or killed. They spoke of brazen ethnic profiling whereby residents of Tigrayan ethnicity are targeted and those of other ethnicities are safe, particularly those of the Amhara ethnicity; militia from Amhara have fought alongside Ethiopian government forces in Tigray. People of mixed ethnicity face an uncertain fate; residents told CNN that an Amhara ID card can suffice but to be seen socializing with Tigrayans will put someone at risk nonetheless. Alem, whose name has also been changed for security reasons, is half-Tigrayan but has a non-Tigrayan ID card and has been helping Tigrayans hide in his home in Humera while the arrests continue. Relatives abroad have urged him to flee, but he insists it's his duty to stay and help those who are targeted. Rahel, not her real name, is also Tigrayan but has a non-Tigrayan ID card and says she has been visiting friends and relatives in the prison camps despite the questions posed by guards. She is horrified by the conditions for those detained. "They can't move, they are not getting enough sanitation, no food, no water and no medicine. If they feel sick and die, no one cares. They are hungry and thirsty. How could they feel good thinking it's their turn the next day, knowing their friends were killed yesterday? The guards don't care about life," she said. People in Humera who spoke to CNN repeatedly mentioned the disappearances of members of the Tigrayan community. Those still free assumed they were detained in the camps, but those who escaped from the prisons told CNN that people were frequently summoned by guards and would never return. Others spoke of rare sightings of bodies being dumped into the river. Across the water in Sudan, Yonas recalled the disappearances from the Enda Yitbarek warehouse. "They weren't torturing us but they were taking prisoners often at night and they never came back," Yonas said. "We don't know whether they killed them or not, but after they took them they never came back, and their families reported their disappearances." Residents of Humera with whom CNN spoke firmly believe the bodies arriving in Wad El Hilou are from their town. Several are in regular touch with those who escaped across the border to Sudan and when the bodies began arriving, news spread fast. One man has been identified locally as Misganawu, a well-known barber in Humera. "He had two nicknames, Totit and Gundi," Alem recalled. "I knew Totit very well when he was working in Humera in that hairdressing shop. He was born and raised in Humera." Signs of torture Ongoing independent investigations by international and local forensic experts found no evidence that the victims had drowned. The experts, who asked not to be identified due to security concerns, told CNN that the bodies had all been exposed to some form of chemical agent after death, leading to a process which had effectively preserved them before entering the water. The fact all the bodies were in a similar state indicated they had been stored in a similar environment, possibly a storage facility or a mass grave, before being dumped into the river, the experts said. This state of preservation makes it easier to identify the marks on the bodies and what could have caused them, the experts said. Some of those found had their arms bound tightly behind their backs, in keeping with a torture technique called "tabay." Several had their hands tied with small gauge yellow electrical wire and bone breakages and dislocations further indicate additional pressure was placed on their bodies before death. The experts say they are in a race against time to preserve evidence, in case it is needed for potential war crimes prosecutions in the future. They also confirmed the signs of torture apparent to the group in Sudan who've been collecting the corpses. While investigators in Sudan continue to examine the bodies, Tigrayans and those helping them in Humera face a daily struggle to remain free from arrest and abuse. And Tigrayans like Gerri, on the other side of the border, mourn and dig shallow graves for the bodies that drift downstream. Speaking by the first riverside grave he dug, marked with a makeshift wooden cross, Gerri said it pained him to be unable to give them a proper burial. "To leave your people by the river? Your sister, your brother, not laid properly to rest? When you see that, it hurts you, it hurts your heart, but what can you do? This is what we have been condemned to." This story was first published on CNN.com, "Men are marched out of prison camps. Then corpses float down the river" WASHINGTON (AP) President Joe Biden will visit all three 9/11 memorial sites to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks and pay his respects to the nearly 3,000 people killed that day. Biden will visit ground zero in New York City, the Pentagon and the memorial outside Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where United Flight 93 was forced down, the White House said Saturday. He will be accompanied by first lady Jill Biden. Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Shanksville, Pennsylvania, for a separate event before joining the president at the Pentagon, the White House said. Harris will travel with her spouse, Doug Emhoff. Biden's itinerary is similar to the one President Barack Obama followed in 2011 on the 10th anniversary of the attacks. Obama's visit to New York City coincided with the opening of a memorial at the site where the iconic World Trade Center towers once stood. The deputy arrived and spoke with a man who said that his house had been broken into while he was gone. The man reported three firearms stolen from the residence. He said he was missing a Ruger SR40 handgun and two long rifles. Just days later, on Aug. 24, at approximately 9:45 p.m., a deputy saw a grey passenger vehicle at Arcadia Sporting and Goods parked at the gas pumps with a man sitting in the rear passenger's seat. The report states that descriptions of the car had been reported to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The agency had received information that a young man had taken his mother hostage at gunpoint in Iron County. Police say the woman had contacted her boyfriend, telling him that her son, Sherrill, was at Arcadia Sporting and Goods, located where Highways 72 and 21 meet, with a gun in his pocket holding her hostage. A deputy reviewed outside surveillance video footage from the sporting goods/convenience store and reportedly saw Sherrill pull out what appeared to be a handgun in a black holster and lay it on top of the car while parked at the pumps as he changed his shirt. While the man was changing his shirt, the report indicates that his mother went inside the store. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} I've already reached out to some other superintendents, he said. And Im confident that we are going to find a home. Thats not going to be an issue. In their reports to the board, the administrators told the board that the first week of school was going well and everyone was excited to be back. Elementary Principal Laura Basler gave the board good news regarding enrollment. I will say in July, when I reported our total number was 390 in elementary, I was a little bit worried, she said. My hope was that it would go up. Today (Aug. 26) our enrollment is 426. So it definitely went up. Kindergarten took a big jump, she said. It went from 43 in July to 63. We have added 20 kindergartners this last month which is remarkable for us, she added. As of that first Thursday, as far as COVID-19 cases go, Coffman said there were five students and two staff members who were positive and 12 that were in quarantine. Im here because its not fair that he has to go to school and not feel safe, and everybody else cant feel safe, said a Nelson County High School student who attended the protest. She asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation. She said the incident has made her fear for her own safety at school. Delaney Armenti and Heaven Turner, both students at Sweet Briar College, made the trip to attend the rally because they were disturbed when they saw online what had happened to Harper. I think for me personally, being a person of color and going to predominantly white schools, I feel this oppression so when we get opportunities to advocate and stand up, and any moment we can get, we should rise above and show that the Black community is here to support others, Armenti said. Its wrong. Thats really it. You know, hes a 15-year-old boy and he had his teeth [chipped]. Its wrong, Turner said. Amber Harper, Tilors mother, said she was encouraged to see so many young people in attendance. Limited visitation seasons at northern parks like Glacier, as well as competitive reservations at popular parks like Yosemite, could lead campers to brave the smoky conditions rather than forego a trip altogether, the authors said. Those patterns could change, particularly after the past two years of severe, pervasive fires that were not accounted for in the study, said Margaret Walls, a senior fellow with Resources for the Future who co-authored the study. She thinks the potential for smoke could factor into future plans. In the past, maybe you just went. You didn't think about the smoke, Walls said. "You used to be able to say, itll be all right around the Grand Canyon. Not anymore. When the Boundary Waters in Minnesota's Superior National Forest was closed last month, Farquhar was one of hundreds of paddlers who lost out. The outfitters who rent canoes, sell supplies and help them plan their trips also were hit hard. Typically, the parking lot of Sawbill Canoe Outfitters is full of cars in August and all its roughly 200 canoes are in the wilderness, said Clare Shirley, the third-generation owner. Despite a blue sky and no smell of smoke recently, the boats were all on their racks late last month and the parking lot was nearly empty. Though many Americans focus their attention on the national political scene, with his new book, political veteran David J. Toscano hopes to shift that engagement to where he says it really matters: state governments. Toscano, a Democrat, was a member of the Charlottesville City Council from 1990 to 2002, serving as mayor from 1994 to 1996. After that, he held the 57th District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates, where he was minority leader from 2011 to 2018. Its through this lens of public service that Toscano wrote Fighting Political Gridlock: How States Shape Our Nation and Our Lives, which spotlights the sometimes overlooked efforts of state governments and their guiding impact on the nation. In the book, Toscano details how various states are handling a broad range of issues, from the COVID-19 pandemic and voting rights to criminal justice and culture wars. Most people like to focus their attention on the national scene, whats happening in Congress and whats happening with the presidency, Toscano said. And while those institutions are more gridlocked now than ever before, there are still a lot of very important things happening in the states that both affect the quality of our lives and, frankly, the course of the country. It puts him on the spot, said Bob Holsworth, a longtime political commentator in Richmond who said abortion could become a bigger issue in this governors race than it was in 1989, when Democrat Doug Wilder used it to defeat Republican Marshall Coleman. He wont be able to dodge and duck on it any longer, Holsworth said, because the Texas case will force Youngkin to say exactly what he would do on executive orders and legislation he would support on the issue. Youngkin, who throughout the summer had been elusive about how exactly he would wield the power of the governors office, is now headlining his campaign with an ambitious plan for tax cuts, including a tax rebate of $300 per person and $600 per couple. Its unclear if the plan is politically or financially feasible, but it could nevertheless prove attractive to middle-class voters. He also has pitched a proposal to limit local real estate property tax increases that Holsworth said could have the same appeal to suburban voters as Republican Jim Gilmores no car tax pledge did in 1997, when he defeated Lt. Gov. Don Beyer in the governors race. Its the no car tax pledge of 2021, Holsworth said, and he is hoping to appeal to suburbanites who are ticked off about rising [property] assessments. To draw new districts by early October, the commission is splitting the state up into eight regions. The first maps focused on Fairfax and Arlington counties and the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church and Fairfax. The commission began with that region partly because its not politically competitive and doesnt have the same Voting Rights Act concerns as regions where Black voters make up a larger segment of the population. Two sets of consultants, one Republican and one Democratic, have been hired to prepare maps the commission will use as a starting point. How the various proposals will be merged or whittled down remains an open question. Are they trying to come up with maps together?, Democratic commissioner James Abrenio asked at Thursdays meeting, which was held virtually due to a COVID-19 exposure at an in-person meeting the previous week. A lawyer for the commission said the consultants hadnt had much time to compare notes before the meeting but they may be able to find areas of overlap as the process moves forward. Though the switch to an independent commission, a change voters approved last year, was pitched as a way to bring more transparency to the redistricting process, several speakers encouraged the commission to do better on that front. RICHMOND The Virginia Redistricting Commission has just 37 days to finalize its district maps for the Virginia House and Senate. As of Friday, the commission is down one member. Sen. Steve Newman, R-Lynchburg, announced in a Facebook post Friday afternoon that he was resigning from the commission, leaving the body without one of its GOP members. I have enjoyed working with my colleagues on the Virginia Redistricting Commission for the past nine months. Approved by the voters last November, the bipartisan Commission is in its first year and I wish them well as they continue to navigate uncharted territory, Newman wrote, without citing a reason for his departure. The senator could not be immediately reached for comment. Its unclear how Newmans departure will affect the commissions work, which could be stalled until a replacement is found. About a week ago, the commission hit a different snag when one of its members whose name has not be disclosed tested positive for COVID-19, delaying a key meeting. Newman was appointed to the commission by Senate Minority Leader Tommy Norment, R-James City, to fill one of the two spots that need to be filled by Republican senators, as called for in the state constitution. Even more so, I was fascinated that the book was an allegory, with precise correspondences between Russian history and every fictional event and literary character. The fun and excitement of reading it was to unlock the keys to understanding the depth of this apparent animal story. In later years, I began to teach the book regularly to college students and to visit high schools where it was assigned. When I observed that many junior and senior high school teachers did not know much about Russian history, I wrote a high school textbook about the historical richness of the allegory. Yet little did we know as schoolchildren nor did anyone else, for that matter, until the 1980s that the sensational postwar popularity of Animal Farm, first in the U.S. and then around the world, had much to do with the CIAs secret funding and distribution of the film adaptation, along with translations into more than five dozen languages. Of course, all this happened after Orwells death in January 1950. Nonetheless, he became the leading (if posthumous) cold warrior of the postwar West. Would he have supported this cultural war against communism? Historians dispute the answer. I believe the answer is yes with qualifications. Preserving large swaths of land has benefits of scale. It is more effective to protect the health of a stream running through, say, a 700-acre property than it is to protect the small piece of streambed on a 20-acre property. These environmental benefits apply not only to water, but to forests, grasslands and air quality. Therefore, it is particularly disheartening to note the OIGs discovery of preservation land that contains pollutants such as old vehicles and other waste products. Virginia must do a better job of ensuring that properties receiving tax credits for preservation are meeting minimum preservation standards. The same goes for counties that have their own easement programs. None of which is to say, however, that the state should not review its policies to open up more preservation possibilities for smaller tracts. In fact, some critics say that the states error is to emphasize quantity over quality when it comes to land preservation. Weve already argued that quantity matters in achieving benefits of scale in preservation. But quality matters, too, in both cases: With so many needs competing for state dollars, large tracts must be monitored to ensure high-quality preservation goals are being met, even as small tracts also are being more frequently considered for the positive impact they could have. Coronavirus_outbreak featured Kids with COVID might be rarer, but they're here Courtesy photo Five-year-old Noah Flores lies in a hospital bed receiving treatment for COVID-19. Courtesy photo Catherine Coley-Flores sits with her son Noah outside their Krum home. Courtesy photos The McAlister family parents Cassius and Jennifer McAlister and triplets Maddie, Connor and Cassie pose for a family picture around Easter 2021. Maddie, 15, has been diagnosed as a COVID-19 long-hauler. Five-year-old Noah Flores started feeling sick in late August, and his relatively minor symptoms quickly took a sharp turn. Hes one of hundreds of Denton County children who have tested positive for the coronavirus since the school year began roughly three weeks ago, and he joined Texas recent surge in pediatric COVID-19 hospitalizations, as reported by The Texas Tribune. He tested positive for the virus on Aug. 24 and later spent a night in a hospital. Noah is one of the more than 7,000 Denton County children under the age of 12 who have tested positive for the coronavirus, a sometimes-overlooked minority thats growing in size. He started sneezing, said his mother, Catherine Coley-Flores. He was lethargic, and then from there he kind of went downhill. The family got Noah tested for the virus using a rapid test, but he tested negative the first time. Noah developed a fever and developed a cough. His second test for the coronavirus came back positive, and he went into isolation. Thats when the sore throat, vomiting and most every other symptom came to the surface, his mother said. She took him to the hospital after noticing he was dehydrated. Workers got him hydrated, but he was in the hospital from 1 a.m. until nearly noon the next day. Once he got hydrated, he was more willing to drink and eat, and hes actually out of quarantine as of yesterday, Coley-Flores said Friday morning. Despite that, Noah is still feeling under the weather, and his new freedom is limited to the house for the time being. His mother developed symptoms of her own roughly three days after her son, and she remained in isolation when reached by phone Friday. Noah had started his first year of school as a kindergartner at Krum ISDs Early Education Center just a couple of weeks before Coley-Flores suspects he picked up the virus from another student in his class. A notice to parents went out after Noah had tested positive to let them know about another students positive test results. Honestly, I dont know if [Noah is] going back to school because of how badly this affected him, Coley-Flores said. Statistics available through Denton County Public Health show a rapid increase in the number of pediatric coronavirus cases beginning the week of July 11. From that week until the week of Aug. 15, the latest week with available data, the number of Denton County residents under age 20 with COVID-19 increased more than fourfold. Coley-Flores younger son, 4-year-old Samuel, and husband, Daniel, have so far avoided getting sick. She said her husband has been quarantining with Samuel in another part of their home and bringing her and Noah food and drinks while wearing a mask and gloves. Her mother has also helped by bringing along medicine and dropping them off on the porch. She said shes thankful for the support network she had to rely on, and her heart goes out to those who arent as fortunate. To watch your baby lay in the hospital bed and cry because hes hurting so badly ... and theres nothing you can do, it terrified me, Coley-Flores said. Noah and his family are hardly alone. The Texas Department of State Health Services on Thursday reported there were 105 children actively hospitalized with COVID-19 across Trauma Service Area E, which includes Denton and 18 surrounding counties. The department concurrently reported 81 pediatric intensive care unit beds were available across the entire state. Denton County Public Health does not include pediatric hospitalizations in its daily reports, but it had reported only one available adult ICU bed in the entire county by Friday afternoon, when the countys total inpatient occupancy was at 90.4%. The state had confirmed 64 Texans under the age of 20 had died of COVID-19 by Thursday afternoon, zero of whom lived in Denton County. Even in Denton County, the Coley-Flores family is far from alone in their situation. Joann Machuca said both she and her 9-year-old son have tested positive for the coronavirus twice over several months. Machuca, a single mother living with her son and daughter in Denton, preferred not to disclose her childrens names. She said she took her son to their doctor three or four times, but neither of them had to be hospitalized. Once you go in the hospital, you dont even know if youre coming back out, she said. Unlike Coley-Flores, who would like more safety measures in Krum ISD but thinks the situation is complicated, Machuca was heavily critical of Denton ISDs handling of the pandemic this year. She said it feels like the district isnt paying attention to how bad this virus is, and shes worried about how many infections have been confirmed on Denton campuses so far this school year. As of Aug. 27, eight students and one staffer at Newton Rayzor Elementary, her sons school, had tested positive for the virus. The same was true for four students and one staffer at Calhoun Middle School, which is the campus her daughter attends. Machuca argued that school district officials wouldnt be so lax in their pandemic protocols if adults themselves werent vaccinated right now. Jennifer McAlister, whose daughter has been diagnosed as a COVID-19 long-hauler, was more complimentary of Denton ISDs efforts when reached by phone Thursday afternoon. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines long-haulers as people who experience symptoms of the disease at least four weeks after their infection. The condition is also described as long COVID, post-acute COVID-19, long-term effects of COVID or chronic COVID. McAlisters daughter Maddie, one of three 15-year-old triplets, caught the coronavirus from her sister, who went to a Halloween party this past year. We let our guard down, McAlister said. Maddie and her sister both tested positive for the virus, but only Maddie developed symptoms. McAlister remembers those early days late last year as a time when her daughters lived in their bedrooms and sprayed down their bathroom after each use. This past school year made it easier on them because McAlister and her husband, Cassius, both work from home, and Denton ISD was still operating a widespread virtual learning program. That allowed Maddie to keep up with classes on her own time. Maddie was never hospitalized she never had serious lung issues, her mother said. Despite that, the long-term effects started after Maddie returned to class at Denton High School thinking shed recovered. Her mom said the physical stress of being out of bed and moving around was enough to cause chronic fatigue. She remembers her daughter getting home from school and immediately going to sleep for two or three hours, eating dinner and going back to sleep through the night. Denton ISD has a virtual learning option for students through the eighth grade, but nothing for students as old as Maddie. Despite that, McAlister said the district has worked well around Maddies new needs. She isnt able to compete on the same level on the schools swim team, but shes keeping up in classes thanks to understanding teachers. One of the harder issues theyve faced is a general misunderstanding around what it means to suffer from the effects of COVID-19 long term. McAlister recalled another mother looking shocked when she learned that Maddie had still not recovered she thought the family might still be contagious. Ultimately, she said Maddie just wants people to know, Im normal, Im not the only one going through this. They hadnt managed to find an age-specific support group for her yet, but McAlister said Thursday that she was hopeful. She said they wished people could be less judgmental and more willing to learn about the issues facing a growing community of Americans. Speaking Thursday about the disinformation and misinformation circulating about the pandemic, McAlister mused aloud that it would have been interesting to see how the Spanish flu would have worked in the age of social media. 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Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe As I walk with my daughter under the canopy of hardwoods to the Moscow Public Library and back, I am immersed in the feeling of belonging and privilege that comes with living in the Fort Russell Historic District; I wish the feeling to be replicated for others. In the aftermath of Ida, Biden is focusing anew on the threat posed by climate change and the prospect that disaster zone visits may become a more regular feature of the presidency. The storm has killed at least 14 people in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, and at least 49 in the Northeastern U.S. At least 25 people died in New Jersey alone. The president has pointed to that destruction to call for greater public resolve to confront climate change. His $1 trillion infrastructure legislation intends to ensure that vital networks connecting cities and states and the country as a whole can withstand the flooding, whirlwinds and damage caused by increasingly dangerous weather. At Fridays briefing with local officials, Biden insisted the infrastructure bill and an even more expansive measure later on would more effectively prepare the country. It seems to me we can save a whole lot of money, a whole lot of pain for our constituents, if we build back, rebuild it back in a better way, Biden said. I realize Im selling as Im talking. Sen. Cassidy tweeted later that in his conversation with Biden, "we spoke about the need for resiliency. We agreed putting power lines beneath the ground would have avoided all of this. The infrastructure bill has billions for grid resiliency. Battless niece, Shelia Roden, said the Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency contacted family members and asked for DNA samples, and two family members provided them. It was amazing they could find us, Roden said. Still, Roden said, it was hard for the family to think that after so long, Battles could be coming home. Then earlier this year, she said, she was contacted again and asked for a phone number for Battles oldest living male relative. She didnt have that cousins phone number, she said, so she provided the next oldests. She got a call later from Shell. He said, You know, I get the feeling they may have found him, she recalled. As it turned out they had, and efforts to arrange the repatriation began. Roden said some time after Battles parents, the late L.E. and Beulah S. Battles, were notified of his death, they placed a headstone and foot marker for him at Hillcrest Cemetery. Later, they were laid to rest beside that plot. And later, one of his sisters was laid to rest in an adjoining plot. When another sister passed, she was buried in the gravesite marked for Battles. Family members decided to have Battles cremated, and to bury the container holding his cremains with his parents and sisters. With 23.2 million people joining the demographic by 2030, Vietnam is ranked seventh among nine nations with fastest growing middle class populations in the coming decade. A report released by the U.K.-based analytical NGO and data refinery enterprise World Data Lab forecasts that Indonesia will have the worlds fastest-growing middle class population with 75.8 million, followed by Pakistan (59.5 million) and Bangladesh (52.4 million). The middle class is defined as households with per-capita spending of between $11 and $110 a day. Other countries ahead of Vietnam are the Philippines, Egypt and the U.S., ranked fourth, fifth and sixth, respectively. With a total of 56 million middle-class people by 2030, Vietnam is set to leap up eight places from the current 26th position to 18th in the global ranking of 30 economies with the largest middle-class populations. The report also said the group of middle-aged people from 45 to 65 years old would play the main role in Vietnams middle class population. In 2020, they accounted for 20 percent of that groups consumer spending and this will rise to nearly 25 percent in 2030. More than one billion Asians are set to join the global middle class by 2030, the report said, predicting also that the current Covid-19 pandemic will be a temporary pause in the world economys great demographic shift. China, India and the U.S. are projected to retain the top three rankings as the countries with the largest middle-class populations, according to World Data Lab. At 6 a.m., fourth grader Dinh Nguyen Bao Ngoc put on a new uniform to begin the new school year and waited to watch a telecast of the opening ceremony. The student of the Tran Dang Ninh Primary School in Hanoi's Ha Dong District was able to watch the new school year opening ceremony broadcast on the Hanoi Radio and Television Station at 7:30 a.m. As more than 20 million Vietnamese students began a new school year Sunday, the ongoing outbreak forced many schools to cancel their opening ceremonies, scale them down or go virtual. Fourth grader Ngoc is one of two million students in Hanoi to welcome the new school year opening ceremony online. With over 3,700 infections and strict lockdown measures, Hanoi held an opening ceremony for the new school year at the Trung Vuong Secondary School in Hoan Kiem District with participation of teachers, school staff and over 20 students. The ceremony was televised and also broadcast online. Over 20 other provinces and cities, mainly in the central and southern regions, also kicked off the new school year opening ceremonies online or via television. Due to the worsening situation of the outbreak triggered by Delta variant of the novel coronavirus, many schools are being used as quarantine facilities. After the ceremony, most students have to study online. In HCMC, epicenter of the ongoing outbreak with over 250,000 infections, 1.3 million students entered their new school year without opening ceremonies. Secondary and high school students will begin online classes from Monday while primary students will have two weeks to get familiar with online study before entering the official curriculum in mid-September. The municipal education sector said all students would have to study online during the first semester, but more than 75,000 children are unable to do so because of a lack of equipment and internet speed. In addition, another 6,600 students have contracted Covid-19 and being treated at home or quarantine facilities. Many students parents have died of Covid-19. The provinces of Ca Mau and Quang Binh scrapped their opening ceremonies, while Dong Thap, Hau Giang, Ben Tre, Long An, Tra Vinh, Dong Nai and Hau Giang deferred them to between September 13 to 20 and are yet to decide which form they will take. Over 20 localities in northern provinces where the pandemic situation has been brought under control allowed their students to attend scaled down new year opening ceremonies in their schools with strict restrictions. All students and teachers must comply with safety measures like face masks and hand sanitizers. In the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak that began late April, Vietnam has recorded nearly 507,000 infections. Members of the Vietnamese navy team pose jubilantly with the national flag after completing the Use of Rescue Equipment competition at the 2021 Army Games in Vladivostok, Russia, August 27, 2021. Photo by the People's Army newspaper The Vietnam People's Army bagged one gold, two silver and four bronze medals to finish seventh overall out of 42 military delegations attending the 2021 International Army Games 2021. In its fourth year at the International Army Games, Vietnam sent 17 teams to compete in 15 out of 34 contests and hosted the "Sniper Frontier" and "Emergency Area" competitions for the first time. With 34 medals, hosts Russia ranked first at the event. Alexander Peryazev, Deputy Chief of the General Department of Combat Training under the Russian Armed Forces and Chief Referee of the Army Games 2021, said he highly valued Vietnam's thoughtful preparations for and good organization of the sniper and rescue events. He said the professionally trained Vietnamese delegation had achieved good results and abided by all the rules and regulations of the competition. The 2021 Army Games, hosted by Russia, was held August 22 to September 4 with the participation of 260 teams from 45 countries and territories. Fully restoring electricity to some places in the state's southeast could take until the end of the month, according Phillip May, president and CEO of Entergy, which provides power to New Orleans and other areas in the storm's path. Entergy is in the process of acquiring air boats and other equipment needed to get power crews into swampy and marshy regions. May said many grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses are a high priority. We will continue to work until every last light is on, he said during a briefing Sunday. In Jean Lafitte, a small town of about 2,000 people, pools of water along the roadway were receding and some of the thick mud left behind was beginning to dry. At St. Anthony Church, the 4 feet (about 1.2 meters) of water once inside had seeped away, but a slippery layer of muck remained. Outside, the faithful sat on folding metal chairs under a blue tent to celebrate Mass. Next door, at the Piggly Wiggly, military police in fatigues stood guard. In times such like these, we come together and we help one another, the Rev. Luke Nguyen, the churchs pastor, told a few dozen congregants. Ronny Dufrene, a 39-year-old oil field worker from Lafayette, returned to his hometown to help. Governor Gavin Newsom is facing a recall election on 14 September. When Californians vote, in addition to deciding the fate of their current governor, they will be asked who should replace him if a majority of voters choose to turf out Governor Newsom. The candidate that gets a plurality of the vote, where they have more votes than the others but don't have to receive more than half the votes, would replace Governor Newsom. This was the case in 2003 when voters recalled then-Governor Gray Davis. He was replaced by Arnold Schwarzenegger who got just shy of 49 percent of the vote. A colorful cast of candidates There are 46 candidates from across the political spectrum that are vying to take over for Governor Newsom should he be recalled. The list includes three who have supported the QAnon conspiracy movement according to Media Matters For America, a left-leaning media watchdog. Here are the candidates leading the pack in the California recall according to FiveThirtyEight: Larry Elder - Republican Currently in pole position to replace Governor Newsom is conservative radio talk show host and former attorney Larry Elder. He joined the race late but upended the race shooting to the top of the polls at the expense of the previous frontrunner and fellow Republican candidate John Cox. Were he to become Governor Newsoms successor he would be Californias first black governor. The current governor has called Elder the most Trump of the Republican candidates. His fellow Republican candidates have called for Elder to drop out of the campaign in light of allegations of domestic abuse, which he has denied, and over disparaging remarks he has made about women. Some of his proposals, if Elder were to become governor, would be to suspend the California Environmental Quality Act, declare a homeless emergency and a state of emergency for Californias public schools. He is in favor of dropping the minimum wage and overturning Roe v. Wade. Like his fellow Republican candidates, he would repeal the states covid-19 mask and vaccine mandates. Kevin Paffrath - Democrat Despite the Democrat party trying to focus voters on going against the recall effort and leaving the question of who Governor Newsoms replacement should be, Kevin Paffrath is running as a Democrat but is a self-declared centrist. He is a real estate broker who hosts a YouTube channel with a following of 1.7 million subscribers. Some of his ideas for what he would do if he became governor include building a 14-foot diameter pipeline from the Mississippi River to California to help solve the states water shortage problem. He would seek to solve homelessness within the first 60 of taking office, as well as declaring a housing emergency to streamline the permit process to get two million homes built within four years. John Cox Republican Once the frontrunner, John Cox is just slightly above the rest of the pack. Cox, who was the 2018 Republican candidate in the gubernatorial race losing to Governor Newsom. He is a San Diego businessman who has made several failed attempts to gain political office. In the recall election race, he has been most noticeable for his theatrics along the campaign trail. Cox started his campaign touring the state with a 1,000-pound live Kodiak bear to gain name recognition. He has also used an 8-foot ball of trash to represent the states homelessness problem and a 12-by-12 foot "Gavinopoly" game board to promote his tax plan. During a recall debate he was served with a court order to pay nearly $100,000 in fees to an agency that worked on his 2018 run for governor. As governor he would try to tackle the homelessness problem and make housing more affordable. He would also lower the states income tax and the cost of energy while making supply more reliable. Additionally, he would do away with the states mask and vaccine mandates imposed by Governor Newsom. A new variant of covid-19, which the World Health organization's have suggested could have natural immunity to vaccines, has spread across the US with cases confirmed in 47 states, according to latest data released by Outbreak.info. The so-called B.1.621 variant by scientists, was first discovered in Colombia and since then has spread to at least 39 countries including the US. The variant not causing alarm in many nations with cases having decreased below 0.1 per cent in Colombia and Ecuador, it has dangerously increased according to the WHOs latest investigations in other areas. Nebraska, Vermont, South Dakota free of the variant Presently, the Mu variant has been detected in 47 states, as well as DC in Columbia. Nevertheless, Nebraska, Vermont and South Dakota are reportedly free of the variant as no cases having been confirmed to date. Mu is most prevalent in Alaska with 4 per cent 139 cases out of the 3,837 reported covid patients. However, the highest raw numbers are seen in the state of California, where cases top 232 out of the 139,930 patients diagnosed. However, despite the areas of concern, the Mu variant only accounts for less than 1 per cent of the covid-19 cases reported around the country still some way behind dominant U.S. variant "Delta". Fauci believes B.1.621 is no threat for the states "The Mu variant does not represent an immediate threat to the US," President Joe Biden's chief medical officer Anthony Fauci said at a press conference Thursday. "This variant has a constellation of mutations that suggests that it would evade certain antibodies, not only monoclonal antibodies but vaccine- and convalescent serum-induced antibodies," Fauci added. "But there isn't a lot of clinical data to suggest that. It is mostly laboratory in-vitro data." Moreover, he emphasized the fact that WHO officials are aware of the future possible threats that could come with the spread and therefore are "keeping a very close eye" on the situation. Mu, the new variant on the WHO's list of interest The international health organization said Tuesday the new variant was added to the WHO's list of interest in Aug. 30. In its weekly bulletin, the WHO also added that following the concerns on the Mu possible vaccine evasion, further studies will be done to investigate the issue. "The variant contains genetic mutations that indicate natural immunity, current vaccines or monoclonal antibody treatments may not work as well against it as they do against the original ancestral virus," the WHO said. The mu strain needs further study to confirm whether it will prove to be more contagious, more deadly or more resistant to current vaccines and treatments. Headlines - The candidates in the running to replace Governor Newsom. (Details) - Delta variant depresses job growth in August. (Further details) - First batch of California's $600 Golden State stimulus checks are heading out the door. (Full story) - To support immigrant families, members of mixed-status households can claim a Golden State stimulus check. (Full story) - Federal unemployment benefits are set to end on 6/09. Will California and NY and others continue the payments? (Full story) Useful information / links - Golden State Stimulus Checks | How to track your payment (Details) - Third Child Tax Credit payment will be sent on 15 September, when is the last day to opt-out? (Details) - What's the proposal in Congress to regulate tax preparers? (Details) - What pandemic programs will remain once extra unemployment benefits end? (More info) - Will Walmart, Costco, Target and regional chains be open on Labor Day? (Details) Take a look at some of our related news articles: Labor Day celebrates the contribution and achievements of American workers and it is celebrated on the first Monday in September each year. The annual parades were first introduced by the labor movement in the late 19th century and Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894. During the industrial revolution in the late 1800s the average American worked 12-hour days for seven days a week just to make ends meet. In many states around the country children were permitted to start working from the age of five in mills, factories and mines. Work conditions were unsafe, with little access to fresh air, sanitary facilities and hardly any breaks. As manufacturing work started to outstrip agriculture, in the late 19th century workers started organizing strikes and rallies to protest against poor working conditions, long hours and the number of days they worked. President Cleveland made Labor Day a federal holiday Grover Cleveland was serving as the 24th President of the United States when he signed the celebration of Labor Day into law on 28 June, 1894. Americans had been calling for better working conditions since 1882, but it took Congress 12 years to designate it a national holiday. He had been reluctant to officially sanction Labor Day as a national holiday for fear that it would further embolden the labor movement, which was becoming increasingly powerful in American society. However that changed when he was forced to appease working class voters in the aftermath of the Pullman railroad strike. The Pullman Palace Car Company manufactured railroad sleeper cars used all across the US but workers went on strike in 1894 when company owner, George Pullman, slashed workers wages without lowering the housing prices in his company town in Chicago. Many of the unhappy workers protested but they were swiftly fired by Pullman, sparking a strike of the American Railway Union (ARU). The strike was led by labor activist Eugene V. Debs, who encouraged tens of thousands of workers to walk out of factories. This was a disaster for the nation and it brought freight and passenger traffic to a halt almost overnight. President Cleveland sent federal troops into Chicago to enforce an injunction on the striking workers, but this only emboldened the strikers who destroyed hundreds of railroad cars in South Chicago in response. Cleveland felt that he needed to crack down on the protestors and on 7 July 1894 National Guardsmen began firing into the crowds to disperse them. It is thought that 30 people were killed, with many more seriously wounded. Troops withdrew from Chicago on 20 July and Cleveland hailed the intervention as a success, but he had made enemies of the powerful labor unions and alienated working class voters. In order to restore some popularity with workers, Cleveland signed a bill into law on 28 June 1894 which made Labor Day a national holiday. The completion and commissioning ceremony of the China-funded expansion of a thermal power plant was held Friday in Erdenet, capital of Mongolia's northern province of Orkhon. The project was executed by China's Hunan Industrial Equipment Installation Company, which has previously conducted the expansion of Thermal Power Plant No. 3 in Ulan Bator. "The completion of the project is of great significance to the development of Mongolia's energy sector," Mongolian Energy Minister Nansal Tavinbekh said at the ceremony. Tavinbekh noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic the project executor overcame difficulties such as personnel exchanges and limited transportation of materials, and successfully completed the expansion with high quality. Chinese Ambassador to Mongolia Chai Wenrui sent a letter to praise the successful completion of the project. Chai expressed his hope that the completion of the project will cater to the industrial development and residents' needs in Erdenet and its surrounding areas, promote urban energy conservation and environmental improvement, and help regional economic development. The ambassador also said that China will actively support Mongolia's economic and social development, promote the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative and the Steppe Road Program, and promote the construction of the China-Mongolia-Russia Economic Corridor to achieve more substantial results. Girls pose for photos during the Quinceanera Fashion Show in Dallas, Texas, the United States, on Sept. 4, 2021. The show was held here Saturday as part of the 4th annual Dallas Arboretum Hispanic Heritage Celebration. (Photo by Dan Tian/Xinhua) Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's, GMW.cn makes no representations as to accuracy, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information. Egypt has offered its deepest condolences to the United States over the victims of flash flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida that brought torrential rains. In a statement Thursday, the Egyptian foreign ministry wished speedy recovery for the injured. It stressed Egypts solidarity and support for the government and people of the United States in this painful loss. Flash floods from Hurricane Ida, the fifth most powerful hurricane to hit the US, damaged homes and cars and caused the death of 46 people on Wednesday and Thursday as it hit a number of states on the US east coast. The US states hit by the hurricane include Louisiana, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Louisiana reported 9 deaths, New Jersey reported 23 deaths and New York reported 16 deaths. Short link: The Sudanese Foreign Ministry on Saturday condemned the "misleading statements" by the Ethiopian army claiming that armed groups had entered the country through the Sudanese border to target an Ethiopian facility. Such baseless statements have a clear purpose for political consumption, the ministry said in a statement. Sudan is fully committed to the principles of good neighborliness and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, it added. The Ethiopian government has repeatedly cited Sudan whenever its internal situation worsened, the ministry said. It urged Addis Ababa to stop hostility in dealing with Sudan and to stop repeating allegations that are not supported by reality or logic against the country to achieve purposes of specific personalities and groups. Sudan controls its whole territory and internationally recognized borders with Ethiopia, and will not allow its lands to be exploited by any party, the statement concluded. Search Keywords: Short link: The death toll of the Cairo-Suez highway accident rose from 8 victims to 12, while the injuries stood at 34. A bus, carrying dozens, returning from Sharm El-Shiekh to Cairo flipped over on the Cairo-Suez highway in the early hours of Sunday. The ambulance authority dispatched 30 ambulances to the site of the accident. The victims were transferred to the Suez General Hospital. The Suez prosecution is currently investigating the accident. Short link: Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi attended on Sunday the Charity Doors (Abwab Al-Kheir) celebration at the New Administrative Capital, which targets raising the living standards of about 5 million citizens. The Abwab Al-Kheir is being carried out in coordination between the governmental and non-governmental sectors and civil society organisations, according to presidential spokesman Bassam Rady. The ceremony comes as part of the state's efforts to provide social protection to marginalized categories and improving the living conditions of citizens. During the celebration, El-Sisi inspected a large humanitarian convoy that includes relief worth EGP 650 million (around $41.4 million) targeting one million families nationwide. The convoy is organised by the Tahya Misr Fund in cooperation with the Social Solidarity Ministry and coincides with the International Day of Charity, which falls on September 5, Rady said. The International Day of Charity was officially recognised by the UN General Assembly in 2012 with the aim of commemorating the anniversary of the passing away of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. The date was established with the objective of sensitising and mobilising people, NGOs, and stakeholders all around the world to help others through voluntary and philanthropic activities. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, a number of ministers and top state officials attended Saturdays ceremony. We are here to celebrate the International Day of Charity which the United Nations decided to be an annual day to remind us of the vital role of charitable work to support our people across Egypt without restriction, condition or discrimination of any kind, Madbouly said during his speech at the ceremony. Throughout its history Egypt has witnessed tireless national charitable initiatives, Madbouly said while stressing that charity work is the true face of humanity as it contributes to the eradication of poverty, a main challenge threatening the security and safety of humanity. El-Sisi urged stepping up efforts to help needy families through distributing more aid with the aim of making these families' lives more stable. People's conditions cannot be changed without a joint community effort, whether from government sectors or civil society, the president said. El-Sisi also witnessed on the sidelines of the ceremony a number of social protection initiatives, in which Tahya Misr Fund is involved, within the framework of the Abwab Al-Kheir celebration. The Long Live Egypt Fund and NGOs did work together to alleviate burdens on indebted persons and homeless children, the president said, but he still urged further action in this regard. We sought to collect some EGP 100 billion [around $6.4 billion] through the Long Live Egypt Fund, but were not there yet, El-Sisi said, urging Madbouly to act to collect more money for the fund, whether through donations or other resources, stressing this would help accomplish more charitable activities, which also include establishing small and micro-sized enterprises. The more we are financially capable, the more work is achieved," the president noted. Tahya Misr Fund, which was launched by El-Sisi's initiative in 2014, has provided an honourable life for many of the most-needy Egyptians during the past years, a documentary film screened during the ceremony said. According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics (CAPMAS), 29.7 percent of the population, or 30 million citizens, were living below the poverty line in 2019-20. Egypts unemployment rate was 7.2 percent during the fourth quarter of 2020, CAPMAS said. The state had been ramping up its efforts since 2020 to improve the standards of living, infrastructure, and services when El-Sisi decided in December to launch the first phase of the countryside-focused Decent Life initiative. The Decent Life initiative targets 58 percent of Egypts 102 million-person population who live in 4,658 villages across the country, with an estimated budget of EGP 700 billion (around $44.6 billion). The project's stakeholders include state agencies and ministries, NGOs, and the private sector. Provision of medical supplies The president also ordered the provision of coronavirus related medical supplies to the convoy, particularly as Egypt is on the verge on a fourth wave of the pandemic. "Please, adhere more to [coronavirus] precautionary measures. And I say to Egyptians, respond to the vaccination campaign," he stressed. The government has been ramping up efforts to widen the vaccination coverage in order to achieve its planned target of around 40 million citizens by the end of 2021. As of 27 August, up to 8.7 million vaccine doses have been administered in Egypt with 3 million individuals fully vaccinated, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The coming academic year will start in October, with all teaching staff and university students vaccinated, El-Sisi noted, adding that if possible, the campaign will also target high-school pupils. "We seek to achieve high vaccination rates in a short period of time to reach herd community," the president stated. Egypts daily infections have been on an upward curve since early-August with numbers expected to rise throughout September, according to the country's health officials. Last week, the Presidential Advisor for Health Affairs Mohamed Awad Tag El-Din stated that the fourth wave has started in Egypt given the continuous daily increase in the number of detected cases. Short link: An Egyptian parliamentary delegation led by Speaker of the House of Representatives Hanafi Gibali left for Austria Saturday, where they will attend the fifth conference for the world's parliamentary speakers and the first international parliamentary summit on fighting terrorism, both scheduled between 5 and 10 September in the capital Vienna. The fifth conference for the world's parliamentary speakers will discuss several issues, including the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the future of democracy, fighting the spread of misleading information and the hate speech on internet, and the role of parliaments in supporting rational governance, a statement released by the House of Representatives said. The statement indicated that speaker Gibali and Egypt's delegation will also participate in the first international parliamentary summit on fighting terrorism and extremism. The summit is organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the United Nations. The summit is a window for MPs from around the world to discuss vital issues related to combating terrorism, providing support to the victims of terrorist crimes and the role of parliamentarians in fighting extremist agendas which lead to the spread of terrorism," the statement said. It will focus, in particular, on the proliferation of terrorist crimes in the African Coast and helping nations in this region to join efforts to find solutions to this problem. The idea of holding an international conference for the world's parliamentary speakers was first proposed in the year 2000. The Geneva-based Inter-parliamentary Union in collaboration with the United Nations decided that a conference for the world's parliamentary speakers be held each five years to draft "a parliamentary vision on international cooperation in the third millennium". The conference asks world parliaments to take measures towards achieving democracy, respecting human rights and promoting economic development. On the sidelines of the two conferences, Speaker Gibali will hold meetings with his counterparts from different countries. Short link: Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi toured on Sunday the new Opera House in the Arts and Culture City at the New Administrative Capital (NAC) to follow up on the progress of construction works, presidential spokesman Bassam Rady said. The president's inspection tour comes after his attendance earlier in the day of Charity Doors (Abwab Al-Kheir) ceremony, which targets raising the living standards of about 5 million citizens. The new Opera House, which is planned to be the largest in the Middle East, is located within the 127-feddan Arts and Culture City along with theatres, cinemas, libraries, and museums. The new capital, one of the country's mega-urban development projects, was due to be inaugurated by mid-2020, but the coronavirus pandemic delayed the move till the end of 2021. The 700-square-kilometre New Administrative Capital, located 60km from Cairo in the area between the Cairo-Suez and Cairo-Ain Sokhna roads, was launched in 2015 by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and is set to house 6.5 million people. Short link: Egypt received a second batch of 525,600 shots of the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine (Janssen) through the African Vaccine Acquisition Trust (AVAT), in cooperation with the African Export-Import Bank, on Saturday night, the country's Ministry of Health said. Egypt has contracted with the African Export-Import Bank in May to import 20 million Johnson & Johnson vaccine doses, which are currently designated by the ministry for travellers. The latest shipment is set to be distributed to the vaccination centres designated for travellers countrywide, health ministry spokesman Khaled Megahed said in a statement. Given that a majority of countries have not approved Chinas two vaccines as of yet, the travellers in Egypt are choosing to be inoculated with Janssen vaccine, which is dedicated only for travel purposes along with British AstraZeneca one. Egypt received the first batch of the Janssen vaccine in August. It comprised 261,000 doses. Up to 145 centres across Egypt are dedicated to giving jabs to travellers and providing vaccination certificates with QR codes a requirement for arrivals to most countries nowadays. These initial doses were allocated by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and its partners, and additional deliveries are expected to follow. Johnson & Johnson believes that a single-shot, easy to distribute COVID-19 vaccine is an essential tool to combat the pandemic globally. This is why the Company has committed to supply up to a combined 900 million doses of the vaccine to the African Union and the COVAX Facility, a statement by the company said. Egypt, which has recorded a total of 289,684 cases and 16,776 deaths, is currently ramping up efforts to vaccinate as many people as possible as the peak of the fourth wave of infections is expected later in September. The country targets to inoculate 40 million citizens by the end of 2021. Egypt has imported millions of doses of vaccines since starting its campaign early this year including the WHO-approved British AstraZeneca vaccine, Johnson & Johnson, the Chinese Sinopharm, and the Russian Sputnik V, which has not been approved by the WHO. Short link: Egypt has condemned the terrorist attack that targeted Iraqi police personal at a checkpoint near Kirkuk in northern Iraq early Sunday, a statement by the foreign ministry said. Thirteen policemen were killed in an attack by the Islamic State group, medical and security sources told AFP. The Egyptian foreign ministry has extended condolences to the Iraqi government and people as well as to the victims' families, according to the statement. The ministry has also wished a speedy recovery for those who injured in the attack. The ministry has affirmed Egypt's "full solidarity" with Iraq in the measures it takes to protect its security and stability, and to eradicate the terrorism from all the country's lands. Short link: Two military cargo aircrafts carrying humanitarian aid were dispatched from Egypt to Sudan on Sunday, the Egyptian Armed Forces announced. According to the Egyptian army's statement, the supplies on the two planes included tents and blankets provided by the Egyptian Red Crescent as per the directives of Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi. El-Sisi has also ordered the launch of an air lift between Egypt and Sudan in the upcoming few days to help Khartoum during the recent flooding crisis. On their part, Sudanese officials expressed their appreciation for Egypts efforts in helping the Sudanese people, adding that these supplies assert the historical bonds between the two countries. On Friday, Sudan was hit by a wave of heavy rains and floods that have caused widespread destruction, damaging thousands of houses in 13 out of the countrys 18 states. Short link: Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi congratulated Israeli President Isaac Herzog in a telephone call on Sunday for assuming his post as well as for the advent of the new Jewish year, the Egyptian presidency announced. El-Sisi and Herzog also discussed Egyptian-Israeli bilateral relations along with recent regional developments and efforts to revive the peace talks between Israel and Palestine. This is the first telephone call between the two presidents since Herzog assumed his post as the president of Israel in July 2021. In August, Egypt's General Intelligence Service Chief Abbas Kamel visited Tel Aviv, where he met with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and his national security advisor and discussed safeguarding the Egyptian-sponsored ceasefire in the Palestinian territories as well as efforts to push forward the peace process. Earlier in May, a ceasefire deal sponsored by Egypt was reached between Israel and Palestines factions to end an 11-day episode of Israeli military aggression on the Gaza Strip. Short link: In a press release on Sunday, Egypt expressed deep sorrow over a train-minibus collision in Turkey which left several people dead or wounded. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered its condolences to the victims families and wished the wounded a speedy recovery. According to local reports, the collision between a freight train and a minibus in northwest Turkey killed six people and injured seven others. It is worth mentioning that later this week, Egyptian Deputy Foreign Minister Hamdy Loza will be visiting Ankara from 7 to 8 September to conduct a second round of exploratory talks with Turkey. The second round of talks is expected to address bilateral relations between the two countries and discuss a number of regional issues after years of strained relations since the 2013 ouster of late Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, who was backed by the government of Tayyip Erdogan, Turkeys president and then prime minister. The exploratory talks come as Turkey attempts to end its differences that have been impacting its economy with regional powers over several crises in the region. Short link: Thirteen policemen were killed in an attack by the Islamic State group against a checkpoint near Kirkuk in northern Iraq early Sunday, medical and security sources said. The attack, to the south of the city, took place just after midnight, a senior Iraqi police officer told AFP. Jihadist cells regularly target the Iraqi army and police in the area, but this attack was one of the IS group's most deadly this year. Short link: The Palestinian Foreign Ministry called on the International Criminal Court to rapidly launch investigations into crimes committed by the Israeli occupation and settlers. In a statement late on Saturday, the ministry slammed the Israeli occupation's brutal suppression against the Palestinians who stage peaceful rallies against settlements. It also condemned the demolition of Palestinian houses in Jerusalem. It urged the international community, topped by the UN Security Council, to press the Israeli government to stop building settlements in Mount Sabih, calling on the UNHCR to hold Israel accountable for its crimes against the Palestinians. Short link: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has again urged countries to withdraw all foreign fighters and mercenaries from Libya, saying they continue to operate throughout the conflict-stricken North African country in violation of last Octobers cease-fire agreement with no discernible abatement of their activities. In a report to the UN Security Council, Guterres also urged Libyan parties to exert every effort to ensure that parliamentary and presidential elections are held on 24 December in accordance with the political road map that ended hostilities last year. Guterres cited initial differences over whether presidential elections should be carried out by direct voting or indirectly by the elected parliament, whether a referendum on the draft permanent constitution should be held first, and eligibility criteria for candidates including military personnel and dual citizens. The UN chief urged the parties and institutions to clarify the constitutional basis for elections and to adopt the necessary electoral laws. The political process is now reaching a critical stage and the gains achieved in early 2021 are under threat, Guterres warned. It is imperative that the political process fulfills the aspirations of the Libyan people for representative governance brought about through democratic elections. In July, UN Special Envoy for Libya Jan Kubis accused spoilers of trying to obstruct the holding of Decembers crucial elections to unify the divided nation. He told the Security Council that many key players in Libya reiterated their commitment to the elections, but I am afraid many of them are not ready to walk the talk. Guterres quoted Kubis warning that the continued presence of thousands of mercenaries and numerous foreign fighters remains a significant threat not only to the security of Libya but to the region. The UN chief also warned that the presence and activities of violent extremist organisations including affiliates of Al-Qaida and ISIS extremist group were reported in all regions, including in the form of direct threats against civilians and United Nations personnel and attacks against security forces. Short link: The Arab Interior Ministers Council (AIMC) denounced in the strongest terms repeated terrorist acts carried out by Houthi militias on Saudi Arabia, including the launching of booby-trapped drones and a ballistic missile, towards the Eastern region and the city of Najran that the Saudi air defenses and the coalition forces were able to intercept and destroy. In a statement issued Sunday, the AIMC's General Secretariat stressed the need to hold accountable perpetrators of these terrorist acts and heinous war crimes. The Council renewed absolute support for all measures taken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to preserve its lands, facilities and the safety of its citizens and residents Short link: The number of deaths from the coronavirus pandemic in Iran increased to 110,674 with 610 more Iranians killed by the deadly disease over the past 24 hours, Irna News Agency reported quoting Iran's Health Ministry's statement. Some 610 more Iranians have died from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) over the past 24 hours bringing the total deaths to 110,674, Iran's Health Ministry said on Sunday. Some 25,870 new cases of infection with the COVID-19 were found over the past 24 hours, 3,430 of whom were hospitalized, it said. The Iranian Health Ministry noted that 4,362,814 patients out of a total of 5,129,407 infected people have recovered or been discharged from hospitals. Some 7,689 COVID-19 patients are in critical condition in intensive care units, it added. The Health Ministry also announced that 19,467,858 Iranians have received the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine and 9,684,669 people have so far received the second dose of the vaccine. Short link: Israeli settlers under protection of occupation troops barged into Al-Aqsa Mosque compound Sunday through Bab El-Maghreba Gate and carried out provocative tours in the environs of the mosque. According to eyewitnesses, more than 140 settlers have roamed the mosque's yard, before leaving through Bab Al-Silsila Gate. The Ministry of Awqaf (Endowment) said Israeli settlers stormed the mosque 23 times in August. The site of the mosque is subject to frequent attacks by Israeli settlers. Search Keywords: Short link: The runner-up in Tunisia's 2019 presidential election, Nabil Karoui, has been placed in pre-trial detention in neighbouring Algeria, accused of "entering the country illegally", local media reported Sunday. Karoui and his brother Ghazi, an MP, had faced a hearing before a magistrate in the northeastern city of Constantine, the Ennahar newspaper wrote citing "judicial sources". Constantine prosecutors could not immediately be reached for comment. Karoui was arrested in late August by Algerian border police, with Tunisia releasing a warrant for his arrest the day after. Algeria and Tunisia are bound by an agreement stipulating the extradition by either country "of any person prosecuted or convicted" in the other. Any extradition request must be "accompanied by an official document from the authorities". Karoui founded the private Tunisian channel Nessma TV, which is partly owned by Italy's former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi. He has been under investigation since 2017 in a money laundering and tax evasion case. He was arrested in 2019 and spent more than a month in prison at the height of the presidential election campaign. He was freed but rearrested last December and spent six months in pre-trial detention before being let out again in June. Karoui came second in the 2019 election to President Kais Saied, a retired law professor and political newcomer. *This story was edited by Ahram Online. Short link: Lawyers of six Syrian refugees arrested in Lebanon said on Sunday that the country's security services have given them a 24-hour ultimatum _ either leave Lebanon to a third country or be deported to Syria, the war-ravaged country they fled. Lawyer Mohammed Sablouh said the move is highly unusual, is a violation of Lebanon's international obligations and laws, and seriously endangers the men's lives. The authorities ``know very well that since the (men) were arrested outside the embassy, they are therefore wanted by the Syrian regime, and there is a really high probability they would be tortured or in grave danger,'' Sablouh told The Associated Press. ``This is a violation of the anti-torture convention and Lebanese laws.'' There was no immediate comment from Lebanese security, and it is not immediately clear who is responsible for the decision that came 10 days after the men's arrest, and without a court ruling. The threat of deportation is particularly concerning given that violence has recently resumed in the hometown of most of the arrested Syrians. Five of the men are from the southern province of Daraa, where clashes have recently erupted between government and allied forces and opposition gunmen, wrecking a three-year old Russian-negotiated truce. According to Lebanese law, the men should be put on trial, and could be either sentenced to prison or sent home after serving their sentences. Lebanon is home to over 1 million Syrian refugees, who now make up more than a quarter of the population. In Spring of 2019, Lebanon's Higher Defense Council, a government body in charge of national security and headed by the President, decided to deport refugees who entered Lebanon ``illegally'' after April 2019 _ a clear violation of international laws. Amnesty International said since then and up until August of the same year, nearly 2,500 Syrians were forcibly deported back to Syria. Deportations slowed down during the pandemic restrictions of 2020, according to local monitors. Sablouh said the lawyers will appeal to prosecutors on Monday for an immediate stay of the order. The men were arrested in the last week of August, first by the Lebanese army, for entering the country illegally. They were picked up outside the Syrian embassy where they were to be issued passports. Four days later, they were transferred to the custody of general security. On Thursday, Amnesty International urged authorities against deporting the men, saying it would endanger their lives and calling for their release, or sending them to trial. ``Arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance and torture remain rife in Syria, and armed hostilities in some parts of the country have intensified significantly,'' said Lynn Maalouf, regional deputy director for Amnesty International. ``No part of Syria is safe for returns and these men must be protected.'' The ultimatum was made by telephone to lawyer Jihad Deeb, who represents five of the six men, on Sunday _ a weekend day making the ultimatum even more impossible to meet. Meanwhile, the passports of the men were still with the Syrian embassy. The caller said the men have 24 hours to produce passports and visas to a third country, or they will be deported. Deeb said three of the men were members of the opposition in Daraa, who had reached a settlement with the Syrian government there, but escaped nearly three weeks ago when they were asked to fight against other opposition members. ``They told me: ``Ustaz (Mr.), please let them sentence us to death in Lebanon, but not send us back to the Syrian regime,`` Deeb said. Short link: Four Pakistani paramilitary guards were killed Sunday when a suicide bomber on a motorbike blew himself up in the southwestern city of Quetta, police said. The bomber targeted Frontier Constabulary guards in the Mian Ghundi neighbourhood of the city -around 140 kilometers (87 miles) from the frontier with Afghanistan where Hazara Shiite merchants were trading vegetables. Three died immediately in the blast, with another officer dying later of his wounds, said Azhar Akram, a deputy inspector general of police. Akram told AFP that 17 guards and two civilians were wounded in the blast. Three are in a critical condition, he said. A spokesman for the police's Counter-Terrorism Department confirmed the attack. Quetta is home to approximately 500,000 Hazaras, who mostly live in an ethnic enclave on the edge of the city. The community has long been targeted by the Islamic State and other militant Sunni groups, who see them as a heretical sect. A series of bombings carried out by a Pakistani sectarian militant group in 2013 killed over 200 Hazaras in the city. Frontier guards have also been targeted by Baloch insurgents, who have been waging a simmering insurgency for greater autonomy Short link: Top US national security officials will see how the failed war in Afghanistan may be reshaping America's relationships in the Middle East as they meet with key allies in the Persian Gulf and Europe this week. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin are traveling to the Gulf separately, leaving Sunday. They will talk with leaders who are central to U.S. efforts to prevent a resurgence of extremist threats in Afghanistan, some of whom were partners in the 20-year fight against the Taliban. Together, the Austin and Blinken trips are meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Biden's decision to end the US war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of US partners in the Middle East. The US military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but he like the Trump administration before him has called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia. ``There's nothing China or Russia would rather have, would want more, in this competition than the United States to be bogged down another decade in Afghanistan,'' Biden said in the hours after the last US troops left. In announcing his Gulf trip, Austin told a Pentagon news conference that staying focused on terrorist threats means relentless efforts against ``any threat to the American people from any place,'' even as the United States places a new focus on strategic challenges from China. Blinken travels to Qatar and will also stop in Germany to see Afghan evacuees at Ramstein air base who are awaiting clearance to travel to the United States. While there he will join a virtual meeting with counterparts from 20 nations on the way ahead in Afghanistan. ``The secretary will convey the United States' gratitude to the German government for being an invaluable partner in Afghanistan for the past 20 years and for German cooperation on transit operations moving people out of Afghanistan,'' spokesman Ned Price said Friday. Austin plans to start his trip by thanking the leaders of Qatar for their cooperation during the Kabul airlift that helped clear an initially clogged pipeline of desperate evacuees. In addition to permitting the use of al-Udeid air base for US processing of evacuees, Qatar agreed to host the American diplomatic mission that withdrew from Kabul at war's end. The Qataris also have offered a hand to help reopen the Kabul airport in cooperation with the Taliban. During a stop in Bahrain, Austin plans to speak with Marines who spent weeks at Kabul airport executing a frantic and dangerous evacuation of Afghans, Americans and others. Eleven Marines were killed and 15 were wounded in a suicide bombing at the airport on Aug. 26. That attack killed a total of 13 U.S. service members and scores of Afghan civilians. The Pentagon chief also planned to visit Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and to meet with senior leaders in a region he knows well as a retired Army general and former head of US Central Command with responsibility for all military operations there. Saudi Arabia was notably absent from the group of Gulf states who helped facilitate the US led evacuation from Kabul airport. Riyadh's relations with Washington are strained over Biden's efforts to revive a nuclear deal with Iran, among other issues. Just days before the US left Afghanistan, the Saudis signed a military cooperation agreement with Russia. Biden said his decision to get out of Afghanistan after 20 years was part of a plan to ``turn the page'' on an approach to foreign policy since 2001 that he believes kept the U.S. military in Afghanistan far too long. Allies in the Gulf, where extremist threats are at the doorstep, want to know what the next US policy page looks like. In Europe, too, allies are assessing what the lost war in Afghanistan and its immediate aftermath mean for their collective interests, including the years-old question of whether Europe should become less reliant on the United States. ``We need to increase our capacity to act autonomously when and where necessary,'' Josep Borrell Fontelles, the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy, wrote on Twitter on Thursday. America's European allies in NATO had more troops in Afghanistan than did the United States when Biden announced in April that he would withdraw by September. The Europeans had almost no choice but to join the exit, given the limits of their combat power so far from home, and they were largely dependent on U.S. air transport to get out, although they did fly some of the evacuation sorties. Some NATO allies doubted the wisdom of Biden's withdrawal decision, but it's uncertain that the Afghanistan crisis will weaken the ties that bind the United States and Europe. In an essay, two of the Center for Strategic and International Security's Europe experts Rachel Ellehuus and Pierre Morcos wrote that the crisis does reveal ``inconvenient truths'' about the trans-Atlantic relationship. ``For Europeans, it has exposed both their inability to change the decision calculus of the United States and powerlessness to defend their own interests (for example, evacuate their own citizens and allies) without the support of Washington,'' they wrote. Germany, Spain, Italy and other European nations are allowing the US to use their military bases to temporarily house Afghans who were airlifted out of Kabul but have not been approved for resettlement in the United States or elsewhere. Bahrain and Qatar made similar accommodations. Together, these arrangements relieved strain on the evacuation operation from Kabul that initially was so acute that the airlift had to be suspended for several hours because there was no place to take the evacuees. Short link: The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, or ICRC, has arrived for a three-day visit in Afghanistan. Peter Maurer arrived Sunday and plans to visit medical facilities, rehabilitation centers for victims of violence and disease as well as ICRC staffers. The relief group said in a statement that Maurer also plans to meet with local Afghan authorities. Maurer said: ``Afghans have suffered from 40 years of conflict and they now face years of work to heal and recover. The International Committee of the Red Cross is dedicated to staying here to help that recovery.'' The ICRC president also stressed that the future of Afghans relies on the continued ``investment from the outside world.'' Short link: German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday called for a dialogue with the Taliban as the hardline Islamists finalise a new government that will set the tone for their rule in Afghanistan. "We simply have to talk to the Taliban about how we can get people who have worked for Germany out of the country and bring them to safety," Merkel told a press conference in North Rhine-Westphalia state. Short link: At least four planes chartered to evacuate several hundred people seeking to escape the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan have been unable to leave the country for days, officials said Sunday, with conflicting accounts emerging about why they flights weren't able to take off as pressure ramps up on the United States to help those left behind to flee. An Afghan official at the airport in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif said that the would-be passengers were Afghans, many of whom did not have passports or visas, and thus were unable to leave the country. He said they had left the airport while the situation was sorted out. The top Republican on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, however, said that the group included Americans and they were sitting on the planes, but the Taliban were not letting them take off, effectively ``holding them hostage.`` He did not say where that information came from. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the accounts. The final days of America's 20-year war in Afghanistan were marked by a harrowing airlift at Kabul's airport to evacuate tens of thousands of people _ Americans and their allies _ who feared what the future would hold, given the Taliban's history of repression, particularly of women. When the last troops pulled out on Aug. 30, though, many were left behind. The U.S. promised to continue working with the new Taliban rulers to get those who want to leave out, and the militants pledged to allow anyone with the proper legal documents to leave. But Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas told ``Fox News Sunday`` that American citizens and Afghan interpreters were being kept on six planes. ``The Taliban will not let them leave the airport,'' he said, adding that he's worried ``they're going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan.'' He did not offer more details. The Afghan official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said it was four planes, and their intended passengers were staying at hotels while authorities worked out whether they might be able to leave the country. The sticking point, he indicated, is that many did not have the right travel papers. Residents of Mazar-e-Sharif also said the passengers were no longer at the airport. At least 10 families were seen at a local hotel waiting, they said, for a decision on their fates. None of them had passports or visas but said they had worked for companies allied with the U.S. or German military. Others were seen at restaurants. The small airport at Mazar-e-Sharif only recently began to handle international flights and so far only to Turkey. The planes in question were bound for Doha, Qatar, the Afghan official said. It was not clear who chartered them or why they were waiting in the northern city. The massive airlift happened at Kabul's international airport, which initially closed after the U.S. withdrawal but where domestic flights have now resumed. Searing images of that chaotic evacuation _ including people clinging to an airplane as it took off _ came to define the final days of America's longest war, just weeks after Taliban fighters retook the country in a lightning offensive. Since their takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast themselves as different from their 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and imposed repressive restrictions across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: Government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. Some signs of normalcy have also begun to return. Kabul's streets are again clogged with traffic, as Taliban fighters patrol in pickup trucks and police vehicles _ brandishing their automatic weapons and flying the Taliban's white flag. Schools have opened, and moneychangers work the street corners. Among the promises the Taliban have made is that once the country's airports are up and running, Afghans with passports and visas would be allowed to travel. More than 100 countries issued a statement saying they would be watching to see that the new rulers held to their commitment. Technical teams from Qatar and Turkey arrived in recent days and are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said official Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Meanwhile, the Taliban stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. Short link: The Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility Sunday for a suicide bombing that killed four paramilitary guards in the southwestern city of Quetta. The attack targeted Pakistani Frontier Constabulary (FC) guards in the Mian Ghundi neighbourhood of the city -- around 140 kilometers (87 miles) from the frontier with Afghanistan -- where Hazara Shiite merchants were selling vegetables. The bomber "targeted the FC elements with an explosives-laden jacket and an explosives-laden motorcycle", on the Mastung road in Quetta, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) said in a statement cited by the SITE Intelligence Group. A spokesman for the police's Counter-Terrorism Department confirmed the attack. Three died immediately in the blast, with another officer dying later of his wounds, said Azhar Akram, a deputy inspector general of police. Akram told AFP that 17 guards and two civilians were wounded in the blast, adding that three are in critical condition. The TTP claimed more than 30 FC personnel were killed and wounded in the attack. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the TTP attack on FC Checkpost" in a tweet from his office, offering his condolences and concern for the recovery of the wounded. "The PM pays tribute to the security forces and their sacrifices to keep nation safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorist designs," his office added. Quetta is home to approximately 500,000 Hazaras, who mostly live in an ethnic enclave on the edge of the city. The community has long been targeted by the Islamic State and other militant Sunni groups, who see them as a heretical sect. A series of bombings carried out by a Pakistani sectarian militant group in 2013 killed over 200 Hazaras in the city. Frontier guards have also been targeted by Baloch insurgents, who have been waging a simmering insurgency for greater autonomy. Short link: Egypt has obtained the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Groups approval to host its annual meetings in 2022 for the first time in 30 years, Egypts Minister of Planning and Economic Development Hala El-Said announced. The decision came during the 46th IsDBs Board of Governors annual meetings, which concluded on Saturday, that were held in Uzbekistan. Minister El-Said and Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait represented Egypt in the meetings. El-Said noted that this approval reflects the IsDBs positive outlook on Egypts position and the member countries trust in Egypts capabilities. ## During the meetings, El-Said showcased Egypts developmental planning efforts and the entrepreneurship programmes that have been implemented in the recent period, stressing that achieving the global sustainable development goals is a common interest of both sides in light of Egypts 2030 Vision. El-Said also discussed with the IsDBs Board of Governors the possibility of cooperating with the Decent Life Initiative Foundation. Moreover, El-Said reviewed the groups efforts to finance Egypts healthcare and education sectors amid the ongoing challenging conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the meetings, El-Said met with Osama Al-Qaisi, CEO of the Islamic Corporation for Investment Insurance and Export Credit and a member of the IsDB Group, to discuss cooperation between the institution and the Egyptian government. The value of the institutions operations in the Egyptian market amount to $6.6 billion in the field of export credit, according to the minister. She added that the institutions future plans in Egypt include expanding in the Egyptian market by providing insurance support for infrastructure projects, securing the countrys needs for high-quality capital goods, providing insurance support for Egypts government to secure its needs for strategic commodities, backing Egypts expansion in the African market, encouraging foreign direct investment inflows into Egypt, and improving relations with Egyptian banks in the field of trade finance. ## Moreover, Minister Maait showcased Egypts efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic and contain its severe impacts. He also outlined Egypts positive economic performance amid the crisis, saying that Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi is leading the largest developmental movement in Egypts history. He added that Egypt has promising investment opportunities that can be tapped, affirming that Egypt persists in catalysing investors and supporting the private sector. Over four days, the IsDBs Board of Governors held its annual meetings that centred on discussing development issues and institutional matters among its member countries. The meetings attracted more than 2,000 participants and decision makers to discuss challenges and explore the IsDB Groups member countries development opportunities. There were also seminars and flagship events that featured top-level panellists from governments, international and regional organisations, the private sector, academia, and civil society. Short link: Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah on Monday accepted the resignation of the cabinet which quit as part of a routine process after election, the official KUNA news agency reported. The ruler also asked outgoing Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak al-Sabah and other ministers to continue as a caretaker government until a new cabinet is formed. Sheikh Jaber submitted the resignation of the five-month-old government two days after the snap polls that were boycotted by the opposition and which witnessed a low voter turnout. Head of the National Election Commission, Ahmad al-Ajeel, announced Monday that voter turnout was 39.7 percent. The opposition has said the turnout was only 26.7 percent. The emir will hold consultations with senior officials and former parliament speakers before he names either Sheikh Jaber, a senior member of the ruling family, or someone else to form a new cabinet. The new government must be ready before the parliament holds its inaugural session within the next 14 days, in accordance with the constitution. Sheikh Jaber was appointed premier in November last year after the resignation of former prime minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad al-Ahmad al-Sabah, a nephew of the emir, following a dispute with the opposition and allegations of corruption. Candidates from the Shiite minority emerged the main victors from Saturday's poll winning 17 seats in the 50-member parliament. The new parliament has no members from the opposition which totally boycotted the polls. The Islamist, nationalist and liberal opposition has declared the election unconstitutional and called for abolishing the new parliament. It plans to stage a demonstration on Saturday. Short link: KYODO NEWS - Sep 5, 2021 - 20:56 | World, All, Coronavirus Nineteen Chinese warplanes entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone on Sunday, the self-governed island's Defense Ministry said, as 400,000 doses of coronavirus vaccine donated by Poland arrived. Taiwanese media speculated that Beijing, which considers Taiwan a renegade province to be reunified, sent the airplanes in response to the arrival of the vaccine developed by Britain's AstraZeneca Plc. The 19 warplanes, including 10 J-16 fighters, four H-6 bombers and one Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft, entered the zone southwest of the island before turning back, according to the ministry. The vaccine doses arrived at Taoyuan International Airport in northern Taiwan early Sunday morning. A spokesman at the office of Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen expressed appreciation for the goodwill gesture from a "democratic partner." Poland has become the fourth European country to supply COVID-19 vaccines to Taiwan, after Lithuania, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. All four countries maintain diplomatic ties with China, but are in the middle of re-evaluating their relations with China and Taiwan over Beijing's alleged human rights abuses and tightening of control over Hong Kong. According to the presidential office and other sources, the island provided 1 million medical-use masks to Poland in April last year. After virus cases spiked in Taiwan this May, Poland provided 1,500 pieces of protective gear to Taipei city. Related coverage: 28 Chinese air force planes enter Taiwan's air defense ID zone 25 Chinese warplanes enter Taiwan's air defense identification zone 20 Chinese warplanes enter Taiwan's air defense identification zone KYODO NEWS - Sep 5, 2021 - 20:00 | All, Japan Japan's administrative reform minister Taro Kono who is also in charge of COVID-19 vaccinations is the most popular pick to succeed Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who has announced his intention to resign, according to the result of a Kyodo News poll released Sunday. Kono, known as an outspoken lawmaker adept at social media, gained 31.9 percent of support from respondents in the nationwide telephone survey conducted with 1,071 randomly selected eligible voters on Saturday and Sunday, ahead of former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba with 26.6 percent and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida with 18.8 percent. They are among the potential contenders in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's Sept. 29 presidential election which will effectively pick the next prime minister. Kishida and former internal affairs minister Sanae Takaichi have said they will join the race, while the others have yet to announce their decisions. Suga, who has seen his approval ratings drop to record lows in media polls, said on Friday he will not run in the upcoming LDP leadership race. On his decision to step down as premier, 56.7 percent said his resignation is a matter of course, with 56.3 percent disapproving of his government's COVID-19 response since he took office in September last year. As for the Tokyo Paralympics closing on Sunday, an overwhelming majority were supportive of holding the event despite the capital remaining under a COVID-19 state of emergency, with 69.8 percent saying they were glad the games were held as scheduled and 26.3 percent thinking otherwise. An equally large portion of the respondents believe the event has been beneficial for society at large as 67.1 percent said they think it will help foster unity. Past Kyodo News surveys reflected strong public concerns about holding the Olympics and Paralympics at a time when the country is struggling to contain a resurgence of coronavirus infections in Tokyo and many other parts of the country. The Tokyo Games were held following a year of delay due to the pandemic. The approval rating of Suga's Cabinet fell to a fresh record low of 30.1 percent in the latest survey, down 1.7 points from the last opinion poll in mid-August. The disapproval rating was at 58.5 percent, up 7.9 points. Asked which party they plan to vote for under the proportional representation system in the upcoming House of Representatives election, 43.4 percent said the LDP and 17.3 percent said the main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan. Among other parties, 5.7 percent cited the Japanese Communist Party as their choice, followed by 5.6 percent for the Japan Innovation Party and 5.2 percent for the LDP's junior coalition partner Komeito. Related coverage: FOCUS: LDP leader hopefuls eye succeeding PM Suga as Japan election looms Vaccination minister Taro Kono to run in race to succeed Japan PM Suga Surprise, criticism abound among Japan public over Suga's resignation KYODO NEWS - Sep 5, 2021 - 18:50 | Arts, All, Japan A car carrying Japanese comedian and prizewinning film director Takeshi Kitano was attacked Saturday night in the premises of a Tokyo TV station by a man wielding a pickax, with police arresting him on the spot, investigators said. Kitano, 74, also known by his stage name Beat Takeshi, and others were unharmed in the attack that took place around 11:40 p.m. at Tokyo Broadcasting System Television Inc., according to the police. The attacker, identified as an unemployed man in his 40s from Chiba Prefecture, told the investigators he had been "ignored" by Kitano when he had waited for a car carrying the Japanese entertainer near the TV station in late June. "I got down on my knees near the car and begged him to help me enter the world of show business, but he ignored me," the man was quoted as telling the investigators. The man was also in possession of a knife with a 10-centimeter blade and has admitted to weapons violations, the police said. Kitano had appeared in a TBS live-broadcast program Saturday night. KYODO NEWS - Sep 5, 2021 - 12:32 | World, All, Japan With the U.S. military pullout and the evacuation of foreigners and vulnerable Afghans from Kabul completed earlier this month, many locals who have worked for Japan but were left behind in Afghanistan are filled with feelings of anger and hopelessness, they said. One such Afghan said he lives day to day in a heightened state of vigilance -- even locking his bedroom door when he sleeps -- for fear of his safety under the harsh rule of the Taliban who have returned to power after 20 years. The man, who requested anonymity, had been involved in Japan's aid activities for many years and is one of some 500 Afghans, including local staff of the Japanese Embassy and the Japan International Cooperation Agency and their families, whom the Japanese government had said it would evacuate. But he was unable to leave the war-ravaged country as Japan's Self-Defense Forces were ordered to withdraw on Aug. 31 after having evacuated just one Japanese and 14 Afghans at the request of the United States. "I know it couldn't be helped but I'm upset," he said about having been left behind. On Aug. 26, he boarded a bus in Kabul and headed to Hamid Karzai International Airport. But an Islamic State group affiliate called ISIS-K fired rockets at the airport on the day and the SDF flight he was supposed to take was canceled. Even though he was instructed to wait by the Japanese government, he never heard from it again before the SDF was ordered to pull out. "If I couldn't go, they should've told me so," he said, adding that he now feels trapped. Neighbors found he was seeking to leave the country and he is afraid of what might happen if the Taliban learn of his plan, he said. Another local, who asked to remain anonymous, used to work at the JICA Afghanistan Office in Kabul, which administered Japan's official aid program in the country. As he sought to flee, he requested a Japanese Embassy staffer to include him in the list of people to be evacuated by Japan. But the staffer only replied, "I have no authority to decide on this." His father had been beaten by the Taliban during its former rule because he did not grow his beard, the local said. The Islamist group's fighters have assaulted citizens since they seized almost full control of the country on Aug. 15. "I was really disappointed when I realized that Japan wasn't willing to evacuate us," he said. While the Taliban have made reconciliatory gestures, there is no guarantee that they will be accompanied by actions. Meanwhile, the terrorist activities of Islamic State extremists are increasing, and there are concerns about a collision between them and the Taliban. A local journalist said, "This withdrawal is a rout of the U.S. military. Our country faces turmoil." The Japanese government has said it had submitted to the Taliban via the U.S. military a list of people seeking to evacuate on SDF airplanes, which was intended to enable them to pass through Taliban checkpoints on the way to the airport. Now, however, the Afghans on that list are trembling in fear. One of the locals, who worked at the embassy, said, "I believe I'll be able to evacuate. The Japanese Embassy will do something." But contrary to his words, his tone was angry. Related coverage: Taliban eye launching new government in Afghanistan soon Kyodo stringer recounts harrowing days before leaving Afghanistan Biden defends decision to end U.S. troop presence in Afghanistan New Delhi: BJP national president Amit Shah has urged the people of Rajasthan to vote for his party in the December 7 Assembly elections and in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and promised that his government will expel illegal migrants from Bangladesh from the country one by one. "Vote for Vasundhara Raje in 2018 in Rajasthan and for Narendra Modi in 2019I assure you that the BJP government will work to throw out each and every intruder from Kanyakumari to Kashmir and Assam to Gujarat, one by one," Shah said at a meeting in Rajasthans Karauli district on Thursday. Lashing out at the Congress over illegal migrants from Bangladesh, Shah asked its president, Rahul Gandhi, to clarify whether infiltrators should be allowed to remain. Also Read | Congress releases manifesto in Rajasthan ahead of Assembly elections About six lakh people, out of the total 40 lakh, who were excluded in the draft NRC, have submitted applications for inclusion of their names in the list of Assam's citizens and have given relevant documents claiming that they are Indian citizens. Following a directive of the Supreme Court, the process of filing claims and objections to the draft NRC began on September 25 and it will come to an end on December 15. Shah alleged that the Congress cannot develop or secure the country as in the 10 years that the party was in power at the Centre, there had been no control on infiltration. The BJP president said the BJP governments at the Centre and in Rajasthan had implemented welfare schemes covering all sections of society. Also Read | Yogi Adityanath calls Hanuman a scheduled caste, gets legal notice Shah had earlier alleged that the Congress had introduced the idea of the National Citizens' Register, but it failed show courage to see the project through. He also said the Congress won't be able help the country because "it has neither a leader nor a policy". "Rahul Gandhi should deliver an account of what his own family has done for the country in the last four generations before asking the BJP to list out its achievements over the last four years" he said. (With PTI inputs) New Delhi: Polling in three Maoist-dominated seats --- Lanji, Paraswada and Baihar --- of the 230 Assembly constituencies in Madhya Pradesh began at 7 am and will end at 3 pm on Wednesday. Polling in the rest of the constituencies will start at 8 am and end at 5 pm. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, is seeking a fourth term in power. On the other hand, the Congress wants to make a comeback. As many as 5.04 crore voters will decide the fate of 2,899 candidates, including 1,094 independents. In the 2013 Assembly polls, the BJP had won 165 seats and the Congress had won 58. Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party had won four and independent candidates had won three seats, respectively. State Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) VL Kantha Rao on Tuesday had said 3,00,782 government employees, including 45,904 women, have been deployed on poll duty across the state, where 65,341 polling stations have been set up. Rao said 78,870 EVMs will be used during the poll. The CEO said 17,000 of these polling booths have been declared sensitive and additional vigil will be maintained there. Here are the LIVE updates: 19:02 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Madhya Pradesh recorded a 74.6 per cent voter turnout till 6 pm today in the crucial elections for 230 Assembly seats. This is higher than the 72.7 per cent voting recorded in 2013 Assembly elections. 18:08 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Altogether 65.5 per cent voters exercised their franchise in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections on Wednesday, just over seven per cent less than the figure in the previous polls. 13:44 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Kamal Nath, Congress on showing his election symbol after casting his vote in Chhindwara: I had already cast my vote. When people asked me when those from media asked me whom I have voted for I showed this (palm). What else could have I done?Show a lotus? #MadhyaPradeshElections pic.twitter.com/A4nxfFrCOB ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 13:34 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In CEC O P Rawat on instances of EVMs malfunctioning in Madhya Pradesh: There were few complaints on malfunction of some EVMs & VVPAT machines, theyve been replaced. If it's observed that voters left due to malfunction, we can consider re-polling at that particular polling station. pic.twitter.com/TyHNaTVlcJ ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 13:34 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In CEC O P Rawat on Jyotiraditya Scindia's request to EC to extend polling time due to EVM malfunction: There are provisions for the extension of time, the local officers can take the call as they see fit. The matter does not need to be handled by the commission. pic.twitter.com/OznJsAKzcJ ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 12:16 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In There have been many complaints of EVMs malfunctioning, have written to Election Commission. Have requested that voting time in these polling booths should be extended to compensate for the delay: Jyotiraditya Scindia, Congress #MadhyaPradeshElections pic.twitter.com/EfJiIg7lW0 ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 11:36 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Election Commission announces Rs 10 lakh each compensation for the kin of the EC officials who passed away while on election duty. 11:11 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In I assure you that on 11th December Congress will form the government with the blessings of the people: Jyotiraditya Scindia after casting his vote at a polling booth in Gwalior #MadhyaPradeshElections pic.twitter.com/AeswowBZTU ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 09:50 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In The EVM at polling booth number 178 at Dabra in Gwalior district is now operational. 09:49 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Police seizes campaign material from BJP's polling agents from a polling booth in Saint Mary's, Bhopal as it was within 200 meters of a polling booth. One person taken to custody. #MadhyaPradeshElections2018 pic.twitter.com/EvqxqyW4bv ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 09:41 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Two faulty EVMs in Ujjain have been replaced, 11 VVPAT machines in Alirajpur, 5 VVPAT and 2 EVMs in Burhanpur also replaced. 09:40 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In Were 100% certain that BJP will form government with an absolute majority. We have set a target of 200 seats and our lakhs of volunteers are working to make it a reality: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan after casting his vote in Budhni #MadhyaPradeshElections pic.twitter.com/RNQMYXBFQs ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 08:35 (IST) Facebook Twitter Whats app Linked In EVM is not working at polling booth number 178 at Dabra in Gwalior district, reports ANI. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Thursday announced nine US companies including Lockheed Martin Corp. that are going to compete for funding NASAs long-term moon program. This space program is a private-public undertaking to develop a technology which will explore the lunar eclipse. At a news briefing, NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine said, "When we go to the moon, we want to be one customer of many customers in a robust marketplace between the earth and the moon. Also Read | Will verify American moon landings, says Russia space agency chief In the past, NASA revealed, "Lunar payloads could fly on these contracted missions as early as 2019. These nine companies will compete for a chunk of a $2.6 billion under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. These companies will be developing small launch vehicles and robotic rovers over the next 10 years. NASA is expecting to begin construction of a new space station laboratory which will be orbiting out planets natural satellite and will also act as a pit stop for missions to deeper parts of our solar system. Apart from Lockheed Martin, NASA has also chosen Draper, which will develop computers for the Apollo missions. And, for developing equipments for the program, NASA has selected Astrobotic Technology Inc, Firefly Aerospace Inc, Moon Express and four others. Also Read | Moon rocks sold for $855,000 in US auction Recently, NASAs Mars Odyssey spacecraft, that is currently orbiting the Red Planet, relayed the signals. InSight spacecraft, the first robotic lander designed to study the deep interior of the Red Planet, touched down safely on the surface of Mars on Monday. For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: The Congress leader PL Punia on Saturday met the Election Commission and suggested to ensure a secured counting process, news agency ANI reported. PL Punia alleged that some unidentified persons with laptops and mobiles were seen around the strong room which is not allowed.A Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Manish Tewari, Vivek Tankha, TS Singh Dev, Pranav Jha, Ashok Dhahariya were also the part of the Congress delegation. PL Punia, Congress after a meeting with EC: As voting is over in #Chhattisgarh, we've suggested EC to ensure a secured counting process&firm security measures for EVMs&strong room,as unidentified persons with laptops&mobiles were seen around the strong room which is not allowed. pic.twitter.com/RVAcfJiO3q a ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2018 Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi said, that we have informed the Election Commission about a polling booth in Saharanpur, UP where process of deletion of names is being misused. Out of 100 forms, 58 were filled with wrong details. This may cause a difference of 16000 votes in Saharanpur. It can change poll results, he said. A Singhvi,Congress after meeting EC:We've informed EC about a polling booth in Saharanpur,UP, where process of deletion of names is being misused.Out of 100 forms, 58 were filled with wrong details.This may cause difference of 16000 votes in Saharanpur. It can change poll results pic.twitter.com/HfDi71Hte3 a ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2018 Earlier, a controversy has broken out in Madhya Pradesh over the delay in EVMs reaching the strong rooms in Sagar on Friday, a full 48 hours after voting ended in the state elections on Wednesday. "In Madhya Pradesh home minister's area, EVMs were deposited using a bus without a registration plate, 48 hours after polling. Is this a conspiracy by the government to ensure a BJP win?" the Madhya Pradesh Congress tweeted. Sensing a defeat in Madhya Pradesh & Chattisgarh, some are indulging in desperate measures by attempting to tamper with EVMas in strong rooms Urge the EC to investigate & take concrete action pic.twitter.com/y7QMD3MKqd a Ahmed Patel (@ahmedpatel) December 1, 2018 For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Pune: A 27-year-old woman has lodged a police complaint alleging that her doctor husband administered her an HIV-infected saline a year ago. According to Wakad police in the city, the woman claimed that her husband, a homoeopathic doctor, and his parents were harassing her for dowry since the couple got married in 2015. When she fell sick in October 2017, her husband administered her saline at home, she told police. "In February this year, when she again fell sick, she got some tests done and found out that she was HIV positive," said a police officer. The woman alleged that her husband, who is now seeking the divorce, had infected her with HIV through the saline. "We made both husband and wife undergo HIV tests at a private laboratory and found that both were HIV positive. However, tests at a government-run research institute showed that only the woman was HIV positive," said the officer. "We have registered a case under sections 328 (causing hurt by means of poison) and 498 (dowry offences) of IPC and are seeking a medical opinion," the officer said. No arrest has been made yet, he said. United Nations: The UN General Assembly will vote Thursday on a US-drafted resolution that would condemn the Palestinian Hamas movement, a measure championed by US Ambassador Nikki Haley. The United States won crucial backing from the European Union for the draft resolution that condemns the firing by Hamas of rockets into Israel and demands an end to the violence. If adopted, it would mark the first time that the assembly has taken aim at Hamas, the Islamist militant group that has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007. Also Read | US proposes changes to H1B visas, to prefer highly skilled, paid workers All 28 EU countries agreed to support the measure after the United States included a mention of relevant UN resolutions in the text that does not however refer to the two-state solution. In a statement, the US mission to the United Nations said it had hoped to put the draft resolution to a vote on Monday but that the Palestinians had pushed for a delay until Thursday. The issue before the United Nations on Thursday is not whether it supports one form or another of a Middle East peace plan, the US mission said. Each country will be asked to vote for or against the activities of Hamas, along with other militant groups like Palestinian Islamic Jihad. If the UN cannot bring itself to adopt this resolution, then it has no business being involved in peace discussions, it added. The European Union, like the United States, considers Hamas a terror group, but the 28-nation bloc is divided over how to support peace efforts. Haley, who will step down as UN ambassador in January, has steadfastly supported Israel in its confrontation with Hamas and chastised the United Nations for criticizing both sides. The vote on Thursday will follow the adoption in the assembly of about a dozen resolutions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that condemn Israeli settlements and call for progress toward the two-state solution. Resolutions adopted by the General Assembly are non-binding, but they carry political weight and are seen as a barometer of world opinion. The United States put forward the resolution as it prepares to unveil new peace proposals that the Palestinians have already rejected. Read More | PM Modi, US President Donald Trump, Japan PM Shinzo Abe meet on sidelines of G-20 Summit The Palestinians have severed ties with the administration of President Donald Trump after the decision nearly a year ago to move the US embassy to Jerusalem and declare the city Israels capital. The US administration has also cut more than $500 million in Palestinian aid. The Palestinians see the city as the capital of their future state. International consensus has been that Jerusalems status must be negotiated between the two sides. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Ranchi: A woman from Jharkhand who went missing 12 years ago from Uttar Pradesh has now been found in Nepal. The family, which has lost hope of seeing the woman again, is very happy. She has been brought back at the initiative of the Government of Jharkhand. According to the report, Etbaria, a resident of the Lohardaga district of Jharkhand, had gone to work with her father on a brick kiln in Uttar Pradesh. She went missing 12 years ago while working here. A case was also registered with Gorakhpur police in this regard. A lot of effort was made to trace Etbaria, but there was no trace of her. According to the report, Etbaria was taken from Uttar Pradesh to Haryana and later sent to Nepal. After 12 years, through a tweet, the news of Etbaria being in an ashram in Nepal came to light. After which the State Government swung into action and started bringing back the woman. The State Government held discussions with the Embassies of Nepal and India to ensure the safe return of Etbaria. She was then identified by Etbaria's mother and sister through video conferencing. After paperwork on confirmation of identity, the woman from Nepal was brought to Delhi by plane and then sent to Ranchi. Etbaria's father has now passed away. Her mother and other family members had lost all hope of her return. But the return of Etbaria after 12 years brings back joy to the family members. 'BJP has forgotten its promises, are misleading farmers,' Akhilesh Yadav Nipah virus could pose a big threat! Know what are the symptoms? In Owaisi's poster, written Faizabad instead of Ayodhya, Ansari said- 'Be careful Muslims' In the bloody conflict that has been going on since November, senior Ethiopian army general Bachcha Debele has claimed to have killed more than 5,600 members of the Tigre rebel forces fighting in the north of the country. The general said a further 2,300 rebels were wounded, and 2,000 were captured. Lieutenant General Debele accused the rebel Tigre People's Liberation Front (TPLF) of trying to break into Ethiopia. The war began last year after several months of feud between the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the leaders of the TPLF, the main political party in the Tigre region. After accusing the TPLF of being behind several attacks on military camps, the president sent troops to Tigre to overthrow the regional government. On Friday, the United Nations accused the government of effectively blocking aid supplies to Tigre, warning that millions of lives were being put at risk. The United Nations estimates that 5.2 million people need immediate assistance if "the world's worst famine situation in decades" is to be averted. The United Nations says millions of civilians are facing starvation because of the conflict. Thousands are believed to have been killed and millions were forced to flee their homes to Sudan. Both sides have been accused of committing atrocities, including rape and mass civilian murders. But on Saturday, the Ethiopian government said 500 trucks with aid had entered the region in the past two days. It added that the number of security checkpoints has also been reduced. Washington: 6 people shot, at least 3 dead Lost Capital City Found! Got these amazing pieces of stuff PM Modi became world's No.1 leader, left everyone behind Three teenagers have been sentenced to prison terms in Finland for the brutal murder of a 16-year-old boy last year. Respondent, who knew the victim, consumed alcohol and also made the victim drink. Those teenagers attacked the victim for about 4 hours. And left unconscious in critical condition and fled. A court in the capital Helsinki awarded the longest sentence of 10 years and a month in prison to the eldest of the three juvenile offenders, whom the court called the most violent. The second youngest was sentenced to nine years and two months, while the third and youngest defendant received eight years and two months in prison. All three have the right to appeal against their conviction. The three defendants first admitted to assaulting the victim, but all had denied murder. Due to the age of the attackers and the nature of the crime, the Finnish court considered the case a highly unusual and serious offence. Police had last December described the prolonged and deadly attack on the young victim as "brutal". On Friday, December 4, the perpetrators physically assaulted the victim for four hours before the victim was killed in Helsinki's Koskela district, prosecutors said. Which shows their criminal tendency, so such criminals should be sentenced to at least 12 years in jail. He said the boys had planned in advance to make their victim drink alcohol. The victim is believed to have been left unconscious at the scene and none of his attackers alerted authorities throughout the weekend. The defense argued that they did not intend to kill the boy, and did not believe that he would die as a result of their actions. He argued that the defendants should not be sentenced to more than four years in prison. Lost Capital City Found! Got these amazing pieces of stuff PM Modi became world's No.1 leader, left everyone behind Philippine Airlines files bankruptcy in U.S as travel fallout rises Home Just In Samosas in Nepal: How did they come here and become everyones loved food? No doubt, samosas are one of the much-enjoyed snacks in Nepal. Samosas with the sweet tangy dip are an all-time favourite of many Nepalis and samosas with aalu matar curry are a go-to tiffin for college and school students and office goers as well. From roadside vendors to branded sweet shops and restaurants, this savoury goodness is ubiquitous and relished by all. But, where does this deep-fried crispy pastry tightly packed with savoury mashed potato and peas come to Nepal from? We have some answers here. The origin of samosas Well, samosas are quintessentially regarded as an Indian delicacy and are generally believed that samosas came to Nepal via India. Yet, this well-known Indian food is not actually from India. It originated in Central Asia centuries ago. As mentioned in an article published in the Times of India, samosas originated in the 10th century in the Middle East region. The samosa was first mentioned in Tarikh-e Beyhaghi, a work of Iranian historian Abolfazl Beyhaqi. It was termed as Sambosa, which was much smaller in size than todays samosa. Samosa is referred to as sanbusak, sanbusag, sanbusaj, samsa as stated in many historical accounts. However, what is common in all these words is that all of them are derived from the Persian word, sanbosag. Talking about its travel to South Asia, it was introduced during the Delhi Sultanate rule by the Middle Eastern chefs. Some others also believed that it was brought by traders. During that time, samosa was stuffed with meat, and onion, as a famous poet and scholar of that time, Amir Khusro explains. Ibn Battuta, a 14th-century Moroccan traveller, has talked about sambusak being served as a part of the royal meal at the court of erratic Muhammad bin Tughluq. As described by Battuta, sambusaks were filled with minced meat, pistachios, almonds, walnuts and spices and were served before the third course of pulao. But, how did sambusak become samosa? Well, the credit goes to the Portuguese who brought a kind of tuber, which they called batata in India. Gradually, potatoes (batata) became the core of most Indian food items. In the process, a meat-filled sambusak got transformed into a mashed potato-filled samosa. Migration into Nepal The migration of samosa to Nepal is still unclear. It can be believed that it came to Nepal just as it travelled to other parts of the world and was transformed as per regional flavours suiting their palate. Supposedly, it was introduced by Indian traders. But, it is not clear who made the first samosas in Nepal. Marketing in Nepal But, there is no doubt about who made samosa popular in Nepal. One of the most famous samosa joints, TipTop, is often credited for its whooping popularity of samosas among Nepalis. First started as a small samosa stall in a narrow alley opposite Bishal Bazaar, TipTop, now, has many outlets and has become one of the famous eateries. It got its name from the TipTop Tailors in the very dark alley and the samosa shop also used to serve samosas to tailors, shopkeepers and the workers in the New Road are in the beginning. Now, samosa has become a perfect snack for most Nepalis that they enjoy with tea or curry as a breakfast or snack or even day-time tiffin with varieties of sweet, tangy or savoury dips and chutneys. Not only the dips or chutneys, the fillings and the thickness of the pastries also vary from one stall to another and one eatery to another. Since you have read about samosas today, why dont you go get one for yourself now? Description We invite the Long Island community to worship with us at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 369 Green Avenue, East Meadow. Holy Trinity is a diverse community of Orthodox Christians worshipping God in the fullness of the Churchs ancient tradition and liturgical life. The parish, founded in 1924, is the first Orthodox Christian parish in the Nassau/Suffolk area and centrally located in mid-island East Meadow. We are open to all people seeking a community rooted in the oldest Christian Church with an emphasis on sacraments, prayer, Holy Scripture, and theology. All services are conducted in English. The Divine Liturgy (Eucharist) is celebrated every Sunday and feast day at 9:30 AM. Please be aware that only Orthodox Christians are allowed to partake of the Eucharist and other sacraments according to the Churchs canons, but all are welcome to receive a blessing. Coffee hour follows the Divine Liturgy every Sunday. Vespers (evening prayer) are served every Saturday and on the eve of feast days at 6 PM. Vaccinated attendees are not required to wear masks nor to be socially distanced, but unvaccinated persons are encouraged to do so. Services are also streamed on https://www.facebook.com/htocem. To register for the parish distribution list or for inquiries, email htocem@gmail.com. Additional information and schedules can be found on the parish website, www.htocem.org. Power Restoration Begins In New Orleans After Ida Wrecked Grid - Credit: Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg/Getty Images Four days after Hurricane Ida hit Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane, much of New Orleans and its surrounding areas remain in the dark, both literally and metaphorically: Power outages persist and Entergy, the corporation responsible for fueling the region, has still not said clearly when power will be restored. In this vacuum, a coalition of climate activists are maneuvering to temporarily bring approximately $1 million worth of solar equipment to the region to both immediately aid relief efforts and hopefully lay the groundwork for the kind of greener New Orleans Entergy has previously tried to stifle. More from Rolling Stone Josh Fox, the documentary filmmaker and environmental activist behind 2010s Gasland, tells Rolling Stone that his non-profit, Solutions Grassroots, along with Empowered by Light and the Footprint Project, have acquired 12 10KW solar systems, donated by Tesla, and an array of other smaller solar systems (Fox has also contributed to Rolling Stone in the past.) Linking up with local organizations, from other climate groups like the Alliance for Affordable Energy to cultural institutions, the goal is to begin distributing this solar tech around New Orleans and other hard-hit areas as soon as Sunday or Monday. People are really struggling to get information and just stay safe in this heat. There are folks who are going to the hospital because of carbon monoxide poisoning from traditional generators, Logan Burke, executive director of the Alliance for Affordable Energy, tells Rolling Stone. Were trying to to figure out a way to support folks who are there because they couldnt afford to get out, and those who are there to rebuild since we need to get power to drills, saws and those kinds of things. Rather than parachuting in and doing this with FEMA and the Red Cross and all that garbage, were working directly with the local organizations that are the most keyed in to where need is and to what specific geography these solar systems can be deployed, Fox adds. And not only as a relief organization, but as a political statement. Story continues As Fox explains, back in 2018, the New Orleans City Council approved construction on a fossil fuel-powered plant in New Orleans East, a predominately poor black and Vietnamese area. The lead-up to that approval was filled with controversy: For instance, it was revealed that Entergy had paid people to advocate for the power plant at a 2017 city council meeting, while Entergy also threatened the City Council with litigation if it adopted a policy known as the resilient renewable portfolio standard, which would have led to things like the implementation of solar micro grids. While Entergy was fined $5 million for the astroturfing stunt, the renewable energy portfolio was dropped and the plant was built. At the time, Entergy boasted that the New Orleans Power Station (NOPS) would be perfect for exactly the situation New Orleans now finds itself in: It was touted as a blackstart plant that could turn on from nothing and get power flowing through the city. But in the wake of Hurricane Ida, that has clearly not happened. Ida knocked out the companys eight transmission lines into the city, but the NOPS needed a boost from a restored transmission line coming out of neighboring Slidell across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans for the iota of power that has come back to start flowing. In a post on its website Thursday, Entergy stated the NOPS is working as designed. The company added that while the NOPS could have been used to power part of New Orleans in an island mode, and that Entergy was fully prepared to deploy NOPS in this manner, it said, Having the tie to the rest of the power grid provides a more stable and resilient supply to customers and allows us to bring in power from other sources. This is Hurricane Entergy, Fox says. We survived Hurricane Ida. Whatever happens in the next three or four weeks that goes wrong in New Orleans is Hurricane Entergy. This power system should not be broken. The power system needs to be resilient. And the power system in New Orleans should not be exacerbating the effects of climate change, which is a direct threat to New Orleans. In a statement to Rolling Stone, a rep for Entergy said that the companys top priority right now following a Category 4 hurricane is on the safe and timely restoration of power to our customers and communities. Entergy has long believed climate change poses a significant risk to our region and our planet, the company said. We see environmental stewardship and adding cleaner energy generation not as a choice, but as a responsibility and an opportunity. With any luck, the solar equipment being brought to New Orleans will temporarily alleviate some of the suffering. Burke says the 10KW solar storage systems will help power places like churches, community centers and schools where people are gathering and distributing supplies. Theyre also working to distribute smaller solar storage tech, similar to generators, that will help people charge phones in their homes, and maybe run refrigerators or fans (people will be able to keep these items for the next storm). There are also plans to get DC-connected ice chests to people, which can be useful for everything from food storage to refrigerating medications like insulin. And solar cell phone chargers, of course, are crucial for those doing all the logistical work. Were not just focused on Orleans Parish, Burke stresses. This crisis goes beyond New Orleans, it goes beyond Entergy New Orleans it is really a southeast Louisiana crisis. Were also supporting folks in the coastal parishes Plaquemines, Houma and then up in the the river parishes up in St. John and St. James. While Fox notes that the 10KW systems from Tesla are being donated on a temporary basis, he hopes this project will lead to the construction of more permanent and reliable solar infrastructure as soon as possible. New Orleans should be the greenest city in America, he says. Its one of the worst places as far as climate impact, and it should be the greenest city in the United States We want to put pressure on the mayor and put pressure on the Governor, put pressure on the city council to understand that Entergys monopoly must end and we need resilient solar electric micro grids in the city of New Orleans. These storms are coming faster and stronger, Burke adds. We need to invest in transmission systems and in distributed resources to make sure that that people have what they need before, during and after these storms. Because the the old fashioned systems are just not what is helpful to people. Entergy has the system that they wanted to build and this is what we have. Best of Rolling Stone Were streaming daily on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, and Spotify! You can also listen to it right here on The Phoblographer. When you practice something for a long time, you have to ask yourself why it works that way, says Ernest Em about his left-field techniques. Also going by the moniker 19Tones, Em creates his portraits using glass prisms. We love how he thinks outside the box. Having that creative vision allows him to deliver images that veer away from the standard portrait, making it much more compelling for the viewer. Peeking behind the curtain, Em shares the creative journey behind his work. Want to get your work featured? Heres how to do it! Glass balls, prisms and related photography accessories things that Ive never really tried using because I felt they were gimmicky. A bit of randomness in your images can always add some unexpected flares and the like, but to me, they always felt like something youd try when you ran out of ideas. Then I came across Ernest and his 19Tones portfolio. Wow, this photographer creates some stunning work with prisms. This isnt randomness; his work is organized and well scripted. Ernest has developed a signature style using these prisms; each Prismagraph image is planned and executed meticulously. The Essential Photo Gear Used by Ernest Em Ernest told us: The main criteria for choosing camera gear for me is the quality, the weight and working speed. But recently, there is a thing Im really worried about the recent new lenses from Sony does images looking very soft according to social media trends. Therefore, Ive been thinking to change my lenses. I would advise you to change them occasionally, to try new things and to experiment much more. The Phoblographer: Please tell us about yourself. How did you get into photography? Ernest Em: I go by the professional name 19TONES, also known as Ernest Em. Im 28 years old; Im Korean by origin, but I was born in Russia, and Ive lived in Moscow all my life. After graduating from the Bauman Moscow State University in 2015, I bought my first digital camera because I wanted to improve the quality of my night shots. Ive never worked in my profession. My journey into adulthood began immediately with the camera. And I never took any photography workshops or any courses. Always learn on my own. My work, inspired by neon and futuristic aesthetics, is dedicated to Urban Exploration & Portrait photography since 2015. I created 19TONES in 2016 as both a persona and an artistic mindset. In the meantime, I created the term Prismagraphy in early 2019, even though Id been practicing prismatic portraits since 2017. 19TONESs work explores familiar places in unfamiliar light & color and the feelings that arise from that reality through photography. Think of it as a tool for self-expression to rethink and transform reality. In photography, I prefer an analog approach, to shoot live with no CGI. Story continues The Phoblographer: Prismagraphy self explanatory title, but tell us what led to the creation of the first image in this series? Ernest Em: I created it because such portraits had become a large part of my art. I started using this technique in 2017, and for a year, Id been experimenting with it. I knew that photographers used a standard triangular prism to get some flares, rainbow effect or to blur an image, but it didnt make any sense personally for me as a photo artist. That just looks pretty, and thats it not enough. I started to experiment with the refraction of light and the reflection of different subjects that are around a model, for example. When you practice something for a long time, you have to ask yourself why it works that way and how it works and I did ask myself. Then I faced Newtons theory of light when a beam of white light passing through two prisms, which were held at such an angle that it split into a spectrum when passing through the first prism and was recomposed, back into white light, by the second prism. The technique and the term Prismagraphy are based on the refraction of light which is a physical phenomenon. In this case, you can get extra dimensions in 2D with a completely analog approach that makes each photo so unique. Shot live with no CGI. Prismagraphy transgresses the boundaries between the imaginary and real, toying with audience perception, it presents familiar places and subjects in an unfamiliar medium. The Phoblographer: Whats been the response to some of the commercial work youve done with this technique? Ernest Em: The audience really enjoyed it! Because its always been a challenge for me. When you take something unpopular, unrecognized, underrated, and then work with it for a long time transforming it into large projects, shoots, its always awesome. It just becomes your life, and you tell people about it sincerely. Lets say that you push boundaries in art and commercial work for independent artists. The Phoblographer: Is it mostly about creating art with unpredictable results, or do you usually have a clear concept in mind when heading out for these images. Ernest Em: Thats a good question. In order to understand the value of Prismagraphy, its very important to emphasize definite features of it. As we said above, thats a physical phenomenon which means that you can not undo your actions during the shoot. Thats still photography. Theres no Photoshop or CGI. Its impossible to repeat the exact result. Too many conditions have to come together in order to do it. I think that art is always about taking experiments. If you can know the result, then its about the craft. You can predict some elements in Prismagraphy depending on what you use for a shoot. For example, if you use a neon sign, you know that you could get some different shapes, forms or tittles of neon in your frame. Also, if you use a triangular prism, you get one result; if you use a couple of triangular prisms or just a prism with a different shape, then you get another result. Based on goals or a brief, you start planning a shoot and predict it, lets say, by 50 per cent. The rest is unpredictable because there are a lot of constantly changing conditions such as the lens, the camera, the angle, the subjects around a model, the time of day, the light, and much more. Even so, its still possible to do good projects. If you represent a brand or company which are interested in such kind of art, then work with me as an artist. Commercial Creative Project / MADE FOR Bulleit: For this project, I developed a creative concept with neon branded signs. https://19tones.com/Made-For-Bulleit Artists story and his mural. Impromptu shooting: https://19tones.com/Pokras-Lampas-Cosmonautics-Day-Korolev The Phoblographer: What is the order of precedence here lights, subject, reflections, refractions when you consider what goes into the making of each of these images? Ernest Em: The lights are very important for every photographer. I prefer to work with neon or/and projector light at night. The darker it is, the brighter neon and projector lights are. But sometimes, I just take portraits on the streets without neon or projector light. In that case, I usually go where there are interesting luminous objects. It may be a gas station, a light installation in the city, a storefront, or it may happen in the subway, for example. The Phoblographer: Do you aim to get most of these results in-camera as much as possible? Typically how much production goes into the setup for some of the more complex images Ernest Em: I always do. Thats exactly how it works. In the rarest of cases, you can fix a reflection or background on post-production, but its normal for every photographer who works professionally. If we consider a complex project with 10 neon portraits, it can take a month. You usually need to order a neon sign, control the quality of it, then you need to scout locations and move around the city with the neon sign and your team. The process takes around 3 weeks, from creating the neon sign to having portraits on post-production. Most photographers prefer standard photography lenses for taking portraits as 35mm, 50mm or 85mm. But I decided to take portraits with a wide-angle lens, the 24mm f/1.4. It makes my portrait photography more atmospheric getting more details in to it than ever. But it takes time to learn how to shoot with that lens. The 55mm f/1.8 is what I use very seldom, to be honest, since I have the 24mm f/1.4. The Phoblographer: From where do you draw inspiration for creating your next prismagraphy idea? Ernest Em: In my opinion, to be inspired in the right direction, you have to be inspired not by photographers or photography but by other mediums. I usually try not to follow photographers, so I dont borrow ideas. Im used to rethinking things. A persons story is more important to me. Then, of course, its movies and music, artists from another medium. The Phoblographer: Youve done some creative collaborations with other artists. Which were the ones that garnered the best feedback for you? Ernest Em: I think that one of the best is the TRIPTYCH DISPERSIN (ptics) I made in collaboration with L-Bank. If we consider partnerships too, then I would call the project on Porsche Taycan. In that project, two photographers have participated, the concept is common, but photographs are taken by individuals. The Phoblographer: Is the shift nowadays towards creating more prismagraphy during night more than during the day? Ernest Em: Definitely, yes. Prismagraphy is a term Ive created for photographs taken with prismatic glass because its a large part of my art. Its very important to see a video of shooting process. Prismagraphy is a kind of analog photography based on refraction of light. Its like an interactive experience of a real-world environment. Its as if they are enhanced by photoshop-generated perceptual information, but its not the case. You literally use different prismatic & reflective materials to get a complex image. Those materials refracting the light are your paint and a brush. You paint before you do post-production The Phoblographer: Have you considered converting some of these into animated NFTs? Do you think theyre just a fad, or are there here to stay? Ernest Em: Yes, I have. I already did it with a couple of portraits. I created the collection called Kaleidoscopes. It includes several animated portraits that based on the refraction of light and the phenomenon of dispersion (in optics). Two approaches to image processing are considered, both analog and digital this engenders dualism and combines the techniques in one piece of art. The collection is represented on https://knownorigin.io/19tones. Like all art, prismagraphy is subjective. All I know right now is that I am going to keep creating Prismagraphy portraits. We all need to become independent artists as much as we can. The Phoblographer: The randomness of the lights and the reflections can produce some vivid results, but what is that key factor which makes you satisfied with the result after a click? Ernest Em: Thats when I see that I have worked with space out of my camera too. I mean that when you successfully add something that your camera doesnt see. I call it The desire to escape from 2D. It means that reality is transformed enough. All images supplied by Ernest Em. Used with permission. Please visit his website, Instagram, Behance and Youtube pages to see more of his work It's only natural that many investors, especially those who are new to the game, prefer to buy shares in 'sexy' stocks with a good story, even if those businesses lose money. And in their study titled Who Falls Prey to the Wolf of Wall Street?' Leuz et. al. found that it is 'quite common' for investors to lose money by buying into 'pump and dump' schemes. In the age of tech-stock blue-sky investing, my choice may seem old fashioned; I still prefer profitable companies like California Water Service Group (NYSE:CWT). While that doesn't make the shares worth buying at any price, you can't deny that successful capitalism requires profit, eventually. Conversely, a loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the sweet milk of external capital may run sour. View our latest analysis for California Water Service Group How Quickly Is California Water Service Group Increasing Earnings Per Share? As one of my mentors once told me, share price follows earnings per share (EPS). Therefore, there are plenty of investors who like to buy shares in companies that are growing EPS. As a tree reaches steadily for the sky, California Water Service Group's EPS has grown 28% each year, compound, over three years. As a general rule, we'd say that if a company can keep up that sort of growth, shareholders will be smiling. Careful consideration of revenue growth and earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margins can help inform a view on the sustainability of the recent profit growth. California Water Service Group shareholders can take confidence from the fact that EBIT margins are up from 12% to 23%, and revenue is growing. That's great to see, on both counts. The chart below shows how the company's bottom and top lines have progressed over time. Click on the chart to see the exact numbers. Of course the knack is to find stocks that have their best days in the future, not in the past. You could base your opinion on past performance, of course, but you may also want to check this interactive graph of professional analyst EPS forecasts for California Water Service Group. Story continues Are California Water Service Group Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders? It makes me feel more secure owning shares in a company if insiders also own shares, thusly more closely aligning our interests. As a result, I'm encouraged by the fact that insiders own California Water Service Group shares worth a considerable sum. To be specific, they have US$32m worth of shares. That shows significant buy-in, and may indicate conviction in the business strategy. Even though that's only about 1.0% of the company, it's enough money to indicate alignment between the leaders of the business and ordinary shareholders. It's good to see that insiders are invested in the company, but are remuneration levels reasonable? Well, based on the CEO pay, I'd say they are indeed. For companies with market capitalizations between US$2.0b and US$6.4b, like California Water Service Group, the median CEO pay is around US$5.2m. The California Water Service Group CEO received US$3.8m in compensation for the year ending . That seems pretty reasonable, especially given its below the median for similar sized companies. CEO compensation is hardly the most important aspect of a company to consider, but when its reasonable that does give me a little more confidence that leadership are looking out for shareholder interests. It can also be a sign of good governance, more generally. Does California Water Service Group Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist? For growth investors like me, California Water Service Group's raw rate of earnings growth is a beacon in the night. If that's not enough, consider also that the CEO pay is quite reasonable, and insiders are well-invested alongside other shareholders. This may only be a fast rundown, but the takeaway for me is that California Water Service Group is worth keeping an eye on. You still need to take note of risks, for example - California Water Service Group has 3 warning signs (and 1 which can't be ignored) we think you should know about. Although California Water Service Group certainly looks good to me, I would like it more if insiders were buying up shares. If you like to see insider buying, too, then this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying, could be exactly what you're looking for. Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. (Reuters) - Match Group Inc on Friday filed a letter with Dutch competition authorities saying it believes the regulator has reached a decision in a complaint against Apple Inc and asked for the decision to be made public, according to documents seen by Reuters. Match Group, which owns the popular dating service Tinder, filed a complaint with the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) in 2020 alleging that Apple had violated Dutch antitrust laws by forcing Match to use Apple's in-app payment systems and pay commissions to Apple. In the letter filed on Friday, Match said it believes that enough time has passed that the Dutch regulator is legally required to have reached a decision. The company asked the regulator to adopt a decision and make it known to Match within two weeks. The ACM did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment outside of normal business hours. (Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Mark Porter) (Bloomberg) -- Sign up for the New Economy Daily newsletter, follow us @economics and subscribe to our podcast. Business activity in Saudi Arabia last month grew at the weakest pace in 10 months as lower export demand weighed on the kingdoms non-oil economy. A Purchasing Managers Index compiled by IHS Markit fell to 54.1 in August from 55.8 in the previous month, remaining above 50, the mark that separates growth from contraction. The survey showed employment growth remained negligible while stocks of purchases rose at the slowest pace since October. The non-oil economy went slightly off the boil in August, as output growth slipped to the weakest level for 10 months amid a slowdown in new business gains, wrote David Owen, economist at IHS Markit. Whilst domestic orders remained strong and firms saw an upturn in tourist numbers, many businesses continued to find market conditions challenging amid the pandemic. Owen also wrote: Demand momentum is still largely on the upside, with nearly three times as many firms seeing a rise in new orders as those registering a fall.Job creation disappointed again in August, due to a further fall in backlog volumes and a subdued outlook for future activity. Whilst firms expect an improvement in domestic business conditions in the coming months, the unpredictability of the pandemic meant that downside risks remained high. In neighboring United Arab Emirates, business activity grew at the fastest pace since late 2019 amid a sharp increase in new work. The UAEs PMI survey was at 53.8 in August compared to 54 in July. Business confidence slipped again in August to the lowest in five months, but the outlook remained positive as companies hoped the Expo 2020 event would bring in investments. (Updates chart, UAE PMI.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Subscribe now to stay ahead with the most trusted business news source. 2021 Bloomberg L.P. NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against DiDi Global Inc. f/k/a Xiaoju Kuaizhi Inc. ("DiDi" or the "Company") (NYSE: DIDI) and certain of its officers and directors. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and docketed under 21-cv-06603, is a securities class action brought by Plaintiff under Sections 11 and 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") and under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") on behalf of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired publicly traded DiDi securities: (a) pursuant and/or traceable to the registration statement and prospectus (collectively, the "Registration Statement") issued in connection with the Company's June 2021 initial public offering (the "IPO" or the "Offering"); and/or (b) between June 30, 2021 and July 21, 2021, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Fighting for victims of securities fraud for more than 85 years (PRNewsfoto/Pomerantz LLP) If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired DiDi securities (a) pursuant and/or traceable to the Registration Statement issued in connection with the IPO, and/or (b) during the Class Period, you have until September 7, 2021 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here for information about joining the class action] DiDi purports to be the world's largest mobility technology platform. Its four key components are: shared mobility, auto solutions, electronic mobility, and autonomous driving. The Company claims to be the "go-to brand in China for shared mobility," offering a range of services including ride hailing, taxi hailing, chauffeur, hitch, and other forms of shared mobility services. Story continues On June 10, 2021, DiDi (then named Xiaoju Kuaizhi Inc.) filed a registration statement on Form F-1 with the SEC to register its Class A ordinary shares, which, collectively with subsequently filed amendments on Forms F-1/A and F-1MEF, a registration statement on Form F-6, and a June 30, 2021 prospectus on Form 424B4 (the "Prospectus"), forms part of the registration statement for the Company's IPO (the "Registration Statement"). In the IPO and pursuant to the Registration Statement, including the Prospectus, the Company sold approximately 316,800,000 American Depositary Shares ("ADSs" or "shares") at a price of $14.00 per share, not including the underwriters' option to sell an additional 47,520,000 ADSs. The Company received proceeds of approximately $4,331.6 million from the Offering, net of underwriting discounts and commissions. The complaint alleges that the Registration Statement was materially false and misleading and omitted to state material adverse facts. Throughout the Class Period, including in the Registration Statement, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (i) DiDi's apps did not comply with applicable laws and regulations governing privacy protection and the collection of personal information; (ii) the Cyberspace Administration of China ("CAC") had already asked DiDi weeks or months prior to the IPO to delay its IPO to conduct a self-examination of its network security and because of national security concerns; (iii) the Company was likely to incur heightened regulatory scrutiny and adverse regulatory action by ignoring the CAC's request to postpone the IPO; (iv) as a result of the foregoing, DiDi's apps were reasonably likely to be taken down from app stores in the People's Republic of China (the "PRC" or "China"), which would have an adverse effect on its financial results and operations; and (v) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. On July 2, 2021, multiple news outlets reported that the CAC had posted an announcement that the CAC had launched an investigation into DiDi to protect national security and the public interest. Also on July 2, 2021, DiDi issued a press release entitled "DiDi announces CyberSecurity Review in China," confirming that the Company was under investigation and stating that "pursuant to the announcement posted by the PRC's Cyberspace Administration Office on July 2, 2021, DiDi is subject to cybersecurity review by the authority." The Company's press release also states "[d]uring the review, DiDi is required to suspend new user registration in China." On this news, the Company's share price fell $0.87 per share, or approximately 5.3%, to close at $15.53 per share on July 2, 2021, on unusually heavy trading volume. On Sunday, July 4, 2021, DiDi issued a press release entitled "DiDi Announces App Takedown in China[,]" which announced, in relevant part, that the CAC ordered smartphone app stores to stop offering the "DiDi Chuxing" app because the DiDi app "collect[ed] personal information in violation of relevant PRC laws and regulations." Though users who previously downloaded the DiDi app could continue to use it, DiDi stated that "the app takedown may have an adverse impact on its revenue in China." On July 5, 2021, The Wall Street Journal reported that "[w]eeks before Didi Global, Inc. went public in the U.S., China's cybersecurity watchdog suggested the Chinese ride-hailing giant delay its initial public offering and urged it to conduct a thorough self-examination of its network security, according to people with knowledge of the matter." Subsequently, Bloomberg and other sources reported on July 6, 2021, that the CAC had asked DiDi at least three months earlier to delay its IPO because of national security concerns. On this news, the Company's share price fell $3.04 per share, or 19.6%, to close at $12.49 per share on July 6, 2021, on unusually heavy trading volume. On July 9, 2021, The Wall Street Journal published an article entitled "China Orders Stores to Remove More Apps Operated by Didi: Cyber watchdog says the apps illegally collect personal data" which reported, among other things, that "China ordered mobile app stores to remove 25 more apps operated by Didi Global Inc.'s [] China arm, saying the apps illegally collect personal data, escalating its regulatory actions against the ride-hailing company"; that "[t]he cyber watchdog also banned websites and platforms from providing access to Didi-linked services in China"; that "Didi said it will follow the authorities' orders" and "guarantees personal data security"; that "[t]he latest regulatory actions could further dent Didi's business in its home market, which the company relies heavily on for revenue"; and that "[s]ome rivals have already started marketing more aggressively in recent days in an effort to steal market share." On July 12, 2021, before market hours, the Company issued a press release entitled "Didi Announces Takedown of Additional Apps in China" which announced, inter alia, that "the CAC stated that it was confirmed that 25 apps operated by the Company in China, including the apps used by users and drivers, had the problem of collecting personal information in serious violation of relevant PRC laws and regulations"; that "[p]ursuant to the PRC's Cybersecurity Law, the CAC notified app stores to take down these apps and cease to provide viewing and downloading service in China" and required the Company to "rectify the problem to ensure the security of users' personal information"; and that "[t]he Company expects that the app takedown may have an adverse impact on its revenue in China." On this news, the Company's share price fell $0.87 per share, or approximately 7.23%, to close at $11.16 per share on July 12, 2021, further damaging investors. On July 16, 2021, The Wall Street Journal published an article entitled "China Sends State Security, Police Officials to Didi for Cybersecurity Probe" which reported, among other things, that "China sent regulators including state security and police officials to Didi Global Inc.'s [] ride-hailing business on Friday as part of a cybersecurity investigation"; that "[p]otential outcomes include financial penalties, suspensions of business licenses and criminal charges"; and that "[t]he large number of ministries participating in the probe also highlights the breadth of the data Didi holds and that is now coming under regulatory scrutiny." On July 18, 2021, The Wall Street Journal published an article entitled "In the New China, Didi's Data Becomes a Problem" which reported on the amount and types of data the Company holds and compiles, including that, among other things, "[u]sers turn over their cellphone numbers, which in China are linked to their real names and identifications"; that "[t]hey also often voluntarily share photos, frequent destinations such as home and office, their gender, age, occupation and companies"; that "[t]o use other Didi services such as carpooling or bike sharing, customers might also have to share other personal information including facial-recognition data"; that "[d]rivers must give Didi their real names, vehicle information, criminal records, and credit- and bank-card information"; that "[t]he 25 million daily rides on its platform in China feed a database of pickup points, destinations, routes, distance and duration"; and that "a Guangdong province transportation official said the company hadn't fully complied with regulations . . . ." On this news, the Company's share price fell $0.91 per share, or 7.6%, to close at $11.06 per share on July 19, 2021, further damaging investors. Finally, on July 22, 2021, before market hours, Bloomberg published an article entitled "China Weighs Unprecedented Penalty for Didi After U.S. IPO" which reported, inter alia, that "Chinese regulators are considering serious, perhaps unprecedented, penalties for Didi Global Inc. after its controversial initial public offering last month"; that "[r]egulators are weighing a range of potential punishments, including a fine, suspension of certain operations or the introduction of a state-owned investor"; that "[a]lso possible is a forced delisting or withdrawal of Didi's U.S. shares"; and that "Beijing is likely to impose harsher sanctions on Didi than on Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., which swallowed a record $2.8 billion fine[.]" On this news, the Company's share price fell $3.44 per share, or nearly 30%, over the next two trading days to close at $8.06 per share on July 23, 2021, further damaging investors. As of the time the Complaint was filed, the price of DiDi ADSs continues to trade below the $14.00 per ADS Offering price, damaging investors. Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com 888-476-6529 ext. 7980 Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shareholder-alert--pomerantz-law-firm-reminds-shareholders-with-losses-on-their-investment-in-didi-global-inc-fka-xiaoju-kuaizhi-inc-of-class-action-lawsuit-and-upcoming-deadline--didi-301369499.html SOURCE Pomerantz LLP NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Piedmont Lithium Inc. ("Piedmont" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: PLL). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. Fighting for victims of securities fraud for more than 85 years (PRNewsfoto/Pomerantz LLP) The investigation concerns whether Piedmont and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] In 2020, Piedmont signed a deal to supply Tesla Inc. with lithium sourced from its deposits in North Carolina. Then, on July 20, 2021, Reuters reported that Piedmont "has not applied for a state mining permit or a necessary zoning variance in Gaston County, just west of Charlotte, despite telling investors since 2018 that it was on the verge of doing so." Reuters further reported that "[f]ive of the seven members of the county's board of commissioners, who control zoning changes, say they may block or delay the project because Piedmont has not told them what levels of dust, noise and vibrations will occur, nor how water and air quality would be affected." On this news, Piedmont's stock price fell $12.56 per share, or 19.91%, to close at $50.52 per share on July 20, 2021. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. Story continues CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com 888-476-6529 ext. 7980 Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-on-behalf-of-investors-of-piedmont-lithium-inc---pll-301369508.html SOURCE Pomerantz LLP NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Nano-X Imaging Ltd. ("Nano-X" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: NNOX). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. Fighting for victims of securities fraud for more than 85 years (PRNewsfoto/Pomerantz LLP) The investigation concerns whether Nano-X and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On August 19, 2021, Nano-X reported that the Company has "received a request for additional information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (the 'FDA') concerning the Company's last 510(k) submission of its multi-source device, Nanox.ARC. The submission file is placed on hold pending a complete response to the FDA's list of deficiencies. The Company's response is due within 180 days from the date of the request for additional information." On this news, Nano-X's stock price fell $2.25 per share, or 9.5%, to close at $21.43 per share on August 19, 2021. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-on-behalf-of-investors-of-nano-x-imaging-ltd---nnox-301369521.html SOURCE Pomerantz LLP NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Activision Blizzard, Inc. ("Activision" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: ATVI). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. Fighting for victims of securities fraud for more than 85 years (PRNewsfoto/Pomerantz LLP) The investigation concerns whether Activision and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On July 20, 2021, California's Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a lawsuit against Activision Blizzard, alleging that female employees of Activision Blizzard are subjected to "constant sexual harassment," while Activision Blizzard's top executives and human resources personnel not only knew about the harassment and failed to prevent it, but also retaliated against employees who complained. The lawsuit alleges violations of the Equal Pay Act and the Fair Employment and Housing Act. On this news, Activision Blizzard's stock price fell sharply over the following trading sessions, damaging investors. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP rswilloughby@pomlaw.com Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shareholder-alert-pomerantz-law-firm-investigates-claims-on-behalf-of-investors-of-activision-blizzard-inc---atvi-301369526.html SOURCE Pomerantz LLP Every few years, I invite readers and colleagues to contribute guest columns in the series Technology and my Hobby/Passion. Over a hundred contributed in the last decade on their birding, charities, cooking, music, sports and every other passion, and how it keeps evolving with technology. Click here and scroll down to read them all. This time it is Dennis Howlett, recently retired from Diginomica, which he co-founded. He is a repeat contributor to this series. Twelve years ago, it was about home brewing. This time, it is just as exotic - scale modeling - mostly tanks and armored vehicles in his case: At the end of February 2021, after 51 years working, the last eight of which felt like 24x7x365, I retired. Planning for that event was two years in the making, part of which included picking up a hobby I left behind almost 50 years ago - scale modeling. As a Baby Boomer, the second World War was merely 15 years past when I started modeling. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, the kit choices available in the UK were Airfix or Revell, predominantly in 1/72 scale, often British and German aircraft with some historic ships like the Cutty Sark and HMS Victory thrown in for good measure. Tamiya, which today is one of the most popular kit makers, only started issuing plastic scale kits in 1960. Firms like Dragon, ICM, RyeField Model, and many others would come much later. Back in the '50s and '60s, modeling was very much a child's thing, aimed towards education rather than a craft. Over the years, things have changed out of all recognition. Coming back into the hobby, I was amazed at the advances made in kit quality and the technology available to hobbyists. If you're so inclined today, there is no limit to feeding your imagination or the amount of time and money you can put into the hobby. It's not unusual to buy a kit for $50 and then spend twice that amount on aftermarket components and paint. Sounds a bit like your ERP project - right? Why scale modeling for someone like myself who's spent a lifetime applying what passes for gray matter? The answer comes in three parts: First, my father, brother and, son are (or were) artists in their different ways. At the risk of sounding boastful, my father was a world-class mechanical engineer, handcrafting satellite components that are still flying after 30 years. My brother designs and builds some of the world's most sought after ukuleles at prices to match. My son is a top-grade cabinet maker and graphic artist. Me? Art is something I buy. But modeling provides a ready-made, almost paint by numbers canvas on which I can pretend that I am making art. Second, I'm a lifelong learner, and the prospect of retirement without learning was abhorrent to me and stamp collecting or flower pressing don't cut it. Third, and building on the learning theme, my father was a 'tanker' at the end of WWII and part of the British Army Of the Rhine, stationed for years in northern Germany in the immediate post-war period. In common with many others of his generation, he never talked about what happened except for the fun parts. At school in the 1960s, history stopped at 1914. If you look at the 1914-45 period, it represented an explosion in military technology. So for me, that period represents a black hole but in which there is a strong family connection. Here are three models of different vintages: British RNAS WW I armored car German Panzer 38(t) tank Soviet JS-2 tank Today, with YouTube, podcasting, and other media, there is a wealth of content available that helps contextualize the military machines used in the last two world wars, providing excellent insights into how technology, economics, leadership, and politics played into the outcomes of those tragic conflicts. For instance, modern historians argue that a critical reason Germany lost WWII lay in its inability to standardize armor production. At the same time, the Soviets churned out 'good enough' armor by the tens of thousands. Germany often over-engineered (but under-designed) their armored vehicles, while the Soviets built theirs with a clear, practical expectation of utility at a bargain-basement price. German leadership constantly tinkered with designs, the Soviets had no such issues. The good news for modelers is that Germany's approach is reflected in the bewildering array of panzer variants available today in kit form. I know of a Canadian modeler whose obsession is the Stug III and he has more in his collection than anyone else I have come across. His knowledge is encyclopedic on this subject. But wait a minute. If you're in high technology today, doesn't that interpretation pf how armor was developed and deployed sound a tad familiar? Check out this tidbit from Dwight D. Eisenhower that talks to emerging technology from the perspective of someone who had an itch to scratch. Complicating the problem of the breakout on the American front was the prevalence of formidable hedgerows in the bocage country. Our tanks could help but little. Each, attempting to penetrate a hedgerow, was forced to climb almost vertically, thus exposing the unprotected belly of the tank and rendering it easy prey to any type of armor-piercing bullet. Equally exasperating was the fact that, with the tank snout thrust skyward, it was impossible to bring guns to bear upon the enemy; crews were helpless to defend themselves or to destroy the German. In this dilemma an American sergeant named Culin came forth with a simple invention that restored the effectiveness of the tank and gave a tremendous boost to morale throughout the Army. It consisted merely in fastening to the front of the tank two sturdy blades of steel which, acting somewhat as scythes, cut through the bank of earth and hedges. This not only allowed the tank to penetrate the obstacle on an even keel and with its guns ring, but actually allowed it to carry forward, for some distance, a natural camouage of amputated hedge! How often do we see this today in the world of high technology innovation? I used to hear such stories frequently so, in a sense, modeling feeds into my understanding of how innovation evolves or revolutionizes situations in the real world. Here's another more rudimentary example and comparison. During WWII, Germany was afraid that its enemies would use magnetic mines to destroy its tanks. It invented a factory-applied coating called Zimmerit, which was supposed to solve the expected problem. It added to cost but turned out to be a solution looking for a problem that didn't materialize to any great extent. On the other hand, the Soviets and Americans had good reason to fear the panzerfaust with its ability to knock out armor at short range, as used in urban warfare. The solution? Bedspring armor where bedspring frames were commandeered and welded to the turret and sides of tanks, areas which are vulnerable to panzerfaust attacks. Simple, almost cost-free, and effective. Today, the principle of applying a slat armor layer takes its cues from that 75-year-old idea. By now, you should see a pattern that is not unique to high technology but reflects what happens when innovation meets necessity, or not, as the case may be. More broadly, when you consider the history of armor from its first large-scale deployments in the Great War and right up to the present day, there are opportunities for modelers to dive deep into the history of innovation across multiple domains. On the modeling side, innovation is running at an accelerated pace. For example, in the last couple of years, innovation in paint technology means that the ability to create remarkably realistic dirt and grime effects is becoming easy. Mig AMMO, a Spanish firm, is leading the way. Its latest 'shaders,' which were recently released, can be applied using an airbrush. This is much faster than applying oil or enamel paints, although it is an open question whether the modeler has the same degree of fine control over the effect. BTW below is my new office. My paint bench and a stash of projects waiting to tackled and below that is my building bench with a Soviet T-34-85 in progress and at the bottom, my display case. In Poland, VMS Supplies has developed a simple 'paint and chip' system that allows modelers to create realistic metal chipping effects in a fraction of the time needed when using other methods. I like the results I get from this technique, although it's not a 'one-size fits all' solution. In Latvia, Copper State Models produces a line of highly detailed and delicate WWI armor, while in Russia, MasterClub is setting the gold standard for aftermarket soft metal tank tracks. What strikes me in all this is that many of the most exciting innovations are coming out of former Eastern Bloc countries. The same goes for modelers who are widely regarded as rockstars in the armor hobby community. These folk, many of whom are in the Gen Z cohort, make extensive use of modern media and distribution systems like YouTube, alongside Patreon, which some use to turn their passion into a viable income stream. Martin Kovac, who goes by the moniker Night Shift, takes this to a whole new place with a combination of incredible technique, art, and attention to detail. Martin goes several steps further, making his videos and Patreon posts both entertaining and educational. But most important is his commitment to answering emails and messages that, in turn, add a human, humble touch that contrasts sharply with some of the prima donnas I've come across in the tech world. I suspect this is because modeling is a dynamic hobby where everyone is constantly learning and keen to get help or feedback on techniques and outcomes. How well Martin's model scales is unknown. Right now, he's sitting on 160,000 YouTube subscribers and 871 Patreon supporters. He tells me he's learning how to pace himself and not allow the commitment he's made to become a burden that leads to burnout. The modeling world is not without controversy. For those interested in historical accuracy, there are many blogs, Facebook groups, and forums where you can find enthusiasts willing to expound on why a particular kit is 'inaccurate.' For example, Border Model - a relatively new vendor - recently produced an amazingly detailed Tiger 1 that is meant to represent tanks that fought in the Battle of Kursk. Purists have jumped in to point out the 'inaccuracies' with this kit. I get it, but then I'm equally aware that historical accuracy is often an illusion. And just where is the intersection between art and accuracy? As you might imagine, I see numerous parallels between modeling and the world of high technology. It's something where you can go cheap and cheerful but don't expect great results. Or, you can go full-on customization through aftermarket additions, kit modifications, or scratch building componentry to achieve an outcome that shines, all the while having learning opportunities that expand the range of possibilities, even as your pocketbook is being drained. As with any IT project, planning, discipline in execution, and attention to detail are vital ingredients to achieving a stand-out result. And once you've got that great project done, there is satisfaction in knowing that you achieved something worthwhile that can be shared and appreciated by fellow modelers. Right now I have a Centurion Mk 1 (my father's tank type)(I am holding one in the photo at top) and a Soviet T-34/85, the type that entered Berlin in 1945, on the bench, pretty much ready for paint. They've both been a lot of fun while presenting new build challenges for how I imagine them once complete. I have another 26 armor vehicles to go at so plenty of road ahead. Onwards! If you see the state of our roads, if you see the state of our hospitals, you realize that after 72 years, its time to wake up, he said. We have to wake up. Observers, though say the tensions between Guineas president and the army colonel stemmed from a recent proposal to cut some military salaries. On Sunday morning, heavy gunfire broke out near the presidential palace and went on for hours, sparking fears in a nation that already has seen multiple coups and presidential assassination attempts. The Defense Ministry initially claimed that the attack had been repelled by security forces, but uncertainty grew when there was no subsequent sign of Conde on state television or radio. The developments that followed closely mirrored other military coup detats in West Africa: The army colonel and his colleagues seized control of the airwaves, professing their commitment to democratic values and announcing their name: The National Committee for Rally and Development. It was a dramatic setback for Guinea, where many had hoped the country had turned the page on military power grabs. THE TRADITION of faith communities providing homes for their religious leaders predates the Constitution itself. And for over 150 years, the Supreme Court of the United States has protected the rights of churches to determine in good faith who serves as their ministers. Unfortunately, city officials in Fredericksburg believe they have the authority to ignore history and the law by entangling themselves in the inner workings of a church and its doctrine to make such decisions themselves. Whats worse, Virginia courts have favored the citys interpretation of the churchs Book of Church Order over the churchs understanding of its own doctrine and practice. New Life in Christ Church owns a parsonage on Franklin Street in Fredericksburg, adjacent to the campus of the University of Mary Washington. The church purchased the property to facilitate its ministry to college students, and the home is currently occupied by its college ministers, a married couple. The couple opens their home to college students, hosting regular Bible studies and times of worship at the parsonage. Their activities are fundamentally religious in nature, and New Life recognizes the couple as ministers of their church. The PRO Act would also force Virginia employers to give out their employees personal information to union officials during organizing drives, including their home and email addresses, phone numbers, and even work shifts and locations. That means workers, and even their families, could face the potential for union strong-arm tactics at any time or place, even their own homes. Both of these provisions are clearly designed to chip away at workers freedom of choice, as well as their right to privacy, in order to make it easier for unions to force workers into unionization. And if that werent bad enough, the PRO Act would also insert an unelected government official into labor contract negotiations that last longer than 120 days. That is the last thing Virginia businesses or workers need. It is unfair to expect individuals with no working knowledge of a business or industry to have the experience or insight necessary to make such critical decisions. Whats more, employees would have no way to approve of or change the terms of these contracts. Employers would not be able to contest the terms if they cannot afford them. Yet again, the only ones who stand to gain anything from this arrangement are the unions. Hard questions on Afghanistan withdrawal Thirteen U.S. service members and numerous Afghan civilians were killed in Kabul, Afghanistan, following a chaotic withdrawal of American troops. Should we be out of Afghanistan? Most people say yes, but most feel that the way it was done was poorly executed and not the usual way the military does business. The military is trained to do these evacuation operations. So why was the United States departure from Afghanistan so ill-conceived? There are questions that need to be answered, and the media needs to be directing those tough questions to the folks in charge. As a combat veteran, I know that leaders are ultimately responsible for all that happens on their watch. No matter how inconvenient, accountability must be established as we go forward. My ultimate concern is that with the departure of the U.S., NATO and international press from this embattled nation, the lives of U.S. citizens, green card holders, and Afghan allies who assisted us will be in grave danger and subject to Taliban reprisals. Vice President Kamala Harris will visit California's Bay Area next week to campaign with Gov. Gavin Newsom, who faces possible removal from office in a Sept. 14 recall election. Symone Sanders, Harris' chief spokesperson, tweeted Saturday that the vice president would visit on Wednesday. Sanders later confirmed that the trip is for Newsom's political benefit. Newsom was expected to appear with the vice president, Newsom campaign spokesman Nathan Click said. Harris had been set to campaign with Newsom in late August on her way back to the U.S. after a week of events and appearances in Singapore and Vietnam. But she postponed the California stop and returned to Washington because of events in Afghanistan as the U.S. raced to evacuate Americans, allies and vulnerable Afghans before an Aug. 31 deadline. President Joe Biden supports Newsom, a fellow Democrat and first-term governor, and the White House said late last month that Biden would travel to California on Newsom's behalf. Pakistan officials say at least three paramilitary soldiers were killed when a suicide bomber on a motorbike blew himself up in the countrys restive southwest. Pakistans Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid told reporters on September 5 that 20 others, including civilians, were wounded in the blast. Rashid said the target of the attack was a security checkpoint manned by the Frontier Corps (FC) in the district of Mustang in Balochistan Province. The Tehrik-e Taliban (TTP) militant group, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it targeted the FC personnel with an explosive [suicide] vest and explosive-laden motorcycle." The resource-rich Balochistan Province, which borders Afghanistan and Iran, has been plagued by sectarian violence, attacks by Islamist militants, and a separatist insurgency that has caused thousands of casualties since 2004. The province has also been the scene of attacks by the TTP, which has ideological and operational links with the Afghan Taliban. The TTP renewed its allegiance to the Afghan Taliban after the fall of Kabul on August 15. The TTP has stepped up its campaign against Pakistani security forces in Balochistan, carrying out scores of deadly attacks in recent months. On August 26, three members of the paramilitary Levies forces were killed when their vehicle struck a land mine in Balochistan's Ziarat district. During the same week, a Pakistani Army captain was killed when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device (IED) planted in the Gichik area of Balochistan. Based on reporting by Dawn and Geo TV Pope Francis has called on countries to take in refugees from Afghanistan, where the Taliban militant group has seized power after the fall of the internationally recognized government in Kabul. The pope, in an apparent reference to the Talibans curtailment of girls education, also said he hoped young Afghans receive an education, which is essential for human development. "In these moments of upheaval, in which Afghans are seeking refuge, I pray for the most vulnerable among them," he told hundreds of people in St. Peter's Square for his weekly blessing on September 5. "I pray that many countries welcome them and protect those who are seeking a new life, he added. The pope has been a strong advocate for the rights of refugees and migrants. The United States and other NATO member states evacuated tens of thousands of Afghans at risk of Taliban reprisals from Kabul, during a frantic and deadly evacuation effort that ended on August 30. But tens of thousands of other endangered Afghans were left behind. They along with thousands of others escaping a devastating humanitarian crisis, economic collapse, and the prospect of life under hard-line Taliban rule are pouring into neighboring Pakistan and Iran. From Iran, some Afghans will pay smugglers to take them as far as Turkey and Western Europe. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimates that 2021 could see up to 1.5 million Afghans fleeing westward in search of safety and jobs. Based on reporting by Reuters and AP Elementary school students enrolled in Colorado Springs District 11 will now all be required to wear masks, district officials announced Friday evening. Secondary students could see the same requirement come through on Saturday. In an update to a staff mask mandate announced on Wednesday, district officials said on Friday that elementary school students would also need to wear masks, effective Tuesday, regardless of their vaccination status. They added that another day above a rate of 250 new cases per day in El Paso County would spell the same order being extended to middle and high school students. Regardless of individual feelings on masks/face coverings, the fact remains when all people in a classroom are masked, students will not have to quarantine unless they develop symptoms, officials said in a Friday message to district families. The requirement for elementary school students, like the one for district staff that also starts Tuesday, will be in effect for 30 days, after which officials will re-evaluate whether or not to renew it based on community transmission of COVID-19. The district said that schools have been provided with disposable masks for those who lose theirs or who forget to mask up. Students and staff will be able to take their masks off when theyre eating, outside on designated mask breaks, or during instruction that requires special attention to articulation, like phonics. Students and staff will also be able to remove masks when theyre alone in a closed room, or when socially distanced in cubicles. On Wednesday, district officials warned that a mask mandate for elementary-age students might be on the horizon if coronavirus case rates continued on the upward trend county data showed theyd maintained through much of August. That prediction came to pass on Friday after county COVID-19 data reached five consecutive days above a seven-day rate of 200 cases per day. Now, officials say a similar mask mandate could be next for the districts secondary students, if the county COVID-19 community transmission levels reaches five consecutive days above a weekly average of 250 new cases per day. As of Friday, El Paso County had seen four consecutive days with a one-week average new-case rate over 250. D-11 officials said they also anticipated a middle and high-school mask requirement to go into effect Tuesday. Colorado Springs police responded to a road rage incident southeast of downtown Saturday afternoon that left one person injured. Police responded to a call at around 8:45 a.m. Saturday that at least two men, one of whom was 48 years old, had been involved in a car-versus-pedestrian crash. While police were on their way to the scene, at South Prospect and Santa Fe streets, they were told the incident turned into a disturbance, and that shots may have been fired. When police arrived on scene, they found the 48-year-old man injured in the road after having been dragged by a car and then shot. The mans injuries werent life threatening, police said, and he was driven to a local hospital in an ambulance. Hes now in a stable condition. Police said theres no current danger to the public, and that major crime investigators are actively looking for the other man involved in the incident. So far, police said no one has been arrested. Two people were injured after a driver crashed into a light pole in Cimarron Hills early Saturday morning. The crash happened, Gazette news partner KKTV reported, after the driver of the car was spotted driving recklessly by police and took off on Tutt Boulevard after an officer tried to pull the car over near North Carefree Circle. As it sped away, police said the car crashed into a light pole at the intersection of Tutt and Barnes Road, just over a half-mile away. The driver and a passenger of the car were injured in the crash and transported to the hospital, police said. Police closed the intersection for several hours while investigators looked into the crash. So far, police say that speed was a factor in the crash, and are investigating whether or not intoxication also played a role. In El Paso County, people who are 65 and older only make up about 14 percent of the population. There are more than twice as many people who a FILE - A helicopter flies over the Pentagon in Washington as smoke billows over the building on Sept. 11, 2001, after a hijacked airliner crashed into the west side of the building, killing 184 people. Most Americans were guided through the events of the day by one of three men: Tom Brokaw of NBC News, Peter Jennings of ABC and Dan Rather of CBS. Each had extensive reporting experience before that, Brokaw and Rather were at the White House during Watergate, and Jennings has been a foreign correspondent. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close 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. When minor children disagree with their parents opposition to vaccination, they must look to statutes or case law for assistance, and may find it lacking. As of 2021, roughly one-third of U.S. states have passed laws establishing the mature minor doctrine: a legal framework allowing minors to independently obtain health care without parental consent, within specified limitations. Some, but not all, specifically include vaccination. In other states, minors may still be able to make their own medical decisions thanks to state court rulings establishing the mature minor doctrine. The 1928 Mississippi case of Gulf & S.I.R. Co. v. Sullivan is one of the earliest of these rulings. In this case, the parents of a 17-year-old railroad employee sued his employer, alleging that a smallpox vaccination administered by the company physician had injured the teen. The parents had neither consented nor objected to his employment by the railroad or the vaccination, but later claimed that their consent was needed for the smallpox shot. NEW YORK (AP) Willard Scott, the beloved weatherman who charmed viewers of NBC's "Today" show with his self-deprecating humor and cheerful personality, has died. He was 87. His successor on the morning news show, Al Roker, announced that Scott died peacefully Saturday morning surrounded by family. An NBC Universal spokeswoman confirmed the news. No further details were released. "He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit," Roker wrote on Instagram. "Willard was a man of his times, the ultimate broadcaster. There will never be anyone quite like him." Scott began his 65-year career at NBC as an entry-level page at an affiliate station in Washington, D.C., and rose to become the weather forecaster on the network's flagship morning show for more than three decades. His trademark was giving on-air congratulations to viewers who turned 100 years old. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 ~ Feel the Rumble ~ - The Purdue Fort Wayne women's volleyball team dropped a match to Big Ten foe Indiana 3-0, but bounced back with a 3-1 win over Mid-American Conference opponent Western Michigan on the final day of the Discover Kalamazoo Classic.led the Mastodons in the morning match with 12 kills, hitting .333 for the match. The All-American got her first two kills of the day to give the 'Dons a 4-3 lead over the Hoosiers. Despite three kills on six swings from Crowe in the opening set, IU took the frame after a 5-1 run to go up 18-12.The Mastodons got three kills from Crowe in the first four points of the second set. She finished the frame with six of her kills, taking just nine swings to do so. IU held a lead for the majority of the set, but the 'Dons were within a few points the whole way. After the Hoosiers reached the 24-19 mark, the 'Dons held off two set points.got a kill andfloored a solo block.Crowe started off set three with two more consecutive kills before IU took a 13-6 advantage. The Hoosiers nursed this early lead to the end of the set., Castleman andhad two kills each in the set.andhad three blocks each.and Jones split the setting duties with 14 and 12 assists, respectively.Indiana improved to 4-1.The Mastodons came out strong from the get-go, jumping out to a 10-5 lead. The offense was spread out through the first two sets in particular, as six different Mastodons had either four or five kills. To finish off set one, Larsen blocked WMU after the Broncos tried to attack an overpass.Midway through the second set, Jackson hammered down an attack up the middle to push momentum toward the 'Dons. Crowe finished off the set with an ace that clipped the net.In set three, the 'Dons trailed 12-9. On the subsequent play,made three consecutive digs to keep a rally alive, allowing Crowe to get the kill to finish. The 'Dons had a 3-0 push that included a kill from Mirabelli and an ace from Schiller, but WMU closed the frame on a 4-1 push of its own.After Jackson hammered down a kill midway through the fourth,dropped in an ace just short of the Western Michigan libero to go up 16-15. WMU powered ahead to a 23-19 lead, but the 'Dons rattled off a 5-0 run to go ahead 24-23. This run was spurred on by a block and a kill from Jackson, then a pair of kills from Crowe. In extra points, the 'Dons went to their All-American in Crowe, as she had three kills in the last four points.Crowe finished with 15 kills, 12 digs and two aces to lead the 'Dons. Jackson had 13 kills with a .550 hitting clip, while Castleman also had 11 kills with a percentage .435. Crucis had 19 digs.Crowe was named to the Discover Kalamazoo Classic All-Tournament Team for her efforts.With the win, Purdue Fort Wayne moves to 1-5, while Western Michigan falls to 4-2. The 'Dons are back in action next week at the Liberty Invitational when they face Navy, Liberty and Old Dominion. RALEIGH With many North Carolina colleges and universities returning to the classroom for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started, vaccination is a critical component to keep campuses open and students safe. The state released a study last week that concluded unvaccinated people are more likely to become infected with COVID-19 and to be hospitalized or die due to complications related to respiratory disease. Spread of the virus has accelerated over the last month due to the delta variant, a mutation of the coronavirus thats more than three times as contagious as the original strain. UNC System universities dont require students to be vaccinated, but each campus is tracking how many students and employees are inoculated. Those who are not vaccinated or dont provide proof of vaccination will be required to get tested for the virus at least once a week. Heres where some of the states universities stand in terms of vaccination rates on campus. For UNCG residential students, 80% are fully vaccinated as of last week. University officials said that the school is still gathering vaccination rates from students living off campus as well as faculty and staff. One of the things we are really challenged with is that there are many, many more patients that need care than we have resources for, said Orth, a former COO of Randolph Health in Asheboro, who joined Annie Penn about three weeks ago. The demand for services has really increased with the resurgence of the COVID-19 virus, Orth said, explaining the 110-bed hospital has treated an average of eight or nine COVID-19 patients each day in recent weeks. On Friday, 11 COVID-19 patients had been admitted to Annie Penn, while eight were being treated in the ED, she said. Some patients leave before they are treated. And thats something we are very concerned about. We are very committed to doing everything we can do to improve our efficiency, Orth said. When we have patients who need to be admitted, there are times when we are not able to admit them to the nursing unit, Orth said, explaining that while actual beds may be available, its more waiting for the nursing and clinical staff to (become available to) treat them. Patients held in the ED still get top quality care, administrator says RALEIGH Nearly all of North Carolinas school districts are now requiring face masks to be worn because of soaring COVID-19 numbers that are causing some schools and entire districts to switch temporarily to online classes. At the beginning of August, the majority of the states 115 school districts had planned to open the school year not requiring face masks. But a month later, only a handful of school districts are not requiring masks. Dozens of districts about 46% reversed their plans to go without face coverings. As of Thursday, 106 of the 115 school districts have moved to masking requirements. That covers about 94% of children in the public school system. Schools are dealing with the delta variant, which is three times more contagious than the original coronavirus strain. Roughly 99% of the states COVID-19 spread is from the delta variant. We are seeing now the highest cases increase in our younger people, said Dr. Betsey Tilson, the state health director. The surge in coronavirus cases has caused two small school districts to temporarily suspend in-person classes. Other districts are temporarily suspending in-person classes for individual schools and classrooms. But the recent need for a higher volume of new tests especially with the breakthrough cases of vaccinated individuals affected by the delta variant is showing rising positivity rates, from around 12% in Henry County to more than 25% in Franklin County. Because of this Bell said that officials are asking the public not to go to the hospital or the health department for COVID-19 testing. We encourage them to visit a pharmacy, physician or urgent care, she wrote in an email. Hospitals are becoming short of resources and need to focus on critically ill patients, and health departments arent equipped for on-site testing. Vaccination appointments can still be made at the local health departments, however. The best place to schedule an appointment continues to be vaccinate.virginia.gov. Vaccination rates improve Although the percentages of those having received at least one shot of a vaccine continue to be well below state rate only in Martinsville have residents exceeded 50% for having the first shot there has been increase in daily dosages. The health district has a first-shot vaccination rate of 45% (64.1% statewide), but fewer than 4 in 10 residents are fully vaccinated (compared with 56.8% statewide). A day after the Constitution-flouting Texas anti-abortion law went into effect, a divided Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that it wont block the law before it can grapple with a concrete case that tests it in practice. The five most conservative justices agreed to an unsigned, one-and-a-half-page opinion that said the law might or might not be unconstitutional, but that given its unusual form, which delegates enforcement to private citizens instead of state authorities, it was too legally complicated to issue an emergency injunction blocking the law. In four separate dissents, the three liberals plus Chief Justice John Roberts said the law should have been blocked anyway. Every nonlawyer on the planet and no doubt a few lawyers, too is likely to read this outcome as prefiguring a 5-to-4 vote to overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 precedent that made abortion a constitutional right. Later this year, the court will address a Mississippi anti-abortion law that lacks the cleverly diabolical enforcement mechanism of the Texas law but is equally unconstitutional. Indeed, the day after the law went into effect and before the Supreme Court ruled, many non-lawyers who were so unfamiliar with court procedures that they didnt know it would eventually issue a ruling on the Texas law had already concluded that they knew how the upcoming Mississippi case would come out. 9/11 memorial ceremony announced by sheriff Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page and his team at the Rockingham County Sheriffs Office have announced their 9/11 Memorial Ceremony. It will be held from 9 to 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 10, outside the front entrance of the Law Enforcement Center at 130 Justice Center Drive in Reidsville. In the event of rain, the ceremony will be held inside the National Guard Armory located next door to the Courthouse at 292 N.C. 65, Reidsville. Page, the Rockingham County Sheriffs Honor Guard and special guest speaker, Colonel David Myers (USMC Ret.), will be among those on hand to honor those who died on 9/11. They will also be honoring all those in the military who have died in service. Dollar General opens new store in Stokesdale Dollar General has announced that its store at 7105 U.S. 158 in Stokesdale is open. To commemorate the opening of this new location, Dollar General plans to donate 100 new books to a nearby elementary school. The Stokesdale location opens the opportunity for schools, nonprofit organizations and libraries within a 15-mile radius of the store to apply for Dollar General Literacy Foundation grants. For information, visit www.dgliteracy.com. Books about civil rights, diversity and discrimination have sold at historic levels since last summers protests against police brutality, and those sales are expected to stay high. We saw a lot of people buying books by Huey Newton and Angela Davis, said Stacey Lewis, director of publicity and marketing at City Lights Publishers. At University of California Press, sales remain high for books about social justice, reported Tim Sullivan, its executive director. Between Black Lives Matter, Trump and the pandemic, it shouldnt be too surprising that 2020 saw the highest sales of political books in NPD BookScan history. While this year is unlikely to top that, expectations are high for Septembers Peril, the third and final installment in investigative journalist Bob Woodwards trilogy of Trump exposes, this one co-written with Robert Costa. Its one of several Trump books published this year; it could also be one of the last. The summer saw a rush to publish titles breaking down Trumps loss and his scramble to hold power Michael C. Benders Frankly, We Did Win This Election as well as I Alone Can Fix It, by Philip Rucker and Carol Leonnig in hopes of beating Woodward to the punch and perhaps making one last grab for readers. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Marsh said he sees both sides of the debate over federal relief. His schools transition to pandemic teaching was relatively smooth, he said, but there were some new costs. The federal funding helped purchase computers and monitors for teachers, for instance, and new software to help students who are learning English. Still, Esperanzas funding was immense for its size. It received nearly $9 million, more than the school spends in a typical year. And so far, it has spent less than half of that sum, leaving school officials wondering how to use the remaining $5 million. I would love to have the ability to distribute this money to families in need, but you cant. Thats not on the list, Marsh said. Other states with online schools include Ohio, where virtual charters received $101 million in federal funding, and Oklahoma, where they got $82 million. Smaller amounts went to virtual schools in states including Arizona, California, Idaho and Michigan. Pennsylvania, long a battleground in the cyber school debate, saw the largest sum, with $235 million going to 11 virtual schools. Those allotments rankled leaders of some traditional schools who said the money was desperately needed in public districts. Guilford County has had 742 reported deaths since the pandemics beginning. Last week we had 1,385 additional new cases in Guilford County, Campbell said. To put that in perspective, early in June we were roughly seeing about 10 to 20 cases per day. Last week we started hitting over 300 cases per day on a number of days, with our highest being 329 cases on Aug. 24. We are continuing to see our cases rise, but not as steeply rising as they were a few weeks ago, and so we believe some of the mitigation efforts were putting in place are starting to make a little bit of a difference. The 14-day average of positivity is 10.1% in the county as of Wednesday. Of the 157 people hospitalized for COVID-19 in the county, 34 are in intensive care units, Campbell said. As the number of cases grows and more people in the community know those who are infected, the county is also seeing a slight increase in those seeking vaccinations and a significant number of people wanting to get tested. Guilford County Public Health Director Dr. Iulia Vann said the county will continue to give out $100 gift cards as incentives for people to get a first vaccine dose or $25 gift cards to those who provide transportation until Sept. 13. The county will award those as long as possible, although it is not receiving any additional gift cards from the state, Vann said. "I am just devastated and saddened at the loss of my friend and I pray for God's peace to come soon because I simply have no tears left to shed," he said. Freedman was born in Asheville and moved to Winston-Salem after he obtained his law degree in 1982. He began a solo practice and then joined what was then known as White & Crumpler, which changed names several times until it became Crumpler Freedman Parker & Witt. Last year, that firm merged with another to form Freedman Thompson Witt Ceberio & Byrd PLLC. Witt said he and Freedman met while in law school. "His professional life has been nothing but exemplary," Witt said Saturday. Judges, prosecutors and other criminal-defense attorneys had nothing but respect for him, Witt said. Walter C. Holton Jr., former U.S. attorney for the Middle District of North Carolina, first met Freedman while they practiced together at White & Crumpler. Holton worked closely with Freedman while Holton represented Molly Corbett. "I think David accomplished his goals in life, which was first of all to have a wonderful and beautiful family and second to have a successful career that has continued to grow and third to have an impeccable reputation," he said. Here with almost nothing, some of those newcomers fought alongside and actively helped U.S. soldiers during the decades-long war in Afghanistan while others are fleeing the resulting turmoil as the United States pulled troops from the country. At the same time, the agencies have also resumed getting refugees from other places who are fleeing violence or extreme poverty and have spent years going through a screening process that has multiple layers of background checks. Those from Afghanistan are referred to as humanitarian parolees. Humanitarian parole is a process in response to a crisis and the ability to enter the country when otherwise they would not, such as with the arrival of Haitians and Cubans. But they do not have the same rights and benefits as refugees. Those now arriving from Afghanistan, like refugees who meet the governments legal definition, get limited cash assistance of about $1,200 to cover 90 days, but they are not eligible for the food stamps, Medicaid or some other services as they settle into communities. It would take an act of Congress to change their legal status, which Rob Cassell of World Relief Triad hopes will soon take place. In 2019, Republicans nearly had the votes to override the governors veto of a bill that would criminalize medical providers who decline to treat infants who survive abortion but were ultimately unsuccessful in getting it over the finish line. This year, Republicans tried again. The legislature passed an abortion bill that would restrict providers from terminating pregnancies because of the fetus race, sex or possible disability. Several Democrats in the House voted in favor of the bill, but the legislature has not attempted to override the governors veto, because no Senate Democrats supported the measure. Three House Democrats and two Senate Democrats would need to vote with Republicans to successfully override the governor. Without those votes locked in, the legislature is unlikely to attempt an override this year. Were not getting any cooperation from Democrats on overriding, Krawiec said, but were certainly going to be looking for any opportunities to save babies. Also this year, a federal appeals court blocked a North Carolina law that tightened abortion restrictions and banned the procedure after 20 weeks of pregnancy another sign that Republicans in the state have lost the abortion restriction battle, for now. In the midst of a pandemic, victories for limited government are few and far between. Thats why the Supreme Courts rebuke of the Biden administration in late-August is cause for celebration. President Bidens Centers for Disease Control and Prevention overreached when it attempted to extend a moratorium on residential evictions. (For the record, the moratorium blunder was initiated under President Trump. It was unconstitutional then; its unconstitutional now.) My friends on the editorial board of this paper conceded that the legality of the moratorium was questionable, but also argued that the CDC is explicitly authorized by Congress to make and enforce regulations that are necessary to prevent the transmission of communicable diseases. Within reason, yes. But the CDCs authority is not infinite. In the words of the Supreme Courts majority, It would be one thing if Congress had specifically authorized the action that the CDC has taken. But that has not happened. ... It strains credulity to believe that (the law in question) grants the CDC the sweeping authority that it asserts. Mailbox fishing is a growing, homemade form of theft. Major outbreaks have been reported in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New York. The anglers seem to have now migrated to our pond. There are reports on community chat sites, and when I contacted a local merchant to explain that a stolen check needed to be reissued, she told me the same thing had happened to her father. There are some things that can be done to minimize getting hooked. Since I didnt do any of them, my experience can be instructive. The first is to avoid public mailboxes and drop your mail inside a post office or, better yet, hand it to a postal worker. If you must use a mailbox, find one that is visible with nearby pedestrian and automotive traffic. Because of my wifes health issues, I have taken over a pair of tasks that are not at the top of my aptitude and interest list: preparing food and managing the household finances. Brassfield Shopping Center, near my home, has three relevant features, two of which satisfy my underdeveloped culinary skills: Trader Joes and Chick-fil-A. The third feature, a recently discovered mailbox, became a bait bucket. That mailbox is located in a remote corner, far from the normal flow of traffic. Ive been using that parking lot for more than 20 years and just discovered it two months ago. The U.S. Department of Education tracks teacher shortage areas across states. For the 2021-22 school year, the federal government says North Carolina has a shortage of qualified teachers in all grades of math and special education and all core subjects in all elementary school grades. Many school districts are offering new teacher signing bonuses funded with federal COVID relief dollars, but the teacher shortage persists. Behind these numbers is real harm to our children. Students are less likely to learn to read with a substitute teacher whos not familiar with the best ways to teach reading. Students are less likely to master math with a teacher who is learning as he or she goes. We are letting our students down during their formative years. Our children deserve better. How did we get here? Its deeper than COVID. For the last decade, North Carolinas state lawmakers have passed state budgets that underfund public education and undermine teachers. Politicians are not treating or paying teachers as professionals. North Carolinas average teacher salary is $10,000 below the national average. Experienced teachers are leaving the state and profession. College students are choosing other careers. Late last month when Brian Jensen, a registered respiratory therapist at St. Peters Health in Helena, worked a few consecutive nights in the hospitals emergency room, the department physician told him something concerning. We had ambulances coming in from all over the region with patients that didn't have COVID, but their hospitals didn't have any beds, Jensen said. We were the only receiving facility in the state that night. Cases of the coronavirus are spiking again in Montana after a relatively quiet early summer. The surge of unvaccinated patients sicker with the Delta variant mean hospitals around the state are increasingly having to make difficult decisions like diverting cases from their emergency departments, delaying elective procedures or asking for the National Guard to assist with staffing shortages. As employees inside hospitals struggle through crisis, the buildings theyre working in can feel like a sort of reverse oasis as severely ill people struggle to breathe on ventilators and families line up at first-floor windows for glimpses of loved ones, the communities around them have incongruently moved on from a pandemic that is still killing Montanans weekly. Dr. Shelly Harkins, the president and chief medical officer of St. Peters Health, said the disconnect between whats happening in medical units and outside the hospital walls is jarring. I think many people in our community have no idea that we are surging again, that we have COVID again and that our staff are suffering, having to care for these very sick patients that honestly we can do little for other than hold their hand and provide supportive treatment and hope, Harkins said. The states larger hospitals who responded to questions for this story all reported high patient volumes, several topping records. There are more strokes, heart attacks and trauma cases than in years past. And the resurging pandemic is bringing more COVID-19 patients, who consume more intensive hospital resources. Our COVID patients have been, in the new surge of COVID, pretty ill and ... on a typical day about 50% of our admitted hospitalized (COVID) patients are in our critical care unit, said Dr. Kathryn Bertany, a pediatrician who is president of Bozeman Health's Deaconess Hospital and Big Sky Medical Center. That wasnt necessarily the case in the first surge. Administrators, doctors and nurses fear with lagging vaccination rates and fewer mitigation measures like mask requirements or distancing measures that were in place through parts of 2020, the sharply rising curve tallying those hospitalized with the virus will reach the highs of last November. Back then, the state had nearly 500 beds filled with COVID-19 patients for several days. On Friday the state reported 266 people hospitalized with the virus, a 29% increase over the last 14 days. Scarce resources Over the last few months, Harkins said there were days when St. Peters could not admit a patient and had to find another hospital for the person to go to. The facility has also boarded patients, which means those who should really be in an inpatient room, end up waiting in the emergency department for hours or sometimes days for a bed to open. We actually are talking a lot here in Montana about exactly what to do when we get a call from another state looking for a bed," Harkins said. " Typically we would say yes, but then again, we've never quite been in this situation before. Do we say yes or do we keep all of our Montana beds for Montana people? These are scarce resource conversations we've never had in health care before in the U.S. of A., in any of our lifetimes. We've never had to talk about scarce resources and who gets them and who does not. At Benefis Health Systems hospital in Great Falls, capacity is also pushed, sometimes over the brim. We are extremely busy. We are operating at greater than 100% of our typical capacity and have been very consistently for the last couple months, said Kaci Husted, the system vice president of communications and business development. Hospitals around the state already took steps early in the pandemic to increase the number of beds and spaces they have to treat patients. Benefis opened the eighth floor of a patient tower that typically wasnt operational as a dedicated unit for COVID. We were able to close that floor this spring and have now had to re-open it, Husted said. Every Monday the state puts out a report of hospitalization data. Last week it showed 70% of Montana's facilities had limited bed availability or were near capacity and half had limited intensive care unit availability or were near capacity. But hospitalization status changes hour to hour, so the information is out-of-date by the time its published. Counting beds also doesnt give a great picture of what capacity is really like. It is important to note that the bed capacity reported this week from the state for our hospital includes our NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), women and newborns and pediatric beds, which does not provide an accurate picture of adult bed capacity, wrote Megan Condra, the director of marketing and community relations for Community Medical Center in Missoula, last week. Not enough staff Along with seemingly every other industry in the nation, another universal challenge for Montana's hospitals is an acute shortage of employees in every department from medical care providers to nutritionists and housekeeping. The problem existed before the pandemic and is exacerbated by it. Burnout is high for people working in health care, with its grinding physical and emotional demands. COVID-19 made it worse, bringing risk to workers' own health, heartache for sick patients with long roads to recovery and even hostility from patients and their families over measures to slow the spread of the virus. A number of individuals have chosen to leave, Bertany said. We absolutely have experienced staffing shortages and have had times we did not have enough staff to be able to care for patients that needed beds in our facility. Fewer employees compounds the fatigue for those remaining. People are picking up extra shifts and working extra hours to help cover the needs we have, said Rick DePaso, a nurse in the intensive care unit at St. Peters. During the earlier wave of the pandemic in 2020, there was reprieve from travel nurses, but theyre not available to help with this spike since so many other hospitals across the country are in the same position. At Bozeman Health, the facility was able to find a couple dozen contracted staff to alleviate some of the problems. Benefis in Great Falls is considering an app that allows people to order their own meals and pick them up. Everybody pitches in and does their best to make things work and take the best care possible of our patients, but that being said its gotten significantly more challenging in the last several months to do everything we need to do with staffing issues that weve been running into, Husted said. Hospitals around the state have asked for assistance from the National Guard, and last week Montana Public Radio reported the Montana Hospital Association asked for the governor to approve using federal COVID-19 aid to pay for temporary workers. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Unvaccinated, sicker with Delta As the Delta variant proliferates though the state, making up nearly every Montana variant specimen sequenced in a report released last week, younger and previously healthy people are requiring more critical care and higher levels of ventilatory support, Bertany said. And the vast majority of those people are unvaccinated. Since Feb. 15, when the state started tracking breakthrough cases, less than 9% of new cases were among vaccinated people. About 96% of patients who have ended up in the critical care unit in Bozeman since the vaccine became available were unvaccinated. All the current COVID-positive critical care patients on ventilators were unvaccinated, Bertany said when interviewed last week. Roughly 90% of the COVID patients at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell have been unvaccinated since the recent surge started, said Dr. Corey Short, Logan Health Medical Center hospitalist and physician executive of Acute Care Services. The hospital recently launched a status report that showed all eight patients last week in the intensive care unity were unvaccinated and all three on ventilators were also unvaccinated. Only five of the 38 hospitalized were vaccinated. DePaso said every COVID-19 patient on a ventilator at St. Peters the day he was interviewed last week were unvaccinated. Over a Zoom call, still wearing his scrubs and a surgical mask, DePaso explained what struck him about helping patients battle COVID-19 now versus a year ago. We had no ability to prevent it and now were in a different situation where we do have a way to prevent it and unfortunately people arent utilizing it, DePaso said. When you come to the emergency room or get admitted to the ICU, you trust us and you listen to us to guide your course through to get better as health care professionals. And so we just plead with you: Listen to us now, before you end up in the hospital. Harkins stated it bluntly. Even as the Delta variant is making patients more sick and spreading more easily among the unvaccinated, the immunized aren't the problem. Those that are vaccinated that still get COVID are over it like a common cold. They do not use hospital resources, they do not die from COVID, Harkins said. Those that are in the hospital for weeks on end, those that are dying from COVID, are the unvaccinated. Those that are transmitting the virus throughout our community, are those that are unvaccinated. Illustrating the resources it takes to treat very sick COVID-19 patients, Jensen explains what it takes to perform a procedure called "proning" to alleviate fluid buildup. The process involves taking a patient and flipping them over on their stomach to aid in breathing. Its not an easy process, given the number of IVs a COVID patient is generally on, not to mention a possible ventilator. It easily takes five strong people to carefully maneuver someone without pulling a line, removing an ET tube or at the same moment causing pressure sores, Jensen said. The hospital has been so short-staffed its had to pull over the ambulance crew at night to help with the process or nurses off other floors. Depending on the size of the patient, it might take even more to do the procedure safely. 'Compassion fatigue' Treating people who are so sick exacts an emotional toll. Its matter of weeks, not days, receiving critical care for those who are the most ill but still recover. No matter how someone lands in the intensive care unit or their vaccination status, DePaso said nurses provide care to their full ability, which can be incredibly draining. It's hard emotionally to watch these families of people ... struggle with the fact that their loved ones are in the ICU for 20 days or longer, in isolation, where they can't come visit and and see their loved one except for the occasional Zoom call or looking through the window because we happen to be on the first floor of the hospital, DePaso said. Kallie Kujawa, who leads the incident command team for Bozeman Health, said employees are also experiencing compassion fatigue, fueled by adversarial interactions with patients and their family members. Theyre trying to do their best, theyre working extra shifts and with decreased support staff and then on top of that they are having confrontational situations with patients and their family members about things such as wearing a mask in our facility and having limited visitors for patients to decrease the viral load in our building, Kujawa said. Its critical for the hospital to help employees avoid exposure to COVID-19 because if they get sick, the facility is at risk of not having enough staff to care for patients. Whats next Last week in a letter to colleges, administrators at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula halted scheduling new non-emergency and inpatient procedures because of capacity issues, citing the COVID spike. Billings Clinic CEO Dr. Scott Ellner said his facility is still doing medically necessary procedures to prevent conditions from worsening, but others are being postponed in order to maintain resources and avoid further burnout in nurses. Bozeman Health hasnt had to limit elective procedures, but there was a day we were talking about it recently, Bertany said. St. Peters looks at its operating room schedule daily to determine if it has enough beds to do surgeries that require patients to stay in the hospital overnight or longer. Its touch-and-go and every day we take a look to see if we need to cancel and we have had to cancel a few this summer, Harkins said. Last year St. Peters learned our lesson when it canceled elective surgeries, Harkins added. It took us well over a year to catch up, Harkins said. People got really sick and their pain levels increased. Elective doesnt mean unnecessary. Eyeing the steeping curve in new COVID-19 cases, schools opening with limited mitigation measures in place in some parts of the state and colder weather pushing people indoors, it's hard to look ahead and be hopeful. I think its very realistic for us to expect this fall and winter season to be really hard for us, Bertany said. We dont really know what the flu season is going to like this year, especially with the lax compliance with masking in our community. Hospitals are begging, pushing and pleading with their communities to get vaccinated, use face coverings and avoid large crowds. St. Peters posted what the hospital called the Longest Facebook Post of All Time last week asking for help from the community. The letter was signed by more than 500 hospital employees and implored Helena to get vaccinated, ending with a message of unity: As always, were in this together and together well get through this. But it doesnt always feel that way. You walk down the halls of the hospital and (it) feels like we step back in time to January again, DePaso said. The weirdest juxtaposition of that is when you leave the hospital, it feels like nothing ever changed, whereas when you left the hospital in the winter of last year, you knew we were in a pandemic because the grocery stores weren't as busy, people were wearing masks constantly. The weirdest thing now is is that when you leave work, nothing is different and it's business as usual. Billings Gazette reporter Emily Schabacker contributed to this story. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Theres no nice way to put it. Hundreds of Montanans are now getting sick and dying thanks to the anti-science, anti-mask, anti-vax messages propagated by the insane rhetoric of Republican politicians under the false rubric of personal responsibility and freedom. But as the costs to society continue to rise exponentially while the more lethal, more contagious delta variant of COVID-19 runs rampant, we should call it just what it is FreeDumb and its killing us. You dont have to dig very far back to recall the insane advice of the former president that people could inject bleach or put a strong light inside the body to kill the virus responsible for COVID. Unfortunately, he didnt follow his own medical advice when he contracted the disease. Instead he got the best, most expensive treatment available to save his worthless butt while those who believed his sham died gasping for their last breaths. When the U.S. death toll topped 600,000, almost all on Trumps watch, one may have expected anyone with a shred of intelligence to realize the COVID pandemic was deadly serious, in every meaning of the word. This is the most significant legislation for the working class since the passage of the National Labor Relations Act in 1935. Passage of the PRO Act will enhance the collective bargaining power of the American worker and cut bureaucratic red tape that out of state corporations have successfully lobbied into law since the late 1940s. The PRO Act will empower the American worker and take back what has been stripped away from us for decades. For far too long weve allowed corporate America to dictate what the American dream should look like. Its time to take that dream back and give American workers an opportunity for a better life. Unions and employers are not adversaries, they are partners in growing and securing our future. But this relationship cannot be one sided and the PRO Act ensures that the wealth workers earn in our communities stays in our communities for generations to come. The PRO Act will ensure that nurses can speak up if they are understaffed, that teachers have the resources they need to educate our kids, and that construction workers are safe and highly trained to build our infrastructure. Together, we will accomplish great things. Browse through recently listed homes in the Decatur and Macon County real estate market and find your next home! HICKORY The Catawba Valley Leadership Foundation recently hosted two gatherings aimed at strengthening area leaders. The Leaders Roundtable events drew more than 30 leaders from area businesses, nonprofit organizations, school systems and municipalities. The events were held at Granite Insurance Agency in Granite Falls on Aug. 25 and Lake Hickory Country Club in Hickory on Aug. 26. Foundation President Chad Hall spoke to each group on the topic of adjusting limiting beliefs as a way to improve the quality of relationships and achieve better results in business and in life. The Foundation holds the events as a way to provide leadership development training to those in attendance as well as an opportunity to build connections among area leaders. Foundation Director Victoria Schronce said this was the first time the Foundation has held a Leaders Roundtable event in Caldwell County. Weve hosted the Leaders Roundtable in Hickory for several years, and were thrilled to finally be able to expand into Caldwell County. The team at Granite Insurance and the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce have been great partners in helping us bring our movement to leaders in their community, Schronce said. HICKORY FryeCare Physicians Network recently welcomed the following primary care providers to their new medical practices: Mark Hawkins, MD; Jamal Kalala, MD; Virginia Wright, MD; Jesse Gullett, DNP, FNP; Heather Portaro, NP-C; and Sandra Reed, FNP. Same-day appointments and online scheduling are available. Dr. Mark Hawkins, family medicine physician, is accepting new patients at FryeCare Family Physicians Claremont, at 3221 W. Main St. in Claremont. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 828-459-4445, or online at www.FryeCarePhysicians.com. Hawkins specializes in caring for every member of the family. He offers well checks, sick visits, annual health screenings, and treatment for hypertension. Hawkins is also committed to the management of chronic conditions, such as kidney disease and diabetes. He earned his medical degree from the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. Hawkins also completed a residency at Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg. He is board certified in family medicine. Dr. Jamal Kalala, internal medicine physician, is accepting new patients at FryeCare Adult and Family Medicine Taylorsville, at 241 N.C. 16 S. in Taylorsville. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 828-632-1234, or online at www.FryeCarePhysicians.com. HICKORY Greenway Public Transportation announced that Kimberly Angel will serve as the next executive director. The board of directors voted to appoint Angel as the executive director at their meeting on Sept. 2, and she is slated to begin in the position in late September. Angel was selected from a pool of applicants from across the region, state and country. Applicants from as far as Nevada and Colorado applied for the position. Ultimately, the board chose Angel due to a combination of her education, experience, and personal characteristics. Angel currently serves as the Director of Transit Services for Macon County, North Carolina, where she has served for the past 23 years managing the countys transit system, including 22 employees. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Western Carolina University. Board Chair and Alexander County Manager Rick French said about Angels selection, We considered a number of candidates, but Ms. Angel stood out with her education, years of experience as a transit director, and her passion for public transit. She is highly regarded by her peers as she currently serves as the president of the NC Public Transportation Association. We believe she will serve our organization and region well. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} The project could benefit the town by supplying detailed records that can be referenced for projects including preservation or economic development. If there is any federal money being used for projects in town, that has to go through a review to make sure its not impacting any historic structures. This lays the groundwork of whats here, Thomas said. It wont necessarily lead to this, but if homeowners are interested in listing on the national register, something like this kind of lays the groundwork for that. Listing on the national register doesnt put any regulations on the homeowner, but it does open them up to different tax credits and things like that. The last time Taylorsville was surveyed was in 1986. Architectural historian Vicky Mason recorded various historic houses, schools, churches and buildings for a two-county project that included Caldwell County. Many buildings in Taylorsville were too new at the time to be included on the 1986 survey. The survey Thomas is doing will include structures from that survey, as well as other buildings that have never been surveyed. Theres been interest at the local level. Alexander County put together a Historic Preservation Commission in 2019, Thomas said. They have been working with us, so that is one of the reasons we are here. Next Match: at Creighton 9/8/2021 | 6:30 PM FS1 Huskers Radio Network The No. 4 Nebraska volleyball team won its fifth straight match Saturday night to close the Ameritas Players Challenge, defeating Arizona State 3-0 (25-20, 25-12, 25-22) at the Devaney Center. The Huskers improved to 5-0 (0-0 Big Ten), while the Sun Devils dropped to 3-3 (0-0 Pac-12).recorded a match-high 14 kills on .364 hitting, adding four digs and three blocks.added 11 kills off the bench with an outstanding .529 attack percentage and was also credited with two blocks.posted her third double-double of the weekend on a match-high 38 assists and 11 digs with a service ace and two blocks. She guided the Huskers to a season-high .350 hitting percentage.finished with a match-high 12 digs, four assists and an ace, andhad another 11 digs for the night.notched four blocks and five kills.also had a strong showing with a season-high nine kills on .333 hitting, andchipped in seven kills and a pair of blocks.Iman Isanovic led ASU with 14 kills, and Claire Jeter finished with a match-best four blocks.Nebraska hit .414 out of the gate, led by six kills on nine swings for .667 hitting from Sun. Batenhorst hit at a .375 clip with four more kills.Four kills, two aces and a block helped the Huskers to an early 10-8 lead. It was part of a 7-1 run punctuated with a Caffey kill off an overpass, which pushed the Huskers ahead 13-9. Sun put down consecutive kills to make it 17-12, then went back-to-back on another pair of kills to give NU its largest lead at 19-13. Lauenstein registered another kill on an assist from Rodriguez, started a string of three straight kills to bring it to set point at 24-18. Batenhorst registered the final kill to close it at 25-20.NU shot out to an 8-1 advantage behind a Sun solo stop, a Schwarzenbach/Hames block and four straight kills from Sun, Schwarzenbach and Kubik. Knuckles, Lauenstein and Sun later strung together a trio of kills, and after a pancake dig by Knuckles, a Sun/Schwarzenbach double stuff block spotted the Huskers a 14-4 lead. Schwarzenbach and Lauenstein added another stop at the net, and a Lauenstein kill extended the run to 8-0 and the lead to 16-4.The freshmen on the floor continued to impress late, with three kills apiece from Lauenstein and Batenhorst spurring NU to 23-8. Caffey finished it off with a kill for the 25-12 win.The Huskers counted five of their eight blocks in the second set alone, and Lauenstein led the way with five second-set kills as NU hit .371 as a team.Nebraska never led in the third set until hitting the 21-20 mark on a kill by Sun, who added a solo block to prompt an ASU timeout.followed with an ace serve to create a three-point edge. Sun later brought it to set point with a kill, and she rattled her 14th and final kill of the night to cap the set, 25-22, and secure the match sweep.was named Most Valuable Player of the Ameritas Players Challenge, andandjoined her on the all-tournament team.-Omaha's Sadie Limback and Sami Clarkson, Georgia's Kacie Evans and Amber Stivrins and Arizona State's Iman Isanovic also earned all-tournament team recognition.-Nebraska is now 4-1-1 in the all-time series with ASU, including 2-0 in theera.Nebraska visits in-state foe Creighton on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb., with first serve set for 6:30 p.m. The match will be televised on FS1, and John Baylor and Lauren Cook West will have the radio call on Huskers Radio Network. Jefferson Finis Davis was born in 1808 and died in 1889. Davis served, as a Democrat, in the U.S. Senate the House of Representatives. From 1861 until 1865, Davis was selected as the president of the Confederate states. He was the leader of people who believed that Blacks were chattel and should not be given any rights as citizens of the country. After teaching for seven years at Rowan-Community Community College teaching history and mentoring others, amounting to over 500 students, I feel compelled to speak up about recent events that pertain to Davis and his history with the City of Concord. For a number of years, it was agreed that a marker should be placed in Concord near the Cannon Library on Union Street. The marker highlighted the fact that Davis spent time at a house that was situated on a nearby lot near the end of the Civil War. One of the reasons for writing this article is because many of the young people I have spoken to have no idea about Davis or his legacy. According to the history books, Davis spent time at a home owned by Victor Barringer. Those living nearby included Rufus Barringer and his children, Thomas and Warren, and their mother- Roxi. Another very significant person living nearby was Daniel Coleman. Both Rufus and Daniel were attorneys. Are you hiring an employee or an independent contractor? There are different rules regarding what one is paid for each category, according to the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act. There is another very narrow other category, exempt employees. This category excludes certain highly paid employees, such as doctors and lawyers, from many of these rules regarding hours worked, and the like. There are distinctions between an employee and an independent contractor. In determining whether the person providing service is an employee or an independent contractor, all information that provides evidence of the degree of control and independence must be considered. Behavioral: Does the company control or have the right to control what the worker does and how the worker does his or her job? Financial: Are the business aspects of the workers job controlled by the payer? (How a worker is paid, whether expenses are reimbursed, who provides tools/supplies, etc.) Type of Relationship: Are there written contracts or employee- type benefits (i.e., pension plan, insurance, vacation pay, etc.)? Will the relationship continue? Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} He also made statements indicating that he had a leadership role on Jan. 6 and that indicated in one message that members could be facing gang charges if anything was compromised. Federal prosecutors also allege that Donohoe was part of a group that walked toward the Capitol building and trampled over barriers and that Donohoe is seen on video pushing up the Capitol steps in an apparent effort to overwhelm law-enforcement officers guarding the doors. At 1:37 p.m. on Jan. 6, Donohoe is seen with a riot shield that another Proud Boys member, Dominic Pezzola, is alleged to have stolen from a Capitol police officer. Donohoe sent out a statement on Telegram: Got a riot shield! At 2:13 p.m., prosecutors allege, Pezzola used that same riot shield to break a window on the northwest side of the Capitol building. Rioters were able to force an adjacent door open and get into the Capitol building after Pezzola allegedly broke the window, prosecutors said. Prosecutors also said that at 3:38 p.m., Donohoe sent a message indicating that he left the Capitol building grounds and that he and others were regrouping with a second force. That regrouping never happened because he later stated that National Guard and Department of Homeland Security agents were coming, according to court documents. CHARLESTON, W.Va. Fed up with the deadly work and poor wages and living conditions, thousands of coal miners marched to unionize in West Virginia a century ago, resulting in a deadly clash and the largest U.S. armed uprising since the Civil War. On Friday, some of their descendants joined others in retracing the steps that led to the 12-day Battle of Blair Mountain. Multiple events are planned looking back at the fight, highlighted by the 45-mile (72-kilometer) march over three days. "Every step you take, you just think about what kind of courage that took," said United Mine Workers international President Cecil Roberts, whose great-uncle, Bill Blizzard, was a leader of the 1921 march as a union subdistrict state organizer. The miners whites, Blacks, and European immigrants banded together, bent on doing something about their treatment by coal operators. They became known as the "Red Neck Army" for the distinctive bandanas around their necks. "Those people had a specific purpose in mind," Roberts said. "And they were willing to die for that. And because they were willing to die for that, we've all had a good living, a much better life than we would have had had they not gone on that march." The administration had hoped that both Pfizer and Moderna booster shots would be rolled out at that time. But Fauci said it is conceivable that for Modernas, there might be at most a couple of weeks, a few weeks delay, if any, while the company provides more data to the FDA on the boosters efficacy. President Joe Biden on Aug. 18 touted boosters as a protection against the virus more transmissible delta variant, and said Americans should consider getting a booster eight months after their second shot. Ron Klain, Bidens chief of staff, said Sunday the administration had always made clear that Sept. 20 was a target date, and No ones going to get boosters until the FDA says theyre approved. Klain told CNN: Were ready to go once the science says go. ROME The Italian health minister has indicated that a meeting of his G-20 counterparts could yield a pledge about ensuring COVID-19 vaccines reach everyone in poor countries. Minister Roberto Speranza told reporters on Sunday, after the opening session of the two-day meeting in Rome, that he hopes the gathering would yield a pact about the challenge to bring vaccines to everyone, including the more fragile populations. BLYTHEWOOD, S.C. Twin 20-month-old boys found dead inside a car in the parking lot of a South Carolina daycare were likely in the hot SUV for more than nine hours, authorities said Thursday. A parent discovered the toddlers in rear-facing seats shortly after arriving around 5:40 p.m. Wednesday at the Sunshine House Early Learning Academy on U.S. Highway 21 in the Columbia suburb of Blythewood, investigators said. Bryson and Brayden McDaniel appeared to have been in the SUV since the morning and likely died from exposure to the heat, Richland County Coroner Nadia Rutherford said at a news conference. Further testing will be done over the next few weeks to rule out other causes, she said. The boys appeared well taken care of and were enrolled at the daycare, Rutherford said. "We have two very distraught parents," she said. Richland County deputies are investigating the deaths No arrests have been made and deputies did not release any other details. Temperatures in Columbia were over 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) for most of a muggy Wednesday in Columbia. RALEIGH A North Carolina appeals court on Friday blocked an order that had allowed tens of thousands of felony offenders who arent serving prison or jail time to immediately register to vote and cast ballots. The state Court of Appeals agreed to halt last weeks decision by trial judges to expand when North Carolina residents convicted of felonies have the right to vote again. The plaintiffs immediately appealed Fridays decision to the state Supreme Court to seek a reversal. Otherwise, the stay would remain in place until the merits of pending litigation filed by civil rights groups and ex-offenders challenging state law on the restoration of voting rights is heard by the appeals court. The decision by the intermediate-level appeals court means that if left in place the offenders could not vote in this falls municipal elections. It also likely would bring confusion, since some felons affected by last weeks trial court order almost certainly would have registered to vote by now. Voting rights groups have already started registration drives targeting the estimated 56,000 people affected by the decision. We are a diverse lot; what we have in common, in spite of those differences, is a Constitution, bolstered by the Declaration of Independence, the Federalist Papers and other salient documents that hold us together, sometimes against our will. A portion of a books influence, especially nonfiction texts, is timing. The Words that Made Us arrives at a time when our collective modus operandi seemingly embraces constitutional inheritance as a prop ensconced by our personal motivations. The book is prescient, as relevance of the Constitution has taken on the added weight of subjectivity, marred by the legitimacy it originally conferred to the institution of slavery. Amar celebrates the ethos of the Constitution and its words without serving as an apologist when our application has fallen miserably short. For some, the Constitution today is a restrictive document held hostage by the worldview of those who could not appreciate the benefits of running water. For others, it has no relevance. Can the aforementioned polarities adequately represent the American experiment in the 21st century? Fortunately, Amar answers that question in the negative. As Benjamin Rush, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, stated in 1787: On the last day of my sabbatical, I sat in a carrel in the Bodleian Library at Oxford University, staring at a handwritten note written inside the cover of a 400-year-old book, a note that may have cost the writer his life. Thomas Helwys, the author of A Short Declaration of the Mystery of Iniquity, the book I held in my hands, was a Separatist. Unlike the Puritans who were intent on reforming the Church of England, Separatists believed that Christians should separate from the established church. Helwys and several hundred others of like mind were living in exile in Amsterdam, which is where he wrote his book. It was a dangerous book filled with dangerous ideas. At a time when the liberal idea was toleration, Helwys said that it was not up to government to tolerate or not to tolerate religion. Mens religion to God is betwixt God and themselves. The king shall not answer for it. Religious matters were simply none of governments business. At a time when it was customary for the religion of the people to be determined by the religion of the monarch, Helwys declared that people should choose for themselves their religion, seeing they only must stand themselves before the judgement seat of God to answer for themselves. Data from both Bryan and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department show that about 20% of recent COVID deaths are among vaccinated patients. As of Thursday, Lancaster County had reported 30 deaths since Aug. 1, six of whom were vaccinated. Bryan had 40 deaths in August, eight of whom were vaccinated, Trapp said. However, he said there is a definite trend with deaths among the vaccinated. They are older, and they often have serious underlying health conditions. For example, Trapp said, the average overall age of Bryan's 40 August COVID deaths was 64, but the average age of the eight vaccinated people who died was 77. At the same time, he said the number of young unvaccinated patients that Bryan is seeing is concerning, with people in their 40s, 30s and even 20s being hospitalized. "It's really critical, critical illness," Trapp said. "That's making it hard on the nurses, that they're so young, and it's making it hard on the critical care team." It's also making it hard on the hospital, because younger patients tend to want more aggressive treatment when it's needed, such as ventilators, in the hopes of getting better, he said. When she gets back to Lincoln, her phone rings. I get a lot of calls, because they know me, they trust me. If they have any issues they are going to call me. They talk about their jobs in meatpacking plants. Ive been working for three weeks and they didnt pay me. Or we had violence at work, what do I need to do? People are complaining a lot about the speed of the line and that they are getting injured. Its still not easy, she says, even after so many years. Even for me, it is really hard when I listen to some of these stories, because they are crying. And sometimes she cries, too. She talks as we fly past the stubble of cornfields, cross over the Platte River and past farms and the blur of small towns, on our way to see two longtime workers at one of Nebraskas many meat-processing plants. Eduardo and Maria arent their real names. We're not sharing the name of their town. Its hard to get people to talk on the record about their work, Sarmiento and Cazarez say. Some are afraid because of their immigration status or because they fear retaliation on the job. Later, he helped launch Sonic cruise nights, which became Culvers cruise nights, which welcomed all car-lovers. Mr. Rods always been a gentleman that helped everyone out, no matter what. Hes always brought people together, said Todd Francisco of the Midwest Rollers, who met Phelps at a Culvers cruise night a decade ago. Hes always out there looking for that person who doesnt belong or fit, and then he makes you fit. Ready met Phelps more than 20 years ago, when they were both area representatives for the Nebraska Rod and Custom Association. At the time, Ready lived south of Kearney, but when he moved to Lincoln in 2004, Phelps took him in. Rod was always making friends and putting groups together, he said. Hed introduce you to people and make sure you got together. Hed make sure they got along, too, Boyd said. He kept us from fighting. He always said, No religion, no politics at our deals. It really worked well. It wasnt unusual for his friend to call to say he was gathering a group for a dinner run up to Columbus, Ready said. They never drove the same route twice, and Phelps was usually at the front. We are normalizing the conversation and getting to a place where people can talk openly about these issues, she said. Mia Soulliere, a fourth-year student from Omaha and the president of the Panhellenic Council, the governing body for sororities at UNL, said the goal is to turn recent events into lasting, positive change. Greek organizations are designating representatives to the university's Center for Advocacy, Response and Education from each chapter, and working on policies that would create mandatory education and training requirements for members changes the Greek leaders say are necessary. It will be up to future Greeks to keep the momentum moving forward, Soulliere said, and ensure any changes become ingrained in the system. The Greek members said they want to be leaders in addressing the issue of sexual assault on campus, and said they would hold accountable those organizations found to be in violation of campus policies and state law. But they were skeptical of calls for more oversight from the university, which recognizes their houses as residences but doesnt exercise control over the activities there. Grinvalds said UNL needs to step in if it wants to get serious about addressing sexual assaults on campus. Lisles grandmother, Florences mother, Mary Talbot, whose maiden name was almost prophetically Holywood, legally adopted him and changed his name to Lyle Florenze (an adaptive spelling of his mothers name) Talbot when he was 13. At that time Mary Talbot owned and managed the Talbot Hotel in Brainard, which was later renamed, sold, and ultimately razed in the early 1980s. At about the age of 15, Lyle and his father moved to Omaha where Lyle attended high school and about 1919 moved to Tennessee, where he entered show business with a traveling carnival act. In 1929 Lyle established his own traveling company, the Talbot Players, and even hired his father and stepmother who performed as a comedy act. Lyle married his first wife in 1930, ultimately marrying four, or possibly five, times, and moved to California as movies were transitioning from silent to sound films. There he began a movie career with Nebraska-born Darryl Zanuck, who signed him to a long-term contract with Warner Brothers. At Warner Brothers Talbot frequently played the bad guy with a few films as a leading man. Despite the typecasting role as a villain, Talbot was known off screen as a mild-mannered gentleman. On screen he played with dozens of stars, including Humphrey Bogart, George Raft and Shirley Temple. The 2020 census produced some pretty predictable numbers for Nebraska, and some that maybe weren't expected. For example, all the population growth and then some, occurred in the state's three largest counties: Douglas, Lancaster and Sarpy. That's a result that was expected because it follows a pattern in past census numbers. Since 1980, those counties combined have added a little more than 420,000 people, while the other 90 counties have lost about 30,000. The three counties now account for 56% of the state's population, up from 43% in 1980. The lack of population gains in rural areas has kept Nebraska's overall per-decade growth in the single-digit percentage range over the past several decades, but last year's 7.4% growth did reach one unexpected milestone: it matched overall U.S. growth for the first time in more than a century. That was partly due to a decline in overall growth in the U.S., but it was also due to the fact that the 2010s were the second-best decade in the past century in terms of population growth in Nebraska. MARRERO, La. (AP) Gwen Warren describes herself as a strong woman. But after days without electricity in a hot, sweaty Louisiana summer after Hurricane Ida wiped out the power to her home, she decided it was best to get on a bus and go to a shelter in northern Louisiana until the lights came back on. The decision to leave Afghanistan was already preordained more than a year ago by former President Donald Trump's negotiated agreement with the Taliban to withdraw U.S. troops, Hagel said. "But Trump made a huge mistake when he organized peace talks that kept the Afghan government out," he said. "That pulled the rug out from under the Afghan government and their soldiers knew that." Afghan troops provided only scattered resistance to the Taliban march to Kabul, and the Afghan capital fell far more quickly than expected, complicating the withdrawal of Afghans who had assisted the United States. "I admire Biden for making the tough decision," Hagel said. "He did the difficult thing; he knew he'd have tremendous backlash. "It was not going to be pretty; it was going to be chaos. "It was going to be very, very difficult even if we had been much better prepared. But this was not a surprise. "There are lingering questions about why there was not enough assistance in preparing Afghans who needed to leave with paperwork and visas and why there was not attention to providing more flights. "That is on the administration," Hagel said. With more than one third of the 334-square-mile (866-square-kilometer) blaze surrounded, authorities allowed more people back into their homes on the western and northern sides of the fires Friday afternoon. Mandatory evacuation orders on the Nevada side of the state line were lifted, but some areas remained on a warning status. Douglas County authorities urged residents to stay alert, saying the fire still has the potential to threaten homes. Meanwhile, there was no timeline for allowing the return of 22,000 South Lake Tahoe residents. Authorities were taking the decision on whether to lift South Lake Tahoe's evacuation day by day. Its all based on fire behavior," said Jake Cagle, a fire operations section chief. For now, things are looking good ... were getting close. The resort area can easily accommodate 100,000 people on a busy weekend but was eerily empty except for the occasional, wandering bear just before the holiday weekend. The wildfire dealt a major blow to an economy that heavily depends on tourism and was starting to rebound this summer from pandemic shutdowns. Drama ahead. It's the once-every-decade combat and tension that tears at the fabric and comity of Nebraska's nonpartisan Legislature. Redistricting is the moment when partisanship and party politics overwhelm the fundamental uniqueness of the single house that George Norris built. Republicans are in charge during this special session. They've got the numbers to prevail in strengthening their somewhat tenuous grip on metropolitan Omaha's 2nd Congressional District. And perhaps even hold their losses in the Legislature, measured in terms of rural seats, to one even though census figures may suggest the need for two additional urban seats. There will be a choice to be made by some senators who represent metropolitan Nebraska districts, their cities and urban interests or their political party. Republicans have won 13 of the last 14 House contests in the 2nd Congressional District, thanks most recently to Sarpy County precincts, but they lost two of the last four presidential electoral votes in the district and they want to bring an end to that. In 2020, 87.3% of white students graduated high school. That number drops significantly for other students of color, including Natives (57.1%), Blacks (65.5%) and Latinos (67.3%). To address that disparity, LPS hopes to earmark some of the ESSER funds to sustain a federal grant that assists Native students and to expand engagement with minority students in middle and high school. Those are just the initial steps that the district will be taking. A plan to develop measurables to assess disparities, using criteria such as graduation and suspension rates, enrollment in honors courses and staff diversity, and create methods to address them is set to be formed by April and will be implemented thereafter. Other proposals for the money include: expanding summer school and jump-start programs, implementing updated reading and math curriculum, teacher training, expanding library print and digital collections, Wi-Fi hotspots for students and purchasing personal protective equipment and funding COVID-19 leave if conditions change. It must be noted that ESSER funds cannot be used to supplement the districts general fund. That is, they cannot be used for day-to-day operations and, therefore cant provide any relief for property taxpayers. I am increasingly disturbed that Gov. Pete Ricketts and state government is placing liberty above all other values and ethics that we hold dear as U.S. citizens. Our Declaration of Independence states, 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, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness ... In opposing mandated public health measures such as masks and vaccinations, our leaders are saying that individual liberty is more important than the health (life) and well-being (happiness) of other citizens -- including patients seeking healthcare, healthcare workers, essential service workers, school children or our immunocompromised friends and family. Surgeries are being cancelled for some citizens because others refuse to wear masks or be vaccinated impacting their life, liberty and happiness. Children are losing happiness in attending school in person and immunocompromised individuals have been nearly imprisoned in their homes for more than a year. What about their liberty, life and happiness? I had to chuckle at the LJS article "NU president gets sweet treat," (Aug. 17). Apparently the University of Nebraska-Lincoln felt the need to develop and name an ice cream flavor after NU President Ted Carter. After getting a $140,000 raise recently, it would seem that the sweet treat had already been delivered before the ice cream. Sadly unjustifiable salaries and raises like this seem to happen all too often in our educational systems. LPS Superintendent Steve Joel was recently given a 1.5% raise, roughly $5,000 a year. The salary and benefit package combined costs Lincoln's taxpayers over a cool half million dollars a year. Using the pandemic as a justification for raises is baloney. Myriads of entities, public and private, dealt with it, using administrators who were getting paid a lot less than Joel and Carter. When you pay people this kind of money, the ability to deal with issues is an expectation, not an extra credit activity. To throw public money around this way at a time when so many are just trying to survive is just shameful. Jay Edmiston, Lincoln Love 3 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Aug. 30-Sept. 3 This list is not comprehensive. Municipalities are listed as they appear on the criminal complaint. Suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. To see mugshots of the accused, visit journaltimes.com/gallery. Additional information about the complaints can be found at: journaltimes.com/news/local/crime-and-courts. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released a study showing a single teacher in Marin County near San Francisco spread the delta version of the virus to 26 people by removing her mask to read stories to children. If parents in Wisconsin dont want their students to wear masks in classes this fall, they can keep their kids home for online learning until the pandemic is over. Hundreds of families in Madison have applied for this option, which is fine. The vast majority of families have not. If the district cant accommodate all of the families who want to learn online, those families still have online charter schools as an option. Thankfully, teachers are not being asked to try to teach in-person and online students at the same time. That makes it too hard for educators to hold the interest of students and keep them on track. Madison learned that lesson the hard way last spring. If the pandemic has proven anything to us, it is that our businesses are only as good as the people who work for them. At the end of the day, every successful business depends on the high performance of their people. In the last 20 years, the business community survived by hiring, training, promoting and keeping good people. Sure, there were times when it seemed difficult to find just the right person, or to find the best reliable person, but eventually you found them, or learned to do without. Then, without notice, COVID-19 turned the world in general, and the business world in particular, upside down. Theres no need to itemize all the ways businesses had to create a new way to get things done. Remote working, re-arranging factory floors for safe distancing, PPEs it seemed endless and sometimes, hopeless. Figuring out how to deal with the aftermath may be the most challengingbeing able to find people to fill the openings resulting from the pandemic. Defeated presidential candidate Donald Trump famously called Georgias Secretary of State for a favor. We just need you to find 11,780 votes. Now, were supposed to believe Trump is championing election integrity? Reince Priebus, former head of Wisconsin and national Republican Parties, speaking on a Steve Bannon podcast recently said Republicans controlling our state legislature have promised to fully fund an investigation of election integrity here. The cost $680,000. Thats for starters, and thats taxpayer money! Seriously? Our nation has watched for months as the Cyber Ninjas, people with zero experience auditing elections, audited ballots in Maricopa County. Even Arizona Republicans have called this sham, which is being paid for by five pro-Trump donor organizations to the tune (waste?) of $5.7 million dollars, an embarrassment and untrustworthy. Wikipedia tallies 63 lawsuits by the Trump campaign and others challenging the results of the November election. All failed dismissed or dropped for lack of evidence, described as "frivolous" and "without merit." 1. Yes. COVID-19 can only be stopped through vaccinations. A mandate is needed. 2. Yes. This is a major step, but were facing a national emergency. It is a justifiable move. 3. No. The government is right to promote vaccinations, but not to require them. 4. No. This is government overreach and legally questionable. A mandate is wrong. 5. Unsure. Its in the publics interest, but mandates infringe on individuals rights. Vote View Results Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} It really is nice to have that presence back on campus. We do a lot of interaction with the students to let them know what services are available, he said. Overall, as a center, we are thrilled to have students back on campus. A virtual classroom experience has also remained popular following a year of heavy use, tallying higher enrollment than in-person coursework. Of the 6,056 student total, 2,306 are on-campus students and 3,750 are distance learning students. Gotschall said having both options makes CCC an attractive avenue for furthering ones education. We continue to see students engaging in on-campus classes while also appreciating the flexibility provided by our virtual, hybrid and distance learning offerings, Gotschall said. Christensen said remaining virtual learning opportunities remaining from last year are likely contributing to increased enrollment. We switched our delivery methods and we found a demographic that maybe we didnt know was as big as it was. Additionally, the schools early college program continues to grow, according to the school. The effort, which helps high school students get a leg-up on college coursework, comes via a partnership with more than 80 area high schools. A functional Natural Resources Board would acknowledge that Wisconsin residents are overwhelmingly opposed to another wolf hunt this November. In fact, a recent poll conducted by Remington Research Group and commissioned by the Humane Society of the United States found that nearly 70% of likely 2022 Wisconsin voters do not want the November hunt to occur because of the devastation to wolf family packs caused by the February hunt. The board continues to ignore the will of Wisconsinites despite continued public outcry at the past nine NRB meetings. Not having a wolf hunt this fall is not just what people want; its what science and ethics demand. As top carnivores, wolves are crucial to mitigating ailments like chronic wasting disease in deer, and the beneficial ecosystem services they provide cascade throughout our forests. The most common justification used by those few who want to trophy hunt wolves also falls apart under scrutiny. To put it simply: randomly killing wolves through trophy hunting and trapping does not protect livestock. Non-lethal methods, such as fencing, devices emitting noise and light, guardian animals, and proper carcass disposal are more effective at preventing conflicts with wolves from happening in the first place. Non-lethal tools simply work better. Recently I have received a lot of phone calls and e-mails asking, Why are my lilac leaves turning brown? This problem was widespread last year, and with the resurgence this summer, its worth reviewing as this is a problem we have not seen very often. Septoria leaf spot is the answer to the question of what is going on with the lilacs? Brian Hudelson of the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostic Clinic provides the following information on this disease: Septoria leaf spot has been the number-one disease this season on lilac, and is towards the top of the disease list for all plants. Symptoms are lilacs with leaves that have partially or fully browned starting at the bottom of the shrub and working up the plant. The culprit in this browning appears to be a species of Septoria, a fungus related to (but distinct from) the organism that causes Septoria leaf spot of tomato. While the browning caused by this disease is quite dramatic, the disease is not lethal. If you look carefully at the branches with symptomatic leaves, you should be able to find healthy leaf buds at the base of the petioles of this years leaves. These buds are ready to sprout next spring to produce a new crop of leaves. Masks in school? Sure. Mandatory vaccines for teachers. You bet. Schools across Wisconsin should do whatever is necessary to keep classes open and safe this fall. On their latest episode of "Center Stage, with Milfred and Hands" -- click the play button above to listen -- our political podcasters urge school officials not to panic at the first outbreak of a COVID variant. Milfred and Hands celebrate the return to five full days of classes a week in the Madison School District and elsewhere across most of Wisconsin. Following a lost year of learning during the pandemic last year, schools must take precautions to keep the schoolhouse doors open. Students, staff and visitors should mask up inside school buildings, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends. Districts also should require teachers to be vaccinated. Teachers are essential workers, after all, in close contact with the only population that isn't yet eligible for shots -- kids younger than 12. Though more contagious strains of COVID are concerning, none of Wisconsin's more than 7,600 deaths from COVID were younger than 10. And only three were younger than 20. Growing up on the farm, getting grease on your hands and sweat on your brow was valued and respected. After the cows were milked and the calves were fed, my family and I took pride in our work but knew that we would have to do it all over again tomorrow. Those who know me know that I am proud of my rural roots. I was raised on our family dairy farm in the same area my family has lived since they first came to this country in the 1800s. On the farm, I learned values like dedication, honesty, and how to get through tough times by working together. Each year as Labor Day approaches, we both celebrate and reflect on the contributions of the American worker. Every storefront we pass on the street, bridge we drive over, or barn where cattle are fed is a testament to the people who built it. From the bricklayers and pipefitters to teachers and nurses, every worker has a legacy thats often seen but rarely acknowledged. COVID-19 put enormous stress on working families across the country. The pandemic impacted our lives and our economy in several ways. Essential workers lifted us up, supply chains were squeezed, and some folks have adapted to working from home. Yet, throughout this challenging time, both workers and businesses have done their best to survive. On Jan. 18, Mariann, my significant other, and I arrived in Singapore for the start of a four-week cruise through Southeast Asia. The cruise was two two-week, back-to-back cruises. We would start in Singapore, sail for two weeks and return to Singapore. Then wed stay on the ship to begin the second part of the cruise, which would end in Hong Kong, where we would fly home to Philadelphia. Our first stop on our cruises was Kota Kinabalu in Borneo, Malaysia. The temperature was 95 degrees with high humidity. We left Borneo and sailed to Hong Kong. When we arrived in Hong Kong, it was a slightly rainy day with overcast skies. Before our disembarkation, it was announced that Hong Kong declared an emergency because of the coronavirus. All schools and businesses would be closed for two weeks. We were still able to tour a very modern city. When we returned to the ship, we were met by masked crew members with portable thermometers. We departed Hong Kong and continued our cruise to Vietnam, where we visited Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City. Then it was on to the Philippines, where we visited Manila. At each port, we were met by masked crew members and masked officials. We left the Philippines and proceeded to Singapore to overnight and continue our second part of the cruise. The day before our arrival in Singapore, we received an email from the cruise company, stating that our next cruise had changes in our itinerary due to coronavirus restrictions. Japan and the island of Okinawa were removed from the cruise itinerary and replaced with the Philippines. To make matters worse, instead of leaving from Hong Kong at the end of the second cruise, we were told we would be leaving from Singapore because of new restrictions in Hong Kong. This led to frantic calls by passengers on the ship who were taking a back-to-back cruise, and people already in Singapore preparing to start their cruise the next day. We sailed to Ho Chi Minh City and Hue. We were then preparing to sail to Hanoi when we received news that Hanoi refused our request to dock because our last cruise had stopped in Hong Kong. We were now rerouted to Bangkok, Thailand, and then on to Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. On the morning before our arrival into Thailand, we received a notice that we were refused admittance to both Thailand and the Philippines, and that our cruise was aborted. We were informed that we were returning to Singapore a week earlier than scheduled. We were seriously thinking about staying the week in Singapore and keeping our original air flight. I was in the lobby watching lines of people trying to get to phones or computers to change their reservations, when I talked to one of the ship officers. I told him that I was seriously thinking of staying the week on the cruise lines dollar, but wasnt sure what to do. I asked him what he would do, and he said, If I were you, I would get out as soon as possible. With that push, we went back to our stateroom, and after many hours on the phone, we were able to book a flight back to the United States. Finally boarding the plane, it took us 30 hours to arrive in Philadelphia. As far as I know, we were the last cruise ship to be allowed into Singapore before their lockdown. The author lives in Lancaster. If you know an interesting story, please write it in 600 words or less and send it to Mary Ellen Wright, LNP editorial department, P.O. Box 1328, Lancaster, PA, 17608-1328, email it to features@lnpnews. com. Please include your phone number and the name of the town you live in. This story contains links that will take you to our archives site on newspapers.com. This content is free for LancasterOnline subscribers who are logged in. Click here for more information about how to subscribe. Excerpts and summaries of news stories from the former Intelligencer Journal, Lancaster New Era and Sunday News that focus on the events in the countys past that are noteworthy, newsworthy or just strange. 25 years ago In September 1996, the presidential election was in full swing - and Lancaster County was the site of a hastily organized campaign stop by Republican vice-presidential candidate Jack Kemp. Kemp - the running mate of Sen. Bob Dole, who was trying to unseat incumbent President Bill Clinton - arrived at Lancaster Airport just before 1 p.m. for an expected four-hour visit. After greeting supporters and GOP officials on the tarmac, Kemp was whisked away to a $250-a-plate fundraising luncheon at the Eden Resort. After lunch, he was headed to the Jay Group's production and distribution center in Leola to tour the facility and meet with a group of 27 local women who were leaders in business and education. The guest list included Auntie Anne's founder Anne Beiler, Manheim Township School District superintendent Sharron Nelson and Franklin & Marshall College women's studies professor Louise Stevenson. In the headlines: S.C. residents flee from coast, 130-mph Fran to hit tonight Soft drink wars: Pepsi, Coke differ on latest battle Smashing Pumpkins win 7 MTV Music Video Awards Check out the Sept. 5, 1996, Lancaster New Era here. 50 years ago September 1971 marked the 35th annual Baby Parade at Hershey Stadium - an event which each year drew entries from all over Central Pennsylvania. Babies and children competed in categories that evaluated costumes, floats and general cuteness. The 1971 parade saw Lancaster County winners in three categories, including the coveted "Cutest Baby" award, won by 18-month-old Tris Alyne Bishop, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bishop of Rheems. She (or her parents) took home a trophy and a $50 cash prize. Mark Shearer, 5, of Mount Joy, won the prize for most original costume - he was dressed as a poodle - for which he and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Shearer won $15. Finally, taking second place for most original float were Michael Lehman, 5, and Douglas Good, 4, who portrayed Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn in the parade. The pair were the children of Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Lehman of Mount Joy and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Good of Elizabethtown. Attending the parade as honored guests were 14 previous winners of the cutest baby title. A variety of prizes such as tricycles and stuffed animals were given to participants who didn't win the cash awards. As it was every year, the event was sponsored by Hersheypark. In the headlines: Jet crash kills 109 in Alaska Indira Gandhi coming to U.S. Nixon preps Labor Day radio talk Check out the Sept. 5, 1971, Sunday News here. 75 years ago An East Earl Township farm sold for $53,995.25 at auction in September 1946, setting a new record for farmland prices here. The sum of $703 per acre for the nearly 77-acre tract just south of Blue Ball was said to be the highest ever paid for a "large-sized farm" in the county.The farm was sold by Mary Horst, widow of the late William Horst, and bought by Adam Nolt, who owned a neighboring farm. The sale price also covered several buildings, including a large brick farmhouse suitable for two families, a bank barn, a chicken house, a tobacco shed and smaller buildings. There was also a "never-failing" spring of fresh water on the premises. In the headlines: Reds propose UN meet in Europe Soviet Ukraine views Greece as threat to peace Veteran gets 'free' car he paid for with leg lost at Iwo Jima Check out the Sept. 5, 1946, Intelligencer Journal here. 100 years ago No newspapers from Sept. 5, 1921 appear in our archives, likely because Labor Day fell on that date. 7:59 a.m.: American Airlines Flight 11, a Boeing 767, departs Boston for Los Angeles with 92 people on board. 8:14 a.m.: United Airlines Flight 175, a Boeing 767, departs Boston from Logan International Airport for Los Angeles with 65 people on board. 8:19 a.m.: Flight attendants aboard Flight 11 alert ground personnel that the plane has been hijacked; American Airlines notifies the FBI. 8:20 a.m.: American Airlines Flight 77 departs from Dulles International Airport outside of Washington, D.C. The Boeing 757 is headed to Los Angeles with 64 people aboard. 8:37 a.m.: Federal Aviation Administration notifies North American Aerospace Defense Command about suspected hijacking of Flight 11. 8:42 a.m.: United Airlines Flight 93, a Boeing 757 with 44 people aboard, takes off from Newark International Airport en route to San Francisco. It had been scheduled to depart at 8 am, around the time of the other hijacked flights. 8:46 a.m.: American Airlines Flight 11 crashes into floors 93-99 of the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York City, killing everyone on board the plane. 8:50 a.m.: White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card alerts President George W. Bush that a plane has hit the World Trade Center; the president is visiting an elementary school in Sarasota, Florida, at the time. 8:52 a.m.: An attendant on Flight 175 notifies United Airlines of hijacking. 9:02 a.m.: Port Authority officials broadcast orders to evacuate both towers via the public address system; an estimated 10,000 to 14,000 people are already in the process of evacuating. 9:03 a.m.: United Airlines Flight 175 crashes into floors 75-85 of the south tower of the World Trade Center, killing everyone on board. 9:21 a.m.: The Port Authority closes all bridges and tunnels in the New York City area. 9:31 a.m.: Speaking from Florida, President Bush calls the events in New York City an apparent terrorist attack on our country. 9:37 a.m.: American Airlines Flight 77, crashes into the western facade of the Pentagon Building in Washington, D.C., collapsing a side of the building. The crash killed 59 aboard the plane and 125 military and civilian personnel inside the building. 9:45 a.m.: Amid escalating rumors of other attacks, the White House and U.S. Capitol building are evacuated (along with numerous other high-profile buildings, landmarks and public spaces). 9:49 a.m.: For the first time in history, the Federal Aviation Administration shuts down airports nationwide. Over the next 2 hours, some 3,300 commercial flights and 1,200 private planes are guided to land at airports in Canada and the United States. 9:59 a.m.: The south tower the second tower hit collapses in approximately 12 seconds. 10:03 a.m.: After passengers and crew members aboard the hijacked Flight 93 contact friends and family and learn about the attacks, they mount an attempt to retake the plane. Hijackers deliberately crash the plane into a field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, killing all 40 aboard. 10:28 a.m.: One WTC, the north tower, collapses. The total time between the first attack and the collapse of both World Trade Center towers is 102 minutes. 5:20 p.m.: The 47-story Seven World Trade Center collapses after burning for hours; the building had been evacuated in the morning, and there are no casualties, though the collapse forces rescue workers to flee for their lives. It is the last of the Twin Towers to fall. 8:30 p.m.: President Bush addresses the nation, calling the attacks evil, despicable acts of terror and declaring that America, its friends and allies would stand together to win the war against. SOURCES: ASSOCIATED PRESS, CNN, HISTORY.COM Vice President Kamala Harris will visit California's Bay Area next week to campaign with Gov. Gavin Newsom, who faces possible removal from office in a Sept. 14 recall election. Symone Sanders, Harris' chief spokesperson, tweeted Saturday that the vice president would visit on Wednesday. Sanders later confirmed that the trip is for Newsom's political benefit. Newsom was expected to appear with the vice president, Newsom campaign spokesman Nathan Click said. Harris had been set to campaign with Newsom in late August on her way back to the U.S. after a week of events and appearances in Singapore and Vietnam. But she postponed the California stop and returned to Washington because of events in Afghanistan as the U.S. raced to evacuate Americans, allies and vulnerable Afghans before an Aug. 31 deadline. President Joe Biden supports Newsom, a fellow Democrat and first-term governor, and the White House said late last month that Biden would travel to California on Newsom's behalf. Well, I would say, first, I can confirm the president does still plan to go and campaign for Gov. Newsom in California, White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her Aug. 25 briefing. I dont have a date for you at this point in time, but that is still, certainly, his plan. A Biden trip to California has not been announced. The president has spent the past couple of weeks consumed by developments in Afghanistan, as well as monitoring the federal response to powerful and deadly hurricanes that slammed Gulf Coast and Northeastern states. Biden surveyed the hurricane aftermath in Louisiana on Friday, and will examine wreckage in New Jersey and New York City on Tuesday. Next weekend, Biden will mark the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks with stops in New York, Virginia and Pennsylvania. Californians launched the recall attempt against Newsom mostly because of pandemic-induced anger over his stay-at-home orders, job losses from business closures and shuttered schools. Newsom is also facing fallout from a multibillion-dollar fraud scandal at the state unemployment agency while weathering a public shaming for not wearing a mask as he dined with friends and lobbyists at an exclusive restaurant last fall although he had been telling residents to stay home for their safety. East Earl Township police ASSAULT EAST EARL TWP.: Kevin Allan Edwards, 36, of East Earl Township, was charged with simple assault, intimidation of a witness, endangering the welfare of children and harassment after assaulting a person in the 600 block of Overlys Grove Road around 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 26, police said. Edwards then intimidated the person into misleading investigators, police said. THEFT EAST EARL TWP.: Unknown thieves stole items from outside a business on Toddy Drive and then fled the scene in a Chevrolet truck around 9:15 p.m. on Aug. 31, police said. Lititz Borough police CRASH LITITZ: A vehicle entered West Second and Woodcrest avenues without clearance and struck an oncoming dump truck around 12:15 p.m. on Sept. 1, police said. No injuries were reported, though the striking vehicle was towed from the scene, police said. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF LITITZ: An unknown vandal threw trash against the side of a vehicle in the 500 block of General Sutter Avenue, resulting in damage to the vehicles paint and metal, sometime during the night of Sept. 1-2, police said. An unknown substance was then stuck to the vehicle, police said. DUI LITITZ: Dina Marie McLendon, 58, of Ephrata, was charged with three counts of driving under the influence and two summary traffic violations after crashing in the 600 block of South Broad Street at 10:49 a.m. on July 22, police said. A blood test revealed that McLendon was under the influence of Delta-9 THC at the time of the crash, police said. Manheim Township police FRAUD MANHEIM TWP.: An unknown thief accessed the credit card of a resident of the 300 block of Rumford Road and used it to make fraudulent purchases totaling $1,430.22 between Aug. 18 and Aug. 25, police said. PROPULSION OF MISSILES MANHEIM TWP.: An unknown person threw an unknown object at a U.S. Postal Service vehicle as it was driving near Chester Road and Lititz Pike, denting the vehicles door and causing $100 in damage, at 8:10 p.m. on Aug. 30, police said. SCATTERING RUBBISH LANCASTER TWP.: An unknown person dumped trash along a walking path near Baron Drive sometime on Aug. 30, police said. TERRORISTIC THREATS MANHEIM TWP.: Michael K.R. Shultz, 44, of Lancaster, was charged with terroristic threats and recklessly endangering another person after pointing a handgun in the air and making verbal threats, then firing nine shots into the air at Villa Nova at 1310 Harrisburg Pike at 11:01 p.m. on Aug. 21, police said. Shultz had been ordered to leave the bar following a disturbance when he then walked to the parking lot and retrieved the weapon, police said. THEFT MANHEIM TWP.: An unknown thief entered an unlocked vehicle in the 500 block of Randolph Drive and stole clothing, cash and a gift card valued at a combined $380 sometime between Aug. 29 and Aug. 31, police said. TRESPASS MANHEIM TWP.: Matthew Douglas Kauffman, 40, of Elizabethtown, was charged with felony criminal trespass after entering a residence in the 600 block of Janet Avenue through an open window at 12:04 a.m. on Aug. 31, police said. Kauffman did not have permission to enter the residence, police said. VANDALISM MANHEIM TWP.: An unknown vandal spray painted graffiti and smashed a plexiglass sign at Stauffer Park at 1241 Lititz Pike, causing $450 in damage, sometime between Aug. 24 and Aug. 30, police said. Mount Joy Borough police STALKING MOUNT JOY: Berkeley S. Beidler, 27, of Lancaster, was charged with stalking after sending anonymous harassing text messages to a resident of the 400 block of Sunset Avenue sometime before 10:30 a.m. on Aug. 20, police said. Northern Lancaster County Regional police FRAUD WARWICK TWP.: A woman on Becker Drive received a Wells Fargo debit card in the mail which had originally been sent to an address in York but was rerouted to her address after it was undeliverable at 8:13 p.m. on Sept. 2, police said. The woman, who did not open the bank account, opened a fraud claim with Wells Fargo, police said. RECOVERED STOLEN VEHICLE PENN TWP.: An $88,200 2019 Land Rover which had previously been reported stolen by police in New York City, New York, was recovered at the Manheim Auto Auction at 1190 Lancaster Road at 7:16 a.m. on Sept. 2, police said. PENN TWP.: An $5,800 2011 BMW 3281 which had previously been reported stolen by police in Philadelphia, was recovered at the Manheim Auto Auction at 1190 Lancaster Road at 9:34 a.m. on Sept. 3, police said. VAGRANCY PENN TWP.: A group of six adults and children were seen holding a sign in the parking lot of a Weis Market at 75 Doe Run Road at 2:51 p.m. on Sept. 2, police said. The group told officers they were out of gas and money and were trying to get to Baltimore, police said. An officer then provided the group with gas money out of his personal funds, police said. Susquehanna Regional police CRASH EAST DONEGAL TWP.: Dustin Michael Greiner, 27, address unknown, was charged with accidents involving damage to attended property, driving while operating privilege is suspended or revoked and careless driving after crashing into another vehicle in the 1400 block of Donegal Springs Road and then fleeing the scene on foot around 4:15 p.m. on Aug. 19, police said. Greiner was later found in a corn field on Kelly Avenue, and then admitted to officers to having fled the scene, police said. TERRORISTIC THREATS EAST DONEGAL TWP.: James David Williams, 39, of Maytown, was charged with terroristic threats and harassment after threatening to harm a 13-year-old boy in the first block of Thornapple Drive around 11:45 p.m. on Aug. 31, police said. The Princeton Review has named Elizabethtown College one of the 223 best colleges in the Northeast in their 2022 Best Colleges: Region by Region list, according to a report by Yahoo Finance. The Princeton Reviews website described the private coed college as one that provides personalized attention for students from faculty that serve as lifelong mentors, Yahoo Finance said. The websites entry also highlights a welcoming and compassionate student-centered culture that provides a safe environment to pursue a college education. "We chose Elizabethtown College and the other outstanding institutions on this list primarily for their academics," The Princeton Review's Editor-in-Chief Robert Franek told Yahoo Finance. Data from The Princeton Reviews survey of administrators at several hundred colleges in each region, information from staff visits to schools over the years, the opinions of college counselors and advisors and what students enrolled at the schools reported to them on their student survey about their campus experiences were used in assembling the list, Franek said in the report. "We are honored to be included as a top college in the northeast by The Princeton Review," Elizabethtown College President Cecilia M. McCormick said in the report. "This recognition highlights the exceptional Elizabethtown College academic and social experience that we provide our students as they develop the knowledge and skills to pursue their life's work and make impactful contributions in our world." The Princeton Reviews best colleges list features 655 colleges recommended over the Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, West and International regions, according to the report. The Northeast region consists of 223 colleges in 11 states, listed in alphabetical order by school name and not ranked. Another 158 colleges in the Midwest, 126 colleges in the West, 143 colleges in the Southeast and four in the International region are ranked as the best in their region. The colleges on The Princeton Reviews 2021 regional best lists make up about 24% of the 2,700 four-year colleges across the U.S. In August, I was soaking in the last few days of summer vacation on a family trip to Aruba. We were waiting for a group to join us on a boat ride and when the group of four women arrived, one joked with the captain, We would like the best view. I had no doubts that she was an American and I grinned at her joie de vivre and thought, Thats the spirit, girlfriend! Soon, the ladies in the group engaged my family in conversation. They were from Long Island, New York. We had something in common because my brother and his beautiful family live on Long Island. And there was something else we had in common the four women and I had lived in New York on 9/11. I lost my husband on 9/11, one of the women said. Its the 20-year anniversary coming up, so please listen for the name Kevin Murphy when they call out the names. Kevin Murphy. The sun was setting, the trade winds off the blue water were blowing through our hair, my kids were smiling with their grandfather after their snorkeling adventure with their dad, and in the frame of that moment, I was sharing a space with a woman who had been a stranger until the second before. Beth Murphy continued, You have a beautiful family. Love them hard, live large, because life is so precious. Kevin Murphy had been working at the World Trade Center for about a year, encouraged by his wife to go for a job in the city. And there he was, happily doing his job, with a loving wife and two small children at home, when his life was taken from him, shattering those who love him and continue to feel his loss so deeply. He was 39. Had he been given the opportunity to live, he would have been 60 this year, enjoying this sunset with his wife. Kevin Murphy and 2,976 other people with unfinished lives left behind families, whose losses are immeasurable. My family promised Beth that we would listen for Kevin Murphy's name, and during that two-hour cruise, American strangers had forged a friendship based on an experience that was meant to break Americans. We felt warmth for each other as we recollected the aftermath of a horror intended to terrorize Americans. We emerged with a lasting connection in the memory of a day of searing devastation. Being an American I was asked to write about my perspective as a Muslim American on the 20th anniversary of 9/11 as someone who lived through it. Twenty years later, I remain a Muslim, but my perspective on Sept. 11, 2001, is not as a Muslim American but simply as an American. Let me explain. Twenty years ago, I was a graduate student, struggling to make ends meet in my dream city as a foreigner, not exactly sure where I belonged in this world. Along with overwhelming sadness, I felt anger that my faith was hijacked by terrorists who used the banner of Islam to unleash mass murder. I felt the raw reality of Muslims being under the umbrella of national and international blame. But in 2021 also my 10-year anniversary of having earned my U.S. citizenship my perspective is simply that of an American. When the first plane struck, I was in Long Island City in the borough of Queens. I saw the smoke in the blue September skies and noticed the location. I knew my younger brother was on his way to Brooklyn College. My brother and I were both far away from our family, which was scattered in Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. Logic and reasoning abandoned me and I rushed into a subway train heading toward the World Trade Center, hoping to be near him, come what may. If he was trapped underground, I needed to be there, near him. As it happened, I was trapped with other passengers underground, and it would be hours before I was able to reach him from a payphone. Then, needing to get home to Queens, I gratefully accepted a police officers directions and joined the stream of humanity walking toward the Williamsburg Bridge. Our mother was visiting the United States at the time. When I finally got home that night, I found her in the darkened streets near my apartment, holding up some candles as she waited for my brother and me. When I was 6, I was uprooted from my beloved grandparents and from Bangladesh, my country of birth, as my family embarked on a quest for a life beyond abject poverty. My family made a new home in a different country, in Africa. And then my parents were held at gunpoint, on a farm in which they had invested their life savings, because the government decided that my family did not belong to that country. I thought about all this on another family trip this summer, when I was drinking in the big, bold, free skies of Glacier National Park, Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone. Being an American is personal; its a dream come true, and every day I am my own empowering and humbling reminder of what it means to be an American. I feel protective of America, of the American spirit of freedom that requires no external permission. I feel joy in watching the U.S. flag raised on the Olympic podium, as the dedication and exceptionalism of an athlete who represents America is celebrated. I feel hope in the difficult conversations and sacrifices Americans are willing to make to tear down the existing structure of social injustice, so they can create one built on equity and integration. Seeing myself in America Twenty years after 9/11, I see myself in America, and I see America in me. Like America, I am made of the tapestry of my experiences. I was not born enlightened or entitled, so like America, I am still evolving, making mistakes, learning, but recognizing my personal part in our shared freedom. Like America, I appreciate the grace from my loved ones, who dont define me by my faults and my worst days who have good faith in my efforts to do better. Love means holding me accountable for my mistakes, and then giving me shelter and support to make the changes I need to make. What has not changed from 20 years ago is how I choose to define the country that I now call home. I still define America by the people who shared their water with strangers while walking across a bridge connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn, as we watched a symbol of American greatness fall to the ground. I still define America by the person who guided me to safety away from the falling World Trade Center buildings. This was not a viral social media moment there was no such thing at the time but a real and lasting moment with real Americans surviving on shared good faith. Another advantage of being an immigrant is that you learn to not define the value of the country by the politicians and administrators who pander to the powerful to attain their positions. America stands on the shoulders of Americans, and Americans showed me how to be an American, on 9/11. l would not bet against the nation that rose back up to rebuild the symbol of its financial success. I would not bet against a nation of men and women brave enough to serve for freedom, or the Gold Star families who bear an immeasurable burden for that freedom. I wouldnt bet against America because I would not bet against my home, my family, my friends, my community I would not bet against myself. I applaud the unyielding American thirst for life. I feel it. I am here for it! And I think it is that particular brand of freedom, that vibe of joie de vivre, that unshakable American confidence that requires no external validation, that the terrorists of 9/11 had tried to kill. But nothing can kill such spirit of freedom from the outside, as long as this freedom thrives from within. So, on this 20-year anniversary of the brutal terrorist attacks that tried to kill America, I say, America, keep learning from your past, keep doing better in the present, keep thriving into the future! You have Americans myself included across this nation, looking up to your magnificent skies and cheering you on! Nazli W. Hardy, Ph.D., is the founder of Woman Empowered (NazliHardy.com). She is associate professor of computer science and chair of the Women in Science & Technology Conference at Millersville University. This year marks the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and the horrific attacks on our nation by al-Qaida terrorists. All anniversaries provide us with the time to think about the events that have happened in our lives, but this anniversary seems to weigh heavier than most. Twenty-year anniversaries are worth special attention, not just because 20 years is a long time, but because they are intergenerational, shared by those who experienced the event sharply and those who cannot remember it. And this anniversary comes at a time when our nation has gone through so much over the past 18 months. Our departure from Afghanistan on Aug. 31 is the latest reminder of the struggles we have had as a nation and where we might go from here. Sept. 11, 2001, has deep meaning to Americans. It is a day every bit as significant to us as Pearl Harbor was to our parents and grandparents. The loss of nearly 3,000 American civilians and first responders, the destruction of our financial center in New York City, the fiery crash into the Pentagon near Washington, D.C., and the bravery of the passengers on Flight 93 must never be forgotten. The attacks led America into our global war on terrorism, with a coalition of allies and friends who all made the sacrifices of time, talent and treasure to bring evil to justice. Commanding a helicopter unit in Afghanistan for 14 months, I was part of the war on terrorism with my fellow soldiers. We were successful in the long struggle to protect our homeland, and we as Americans rebounded from the shock of 9/11. We mourned our losses and rebuilt and retooled, while destroying the enemies that wished us harm. Over the years, 9/11 has become a national day of remembrance, as it should be. On Dec. 18, 2001, Congress voted to name Sept. 11 Patriot Day to commemorate those who died in the 9/11 attacks. In 2009, Sept. 11 was designated a National Day of Service and Remembrance. Although not an official holiday, 9/11 has taken on aspects of Memorial Day, with ceremonies and commemorative events throughout the day. As a reservist in the Pennsylvania National Guard, I clearly remember the day of the attacks. My first mission was to fly then-Gov. Tom Ridge to the Flight 93 crash site on the field near Shanksville in southwestern Pennsylvania. For the rest of the week, we were flying support sorties and deploying Guardsmen to both New York and Washington, D.C. That week was one of the longest weeks of my military career. Each day, we received new assignments to fly everything from cots and blankets to mortuary kits. Flying a helicopter in the vicinity of lower Manhattan, the endless smoke and ashes were like permanent clouds that enveloped our aircraft. The loss and destruction were incredible, visible from 50 miles away, and the radio silence on the commercial airways of Americas greatest metropolitan corridor was sobering. Through the years, I have had the opportunity to be interviewed by this newspaper, to speak at various ceremonies and to meet with students and others interested in learning about 9/11 based on my experiences. Most of the time, these events have ended with a sense of pride in American resiliency, in how we overcame this tragedy. This year, however, it seems more difficult to capture that feeling. Our nation has been through a terrible time. A pandemic that brought our economy to its knees and took the lives of more than 643,000 Americans. A contentious presidential election that ended with an outrageous attack on the U.S. Capitol. Our exit from Afghanistan and the killing of 13 members of the U.S. military as we rushed to depart Kabul. And our enemy, the Taliban, returning to power. This year, all of us have struggled with what it means to be a resilient nation. I believe now more than ever that our nations leadership needs to step up and work toward binding the wounds that fester across our land. We can no longer afford to have elected officials seeking to gain partisan (and perhaps personal) rewards by yelling the loudest from their chambers. It is simply not right for a member of Congress to generate fear and anger by asserting that Afghan refugees will be raping and killing our little girls ... in the streets. It is not right for school board members to be shouted down by fellow Americans who disagree over mask policies. It is not right that senior officials promise Afghans who served with our troops that they would be protected, even as the last American plane flew out of their country without them. Our leadership needs to work together and focus on what makes us great. Its not name-calling, threatening or trying to harm those who disagree over ideas and policy. It is about democratic debate and loyal opposition that argues on principle rather than anger. More than ever, this years 9/11 remembrance must be about how we get back to becoming a resilient nation. How we move our country forward in the face of adversity and challenge. We must work together to complete the fight against COVID-19. Our elderly citizens have suffered immensely in this pandemic, and they still do. (Just try visiting an elderly family member or friend in a long-term care facility.) And children born after 9/11 are experiencing their own life-altering crisis, which threatens to disrupt their education for a third academic year. We must work together to develop domestic policies that protect and grow our economy but are reasonable in terms of long-term costs. We must work together to set an example of charity by accepting our newest refugees from Afghanistan and helping them to become great Americans. And most importantly, we must never forget those who perished on that clear, blue-skied September morning. Their deaths 20 years ago have set the stage for our nation to once again rise and lead the world as the cornerstone of freedom. If we can remember this, we can hopefully rest a little easier in the belief that the future of our country is secure. David E. Wood, of Manheim Township, is a retired U.S. Army National Guard brigadier general. Hes now a protective security adviser for the U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. These views are his own, not those of his employer. THE ISSUE According to a Spotlight PA article published in last weeks Sunday LNP | LancasterOnline, key state Senate Republicans have renewed their pursuit of a forensic audit that would reexamine last years contests for signs of fraud, despite the fact that the election results have long been certified, and several lawsuits filed against the commonwealth following the election failed to prove any wrongdoing. Moreover, the state already audited the 2020 election twice. Spotlight PA is a nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer; its partners include LNP Media Group. Apparently, there are no real problems to be addressed in Pennsylvania, so state lawmakers have had to create make-believe ones. Thats the only explanation we can think of for why some Republican lawmakers still are trying to launch a so-called forensic audit of the 2020 presidential election. That election was held 306 days ago. If the election was an infant born on Nov. 3, 2020, it would be crawling and eating solid foods by now. Every member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from Lancaster County was reelected that very same day, by voters who used the same methods and equipment as those who voted for President Joe Biden. Strangely, they are not questioning the legitimacy of their own elections. Instead, because a significant majority of Pennsylvanians voted for a Democrat rather than former President Donald Trump, some lawmakers want to undo the no-excuse mail-in voting reform overwhelmingly passed by the Republican-controlled state Legislature in 2019. Thats despite the fact that Lancaster Countys Republican commissioners praised the way the election was conducted here. Said Commissioner Ray DAgostino, when the county certified the vote: We do sign a certification basically saying that the votes are accurate and that there are no petitions for a recount in the county at this point. County officials also debunked claims of election anomalies made by one group seeking an audit. And its despite the fact that Trumps own attorney general and former election cybersecurity chief said there was no evidence of widespread voter fraud that might have altered the election outcome in Pennsylvania or any other state. Despite all this, Republican state lawmakers want to waste taxpayer money on a meaningless partisan exercise. When they could be addressing this states continuing crisis of opioid addiction. Or dealing with the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. Or relieving the burden of senior citizens saddled with property taxes they no longer can afford to pay. Or ensuring that the states unemployment compensation system is well and truly fixed. Or passing a bill to allow victims of childhood sexual abuse to sue those who abused them and those who enabled the abuse. Or addressing this commonwealths bloated system of government, starting with the General Assembly itself. There is an endless list of real work that state lawmakers ought to do when they return from their lengthy paid summer vacation. Instead, they are doing real harm to our democracy by pretending that the election that didnt go their way was rigged. Newsflash: It wasnt. The ongoing circus Republicans have not been able to find evidence of fraud in the 2020 election, so they took baseless claims of election irregularities and inconsistencies to the courts, which mostly rejected those claims. We thought that would have been the end of the nonsense, but apparently Republican lawmakers especially those up for reelection next year and desperately afraid of being challenged in their primaries by candidates to their right feel compelled to keep the circus going. We experienced a glimmer of hope that some sense had returned to Harrisburg when state Senate President Pro Tempore Jake Corman, of Centre County, removed Sen. Doug Mastriano, of Franklin County, from his chairmanship of the legislative committee that was pursuing a forensic audit. Mastriano, you may recall, is a QAnon-promoting conspiracy theorist who attended and organized a bus trip to the Trump rally that preceded and instigated the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Hes expected to seek the Republican gubernatorial nomination next year. Hes also the guy, as Spotlight PA reported, who facilitated an anonymously funded audit in Fulton County, which occurred without the Pennsylvania Department of States knowledge. That agency decertified that countys voting machines because the county had broken chain of custody laws governing ballots and voting systems. Fulton County now is suing the state. All of this will cost taxpayers. But apparently, Corman wasnt penalizing Mastriano for seeking an unnecessary election "audit." Corman just didnt like Mastrianos methods and his grandstanding. As the Centre Daily Times reported, Corman said in November that he had no knowledge of any voter fraud. And according to Spotlight PA, he told colleagues in June, We dont need to relitigate 2020. Up for reelection next year, Corman now is all in on an election audit. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Corman told pro-Trump radio personality Wendy Bell in August that he doesnt necessarily have faith in the results of the 2020 presidential election, and he vowed to get to the bottom of things. Corman also said this: We need to get the voter rolls, we need to get the ballots things of that nature so we can match them up to see: who voted, where were they living, were they alive? And he shamelessly said hes heard stories about dead people voting. There is no evidence whatsoever that dead people voted for Biden. 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. As weve noted before, the culprits were caught. The system worked. Attack on democracy Last week, as The Associated Press reported, 14 Republican state House members filed a new lawsuit in the state Commonwealth Court, challenging Pennsylvanias mail-in voting law, claiming that it violates the state constitution. Among the 14: state Rep. Dave Zimmerman, a self-described conservative from East Earl Township. To give you some idea of Zimmermans record as a public servant, well note again that in 2018 he was the lone member of the Lancaster County state House delegation to vote against legislation aimed at curbing domestic abusers access to firearms; he was found by the Pennsylvania State Ethics Commission to have used his previous position as an East Earl Township supervisor to advance a land deal in which he and his brother had a financial stake; and he proposed legislation that would have legalized ownership of sugar gliders and hedgehogs as pets in Pennsylvania. The lawsuit to which he lent his name claims that the commonwealths no-excuse voting law violates a state constitutional provision that requires lawmakers to provide a way for people to vote if they are unable to vote in person for specific reasons. Those reasons, the AP reported, include being out of town on business, illness, physical disability, election day duties or a religious observance. But the lawsuit contends that the 2019 law violates that by allowing people to vote by mail even if they do not meet one of those categories. As the AP pointed out, the state constitution does not explicitly say that the Legislature cannot extend absentee voting to others. In a statement, state Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a Democrat who likely will run for governor next year, said the lawsuit is not only the height of hypocrisy, but it also has real consequences and damages public trust in our elections. Damaging public trust in our elections has been an aim of Trump loyalists all along. They want to bring to Pennsylvania the kind of ridiculous audit conducted in Arizona by a private company called Cyber Ninjas. As weve noted previously, that audit has been panned, even by some Arizona Republicans, as a botched and anti-democratic, partisan sham. We can laugh at the ridiculousness of an election "audit" conducted by a company with a ludicrous name, but the peddling of the Big Lie the baseless claim that the presidential election was stolen from Trump is what led to the horrific insurrection Jan. 6. Whether championed by an extremist like Mastriano or a mainstream politician like Corman, a so-called forensic audit of a free, fair and legitimate election would not just be a waste of time and money. It would be one more attack on our democracy. EIR LEAD EDITORIAL FOR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2021 Afghanistan and Cooperation for Development Shape Discussion at Vladivostok Eastern Economic Forum Sept. 4, 2021 (EIRNS)With the urgent task of organizing a solution to the Afghanistan crisis in the forefront of the mind of most participants, the annual Vladivostok Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) concluded three days of presentations and discussions today, which largely centered on different aspects of economic cooperation to bring peace and stability to the region. Ironically, it was Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid who stated the required approach most clearly in an interview with the Italian daily La Repubblica: China is our principal partner and for us represents a fundamental and extraordinary opportunity because its ready to invest in and reconstruct our country. We hold in high regard the One Belt One Road project that will serve to revive the ancient Silk Road. Beyond that, we have rich copper mines which thanks to the Chinese can be brought back into production and modernized. China represents our passport towards the markets of the whole world. Russian President Vladimir Putin, as host of the EEF, played a leading role in focusing the discussion at Vladivostok. TASS reported that, on the subject of Afghanistan, Putin stated: The reality is that the Taliban movement (outlawed in RussiaTASS) now controls almost all of Afghanistan. So, we should be guided by reality. He said that the countrys disintegration is what poses the main threat to Moscow: Russia is not interested in a disintegrated Afghanistan. If it happens, there will be no one to talk with, Putin noted. He added that the Afghan situation is a disaster because the Americans, who are very pragmatic people, spent over $1.5 trillion on this campaign, and whats the result? And if we look at the number of people left in Afghanistan, who used to work for the collective West, the United States and its allies, then it will be clear that it is a humanitarian disaster, too.... As for Afghanistan, they say: we got there and made a lot of mistakes. However, the same process continues in relation to other countries. What are sanctions? They are a continuation of the same policy aimed at imposing their standards. Putin added that he hoped that Western countries will realize that acting like before and trying to civilize other nations is a failed policy. Schiller Institute founder Helga Zepp-LaRouche also stressed, in comments today, that the Afghanistan crisis has put on display the fact that the entire neo-liberal paradigm is dead, and must be replaced by a new order of peace through development. If the era of perpetual wars is indeed to end, as President Biden has promised, then all sanctionswhich are only a tool of regime-change assaults on nationsmust immediately be lifted, including the deadly Caesar sanctions targeting Syria. Europe and the United States must instead join China and other Belt and Road nations in the urgent task of rebuilding Afghanistan, starting with critical health care and food requirements needed to avoid looming famine in the country. How valuable would it be to have a guaranteed job for the rest of your life? In the United States, few jobs come with lifetime appointments. Federal judges, including justices on the U.S. Supreme Court, and college professors are on the short list. Professors can earn what is known as tenure. The idea of tenure got popular over 100 years ago when university presidents at some famous schools decided it was important to protect professors from outside interference. The idea is that a professor with tenure is free to teach or do research even if their states leader does not like the subject. As a result, it is rare for a professor with tenure to be dismissed. Those who argue against tenure say professors might work hard leading up to what is known as a tenure review, and then stop working as hard after their job is safe. In addition, some experts worry that tenure protects professors who are accused of bad behavior. Young professors who are hired for jobs where tenure is a possibility are said to have tenure track jobs. They often have a review after their fifth year. If they earn tenure, then they have a job that is largely guaranteed for as long as they want it. The review is extremely detailed. Professors are judged by other members of the university on the quality of their teaching, the amount of research they have done in their subject and books and studies they have written. Professors at other schools write letters and past students can add their thoughts. Tenure disputes in news stories The idea of tenure has been in the news recently. Two well-known Black professors recently made public disputes they had with the tenure process at some famous universities. Cornel West is a well-known professor who taught philosophy and African American Studies at Harvard. In February, he said Harvard rejected his request to be considered for tenure although he had a good five-year review. West had a tenured position at Harvard in the past but left the school in 2002 after a conflict with the university president. He went on to teach at Princeton University. He went back to Harvard in 2016. West said he would leave Harvard to teach at the Union Theological Seminary in New York City. Over the summer, reporter Nikole Hannah-Jones also was involved in a dispute over tenure. Hannah-Jones is the Pulitzer Prize-winning creator of the New York Times 1619 Project and has received the famous MacArthur Foundation Genius Grant. She was offered a position at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that did not include tenure. Professors at the universitys Hussman School of Journalism and students protested. Widespread criticism caused the university to reconsider and include tenure in its offer. Hannah-Jones rejected the new offer and decided to join Howard University in Washington, D.C. She will use money from outside organizations to start a journalism center there. The tenure review is an important moment in a professors career. Young professors often worry they will not do enough to get tenure, and they then worry that being denied tenure will be a bad mark on their record. One young professor, Geri Kerstiens, teaches at the University of California in Santa Cruz. She said Twitter is full of comments from professors worried about their tenure review, because there are a lot of us and not as many jobs. But being denied tenure can be a new beginning. Some professors are rejected for tenure but go on to find a better place to work. One professor found a position that offered job security and supported her best work. How to value a professors work Anne Baranger is an experienced chemistry professor at the University of California at Berkeley. Half of her job is tenured and half is not. Her status, she said, is unusual. She said her job is secure because it is difficult to imagine getting rid of half a person and not the other half. Before moving to California, she taught at universities in Illinois and Connecticut. She now helps graduate students think about their career path. Most start to plan their careers in their third or fourth year. At that point, they decide if they want to become a professor or work for a business that hires chemists. Students also decide if they want to center their career on teaching or research. In the past, universities often gave equal weight to a new professors ability to carry out research, teach and serve the university. If a professor was not good in one of those areas, they would be denied tenure. Now, however, some universities think about hiring professors who can spend more time in areas where they are strong. Geri Kerstiens is one of Barangers former chemistry students. She just started a tenure-track job in Santa Cruz. Kerstiens will teach chemistry, but one of her main jobs is to help the university revamp its chemistry program. She said she will do research on ways to teach chemistry, but she will not run a laboratory like many professors. Finding a job that centered on chemistry education was a dream. I feel incredibly lucky to have gotten what Ive gotten. It was lightning striking. Its just not something I was expecting. What if tenure is denied? Hannah Love is a philosophy professor at Portland Community College in Oregon. She was denied tenure at a different school early in her career. She was worried about what opportunities she would have after that. Now, however, she is happy at a community college because she can put more energy into teaching and helping students. She has a continuous appointment, which means if she continues to do good work, her job is safe. She spoke with VOA about her earlier disappointment. In retrospect, its one of the best things that happened because I kind of always wanted to teach at a community college. I think Im exactly where Im supposed to be, and professionally, its a much better fit. Baranger, the Berkeley professor, said she would like to see non-teaching employees at universities considered with the same intensity. It might make the university better overall. So its a filter thats pretty serious and I dont think we would do something that required both so much work and was so frequently negativeIve never seen anybody fired. Ever. Im Dan Friedell. Dan Friedell wrote this story for Learning English. Mario Ritter, Jr. was the editor. What do you think about the tenure process at universities? Tell us in the Comments Section and visit our Facebook page. Quiz - How Important Is Tenure in Higher Education? Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz ___________________________________________________________ Words in This Story tenure n. the right to keep a job, especially the job of being a professor at a college or university, for as long as you want to have it review n. an act of carefully looking at or examining the quality or condition of something or someone : examination or inspection journalism n. the activity of collecting, writing and editing news stories for newspapers, radio and television revamp v. to make (something) better or like new again get rid (of) v. to remove or throw away something in retrospect n. when thinking about the past or something that happened in the past filter n. a device that is used to remove something unwanted from a liquid or gas that passes through it negative adj. harmful or bad; not wanted A team of Arctic researchers from Denmark say they accidentally discovered what they believe is the worlds northernmost island. Northernmost is a term that means farthest to the north. The island is located off of Greenlands coast. At first, the scientists from the University of Copenhagen thought they had arrived at Oodaaq, an island discovered in 1978. They arrived, instead, on an undiscovered island farther north. Morten Rasch was the groups leader. We were convinced that the island we were standing on was Oodaaq, which until then was registered as the worlds northernmost island, he said. Registered is a term that means to be part of an official list. In a statement, Rasch explained When I posted photos of the island and its coordinates on social media, a number of American island hunters went crazy and said that it couldnt be true. Island hunters are adventurers who enjoy searching for unknown islands. The yet-to-be-named island is 780 meters north of Oodaaq, an island off Cape Morris Jesup, the northernmost point of Greenland and one of the most northerly points of land on Earth. The island was discovered as a result of moving ice. It is about 30 by 60 meters in size and rises to about three to four meters above sea level, the university said. The research team reportedly does not consider the discovery to be a result of climate change. Rasch said the island has small, raised areas of soil and rocks. He said it may be the result of a major storm that, with the help of the sea, slowly pushed material from the seabed together until an island formed. The island is not expected to exist a long time, Danish researchers believe. No one knows how long it will remain... it could disappear as soon as a powerful new storm hits, Rasch said. Im John Russell. John Russell adapted this story from an Associated Press report. Susan Shand was the editor. _____________________________________________________________ Words in This Story coordinate n. technical : one of a set of numbers that is used to locate a point on a map, graph, etc. seabed n. the ground that is at the bottom of the sea A new study has found that future missions to Mars should be limited to four years to protect astronauts from harmful radiation. The study also says that missions should be carried out during specific times to reduce the level of exposure to dangerous particles. The U.S. space agency NASA currently has plans to send astronauts back to the moon. It also plans to one day send astronauts to Mars. Those plans include missions that would keep astronauts in space for long periods. China has also announced plans to send astronauts to Mars by 2033. Such missions present great risks to humans because of the high level of radiation in space. Radiation exposure can cause a series of health issues, including skin burns, heart problems and cancer. NASA has spent many years studying ways to protect human space travelers from radiation. On Earth, we also experience exposure to radiation from the sun. But our planets magnetic field protects us from dangerously high levels. Two main kinds of radiation can affect humans and equipment in space. One is produced by particles released from the sun. The other comes from high energy particles created by cosmic rays from outside our solar system. NASA says the second kind can be more dangerous to humans and more destructive to equipment. In the new study, researchers used modeling methods to predict levels of radiation exposure during future space missions. They combined geophysical models of particle radiation with models for how radiation would affect human passengers and spacecraft. The international group of researchers recently published their study in Space Weather. The results showed that the best time for a human space flight to Mars would be during what is known as solar maximum. This is a period within the suns magnetic cycle that experiences the most intense solar activity. The researchers said in a statement that this period would be a good time for a flight because, the most dangerous and energetic particles from distant galaxies are deflected by the enhanced solar activity, during solar maximum. The study also found that a round-trip mission to Mars should not last longer than four years. A longer mission would expose astronauts to dangerously high amounts of radiation, even if the trips to and from Mars were made during safer travel times. The average flight time to Mars is about nine months. The spacecraft used for carrying astronauts to Mars would require special protective shielding, the study found. But the researchers said this protective material cannot be too heavy. If the material is too thick, it could actually increase the amount of secondary radiation the astronauts could be exposed to. The research team included scientists from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). UCLA research geophysicist Yuri Shprits was a co-writer of the study. He said the findings suggest that future missions to Mars can be safe for humans as long as they follow the research recommendations. Shprits said, This study shows that while space radiation imposes strict limitations on how heavy the spacecraft can be and the time of launch -- and it presents technological difficulties for human missions to Mars -- such a mission is viable. NASA is currently working to develop several kinds of solutions to protect humans serving long-term space missions. Possible solutions include building temporary shelters, developing high-tech protective clothing, or deploying special shields above Mars to block radiation. Im Bryan Lynn. Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from UCLA, Space Weather and NASA. Ashley Thompson was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page. Quiz - Study: Mars Missions Should Be Limited to Four Years to Protect from Radiation Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz _________________________________________ Words in This Story mission n. an important task, usually involving travel specific adj. clearly defined or identified exposure n. coming into contact with something cosmic ray n. high-energy particles that move through space at nearly the speed of light maximum n. the greatest or highest amount possible deflect v. to make something change direction by hitting or touching it enhance v. to improve something shield n. a piece of equipment used as protection impose v. to put or place viable n. effective and able to be successful Stor said three more flights are scheduled Sunday to the same provinces. A team of Qatari and Turkish technicians arrived in Kabul last week to help restart operations at the airport, which the U.N. says is crucial to providing the country with humanitarian assistance. It remains to be seen, however, whether any commercial airlines will be willing to offer service. WASHINGTON The top U.S. military general has thanked members of the 10th Mountain Division for their service in Afghanistan during the evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others over the past several weeks. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, met with military police soldiers at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Germany on Saturday. Standing outside talking to a group, he asked them, You were there for the bombing? Heads nodded and a chorus of voices answered, yes, sir. A suicide bombing by the Islamic State group near a gate at the Kabul airport more than a week ago killed 13 U.S. service members as well as 169 Afghans who were crowded around the entry, desperate to get on flights out of Afghanistan. You guys did an incredible job, all of you Army, Navy, Marines, the Air Force flying out 124,000 people. Thats what you saved, Milley told the soldiers. He said they showed enormous courage discipline and capability, working together. Its something you should always be proud of... This will be a moment that youll always remember. Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 I wholeheartedly support it. I don't like it, but it's become necessary to fight the coronavirus. I really don't like it, but if I have to get vaccinated to keep my job, I'll do it. I disagree with it and refuse to be vaccinated. Vote View Results When Baldomero Perez, a farmworker who lives in Bakersfield, voted in a union election in 2016, he saw many of his colleagues were fearful when they went to cast their ballots. Farmworker union elections often happen on the growers property. Perez, who works in the table grape, blueberry and mandarin industries, thinks farmworkers should be afforded the same options as Californians voting in state elections including the option to consider their ballots at home and then drop them off or send them back in the mail. Ive seen how different it is when people cast their vote by mail, Perez said via a United Farm Workers translator. The vote is safe, and they dont receive pressure from anyone. California lawmakers are advancing a bill sponsored by UFW that would give farmworkers more ways to vote in union elections. AB 616 would allow workers to receive ballots and fill them out wherever they please, on their own time. Then, they could hand deliver or mail their ballots to the state board that oversees farmworker union elections, or give them to a union organizer to deliver in a signed and sealed envelope. Its headed to the governors desk after clearing the Legislature. The bill comes on the heels of a Supreme Court decision that dealt a blow to farmworker organizing. In June, the conservative court overturned a long-standing California rule that allowed organizers to meet with farmworkers at their place of work. Farmworkers often also live in housing provided by growers on the farm property, making them even more difficult for organizers to reach. Business groups and legislators opposed to the bill argue that it leaves workers more vulnerable to pressure or coercion from union organizers or coworkers. But supporters say its not uncommon for employers to dissuade workers from forming unions, sometimes through illegal tactics. Few California farmworkers are unionized Even before the Supreme Court ruling, few farmworkers in the state were unionized despite Californias status as the birthplace of farmworker organizing. Of the more than 407,000 farmworkers in California last year, just 6,626 were a part of UFW, the union founded by activists Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta and others. Right now, if a farmworker in California wants to organize their worksite they have to go through a couple of steps. Organizers must present a petition to a state board and the employer showing that a majority of employees are interested in having a union election. Then, an in-person secret ballot election is held, often at the worksite. If a majority of workers vote to form a union, the employer is required to recognize the union. AB 616 would still allow in-person elections, but Assemblymember Mark Stone, who authored the bill, says the goal is to give farmworkers another way to vote one that lines up with Californians option to vote at home in regular state elections. We found that being able to get ballots to people on their schedule, and (in) the way that they want to process it, increases participation, said the Santa Cruz Democrat. Under this measure, workers could cast their vote in the presence of another person. Its important to note, however, if workers feel they have been coerced into voting a certain way by a union representative, a colleague, or by their employer they can bring complaints to the Agricultural Labor Relations Board, which oversees farmworker union elections, and potentially get the election overturned. United Farm Workers bill labeled job killer The California Chamber of Commerce, which has tagged the measure as a job killer, says it effectively eliminates secret ballot elections, which help protect workers from undue influence. The benefit of a secret ballot election is it allows (workers) to go in and in secret write down what their choice is, said Chamber lobbyist Ashley Hoffman. The Western Growers Association, which also opposes the measure, makes similar points about the possibility of worker coercion and argues that if the bill were passed, organizers wouldnt be required to give ballot cards to every worker. Once more than 50% of workers sign ballots expressing their desire to be represented by a union, the process can end. Stone disputes that workers who want a ballot might not get one. Employer tactics Employers sometimes use legal and illegal tactics to deter workers from forming unions, says Kent Wong, director of the UCLA Labor Center and vice president for the California Federation of Teachers. Managers might require workers to meet one on one with supervisors about the unionization drive, which is legal, or threaten to fire a worker if they vocally support the union, which is illegal. Businesses usually dont face steep penalties if they illegally coerce or retaliate against workers. If an employer fires a worker for organizing, for example, the board overseeing those complaints may force the company to reinstate the worker and pay back wages, but not hit them with a large fine for breaking the law. The penalty is so minimal that its a risk that many employers are willing to take, Wong said. Is AB 616 a card check bill? The very nature of this bill and how to describe it is hotly contested. Opponents of the bill have cast it as a card check provision. Card check is an alternate form of union election in which workers sign cards expressing interest in forming a union, and if a majority of workers sign cards, the employer must then recognize the union. This method is already used by public sector workers in California. Legalizing it for private sector union campaigns has historically been a priority for labor groups nationally and vigorously opposed by business groups, who say union organizers are more likely to coerce workers this way. Stone says his bill does not involve a card check. It was modeled on Californias 2016 Voters Choice Act, which gives voters more options, such as casting their ballots by mail, drop box or at a voting center. The bill is fundamentally different from a card check system, said Catherine Fisk, a professor at UC Berkeley School of Law focused on employment and labor law. In card check, Fisk said, the union or the employer or anyone can distribute the cards people sign to express interest. Under AB 616, its a ballot created by the ALRB. Furthermore, under a card check, no third party is really overseeing the process. But Stones bill has ALRB do it. In fact, says Fisk, the biggest difference between state elections and union elections under Stones bill might be that union elections have to clear a higher bar. In state elections, candidates just need to win the most votes and many eligible voters dont vote. In a union election, more than 50% of all workers need to vote in favor in order for a union to be certified. Ken Jacobs, who chairs the UC Berkeley Center for Labor Research and Education, says that while the bill has some similarities to card check policies like the fact that ballots are considered valid for up to 12 months there are important differences as well. For example, the fact that ballots are mailed or delivered in sealed envelopes provided by the ALRB, makes it different from card check policies. Jacobs says the current union election system gives employers significant access to workers and this bill, he says, puts the decision in the hands of the farmworkers. The Legislature has passed card check bills for farmworkers several times in the past only to have them vetoed, first by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and later by Gov. Jerry Brown. Although AB 616 cleared the Assemblys final vote on Wednesday, Gov. Gavin Newsoms office declined to comment on the bill. Updated Sept. 1, 2021, with bill passed out of the Legislature. John Lindsey is Pacific Gas and Electric Co.s Diablo Canyon Power Plant marine meteorologist and a media relations representative. Email him at pgeweather@pge.com or follow him on Twitter @PGE_John. In your 2013 Africa Progress Report, you shed light on the fact that around $1.36 billion was lost by the Democratic Republic of Congo between 2010 and 2012 in the form of mining rights for copper and cobalt that were sold to firms based on the British Virgin Islands at prices far below their actual value. That would have been enough money to cover Congo's health and education budgets for two years. How is something like that even possible? Mr. Annan, why is Africa so poor? Kofi Annan: Africa isnt poor. It's a rich continent with many, many poor people. Around $160 billion dollars flow into Africa each year - inflow through transfers made by Africans living outside the continent and in the form of aid assistance. But we lose over $200 billion in the outflow. So, in the end, we are a net transferor of resources out of Africa to the rest of the world. The problem begins with the contracts governments sign with the multinationals. Some countries are so keen to attract multinationals that they offer indefensible concessions to try and attract them. These companies also exploit that. They will tell you, for example: We need to get our investments back before we begin sharing the profits. Sometimes, as part of the concession, theyre not even required to pay taxes for many years, which is really wrong. In Congo, we have the classic example of the countrys elites, foreign firms and investors colluding to jointly loot the country. Who is primarily to blame for this? It takes two to tango. The African officials who are signing away their countrys resources at an almost giveaway rate in the expectation that they will get something are really betraying their people and the trust they have put in them. This has a real and direct impact. It takes development and food away from people. The multinationals and the investors also have to know that they have a certain responsibility and obligation. They dont need a government law or necessarily a strong government in place for them to do what is right legally, professionally and morally. Sometimes, they even go to the extent of telling you: If we dont pay the bribe, the competitor will pay it - and take the business away from us. This is something I dont accept. What can be done about it? The only way to stop this sort of game is to push for transparency. Transparency is a powerful tool. We should get the companies and the governments to publish the contracts that have been signed, what the companies earned and how much they paid to the government in taxes. The public also needs to know what the government did with the money. Offshore companies in the Caribbean or elsewhere, of the kind that are often operated by these companies, are frequently used to conceal things. Do you think they should be banned? Some would tell you theres nothing wrong with tax havens and shell companies and that, sometimes, there are legitimate reasons for using them. But we cannot forget that these instruments can also be used by criminal elements or what I call uncivil society, to do incredible things. It would be wonderful if we had an international regime that revealed who is behind these shell companies and who the beneficiary owner is. There have already been many initiatives to push for increased transparency, but most have yielded very modest results. That is true, but here I must say I was encouraged by developments in Europe when the way in which companies like Apple, Starbucks and others are paying only minimal taxes became clear. The citizens got really angry about it, and the politicians realized something must be done. Still, in many instances, tax avoidance schemes remain legal even today. The companies simply exploit loopholes that have been left for them by politicians. Exactly, but the companies also have to understand that when you take so much out of a country and you dont put anything back - either in the form of taxes or serious investments - then you are really undermining your own business base. You are helping create failed states ... which makes it easier for them to loot. Yes, it makes it easier for them to loot, but only for a while. Because at some point, either the country collapses or the system becomes so chaotic that - if youre a serious and honest company - you dont want to operate there. Youll be competing with the adventurists who dont care about their reputation. And the country naturally also pays a price. So, business leaders have to set a good example. Do these business leaders listen to you? In your 2013 report, you named international commodities trader Glencore as a player that profits from the weakness of the Zambian state. Did the heads of Glencore ever answer you? Yes. They read our report and were not particularly happy. They called the director of the Africa Progress Panel and indirectly threatened to sue. I think it was more intimidation tactics, because if they were to sue, they would have to answer lots of questions themselves. They would have to prove that what has been published by us and others is completely untrue. The other thing I tried to do, which didnt really come to pass, was to try and see if we could get the major mining companies to come together. Here, I am talking about reputable companies like Anglo American, BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto. The idea was for them to sign a code of conduct for their operations in these developing countries. I had several meetings, but we couldnt bring the process to successful closure. Why not? Bringing a group like that together with their own corporate interests is not always easy. I have no power or authority to go and tell them they should approach it in certain terms. I gave them an example of what I did with AIDS, for example, when I invited the chairmen of the seven largest pharmaceutical companies to meet with me in Amsterdam, to plead with them to reduce the cost of medications so that the poor could afford them. It was difficult at the beginning but, in the end, the prices came down quite low. Today, millions are on medication. If the will is there, then we can do something. But voluntary commitments can be reversed at any time. What is needed are binding political and legal frameworks. In recent years, you often referred to the G-8 and G-20 countries as potent levers for instituting a multilateral approach on tax evasion and avoidance. But the topic wasnt high on the agenda at the G-20 summit this summer in Hamburg. Does the international community simply lack the will to tackle this issue? Quite a lot of the big companies operating around the world come from G-8 or G-20 countries. Thats why these countries have a special responsibility to ensure that their companies operating in the poorer countries also show some responsibility and are not just exploitative. Even if they dont have a global agreement for this, they can begin to look at things at a national level. If people were not paying bribes, there would be no takers. Generally, though, the money also passes through many hands Yes, and thats why the banks also need to be asking: What is the source of this money? With new technology, we should be able to trace all this money. And when it is traced, it should be sent back to the country it was stolen from. One argument that you often hear in this context is competition. Companies always look for the country that offers the lowest tax rate, and the governments argue that if they raise taxes, the companies would simply go elsewhere. Are politicians justified in their concerns? Lets take one region, Europe: You have a membership of 28 countries. And these companies are allowed to play one country off against the other. When Brussels woke up to this problem - whether the issue is moving the company to Luxembourg or to Ireland - and started making moves, some of these multinational companies decided themselves that they had to pay more. By using transparency, suddenly everyone wakes up, the companies and the countries. And often with pressure from the people, with people saying: This isnt fair. We pay our way. How come this company making millions or billions in profits is paying so little or nothing at all? I think the competition argument is overdone. You served for 10 years as the secretary-general of the United Nations. Why cant the UN tackle these problems? Its possible to impose sanctions on supporters of terrorism and on countries that proliferate weapons of mass destruction. Why cant the UN also impose sanctions on those who evade taxes and promote corruption? Only the Security Council can pass an enforceable resolution, and we also see with other issues how countries get around enforcement and implementation of these resolutions. For the UN to take action, the member governments have to not only agree, but also go home and implement it. I dont see it as a practical option. What other options are available? The individual countries need to assume their responsibility and ensure that companies are held accountable. There are also some interesting initiatives on the international level: The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, for example, has begun training African tax collectors and customs officials. The program is called Tax Inspectors Without Borders and it is modelled after Doctors Without Borders. I hope they will push it as far as possible. You made a name for yourself as a mediator in many of the worlds wars and crises. Is it more difficult to tackle issues where big money is involved than civil wars? With war and peace, either its a civil war or one or two or several countries at war. You can usually get the other countries or actors to come together because they are not directly affected and they can all rally to stop a war. But when it comes to the sort of issue we are talking about, there are so many vested interests that you will not get the traction to get it done. Your son Kojo was involved in a corruption scandal surrounding the Oil-for-Food program in Iraq. Last year, the Panama Papers also showed that he had been a shareholder and director of several companies in the British Virgin Islands and Samoa. Where do you stand on this? If something is wrong, its wrong for everybody. You dont excuse relatives or sons. He used a shell company to buy an apartment, which was really unnecessary. I dont see why one should go that route. Its not something I would advise or condone. Can you imagine a day when development aid will no longer be necessary for Africa because revenues from the countrys wealth of natural resources will flow into the continents development? I look forward to that day. I think most Africans would want to be able to rely on trade to lift themselves out of poverty rather than live on handouts. Africa has great potential - and a young population. Researchers refer to a demographic dividend, but it can also be a demographic curse, unless we tackle the issues youve raised. We need to create economic development in these countries and we need to create conditions in which young people can make a decent living at home, without giving them any incentive to move elsewhere to greener pastures. In https://projekte.sueddeutsche.de/paradisepapers/politik/kofi-annan-on-corruption-in-africa-e783888/ In historic centers of union strength, such as Wisconsin, so-called right-to-work laws have been implemented by Republican governors to undermine the freedom of workers to organize unions. Anti-worker zealot Scott Walker was defeated for reelection in 2018, but the laws he used to attack worker rights remain on the books in Wisconsin, along with similar laws in the majority of American states. As in FDRs day, federal action is needed, and thats the PRO Act. With a strong push from Wisconsin Representatives Mark Pocan, D-Town of Vermont, and Gwen Moore, D-Milwaukee, the measure passed the House. But its stuck in the Senate, where Republicans have blocked action with the same filibuster they are using to prevent democracy reforms. There wont be a new New Deal without a strategy to get around the filibuster and enact legislation that strengthens the hand of American workers. As the late AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said before his death on Aug. 5: "The PRO Act would protect and empower workers to exercise our freedom to organize a bargain. It's a game changer. If you really want to correct inequality in this country wages and wealth inequality, opportunity and inequality of power passing the PRO Act is absolutely essential to doing that." SARA NELSON AT IDEA FEST The Capital Times Idea Fest will on Sept. 17 feature a keynote conversation with the most dynamic labor leader in the country: Sara Nelson the international president of the Association of Flight Attendants and a key member of the AFL-CIO executive board. Hailed by activists and labor writers as a new kind of union leader, Nelson will discuss fighting sexism and racism in workplaces, extending the influence of organized labor and forging the next economy in the aftermath of the pandemic. To hear Nelson and attend the festival on the UW-Madison campus, go to captimesideafest.com. John Nichols is associate editor of The Capital Times. jnichols@madison.com and @NicholsUprising. Share your opinion on this topic by sending a letter to the editor to tctvoice@madison.com. Include your full name, hometown and phone number. Your name and town will be published. The phone number is for verification purposes only. Please keep your letter to 250 words or less. Stor said three more flights are scheduled Sunday to the same provinces. A team of Qatari and Turkish technicians arrived in Kabul last week to help restart operations at the airport, which the U.N. says is crucial to providing the country with humanitarian assistance. It remains to be seen, however, whether any commercial airlines will be willing to offer service. WASHINGTON The top U.S. military general has thanked members of the 10th Mountain Division for their service in Afghanistan during the evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others over the past several weeks. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, met with military police soldiers at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Germany on Saturday. Standing outside talking to a group, he asked them, You were there for the bombing? Heads nodded and a chorus of voices answered, yes, sir. A suicide bombing by the Islamic State group near a gate at the Kabul airport more than a week ago killed 13 U.S. service members as well as 169 Afghans who were crowded around the entry, desperate to get on flights out of Afghanistan. You guys did an incredible job, all of you Army, Navy, Marines, the Air Force flying out 124,000 people. Thats what you saved, Milley told the soldiers. He said they showed enormous courage discipline and capability, working together. Its something you should always be proud of... This will be a moment that youll always remember. Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. U.S. officials at intake centers in the United Arab Emirates and in Wisconsin have identified numerous incidents in which Afghan girls have been presented to authorities as the wives of much older men. While child marriage is not uncommon in Afghanistan, the U.S. has strict policies against human trafficking that include prosecutions for offenders and sanctions for countries that dont crack down on it. One internal document seen by The AP says the State Department has sought urgent guidance from other agencies after purported child brides were brought to Fort McCoy in Wisconsin. Another document, described to the AP by officials familiar with it, says Afghan girls at a transit site in Abu Dhabi have alleged they have been raped by older men they were forced to marry in order to escape Afghanistan. The State Department had no immediate comment on the documents or the veracity of the details in them. Officials say that they take all such allegations seriously but that many of them are anecdotal and difficult to prove, particularly amid the crush of Afghan evacuees at multiple locations in the Middle East, Europe and the U.S. Please register or log in to keep reading. No credit card required! Stay logged in to skip the surveys. Ngai took out a sample from a refrigerator and put it under a microscope. A tablet camera amplified cells that were illuminated red, which was an indicator of the therapy in action. Weve taken the shell of the virus that causes COVID-19 and ripped out the parts that make it infectious, Ebben said during the demonstration. Lab staff replace the guts of the virus with what Ebben called SHRNAs, or short pieces of genetic information that lock onto the SARS-CoV-2 genome to prevent it from replicating. It creates a shell that binds to the same receptors in the human body that the virus would, blocking any infection from occurring. The approach, Ebben said, could be used to treat influenza and other common respiratory illnesses. The same delivery could also be repurposed to fight lung cancers. In that instance, Ebben said the guts become the tissues of a tumor or cancerous cell. Going forward, the goal is to get the therapies to Phase 1 clinical trials within 20 months, and getting the approval of investors from Silicon Valley, Ebben said. But he has a lot of hope, given the encouraging support the startup received at the Pressure Chamber. BURLEY A box truck hit four other vehicles one of which then hit yet another vehicle before it tipped onto its side Friday morning on Interstate 84. Idaho State Police responded to the crash at about 8:30 a.m. near milepost 201, just west of Burley, it said in a Saturday morning statement. Curtis Brown, 26, of Murray, Utah, was driving west in the 2020 Hino box truck when it went partly off the left shoulder and struck three vehicles that were traveling in the left lane. Brown then crossed back and struck a vehicle in the right lane, which struck a second vehicle in the right lane. The truck then tipped over onto the passenger side and came to rest on the right shoulder. The other drivers involved were: Jose Solis, 66, of Declo, driving a 2016 Dodge Ram 2500 pickup. David Minkler, 61, of Moscow, Idaho, driving a 2000 Oldsmobile Bravada. Jeremy Coombes, 41, of Heyburn, driving a 2018 Ford F-350 pickup. Brett Heninger, 59, of North Ogden, Utah, driving a pickup towing a 1996 camp trailer. There isnt much the task force can do on its own. It can make good on its plans to comment on the State Board of Educations proposed campus diversity, equity and inclusion policy. (Spoiler alert: Bet on the task force to come after Littles State Board on this one.) But everything else will require the Legislatures help. Which makes one of the task forces six recommendations a bit self-evident: work with the House and Senate education committees. OK, that sounds good, said Senate Education Chairman Steven Thayn, R-Emmett. But after reading over the recommendations, Thayn withheld judgment; I didnt get a good sense of what they were trying to do. On school choice, the task force was vague by consensus. Task force member Ryan Spoon pushed hard for a specific school choice recommendation: education savings accounts that would allow parents to move money into the public, charter or private school they prefer. As a parent who sends his kids to private schools, he said the only way to force change is to give parents the power of the pocketbook. Out of about 160,000 properties tracked by the assessors office, the data for approximately 13,000 sales is available, or about 8%. The more sales data that is available, the more confident an assessor can be with property appraisal. The commercial side is a different story, however. On the commercial side, we have about 10,000 properties and 150 sales, Smith said, which works out to 1.5%. So a lot of the commercial property owners are not disclosing their sales. Buyers and sellers really dont want people to know the sales price. But from an appraiser standpoint, it makes it very difficult when we dont have that sales data since statute says we have to be at market value. Instead, assessors have to rely on data from prior years and comparable data in other counties and states to reach an assessment. An unintended consequence of using different sets of data for residential versus commercial, Smith said, is that the gap between the two can begin to widen. Having disclosure could be an easy fix to help get that trend going back the other way, Smith said. Last school year, 97 of 179 school districts and charter schools marked all their teachers proficient or better. Large districts like Boise, West Ada and Idaho Falls reported that over 99% of their teachers met one of those high performance targets. The growing majority of teachers deemed proficient or better climbed marginally in the 2020-2021 school year, the first full school year of the pandemic. And despite rapid shifts in learning models, the variable mix of student achievement, principals observations of classes and other factors used to determine teacher effectiveness were able to remain largely unchanged, despite the uncertainty of the pandemic, Grover said. Thats because many Idaho districts maintained fully or partially in-person for most of the school year, making some of the same evaluation methods that are used in normal years like classroom observations possible during a pandemic. At least one thing is changing about the performance reviews, though. Administrators are absolutely giving less weight to student results on standardized tests like the Idaho Standards Achievement Test than in past years, Grover added. David OMalley, who now lives in Napa, California, and oversees four restaurants, was hired as a bartender at Harrys Southside in 1988 and was director of operations at the Starlight. It was always a party, he said. He was energy, pure energy. Harry was never too big or too busy for someone from Idaho. He never forgot the Kimberly kids, said Linda (Teter) Kvamme, who had known him since first grade and now lives in Boise. He treated us like royalty, like we were celebrities. He stayed connected to almost everyone, with handwritten cards, phone calls and dozens of flowers. The number of people who knew him and knew of him is an endless set of spokes, said Mary Fenton Gradinger, another of his former bartenders who now sells real estate in Los Angeles. And the more spokes the better. Denton was an LGBTQ icon in San Francisco. He had his faults. His weight seesawed (he claimed he had three sizes of clothes: extra-large, fat and obese) and he smoked and partied too much. His humanity outweighed his vices, Brown said. NuScale is a private company that designs and markets small modular reactors. The first one of these simulation labs opened at Oregon State University in 2019. A third will be installed at Texas A&M University. The opening of our second Energy Exploration Center is an incredible step forward in broadening the understanding of advanced nuclear technology through the power of STEM education and research, said Jose Reyes, NuScale co-founder and chief technology officer, in an email to the Post Register. NuScale is extremely proud to be partnering with the University of Idaho at the Center for Advanced Energy Studies to bring the Energy Exploration Center to life and allow users to experience the role of control room operator to learn more about the innovative features and functionality of NuScales Small Modular Reactor technology. Evans said CAES will demonstrate the lab to community leaders, K-12 students and interested residents. The center is currently closed to the public due to the pandemic. The year before COVID-19 hit, we had about 2,000 people come through CAES, Evans said. This is another great feature we can show to the public. We look forward to doing that once we can get the doors open. Well its back to school time again for most (I hear you booing, except the parents for some reason) and it is time again to get people back into the swing of school safety. The first thing I want to harp on is using your cellphones while driving through the school zones. For those readers who have been reading this column for a while you know my feelings on cellphone use in school zones. For the newbies let me just say that cellphones detract from attention in the areas of school where attention needs more effort. A fraction of a second reaction time could mean a lifetime of suffering if it resulted in a child being struck by your vehicle. I have noticed through the years that most drivers dont pay attention while on their cellphones and driving through a school zone. What I can promise for the ones I catch breaking driving traffic laws (speeding, running stop signs, etc.) is that you will get a ticket and there will be no breaks. All you have to do is stay off the cellphone while going through a school zone or just pull over and stop to talk. The main thing is to just pay attention. OK, we have beaten to death back to school safety for elementary for years so lets talk about high school safety. Remember parents that these school-age children know everything so you need to listen and learn from them (If they only really knew right?). The Roman philosopher Cicero tells us a lot about duty. We have duty to God, parents, family, children and to community, but the first duty should be to country. It is a concept not heard much today; to many, duty means only a task you must perform. They do not see the sacrifice inherent in the call, nor the value to the nation. This week marks the 20th anniversary of the Islamic terrorist attack on the World Trade Center towers. The buildings were destroyed but our love of country was enhanced. It seemed Americans were united, setting aside politics, advantage and intrigue, leaving only an appreciation of sacrifice. Now, twenty years later, at the end of August, America lost 13 of its brave soldiers who stood guard at the Kabul, Afghanistan airport and gave their last efforts to help those who would flee oppression and find new freedom elsewhere. As Lincoln would say, they did not die in vain, as they gave freedom to so many others. Surely, there is a special place in Heaven for soldiers such as these. They came from different walks of life in different service branches. Eleven were Marines, one was a Navy corpsman, one was United States Army. Two were young Marine women in their 20s, enlisted personnel like their male counterparts, putting their lives at risk to save others. BETTY CROCKER: Threatening to quit if she has to make one more frickin slice of chocolate frickin cake for some frickin kids frickin birthday party. Ms. Crocker has been consulting with a labor attorney, psychiatrist and anger management expert. HAPPIEST DAYS: Used to hit the discos with Mr. Clean in the 70s. STILL BITTER ABOUT: Never credited with inventing funfetti. THE PILLSBURY DOUGHBOY: Still giggling uncontrollably but now in an all-dough theme park, Pill Diddy. He poses with kids and kisses their moms (harassment charges pending). Heftier than ever, he can no longer pop out of the crescent-roll tube but must slowly pry his way out. HAPPIEST MEMORY: Being tickled the first time. WORST MEMORY: Being tickled by a trucker at closing time. Joined Michelin Man at local bar to grouse. RONALD McDONALD: Coming out of semi-retirement to pitch for Kardio-Kwikeez, a chain of drive-thru stent insertion clinics. HAPPIEST DAY: Eloping with barely legal sweetheart, Wendy, over corporate objections. WORST MEMORY: Wendy cutting off her pigtails and driving off with Little Debbie. Last seen at the Michigan Womyns Music Festival. Lenore Skenazy is president of Let Grow, a contributing writer at Reason.com and author of Has the World Gone Skenazy? To learn more about Lenore Skenazy (Lskenazy@yahoo.com) and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate webpage at www.creators.com. Love 2 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Reversion meetings schedule TUESDAY, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.: Martinsville City Council or the Henry County Board of Supervisors will present to the Commission on Local Government. WEDNESDAY, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.: Martinsville City Council or the Henry County Board of Supervisors will present to the Commission on Local Government. WEDNESDAY, 7 p.m.: Public hearing on reversion with comments from those signed up to speak. LOCATION: Martin-Lacy Lecture Hall at the New College Institute on Fayette Street in Martinsville. CAPACITY: Limited to 125 spectators. STREAMING: Available to stream live on Google Meet starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday. TO SIGN UP TO SPEAK AT THE PUBLIC HEARING: Send an email to cody.anderson@dhcd.virginia.gov No date has been scheduled for a hearing on Mountain Valleys request for an injunction that would keep protesters away from its blasting sites. The subpoenas to Facebook demand that the social media giant produce the requested information by Sept. 17. When someone sets up a page on Facebook, they are given the option of whether or not they want to be publicly identified or not. Appalachians Against Pipelines chose the latter, it said. Usually when a subpoena is issued, Facebook will inform administrators of its pages, Schwartz said. It is then up to the individuals to challenge the subpoena. One administrator of the Facebook page had not heard anything from the company by Friday, a spokesperson for the group said. Facebook had not responded by Friday evening to two emails sent by The Roanoke Times. Cody McKinney, 27, of Lytle Mountain Road, Marion, one count each of possession of a firearm by a felon, flee to elude arrest with motor vehicle and habitual felon. David Eugene McKinney, 53, of Wall Poole Road, Marion, four counts of breaking or entering a motor vehicle, one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, one count of larceny of a firearm, two counts of habitual felon, one count of breaking and entering, one count of larceny after breaking and entering, one count of misdemeanor larceny and one count of possession of stolen goods. Jarkeese Montra Rascoe, 26, of Old Glenwood Road, Marion, one count each of malicious conduct by a prisoner and habitual felon. William Ray Riddle, 57, of California Avenue, Marion, one count each of expired registration, possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana up to half-ounce. Jonathan Trey Sloan, 34, of Dobbins Street, Marion, one count of habitual felon. Heather Nicole Taylor, 39, of Sommerset Park, Old Fort, one count each of possession of stolen goods, larceny of a motor vehicle and resisting public officer. Daniel Thrall, 30, homeless, of Marion, one count each larceny by anti-inventory device and shoplifting. In fact, Smiths engagement and service to the community has earned her multiple awards and honors over the years, from the Pilot Clubs Professional Woman of the Year (1985), McDowell Chamber of Commerces first Volunteer of the Year (1986), McDowell County Community Leadership Award (1983 and 1995), N.C. Federation of Womens Clubs Awards (1987, 1995 and 1998), and Asheville Citizen Times Citizen of the Year, Southeast Regional Finalist (1993). Central to the vision of the Smith Academic Resource Center, said Dr. Brian S. Merritt, MTCC president, was our commitment that the new space would be more than just a repository of books and magazines and more than a traditional brick-and-mortar library. The changing nature of education, technology and the speed with which our knowledge base is evolving necessitated that we adapt the new space as more of an academic resource center a place where students could come to access rapidly changing information from around the globe. More than that, the renovation planning committee envisioned the new academic resource center as a more unifying element in the campus plan a community center, if you will a place where people could both access and share information, a place where people could meet, interact and study. An oversized poster, drawn by the school children of an area Christian school thanking the medical workers with both Samaritan's Purse Missions and the University of Mississippi Medical Center, decorates the entrance leading to a field hospital based in a covered parking lot at the medical facility, in Jackson, Miss., Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis As patients stream into Mississippi hospitals one after another, doctors and nurses have become all too accustomed to the rampant denial and misinformation about COVID-19 in the nation's least vaccinated state. People in denial about the severity of their own illness or the virus itself, with visitors frequently trying to enter hospitals without masks. The painful look of recognition on patients' faces when they realize they made a mistake not getting vaccinated. The constant misinformation about the coronavirus that they discuss with medical staff. "There's no point in being judgmental in that situation. There's no point in telling them, 'You should have gotten the vaccine or you wouldn't be here,'" said Dr. Risa Moriarity, executive vice chair of the University of Mississippi Medical Center's emergency department. "We don't do that. We try not to preach and lecture them. Some of them are so sick they can barely even speak to us." Mississippi's low vaccinated rate, with about 38% of the state's 3 million people fully inoculated against COVID-19, is driving a surge in cases and hospitalizations that is overwhelming medical workers. The workers are angry and exhausted over both the workload and refusal by residents to embrace the vaccine. Physicians at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the only level one trauma center in all of Mississippi, are caring for the sickest patients in the state. Kelly Sites, a nurse and team leader with the Samaritan's Purse International Relief medical team in Jackson, Miss., speaks of the group's medical missions and how it has affected her, Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021. Sites has been deployed 22 medical missions with the nondenominational evangelical Christian organization that provides spiritual and medical aid internationally and domestically. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis The emergency room and intensive care unit are beyond capacity, almost all with COVID patients. Moriarity said it's like a "logjam" with beds in hallways, patients being treated in triage rooms. Paramedics are delayed in responding to new calls because they have to wait with patients who need care. In one hospital in Mississippi, four pregnant women died last week, said state health officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs. Three of the cases required emergency C-sections and babies were born severely premature. "This is the reality that we're looking at and, again, none of these individuals were vaccinated," Dobbs said. Moriarity said it's hard to put into words the fatigue she and her colleagues feel. Going into work each day has become taxing and heartbreaking, she said. "Most of us still have enough emotional reserve to be compassionate, but you leave work at the end of the day just exhausted by the effort it takes to drug that compassion up for people who are not taking care of themselves and the people around them," she said. Kelly Sites, a nurse and team leader with the Samaritan's Purse International Relief medical team in Jackson, Miss., recalls the look of fear she has seen on the faces of some patients she has worked with, Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021. Sites has been deployed on 22 medical missions in 12 years with the nondenominational evangelical Christian organization that provides spiritual and medical aid internationally and domestically. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis During a recent news conference, UMMC's head, Dr. LouAnn Woodward, fought back tears as she described the toll on healthcare workers. "We as a state, as a collective, have failed to respond in a unified way to a common threat," Woodward said. As the virus surges, hospital officials are begging residents to get vaccinated. UMMC announced in July that it will mandate its 10,000 employees and 3,000 students be vaccinated, or wear a N95 mask on campus. By the end of August, leaders revised that policy, vaccination is the only option. Moriarity said this surge has taken a toll on morale more than previous peaks of the virus. Her team thought in May and June that despite Mississippi's low vaccination rate, there was an end in sight. The hospital's ICUs were empty and they had few COVID patients. Then cases surged with the delta variant of the virus, swamping the hospital. Numbers of total coronavirus hospitalizations in Mississippi have dipped slightly, with just under 1,450 people hospitalized for coronavirus on Sept. 1, compared with around 1,670 on Aug. 19. But they are still higher than numbers during previous surges of the virus. Anne Sinclair, a pediatric emergency room nurse at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, in Jackson, stands in the middle of the filled ambulance bay and wonders why some incoming patients and their parents have to be reminded to wear masks when they come to the hospital, Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021. A mother of two young children, Sinclair is tired of the covid misinformation she deals with having seen children in her unit die of the virus. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis In the medical center's children's hospital, emergency room nurse Anne Sinclair said she is tired of the constant misinformation she hears, namely that children can't get very ill from COVID. "I've seen children die in my unit of COVID, complications of COVID, and that's just not something you can ever forget," she said. "It's very sobering," continued Sinclair, who is the parent of a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old and worries for their safety. "I just wish people could look past the politics and think about their families and their children." To deal with overflow COVID patients, Christian relief charity Samaritan's Purse set up an emergency field hospital in the parking garage of UMMC's children's hospital. The hospital is treating an average of 15 patients a day, with the capacity for seven ICU patients. Anne Sinclair, a pediatric emergency room nurse at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, in Jackson, wonders why some incoming patients and their parents have to be reminded to wear masks when they come to the hospital, Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021. A mother of two young children, Sinclair is tired of the covid misinformation she deals with having seen children in her unit die of the virus. Credit: AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis Nurse Kelly Sites, who has also treated COVID patients in hotspots like California and Italy, said it's heartwrenching to know that some of the severe cases could have been prevented with the vaccine. Many patients are so sick they can't talk. Nurses walk around with scripture verses on duct tape on their scrubs and will recite them to their patients. Samaritan's Purse is an international disaster relief organization with missions spanning multiple continents. Sites has responded to 20 missions, in Haiti, the Philippines, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other places. "To respond to the United States is quite surreal for us," she said. "It's a challenge because usually, home is stable. And so when we deploy, we're just going to the disaster. This is the first time where home is a disaster." Explore further 'Heartbreaking': Mississippi gets 2nd field hospital in days 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Clean Gulf Associates, a nonprofit oil-spill response cooperative that works with the energy exploration and production industry, responded to the scene Wednesday. Its workers have placed a containment boom in the area to mitigate further spread of the oil. The company's vessels are also running skimmers that can remove oil from the water, though the Coast Guard said only about 42 gallons (about 160 liters) had been removed so far. Talos is investigating the cause of the leak, but a statement provided by Grove said that field observations indicate the company's assets are not the source. Talos previously leased Bay Marchand, Block 5, but ceased production there in 2017, plugged its wells and removed all pipeline infrastructure by 2019, according to the company. Talos said two 95-foot (29-meter) response vessels had been dispatched to the scene to conduct oil recovery operations. A lift boat equipped to conduct dive operations has also been mobilized and is expected to arrive Saturday. The Coast Guard said the company had indicated divers would descend to the bottom on Sunday to determine the source of the leak. WASHINGTON The United States intends to send Afghan evacuees who fail to clear initial screenings to the nation of Kosovo, which has agreed to house them for up to a year, a U.S. official told the Associated Press on Saturday. The U.S. plan for potentially long-term stays in a third country for Afghan evacuees whose cases require more processing is likely to face objections from refugee advocates. They complain that of a lack of transparency and uncertain legal jurisdiction in the Biden administrations use of overseas transit sites to screen the roughly 120,000 evacuees from Taliban-held Afghanistan. Other U.S. officials have said they expect most or all Afghans whose cases may initially raise red flags or questions to pass further screening. Saturdays disclosure was first time the U.S. revealed its plans for Afghans or other evacuees who have failed to clear initial rounds of screening or whose cases otherwise require more time. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the information was not yet authorized for release, said transit centers provide a safe place for diverse groups, an opportunity to complete their paperwork while we conduct security screenings before they continue to their final destination in the United States or in another country. Beshear wields the authority to call lawmakers into special session and to set the agenda. At a news conference Saturday, he outlined pandemic-related issues he wants lawmakers to consider, including policies on mask-wearing and school schedules amid growing school closures brought on by virus outbreaks. But GOP supermajorities in both chambers will decide what measures ultimately pass. Lawmakers will be asked to extend the pandemic-related state of emergency until mid-January, when the legislature would be back in regular session, Beshear said. They will be asked to review his virus-related executive orders and other actions by his administration, the governor said. On the issue of masks, the governor said he will ask them to determine my ability to require masking in certain situations, depending on where the pandemic goes and how bad any area is. He also asked them to provide more scheduling flexibility for schools, as many districts have had to pause in-person learning because of virus outbreaks. And lawmakers will be asked to appropriate leftover federal pandemic aid to further the fight against the coronavirus. MONTGOMERY, Ala. Alabama schools reported nearly 9,200 coronavirus cases in students and staff in the past week. You send your kids out into the world excited they're becoming their own person, while still being protective and worried about them. Besides giving your kids advice and occasionally (or likely more often than you would like) sending them money, there is one significant thing you can do to protect your kids in the real world. Moving your children out of the house without proper insurance could spell disaster that could follow them the rest of their life. We all do ill-advised things when we are young. The fact of the matter is, young people are much more likely to injure themselves doing something that probably "seemed like a good idea at the time." Having health insurance is a must for your children. If your health insurance plan covers dependents, you can keep your child on your plan until they turn 26 years old. If your health plan does not cover dependents or you're uninsured, many colleges and universities offer student health insurance plans. Individual plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace may also be an option. Make sure to check what coverage is available and consider your child's health needs. Ensure they have a copy of their insurance card when moving away from home and know which doctors are in their network. Just as important, make sure you, your spouse or a trusted family member or friend is listed as an emergency contact with their school. The fall of the Afghan government and the return of the Taliban has left policymakers, our allies and the public grasping for answers and apportioning blame. The deaths of 13 U.S. servicemen and -women and 170 Afghans at the Kabul Airport punctuate this tragic state of affairs. Many ask how the Afghan government, after an injection of $89 billion over 20 years, could collapse so quickly. Critical to this debate is Montanas support for our veterans as well as the Afghan people. We tend to assign failure to anyone who easily concedes or changes sides, like the Afghan Army. What we may not see is the premium placed on survival of self, family and community. Afghans acting to save their families and villages surrender as a means to survive. This is understandable in a society which has survived generations of armed conflict. The rapid fall of the Afghan government is also due to its corruption and poor governance. Despite U.S. funds and support, the Afghan government failed to create a cohesive rule of law that benefited society at large. The Taliban represent the return of a brutal regime: no one knows this better than the Afghan people. But for many Afghans who do not have a choice, they will seek to live with them rather than to die by them. It would be more accurate to point out that Arntzen stands with only some parents and against many others, and is actively pushing to override local control of districts that opted to begin the school year with masking requirements. She is showing no regard at all for the right of all Montana students to a public education in a safe environment. One of the wonderful things about our public school system in this country is that it provides communities with a means to directly influence the education of our children. Notwithstanding federal guidelines and state oversight, school districts are about as local as it gets, with a board of trustees elected by district voters and a process that is open and accountable to the local public. Public schools are thus reflective of their communities. Yet its a given that there will be disagreement within those communities and that it would be impossible for schools to set rules that satisfy everyone. Teaching assistants (also called teacher aides) work under the supervision of teachers to provide students with additional instruction, either one-on-one or in groups. With a teaching assistant in the class, a teacher doesnt have to interrupt the flow of the lesson by trying to do multiple things at one time. According to Glassdoor.com, the average salary is $28,641, and while some teaching assistants only need a high school diploma and training once they are on the job, having a college degree or completed coursework in child development could open the door to more job opportunities. No. 2 of the happiest workers were quality assurance analysts who test products and systems to make sure that they meet company standards. This includes creating test plans, cases and scripts to ensure accuracy. The goal of a QA analyst is to make sure that a product or system is reliable, functional and user-friendly. Many QA analysts work at software companies or collaborate with IT departments, doing system testing to ensure it is top quality and meets system requirements. The average salary is $60,997 (Glassdoor) and youll need a Bachelor of Computer Science or Information Technology (or any course related to those) to land this job. Ill do it until you hire someone, Helstrom recalled telling his friend. Well Russell never got around to hiring someone. With nearly two decades in, Helstrom is still making deliveries and there is nothing negative he can say about his job. Tom is the best employer I have ever had, said Helstrom. Its good money and Im treated well. There was one change Tom made a few years after he bought the family business. Almost from its inception, Bonanza Freeze was opened from just before springtime through fall. It was closed for the winter. Russell concluded it just wasnt enough and so by 1989, it was opened all-year long. So now yeah, he may be the boss and can make those executive decisions, but Russell stills knows his way around the grill and is not afraid to grab a mop and start cleaning. He works most weekends and its a tradition hes not willing to relinquish. Thirty-five years have passed and there are no regrets, none at all. Its been an absolute pleasure, said Russell, who considers Butte the most loyal place, particularly if you are running a business. WASHINGTON The top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says some Americans who have been trying to get out of Afghanistan since the U.S. military left are sitting in airplanes at an airport ready to leave but the Taliban are not letting them take off. Jacob Chansley, holding a sign referencing QAnon, speaks as supporters of President Donald Trump gather to protest about the early results of the 2020 presidential election, in front of the Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center in Phoenix, Arizona on Nov. 5, 2020. Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, speaks before a crowd of striking educators at Capital High School in Charleston, West Virginia on Feb. 19 2019. South African Internet pioneer Rudi Jansen has died after suffering a heart attack on Friday, MyBroadband has learned. Jansen will be best remembered in the industry as the man who championed affordable and uncapped ADSL broadband in South Africa. He was also behind the push for open peering between all networks in South Africa. Jansen was a founding member of Mweb and helped with Naspers acquisition of Tencent Holdings. As Mweb CEO, Jansen wanted to kick-start the companys growth with a truly unique offering. He set his management team the challenge of differentiating itself through uncapped products. It ended up being one of the most exciting projects within MWEB, and it really got the entire organisation focused. It was a wonderful period in the Mweb history, Jansen told MyBroadband in a 2018 interview. We went from no network to one of the biggest networks in a space of 4 months. Mweb partnered with Seacom for affordable international bandwidth and purchased large amounts of wholesale ADSL capacity, called IP Connect, from Telkom. One major obstacle that remained was peering. At the time, big telecoms operators were very protective of their networks and did not want to peer with Mweb. Nobody wanted to open up as they thought their own growth will stop, and they charged a fortune for transit between networks, Jansen explained. It was easier to get peering in Europe than in South Africa. The solution to this problem was simple. Armed with enough affordable international bandwidth through Seacom, Mweb routed traffic to any local ISP who refused to peer via Europe as its peering links there were almost free. Locally, Mweb peered for free with whoever it could big or small. These plans came together beautifully. On 22 March 2010, Mweb achieved the unthinkable. It launched uncapped ADSL products starting at R219 per month, rocking the South African ISP market. The talk in the industry was that Mweb had lost the plot. Jansen was told that uncapped ADSL was not sustainable and that it will never work. A few competing ISPs even thought it was just a marketing stunt. Jansen proved them all wrong and changed the South African broadband landscape forever. Uncapped broadband is now more widespread and more popular than ever, and it has helped ignite many online industries in the country, including online gaming, streaming, and ecommerce. After leaving Mweb in 2012, Jansen joined Odion Africa, where he helped search for new media and technology investments. He held directorships at My Cloud Media, Dark Fibre Africa, and CapeVin Holdings. Jansens achievements and significant impact on the industry were recognised with the MyBroadband Maverick of the Year Award in 2010, and the MyBroadband Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012. Jansens steadfast words in 2010 in the face of tremendous scepticism and adversity still echo today: Anyone who thinks you can go back to a capped world is completely misguided. You can never go back. You can never offer an inferior service. Reporting with Rudolph Muller. The Tesla owner killed along with a friend last spring in a fiery crash outside Houston had almost twice his states legal limit of alcohol in his system, an autopsy report obtained by Bloomberg News shows. The gruesome deaths of anesthesiologist William Varner, 59, and Everette Talbot, 69, in the wealthy neighbourhood of The Woodlands on April 17 drew widespread attention because first responders found the drivers seat was unoccupied. Initial comments from local police said that no one was driving, which generated news headlines about a driverless Tesla and speculation on whether the Autopilot driver-assistance system on Varners car was engaged at the time of the crash. Tesla shares fell the next trading day and two federal agencies the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board launched probes. The owners alcohol level at the time of the crash adds complexity to a case that has riveted Tesla owners, industry executives and safety advocates alike. Police and autopsy reports obtained by Bloomberg provide new details about the crash while doing little to solve its most enduring mystery: How Varner whose home security camera showed him entering the cars driver seat was found minutes later in the left rear passenger seat of the burning Model S. The two men were discussing the vehicle and its self-driving ability before taking the Model S for a short, high-speed drive that ended in flames, according to the police report obtained from the Harris County Constables Office via a public-records act request. Blunt-force trauma and thermal injuries were cited as the cause of both deaths, according to autopsy results obtained from the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. Smoke inhalation also is cited as a cause of death in Varners autopsy. Autopsy Results The reports show alcohol in both mens bloodstream, consistent with statements in the police report that the men had drinks at dinner earlier that evening. Varner had 0.151g/100mL of ethanol in his blood after death, while Talbots reading was about 0.075g. In Texas, the legal intoxication limit is 0.08%. The toxicology results from the autopsy report shows that the blood-alcohol content is about two times the legal limit, said Lee Ann Grossberg, a forensic pathology consultant in Houston who reviewed Varners autopsy report for Bloomberg. Grossberg provides expert testimony in both criminal and civil cases. Though several names are redacted, the police report says the men and their wives had gone out to dinner prior to the accident and returned home around 9 p.m. One woman said her husband drank a beer before dinner and then 1-1/2 martinis while at dinner; the other man had a glass of white wine at dinner, according to the report. The car was travelling at a high rate of speed when it drifted off the roadway, struck a raised curb, entered a grassy area, travelled about 100 feet, struck a tree and caught on fire, according to the police report. A neighbour observed flames described to be like that of sparklers. It went on to say that the drivers seat was unoccupied. The wives of the victims advised that they had just returned home from dinner when [the men] were talking about the vehicle and its self-driving ability. A short time later the two men departed their residences to do a test drive when the crash occurred. Varners widow could not be reached for comment. The Houston law firm that is working with Talbots family declined to comment on the autopsy and police reports. Tesla Autopilot Tesla crashes particularly fatal ones already generate enormous scrutiny because electric vehicles are still relatively new, and battery-related fires present unique challenges for first responders. The police report on the Houston crash doesnt address why no one was found in the drivers seat. In May, a preliminary report from the NTSB said images from the owners home security camera showed that Varner initially entered the cars drivers seat. Roughly half an hour later he was pronounced dead. When the car was found burning about 550 feet away, the doors were shut and Varner was discovered not in the drivers seat, but rather behind it. The NTSB continues to collect data to analyze the crash dynamics, postmortem toxicology test results, seat belt use, occupant egress, and electric vehicle fires, the regulator said in its May report. All aspects of the crash remain under investigation as the NTSB determines the probable cause, with the intent of issuing safety recommendations to prevent similar crashes. Teslas Autopilot is a driver assistance feature and the carmaker warns on its website that its vehicles are not fully capable of driving themselves something which would require regulatory approval. The Center for Auto Safety alleges Tesla has a history of deceptive advertising, and warn that the use of the term Autopilot leads consumers to believe that Teslas have more self-driving capabilities than they actually do. A few days after the crash, Consumer Reports said that under certain conditions Tesla vehicles could be tricked into operating with no one in the driver seat. Two U.S. Senators last month urged the Federal Trade Commission to investigate whether Tesla uses deceptive marketing practices by labelling its driver-assistance system Autopilot and showcasing a feature called Full Self-Driving. Completely False On Tesla Inc.s earnings call in April, Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk blasted articles that said Autopilot was involved. This is completely false and those journalists should be ashamed of themselves, Musk said. Lars Moravy, Teslas vice president of vehicle engineering, said it was likely that someone was in the driver seat at the time of the crash. Moravy did not respond to an email seeking comment about the latest details. While Varners Model S was equipped with Autopilot, the cars automated steering system appeared not to have been switched on, NTSB investigators said in their May report. An NTSB test of a similar vehicle showed other automated driving features could have been activated, but not the so-called Autosteer. Relevant Documents: NTSBs preliminary report here Fire Marshalls report here Harris County Constables Office report here Autopsy Report, William Varner here Autopsy Report, Everette Talbot here Now read: Apple Car could use exterior displays to signal other drivers South Africas prisons service placed former President Jacob Zuma on medical parole, less than two months after he was jailed for contempt of court. The authorities freed Zuma after receiving a medical report, the Department of Correctional Services said in a statement, without providing further details. Under the terms of Zumas release, he must comply with a specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires, it said. Zuma was arrested on July 7 after being sentenced to 15 months in jail for defying a court order to testify at a graft inquiry. His detention triggered deadly riots by his supporters in the Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces that left at least 354 people dead. Local Labor Day Labor Day: Napa county employers remain hungry for workers Jennifer Huffman, Register Dr. David Carroll and Robyn Nelson, RVT, examine pet patient Rogue at Napa West Pet Hospital. Carroll said he's been trying to hire more staffers for months, with little luck. Jennifer Huffman, Register Grayson Broyles, left, and Jaci Crow clean tools in an exam room at Napa West Pet Hospital. Like many local employers, the business has been looking to hire new employees. Jennifer Huffman, Register Craig Sutlan of the Eye Works Optometry in Napa has struggled to find enough new employees to maximize the number of patients he can see in a day. Jennifer Huffman, Register Dr. John Moody and a veterinary nurse examine a patient named Lulu at Napa West Pet Hospital. Craig Sultan is so determined to find new employees for his Napa optometry business that hes come up with a novel recruiting idea. Im going to stand on street corners with a poster board on me saying Need Help, he said. Sultan was only half-joking. The owner of The Eye Works Optometry, Sultan said he was recently able to hire a new optometrist, but he still needs at least two or three more employees for admin work and other duties. Hes even offered on-the-job training for workers new to the eye care field, but even those people dont respond, to online job ads or postings. Its like your potential employees crossing a desert, but they dont make it all the way. Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! According to the California Employment Development Department (EDD), the number of jobs ads in Napa County has almost doubled from July 2019 to July 2021. Two years ago, the EDD counted 2,693 Napa County job ads. This July there were 5,232. While still higher than before the pandemic began, Napa Countys unemployment rate continues to fall. At 5.8%, the Napa County rate is now the 11th lowest in the state. Its a horrible labor shortage, said Joanne Sanders, CEO of Bolt Staffing in American Canyon. Its affecting every industry. David C. Carroll of Napa River Pet Hospital and Napa West Pet Hospital said that hes run an ad for veterinary workers on one online job source for six months without a single applicant. Ive been looking for a receptionist, assistants, and more he said. If I could find four good people, Id hire them tomorrow. Carroll said at one point he was able to hire two new staffers, but they didnt last. One new employee never showed up for her first day of work and the second worked a day and a half, left at lunch and never came back, he said. Its been very difficult, said Carroll. He wonders if people collecting extra unemployment due to COVID have less incentive to come back to work. Or parents who dont have childcare due to the pandemic. North Bay community partners advocate for farmworker safety this wildfire season Through advocacy with organizations like North Bay Jobs with Justice, Napa and Sonoma Valley agricultural workers have a voice and avenue to discuss their concerns in hopes of a safer, more just workplace. I think some of it, too, people are afraid to go back to work and be exposed to the public. Trying another tactic, Carroll offers his employees bonuses of $500 to $2,000 for every new employee they can successfully recruit. Hes already increased wages, said Carroll. Nobody is working at minimum wage anymore, said the veterinarian. Weve bumped up existing staff, from $15 an hour to closer to $20. We raised that level because we want to keep the staff we had. He cant raise it dramatically higher, said the vet. You have to make it sustainable for the business. Its a balancing act. The restaurant industry is also particularly hard hit. Tom Finch, the owner of Filippis Pizza Grotto, said hes always looking for new hires. Were short-handed every day, said Finch. The market is scarce right now, said Finch. He thinks a lot of people have left the industry to do something other than food and beverage, because of the exposure to COVID. Some of his employees have left California all together, said Finch. We lost them to other states, Idaho, Chicago, Indianapolis. All over. Right now, hes hiring for every role at his restaurant. And its not just Filippis. You can go up and down the street in Napa, and they will all say the same thing, he said. Were all working short-handed. That also means hes had to raise wages. A lot, said Finch. To get staff in were paying well over what we used to pay. Substantially more for the workers. Lauri Berean, the assistant store manager at Outdoor Supply Hardware said she was able to hire five new people in the past month, but some of those came from other OSH stores. In many cases, Thats like the only way, to find new staffers, she said. And to get them you have to give them a little more, in wages, she said. For example, the company has raised some hourly wages by more than $1 an hour, she said. Even with that, Its still challenging, said Berean. I could definitely use six more people right now. Shes trying everything, said Berean. They hung a big hiring banner outside. Theyre asking employees to promote jobs on social media. She can be flexible with schedules, but the personality also has to fit, especially for cashier jobs. I look for bubbly, outgoing people, said Bereans. They are the last person the customer sees. I want someone outgoing and energetic, who doesnt want to sit on a stool. After all, this all going to come to an end someday, she said of the one-sided job market. And when that happens, You want to be the one with a job and your foot in the door. Louis Zandvliet, executive vice-president of Ameridia Innovative Solutions in Napa, is facing the same problems. We were looking for technicians and warehouse employees and a sales manager, said Zandvliet. After a long search, he was able to hire the sales manager, but hes still looking to fill the other jobs. First of all, even if you place an ad, you dont have anybody answering, he said. I have absolutely no clue why. Apparently it's a COVID-related thing, but people still need to work, he said. What you have to do is really be more flexible with a lot of things, like benefits, said Zandvliet. That makes a difference, he said. According to Zandvliet, the company covers the monthly insurance premiums for workers. To some extent, he can raise wages. But we have our limits. Your company needs to be profitable. If wages are too high, it becomes really complicated to break even. Knocking on doors Joanne Sanders said that Bolt Staffing has a variety of strategies they share with their clients who are looking to fill jobs. It depends on the industry, but we are asking them to evaluate their pay rates. We are advising them to make sure they have their COVID protocols in place in order to ensure people feel safe while they are working, and we are asking them to be creative and flexible with schedules, and how they review resumes and experience. We're asking them to adjust their expectations based on the last 18 months of our lives, said Sanders. Career paths, longevity and education the traditional benchmarks used to evaluate fit for positions have changed, she said. With enhanced unemployment wage benefits adding up to the equivalent of around $17 per hour for many workers, thats the new rate that employers are competing with to attract talent, said Sanders. The recruiting professional said her firm is trying to find new employees any way they can, including going door to door and meeting people where they are. We say there are many companies that could really use help right now, would you like to know what jobs are open, what the jobs are paying. Would you consider going to work? Shes never seen such an uneven job market, said Sanders. Its a crisis but time and patience will get us through this. Napa County job stats Napa County employers with the most job openings St. Jude Medical, Inc. Auberge Resorts Napa Valley Unified School District Interstate Hotels & Resorts Covenant Health Adventist Health Allied Universal Constellation Brands Incorporated County of Napa Hotel Villagio Industries with the most job ads Accommodation and food services Manufacturing Health care and social assistance Educational Services Retail trade Finance and insurance Administrative and support and waste management and remediation services Professional, scientific, and technical services Transportation and warehousing Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting Occupations with the most job ads Registered nurses Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing, except technical and scientific products Retail salespersons Customer service representatives Waiters and waitresses First-line supervisors of retail sales workers Cooks, restaurant Foodservice managers Managers, all other Combined food preparation and serving workers, including fast food Sonoma State University professor of economics Rob Eyler said Napa County isnt alone in its search for workers. Its a very dynamic and complex topic, affecting California and the nation, as a whole, he said. A number of key reasons are causing the problem. First, due to the pandemic, for safety reasons there is some worker reticence to go back to their old jobs, he said. Some workers will go through an interview process and even receive a job offer, yet decide not to take the job because they still dont have adequate childcare and cant return to work. For other workers, the amount of enhanced unemployment benefits theyre receiving is another deterrent. For example, the unemployment benefits may not be as much as theyd make working full time but because at the same time they dont have childcare expenses, theres less incentive to return to work. However, those extra unemployment benefits wont last forever, Eyler noted. Other workers are taking advantage of their unemployment to train for new jobs or return to school. They may never return to the jobs they left. Job seekers should be cautious, said Eyler. The longer employers struggle to find workers, the larger incentive they have to do more with less, noted Eyler. Employers will find ways to squeeze out every extra bit of productivity from staffers. Workers should not assume the jobs that are being offered are going to remain in play forever. Eylers ideas of how employers can entice job seekers include offering a cash payment upfront or signing bonus, a childcare subsidy, and COVID-19 safety assurances. And yes, employers can always raise wages. However, once youve increased those wages, its very tough to reel it back, Eyler noted. There's more and more studies about the impacts of not just the fire, but the smoke as well in terms of long-term impacts, which is also connected with COVID, he said. What workers are asking for is that if theyre going to go into hazardous situations, that they should be properly compensated for taking that risk. As for disaster insurance, this factor applies to situations that are so hazardous that workers are pulled from the fields and left without work. Some employers may continue to compensate their farmworkers, but since much of this community is undocumented, Bell Alper said many are not eligible for unemployment benefits. The last one, clean bathrooms and water honestly we were surprised to hear this was a concern, he said. This is partly why we really base our work on what the workers themselves say they want because this cant really be seen The frequency of bathroom cleaning is a real concern, especially as more and more ash falls from the sky during fires, and there's an increase in the number of people who are working and using the bathrooms during harvest. Bell Alper said that this particular concern was raised mostly by women workers represented in the survey, reiterating the importance of reaching all demographics of the ag community. These refugees gave our service members help in Afghanistan and it is only fitting we give them hope when they come to California, said Atkins, a Democrat. When I was growing up, the golden rule was that no matter how little you had, you help those in need. We are blessed to be in a position in California where we have enough funding to help ease these refugees transition into our society." I remember distinctly my irritation that someone was interrupting my sleep, and I can still call up the texture of the sheets as I indignantly turned over and ignored the calls. After the third or fourth call, I decided maybe something important was happening. Turns out it was my wife, along with our family still back in Washington, telling me to turn on the TV. I watched the towers burn, smoke rise from the Pentagon, and my mind reeled as I realized the security cordon around the evacuated Capitol building, where my old friends and colleagues in the Washington press corps were milling around helplessly, was almost right outside the front door of my old townhouse. I would have been with them had this happened a few months earlier. Through it all, I had a reaction that still sticks in my mind. I kept thinking, Its not as big a deal as everyone says. Life will go on. I was trying desperately to cling to the world as it had been just a few hours before. It was my way of keeping a grip, I guess, knowing I had to go to work and be strong for the students, who had to get a paper out no matter what happened elsewhere in the world. In the public interest, we'll refrain from the usual snark and poor attitude to offer an unvarnished account of how this recall election came to pass and what it could mean for the state going forward. Some of Newsom's difficulties are largely of his own making. He imposed a moratorium on capital punishment a matter of principle, he said, that reversed a campaign pledge to abide by the pro-death-penalty sentiment expressed by voters. He's been slow to address problems with California's Employment Development Department, the agency that cuts state unemployment checks, which paid out billions in fraudulent claims. His infamous dinner at the luxe French Laundry sans mask, while urging others to stay home and keep safe may prove to be the worst meal of his life. But there are other factors, well beyond Newsom's control, that are driving the recall effort. Not least are the raging COVID-19 resurgence that threatens once more to overwhelm the state's hospitals, doctors and nurses, and a series of horrific wildfires ravaging some of California's most precious places. A summer of discontents threatens to turn into an autumn of despair. But the main reason voters are being summoned to the polls less than nine months before the next scheduled election is the relative ease of forcing a recall attempt in California. Pikeville, KY (41501) Today Scattered thunderstorms. High around 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Showers in the evening, then cloudy overnight. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Energy security expert: Artsakh economic growth averaged 10.5% since 2000 UN General Assembly 76th session kicks off in New York Karabakh President's spokesperson: Azerbaijanis shoot in direction of Taghavard village, no victims Armenia Investigative Committee: Battalion commander who was on-duty in Karabakh's Khtsaberd village is arrested Trilateral MoC signed to raise level of seismic safety of Armenian Nuclear Power Plant to the highest level Armenia opposition MP: Authorities didn't help Ombudsman prepare report on tortures of Armenian citizens in Baku Hanged body of 44-year-old serviceman of Armenia MOD found in village Armenia opposition MP slams parliamentary committee chairman's statement Police apprehend armed student at Yerevan metro station Azerbaijanis demand punishing Member of the Russian State Duma Vitaly Milonov Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker receives Russia President's Special Representative Armenia President grants high state award to chess grandmaster Elina Danielyan Armenia PM appoints deputy economy minister Putin holds phone talks with Iranian counterpart Armenia Supreme Judicial Council chairman on his relations with PM Nikol Pashinyan Karabakh President meets with journalists and editors of country's Free Artsakh newspaper US Embassy in Armenia to Baku: Only comprehensive solution can help normalize Armenian-Azerbaijani relations Armenia President receives Slovakia FM Armenia defense minister's mother dies Armenia parliament's foreign relations committee chairman meets with Ukrainian MPs Armenia Syunik Province governor meets with newly appointed US Deputy Ambassador Monument to heroes who took revenge over Armenian Genocide organizers to be placed in Yerevan Armenia Parliament Speaker receives Slovak Foreign and European Affairs Minister-led delegation Digest: Protests being held in Yerevan, more on COVID-19 in Armenia Yerevan mayor: Not going to resign Dollar still going down in Armenia Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of 1 Armenian serviceman found in Varanda Armenia Cassation Court has new judge PACE recommends holding debates over Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Afghanistan situation National Archives of Armenia and Iran to sign memorandum within scope of cooperation Armenia PM, Gazprom Management Committee chairman discuss Armenian-Russian energy partnership Armenia Deputy PM participates in session of Eurasian Economic Commission's Council Police apprehend Yerevan neighborhood resident on hunger, water strike Armenia Ambassador to Ukraine: Aim of intergovernmental commission is to take steps to unblock communication Deceased serviceman's little brother born at medical center in Armenia's Etchmiadzin Taliban denies war crimes charges against human rights defenders Armenia PM, Slovakia FM discuss Karabakh peace process Criminal case opened into death of Armenia soldier, another one receiving gunshot wounds Biden: You either keep Gavin Newsom as your governor or you'll get Donald Trump Armenia Investigative Committee former chair, ex-Prosecutor Generals arrest appealed 4 of Yerevan neighborhood residents protesting outside city hall apprehended Frances Macron makes social media post in Armenian Iran ambassador tries to discuss, with Azerbaijan presidential aide, demarche against Iranian trucks in Armenia 4 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh US and EU urge global community to cut methane emissions by 30% Ukraine official: We have always considered Armenia as important partner in South Caucasus US, Japan and South Korea discuss new North Korean missile tests Yerevan neighborhood residents close off street adjacent to city hall Armenia Central Bank raises refinancing rate by 0.25 percentage point Appeal filed against court decision to arrest mayor of Armenias Goris 25,000 doses of coronavirus vaccine sent by France arrives in Yerevan Armenia FM informs visiting Slovakia colleague about Azerbaijan provocations Armenia ruling partys parliamentary faction holding closed meeting Armenia MOD confirms: There is also wounded soldier in tragic incident at the military outpost Slovakia FM: Process of returning Armenian captives from Azerbaijan must continue US intends to invite Russia and China to international summit on COVID-19 fight Armenia legislature elects Corruption Prevention Commission new member 657 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia Karen Vardanyan has allocated 105 million AMD to rescue the Yerevan Botanical Garden Armenia MOD: Army representatives will observe Russia-Belarus joint military exercise ArmLur.am: New details become known from tragic incident at Armenia military outpost China to start cooperation with Singapore on drug development Armenia to assume CSTO chairmanship on Thursday Google fines $ 177 million by South Korea's antitrust regulator Yerevan neighborhood resident on hunger strike declares water strike too Slovakia FM visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan (PHOTOS) Armenia MOD: Reserve sergeant receives fatal gunshot wound Armenian historical sites in Djulfa, Nakhichevan, elsewhere in Azerbaijan systematically erased Armenia parliament continues regular sessions Newspaper: Armenia authorities ready to offer deal to Investigative Committee former head, ex-Prosecutor General Newspaper: Opposition Armenia bloc itself to not run in upcoming local elections Armenia ombudsman: Azerbaijan police base, barricades, cameras on Vorotan road must be removed immediately Armenia PM receives French Co-Chair of OSCE Minsk Group, paths for Karabakh conflict settlement discussed Armenia Deputy PM introduces newly appointed governor of Gegharkunik Province Traffic jams on Armenia's Goris-Kapan interstate road, Azerbaijanis rudely telling Armenians to drive away About 50 soldiers and police officers killed after attacks in Myanmar 2 dead after explosion near COVID-19 testing site in central Myanmar Armenia pregnant woman with COVID-19 dies Azerbaijan planning another festival in occupied Armenian Shushi Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of 2 more Armenian servicemen found in Hadrut Russia to resume flights to Spain, Iraq, Kenya and Slovakia Russia Senator: Russian peacekeepers will remain in Karabakh so long as their presence is necessary Armenia FM receives French Co-Chair of OSCE Minsk Group "Armenia" alliance: Armenian authorities have turned detention into punitive mechanism against opposition Armenia appoints new Ambassador to Belarus Armenia has new Ambassador to the State of Qatar Iran MFA responds to situation regarding Iranian truck drivers in Armenia's Syunik Armenian MFA: No negotiations being held for normalization of Armenia-Turkey relations at the moment Digest: Azerbaijan tries to control goods transportation via Armenia, more on COVID-19 Armenia Deputy PM receives Co-Chairs of Armenian-Ukrainian Intergovernmental Commission Armenia appoints new Ambassador to Greece Judge delays granting Armenia ex-President Kocharyan permission to travel to Moscow Armenia Ambassador to Ukraine Vladimir Karapetyan is in parliament Armenia Armed Forces' General Staff chief has new deputy FM: Azerbaijan armys illegal presence in Armenia undermines de-escalation efforts in region Armenia Parliament Speaker: Results of all elections between 1996 and 2018 were falsified Armenia parliament considering election of member of anti-corruption commission Armenia girl, 6, falls from 7th floor of building, in grave condition Tehran to resume nuclear deal talks in Vienna soon First international commercial flight carried out in Kabul after pullout of US troops Russian pianists Miroslav Kultishev and Victor Maslov won the 2nd Classic Piano International Competition for young pianists in Dubai within the framework of the 10th InClassica International Festival. The results of the competition were summed up on September 4. Miroslav Kultishev, representing Russia, won the first prize and received EUR 100,000, as well as the opportunity to tour. As part of this, he will give concerts in late 2021 in a number of countries: Austria (Vienna, Salzburg), Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Latvia, Malta, Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg), Switzerland, Turkey, USA, Great Britain. He will also receive a fee of EUR 100,000 for the tours. "It was a really difficult test for three weeks. I was happy to be on stage again, which is especially valuable in our time of epidemic constraints, I was happy to interact with my fellow contestants, and I am very grateful to the European Foundation for Support of Culture for organizing and supporting classical art. "There is music above us," said Osip Mandelstam. "And we all serve the music," said Miroslav Kultishev after receiving the award. In the 3rd and 4th rounds of the competition organized by the European Foundation for Support of Culture and the SAMIT Event Group, the participants performed with the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sergey Smbatyan. "One of our biggest music projects, CLASSIC PIANO, ended today. This event lasted a total of three years, taking into account the primaries in different countries. I was happy to see all the participants and I am very grateful to our highly professional jury, which consists entirely of masters of classical music and piano. We congratulate the winner and look forward to seeing him as a soloist during our tour," said Konstantin Ishkhanov, President of the European Foundation for Support of Culture, summing up the results of the competition. Composers, pedagogues of higher music institutions, and stars of classical art were invited to the jury of the CLASSIC PIANO competition. "I would like to note that from the beginning, all the contestants who came to Dubai are highly qualified professionals, and it was not easy to choose at each stage. In the final, we saw heated debates, as each of the participants showed virtuosity, artistry, and a deep understanding of the musical material. I would like to congratulate the finalists and wish them a good journey on the way with black and white keys, as well as thank the members of the jury, I was happy to lead a team with such extraordinary musicians," said the chairman of the jury Alexander Tchaikovsky. CLASSIC PIANO has become the last round of the piano competition series, which has been held in various cities around the world since 2019. Five finalists from Germany, Austria, France, China, Armenia, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Japan, the United States, Russia, Israel, Italy, and Belgium arrived in the UAE to demonstrate their skills in the final round of the three-year competition. A total of 70 people took part in CLASSIC PIANO. The 2nd CLASSIC PIANO International Piano Competition kicked off on August 15 in Dubai. In the first two rounds, the musicians gave a solo concert, presenting to the jury a program of baroque music and a romantic repertoire, as well as works by contemporary Maltese composers. In the third and fourth rounds, the contestants performed with the accompaniment of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sergey Smbatyan. The prize fund amounted to more than EUR 300,000. Yuki Amako (Japan) and Artyom Kuznetsov (Russia / USA) received a special prize of EUR 3,000 each for their work by Maltese composers. 70 people from more than 20 countries took part in the music competition. Mu variant of Covid already found in Hong Kong The Centre for Health Protection says Hong Kong has recorded three Covid cases involving the Mu variant. Image: Shutterstock The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) said on Friday that Hong Kong has recorded three Covid infections involving the Mu variant which has been newly listed by the World Health Organisation as a "variant of interest". The CHP said the patients in question had arrived from Colombia, where the variant was first discovered, and the United States. University of Hong Kong microbiologist Ho Pak-leung had called on the authorities to make cases of the Mu variant public, saying it's not yet known whether it is even more infectious than Delta, which is raging in various parts of the world. Another microbiologist from the university, Siddharth Sridhar, told RTHK that it will take time to analyse how transmissible Mu is. "As of today it still represents a very small fraction of viruses from Covid-19 patients detected worldwide, it would appear to me that Delta definitely has an advantage as far as transmissibility is concerned," he said. But Sridhar said vaccines should still be able to prevent severe symptoms caused by Mu and the variant is "not something to panic about". "It is very likely that it is going to follow a similar pattern to previous variants in terms of vaccines being less protective against symptomatic infection but still very good for severe infection, so I don't expect the Mu variant to be significantly different to the other variants that we have seen so far." We will not hand over info to police: Alliance We will not hand over info to police: Alliance Tests ordered for Mid-levels and Tai Wai residents Those who'd been to block 6 of Peak One in Tai Wai and Valiant Park on Conduit Road need to undergo tests. Photo: RTHK Health officials on Sunday ordered compulsory Covid-19 tests for some residents in Mid-levels and Tai Wai, after two people who live there came down with the virus following a trip to Kyrgyzstan. The Centre for Health Protection said a man, 60, and a woman, 43, tested positive for the L452R mutant strain after returning from Kyrgyzstan on Friday. Both were asymptomatic. Officials said both of them were fully inoculated with the BioNTech vaccine and had tested negative for the coronavirus before flying to the central Asian country on August 20. Even though the two infections were classified as imported cases, authorities said those who'd been to Valiant Park and block six of Peak One, some restaurants in Tai Wai and Central, as well as the woman's office in Sheung Wan, need to get tested by Monday as a precautionary measure. The two were among eight imported cases reported on Sunday. All of the other six patients who flew in from the Philippines, Britain and the United States were also fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Five of them carried the L452R mutant strain. 'HK youths obsessed with western values like freedom' 'HK youths obsessed with western values like freedom' A Beijing official in Hong Kong has accused local young people of being obsessed with western values like democracy and freedom when they know nothing about their own country. In a speech at an awards ceremony for teachers on Sunday, Xu Kai, a deputy education and technology director of Beijing's Liaison Office in the SAR, said many Hong Kong youngsters are ignorant of China, both in terms of its current situation and its history. He told guests at the event, organised by the Federation of Education Workers, that many pupils are also lost about their personal future, and it's up to "patriotic teachers" to guide them properly. If we have patriots ruling Hong Kong and handling educational affairs, that would end the chaos of the education sector seen in recent years, he said. In an apparent reference to the now-disbanding Professional Teachers' Union, Xu said a certain group had harmed the sector's professionalism by disguising itself as a teacher's body while actually getting involved with politics. The mainland official also alleged that some teachers had been indoctrinating their colleagues and students with the wrong concepts of civil disobedience and "achieving justice by breaking laws", resulting in some of them getting arrested or even being jailed. "Order must be restored for the education system in Hong Kong," Xu said, adding that only patriots should be allowed in the classroom. 'Brazilian beef ban may hit HK diners in the pocket' Simon Wong of the Federation of Restaurants, says cha chaan teng will have to pay more for beef. File image: Shutterstock A restaurant industry leader warned on Sunday that Brazil's decision to ban beef exports to China could see prices here rise by 30 percent or more. Brazil, which is the biggest source of beef for the SAR, announced the ban after detecting two cases of mad cow disease at separate processing plants. Simon Wong, who chairs the Federation of Restaurants, said the beef supply in Hong Kong will be disrupted if the suspension lasts longer than two months. "At the moment, Hong Kong might still have some stock for about two months. Afterwards, we are not able to sustain this stock level," he told RTHK. He said beef importers may turn to suppliers from Australia, Europe or South East Asia, but they may not be able to completely replenish stock levels. "If... there is no way that we can have enough stock for the restaurant trade, the price might go up 30 percent or even more." Wong said a shortage of supplies would have the biggest impact for smaller restaurants like Chinese restaurants and cha chaan teng. "Most of them cannot afford to import expensive or quality beef from, for example, the United States or even Europe, and Brazil has been known for exporting beef at a very competitive price level... it would affect this kind of restaurants very much." The suspension, announced earlier on Sunday, is based on an animal health pact between Beijing and Brasilia, according to Brazil's agriculture ministry. The ministry said it would allow Beijing time to determine how to respond to the situation. Firefighters found two adults and two children dead of apparent gunshot wounds after extinguishing a blaze at a home in Houston on Sunday. There werent any signs of forced entry at the house in the southwest of the city and the fire, which was reported shortly after 8 a.m., may have been an attempt to destroy evidence or disguise something at the scene, Police Chief Troy Finner said during a news conference. The dead were adults in their 50s and children who were apparently in the 10 to 13 age range, Finner said. He didnt identify the dead, saying police hadnt yet notified their family. He said investigators believe the shootings were an act of domestic violence, but he didnt say why they think that. Its real sad, he said. When its innocent kids, its even more upsetting. ATHENS, Ga. (AP) Seven people were injured in Georgia when a man with a gun opened fired into a crowd of people, police said. The shooting happened in downtown Athens at around 2 a.m. Sunday after a large fight broke out, Athens-Clarke County police said. Seven individuals were injured as a result of the gunfire," police said in a statement. The injuries to the seven victims are not considered life-threatening, police Lt. Shaun Barnett said. Police were searching for a 21-year-old man whom they consider a suspect in the shooting. They described him as armed and dangerous, and are seeking help from the public as they search for him. Crime Stoppers is offering $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest, The Athens Banner-Herald reported. Downtown Athens is a short walk to the University of Georgia campus, and large crowds were out late Saturday night and into the morning hours celebrating a big football win. Georgia had just beaten Clemson University in the Saturday evening game. At least six of the seven victims were shot, police said. Five of the victims were found with gunshot wounds at the scene, and two other victims showed up later at a hospital, Barnett said. Of those two victims, one had been shot, but injuries to the other person remain under investigation, Barnett said in an email to The Associated Press. It was not clear Sunday whether that person's injury was the result of a bullet strike or debris such as concrete or glass from the bullet's impact, Barnett said. (Reuters) - The leader of the Afghan opposition group resisting Taliban forces in the Panjshir valley north of Kabul said on Sunday he welcomed proposals from religious scholars for a negotiated settlement to end the fighting. Ahmad Massoud, head of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRFA), made the announcement on the group's Facebook page. Earlier, Taliban forces said they had fought their way into the provincial capital of Panjshir after securing the surrounding districts. "The NRF in principle agree to solve the current problems and put an immediate end to the fighting and continue negotiations," Massoud said in the Facebook post. "To reach a lasting peace, the NRF is ready to stop fighting on condition that Taliban also stop their attacks and military movements on Panjshir and Andarab," he said, referring to a district in the neighbouring province of Baghlan. Earlier, Afghan media outlets reported that an Ulema council of religious scholars had called on the Taliban to accept a negotiated settlement to end the fighting in Panjshir. (Writing by James Mackenzie; Editing by Frances Kerry) Banu Negar's family say the officer was eight months pregnant when she was killed Taliban militants in Afghanistan have shot dead a policewoman in a provincial city, witnesses have told the BBC. The woman, named in local media as Banu Negar, was killed at the family home in front of relatives in Firozkoh, the capital of central Ghor province. The killing comes amid increasing reports of escalating repression of women in Afghanistan. The Taliban told the BBC they had no involvement in Negar's death and are investigating the incident. Spokesman Zabiullah Mujaheed said: "We are aware of the incident and I am confirming that the Taliban have not killed her, our investigation is ongoing." He added that the Taliban had already announced an amnesty for people who worked for the previous administration, and put Negar's murder down to "personal enmity or something else". Details of the incident are still sketchy as many in Firozkoh fear retribution if they speak out. But three sources have told the BBC that the Taliban beat and shot Negar dead in front of her husband and children on Saturday. Relatives supplied graphic images showing blood spattered on a wall in the corner of a room and a body, the face heavily disfigured. The family say Negar, who worked at the local prison, was eight months pregnant. Three gunmen arrived at the house on Saturday and searched it before tying members of the family up, relatives say. The intruders were heard speaking Arabic, a witness said. Since taking power on 15 August, the Taliban have sought to portray themselves as more tolerant than their global reputation suggests, but incidents of brutality and repression are still being reported in parts of Afghanistan. Human rights groups have been documenting revenge killings, detentions and persecution of religious minorities. The Taliban have said officially that they will not seek retribution against those who worked for the former government. Analysis box by Lyse Doucet, chief international correspondent "No grudges, no revenge," was the Taliban message at their first press conference after they took power. But there's a growing chasm between Taliban statements and the message coming from the streets where every Talib has a gun and controls his own corner. Story continues It's hard to gauge the extent of abuse and harassment, particularly of women, across this country. Horrific incidents may be isolated but there's an everyday tension now enveloping the lives of many women, especially professionals, and those who must work to feed their families. In Kabul, everyone I've spoken to - former government advisers, airline cabin crew, teachers, hairdressers - are worried. Some are downright scared. Some are hiding in safe houses. The Taliban continue to stress that "women and girls will have all their rights within Islam". But rules which are emerging, such as the new dress code and classes segregated by gender at universities, underscore how women's lives are set to change, beyond recognition. The Taliban on Sunday gave more details of how segregation of the sexes will be enacted in universities. In an extensive document, the new authorities said men and women must be separated, if necessary by a curtain. Ideally, women will be taught by women but if none are available then "old men" of good character can step in, AFP reports. Female students must wear an abaya, or robe, and niqab, or face veil. On Saturday, Taliban officials broke up a demonstration by dozens of women in Kabul demanding the continuation of rights built up since the end of the Taliban's previous spell in power. The group say the Taliban targeted them with tear gas and pepper spray as they tried to walk from a bridge to the presidential palace. Meanwhile, fighting is reported to be continuing in the Panjshir Valley, north of Kabul. The province is the only part of Afghanistan actively resisting Taliban rule. The opposition National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF) said its spokesman Fahim Dashti and a commander, Gen Abdul Wudod Zara, had been killed. But the group also said a prominent Taliban general and 13 bodyguards had also died in the conflict. NRF leader, Ahmad Massoud, posted on Facebook that he welcomed a proposal from religious leaders for a negotiated end to the conflict. He said that the NRF would be prepared to stop fighting if Taliban stopped its attacks. Earlier, the Taliban said their forces were now in the provincial capital, Bazarak, where they inflicted "numerous casualties", though this was disputed by the NRF. The Afghans left behind by the U.S. airlift in the wake of the Taliban's takeover of the country include longtime U.S. Embassy contractors, Special Immigrant Visas applicants and members of the Afghan military, among others. Driving the news: In one of the largest airlifts in history, the U.S. evacuated 120,000 people from Afghanistan prior to their withdrawal. But at least 100 Americans and thousands of Afghan allies were left behind. Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free. The U.S. and 97 other countries announced last week that they had reached an agreement with the Taliban to allow them to continue to get their citizens and Afghan allies out of the country after the Aug. 31 withdrawal deadline. But, but, but: Negotiations for plane departures in the days since the withdrawal was completed have dragged out, as flights to Al Udeid Air Base approved by the U.S. and Qatar await final approval by the Taliban, the New York Times reported. The big picture: Although President Biden toasted the airlift as an "extraordinary success," Afghans left behindsome of whom made repeated attempts to evacuate fear what the future holds. A source told the Washington Post that about 2,000 U.S. Embassy contractors and immediate family members are among those left behind. The State Department declined to comment on the figure. What they're saying: One contractor who worked for the U.S. Embassy for six years told the Post that he received no calls or emails from the Embassy after Aug. 15. "Everyone knows where I worked, that I worked with the Americans, he added, noting that he eventually fled to another province. An engineer who worked for the U.S. Army and was in the final stages of his SIV application managed to get to the airport gates twice only to be turned away both times, per the Post. My children, they dont understand, he told the Post. But my wife is just crying: 'Why did you work with those people? Look how you brought us under threat!' Many Afghan women and girls fear their rights will be severely curtailed under Taliban rule. A young female graduate of the American University of Afghanistan told the Post that she held out hope for an evacuation that never materialized, as those connected to the school were not prioritized as "high risk" and had to navigate Taliban checkpoints without U.S. or NATO assistance. Like this article? Get more from Axios and subscribe to Axios Markets for free. A "No Vaccine Passports" protest sticker on a Vaccine Centre billboard outside Wembley Stadium, London. Yui Mok/PA Images via Getty Images An anti-vax paramilitary group planning a violent insurrection was disbanded after a newspaper exposed it. The Mail on Sunday infiltrated 'Veterans 4 Freedom,' whose members discussed attacking vaccine centers. The group comprised more than 200 former servicemen and servicewomen, some of whom were armed with crossbows. See more stories on Insider's business page. A anti-vaxx paramilitary group in the UK whose members discussed attacks on COVID-19 vaccine centers has been disbanded after it was exposed by the Mail on Sunday newspaper. The group "Veterans 4 Freedom" was founded by a former Royal Marine commando and comprised of more than 200 former servicemen and women opposed to vaccinations, the Mail report said. Members of the group communicated via the encrypting messaging app Telegram, where discussions included the possible targeting of vaccine centers. One member shared the car registration plates of vaccine center employees. Members of the group claimed it had 16 operational "cells," a secret leadership command, and discussed the purchase of lethal crossbows, the report said. One member wrote on Telegram: "If it comes to an insurgency, the military will become enemy combatants and we'll take them out using dirty tricks. They are identifiable by wearing a uniform. We are not." After the report was published last week, the group began to disband, the Mail reported. Some members of the group have formed a new one called the "Global Veterans Alliance," the report said. The group's leader, who used the name Bellzaac, posted on Telegram: "I've had to pull the plug on the movement/organisation. Basically we were a peaceful group and have been labelled with being something we are not. We wanted to do this legally & lawfully." The anti-vaccine movement in the UK has gained traction in recent months, with a protest last week that saw five police officers injured after it became violent. Story continues Hundreds of anti-vaxx protestors marched in London on Friday, gathering outside buildings including the offices of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, the body which approves vaccines for use in the UK. Members of Veterans 4 Freedom were not present, the Mail reported. The Metropolitan Police said 10 arrests had been made after officers were confronted with "shocking scenes of violence" with "units being pushed and shoved. Read the original article on Business Insider The first-of-its-kind bilingual Civil War Trails sign at Ox Hill Battlefield Park in Chantilly, Virginia, tells the story of the battle in Korean and Spanish. It would be easy to drive past Ox Hill Battlefield Park in Chantilly, Virginia, and miss something extraordinary inside. Not only is the small suburban park the sole Civil War battle site in Virginias most populous county, but its home to a first-of-kind interpretive sign. The sign is bilingual, but not in English. There are other interpretive signs in English nearby, but this one is just written in Spanish and Korean. "We didn't want to just regurgitate the same story in Spanish and Korean," said Drew Gruber, executive director of Civil War Trails, a program that has worked with communities across six states to connect visitors with the history that happened there. "We tailored that story to the immigrant population of Fairfax (County)." Not only does the Civil War Trails sign connect Fairfax Countys current residents and visitors to the story of the battle, but it also includes the experience of some Civil War soldiers who were non-native speakers. 'Going to places where history happened': Inspiring destinations that touch America's past Selma-to-Montgomery march: Campsites on historic civil rights trail considered 'endangered' The bilingual Civil War Trails sign at Ox Hill Battlefield Park in Chantilly, Virginia, serves as a linguistic bridge to history. Nearly one in every three Fairfax County residents was born outside the U.S., according to 2019 U.S. Census data. Additionally, 20% of the population identifies as Asian American, and 16.5% identify as Hispanic or Latino. "For me, (the sign is) a symbol of acceptance and recognition that we're sharing this American history, as Americans, as Korean Americans," said Hyun Lee, a graduate student, professor and member of the Virginia Council on Women, who lives in Centerville. Paul Berry, who lives in Reston and chairs the Virginia Latino Advisory Board and serves on Virginias Office of New Americans Advisory Board, marveled at how far the Commonwealth has come. "Not too long ago, there was actually a legal fight over translating things as simple as voting ballots to make sure that Spanish and other languages were on there," he said. Story continues For Gruber of Civil War Trails, the park's multicultural visitors are not altogether different from the immigrants who did fight there. It's difficult to say just how many people fought at Ox Hill did not speak English, but it is absolutely documented that many soldiers on both sides did not speak English and had things translated for them, he added. That history is included in the bilingual sign. Gruber said several other communities, including Nashville and Baltimore, have reached out with interest in similar signs for their own historic spaces. I am so grateful for this effort, that were elevating the voices, Hyun Lee said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Civil War Trails connects the present, past with Spanish-Korean sign A Miami police lieutenant who filed whistle-blower and discrimination complaints over a recent demotion was humiliated and scolded over the radio and in person by the senior officer named in her complaints, her attorney said. In a letter to city leaders and Miami Police Chief Art Acevedo on Friday, attorney Michael Pizzi demanded that the city cease and desist the outrageous retaliatory act of permitting Capt. [Javier] Ortiz to continue to harass the very person who has complained about him. Some of Thursdays confrontation between Ortiz and Lt. Keandra Simmons took place over police radio airwaves, where other officers were able to listen in on what had been a months-long friction between the two high-ranking Miami cops, Pizzi said. The remainder, according to Pizzi, took place in the office of his clients commanding officer, Ernie Sierra, who sat idly by as Ortiz who outranks Simmons, but isnt in her direct chain of command lit into the attorneys client. According to Pizzi, Ortiz was upset that Simmons questioned a direct command from the captain ordering responding patrol vehicles to turn on their lights and sirens. Simmons, who was the commanding officer at the scene, said it wasnt necessary. She said she only needed a few officers to block off a street. Ortiz did not respond to several phone calls, and the chief could not be reached for comment. Thursdays confrontation between Ortiz and Simmons reignited a smoldering feud that began back in April. Its one rife with claims of racism and retaliation that pits the citys most controversial cop against one of its least controversial, an officer whose role as one of the highest-ranking Black female cops in the department was taken away from her. Ortiz has survived despite use-of-force complaints by minorities that go back decades and a recent yearlong suspension after a racist rant before city commissioners in which the Hispanic officer claimed he was Black because of the one drop rule. He is the former president of the police departments Fraternal Order of Police. Story continues Simmons, prior to her early August demotion, is a former public information officer who once was a major in command of the Liberty City district and who moved on to oversee the departments traffic unit, which is now under the control of Ortiz. The two butted heads in early April when acting Chief Ron Papier and his wife, Cmdr. Nerly Papier, were suspended by the newly installed Acevedo for actions related to a patrol vehicle accident involving Nerly Papier, who commanded Little Havana. The couple were fired by Acevedo in May. Early last month, Simmons was one of four majors in the city demoted by the chief. She believes she was targeted because she did not support the Papiers termination. The investigation into the couple was initiated after Acevedo received a meandering memo from Ortiz, saying he was conducting an investigation into Nerly Papiers accident. At the time, Ortiz was under the command of Simmons, in the traffic unit. Following her demotion last month, Simmons filed a whistle-blower complaint with the citys Civil Service Board. She claimed to be targeted for not supporting the removal of the Papiers. She has also filed a complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, alleging racial and gender discrimination. Ortizs past conduct is referred to in both filings. Thursdays tiff between Simmons and Ortiz began shortly after a small fire broke out on the lower level of Miamis main downtown library. Simmons, as the officer in charge of the scene, radioed for some extra officers to help block off a street. Pizzi and several police sources said Ortiz, who was listening in, took issue and ordered a patrol unit to show up with sirens blaring and lights on. After Simmons objected and said it wasnt necessary, Ortiz, according to Pizzi and others, told her to change to a more secure radio channel. Simmons did. But so did several other curious cops, trying to listen in on the conversation. Pizzi said Simmons objected to meeting Ortiz, through her commanding officer, Cmdr. Sierra. She said she was worried because she had filed complaints against the captain. Still, Pizzi said, Sierra told her she had to obey Ortizs order. The three met in Sierras office, with the commander sitting silent as Ortiz lit into Simmons, Pizzi said. As a captain, Ortiz outranks Simmons. But as commander of the citys traffic unit, he is not in Simmons direct chain of command. Sierra was out of the office Friday afternoon and couldnt be reached for comment. In his letter to the city on Friday, Pizzi said his client had advised on more than one occasion that she fears for her safety around Capt. Ortiz and that he has created a hostile work environment for her. It is absurdly shocking and mind-boggling that Capt. Ortiz would show such poor judgment, Pizzi said. Either the city has zero common sense, or theyre sending her a message. The Daily Beast via FacebookIn a stunning turn of events, a South Carolina man was charged Tuesday with shooting troubled attorney Alex Murdaugh in the head in an assisted-suicide plot to funnel $10 million in insurance money to his surviving son.The alleged conspiracy was laid out in court documents released after Curtis Edward Smith, 61, was collared for the botched Sept. 4 shooting, which Murdaugh, 53, survived.Mr. Murdaugh supplied Mr. Smith with a firearm and directed Mr. Smith to shoot him in the head, Carlos Rodon last pitched Wednesday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Chicago White Sox are hopeful the All-Star will be available when the team returns to Guaranteed Rate Field on Friday to open a series against the Boston Red Sox. Rodon has made two starts since returning in late August from a stint on the injured list with left shoulder fatigue. He isnt slated to pitch during the upcoming Tuesday-Thursday series in Oakland. We like him pitching but hes still not experiencing the good feeling, whether its (shoulder) fatigue and a little sore, Sox manager Tony La Russa said before Sundays game against the Kansas City Royals. Right now were hoping he can pitch against the Red Sox over the weekend, but there are no guarantees there. When he doesnt feel right, its impossible to push it. You dont dare even think of that. We do miss him in the rotation. The Sox are already down two starters after placing Lance Lynn and Lucas Giolito on the IL. Rodon went on the IL retroactive to Aug. 8 and returned Aug. 26 against the Toronto Blue Jays. He went threw 67 pitches in five innings in that outing and threw 77 pitches in five innings Wednesday against the Pirates. Tired, sore, you know, there is a combination there, not just fatigue, La Russa said. Hes got some soreness to him. Youve all heard it before and its true, whether its arm, legs, back, soreness is (something) you live with in this game. You dont ever play not sore, if youre pitching or playing. But you recognize sore versus hurt and we dont want to get him hurt. Whittingham Cope A bitter row has broken out over a 19th-century textile that was donated to the Dean of Christ Church College and Cathedral half a century ago. The grandson of the donor is seeking the return of the Whittingham Cope, a liturgical vestment, after struggling to find out where it was or if it was appreciated. Dr Selby Whittingham, a leading art historian, was a student at the University of Oxford in the 1960s, when he watched his grandmother formally donate her treasured textile to the Dean, who gratefully accepted it for use in the Cathedral. Now he has lost patience, having written repeatedly over the years to find out what use was being made of it, only, he says, for questions to remain unanswered. He told The Telegraph: Id had a correspondence some years ago, which was very unsatisfactory. Id had no proper response. Asked what had prompted him to request the return now, he spoke of being dismayed by press reports of Christ Churchs handling of a bitter feud involving Dean Martyn Percy, who was suspended in 2018 over alleged misconduct in a pay dispute and then fully exonerated by an internal tribunal. As The Telegraph reported in July, a new tribunal will hear a claim by a woman who alleges that he stroked her hair and complimented her on her appearance. He denies the allegation and his many supporters including alumni, college staff and undergraduates have come to his defence, while he is suspended. Dr Whittingham, who does not know Dean Percy, said: I read more and more about the saga in the press about Christ Church. I gather lots of donors are withdrawing promises and gifts. It just seems a scandal. It is decades since he last saw the Chinese silk textile, originally a mandarins robe, but he recalls its embroidered dragons. On Aug 10, he wrote to The Rt Rev Dr Steven Croft, the Bishop of Oxford, that he was seeking support for Christ Church to return the Whittingham Cope presented by his grandmother, Edith Whittingham-Jones, in 1962, when he was an undergraduate at Oriel. Dean Cuthbert Simpson donned it for our benefit and said he was pleased to accept it for use in the Cathedral The Professor of Chinese had declared that the Chinese symbolism was compatible with Christian ideas, he said. Story continues He added: Becoming aware of how such gifts are sometimes mistreated, years ago I enquired from the college about the cope, but got no reply. I eventually discovered that Dean John Drury preferred some modern vestments he had commissioned and had sent the Whittingham Cope to the Ashmolean Museum. On further complaint, I was eventually told that it had been let out of the museum and used in a service, presumably a token gesture to appease me. As the House clearly has so little appreciation of the gift I would like it to return the cope to me so that I may give it to a church that would have greater appreciation and use for it. Whittington Cope In his letter, he also refers to Dean Percy. As the grandson of a vicar, he writes: I feel that my grandfather, who was very Christian by nature, would have deplored the scandalous behaviour of the House over Dean Percy, which brings me to the second reason for my feeling that Christ Church is not the appropriate repository for the Whittingham Cope. His grandmother made the donation to Christ Church because she wished she could have studied at Oxford: Because I was at Oxford, she just liked the place. So theres not a huge reason why it should stay there. If they dont really appreciate it, I can think of other places that would. He remembers the formal presentation: The Dean said it would suit the Cathedral very well. The Dean, whos the head of the college is also the Dean of the Cathedral. So its really the college chapel as well as the Cathedral. Its so often the case that these institutions dont really appreciate a gift theyre given. Dr Whittingham is a former curator of the Manchester City Art Gallery and a leading scholar of JMW Turner. He has long argued that the terms of the artists bequest to the nation some 300 paintings and 30,000 sketches have not been honoured as his will stipulated and that they should be housed together by National Gallery trustees in a Turners Gallery. Instead, the collection is split between the National and the Tate. In his letter to the Bishop of Oxford, Dr Whittingham lamented: There has also been an intellectual and moral failure about another scandal the frequent flouting of the conditions attached to gifts to colleges, museums etc. While the Ashmolean confirmed that the cope was returned to Christ Church in 2008, a spokesman for the Bishop said: The Bishop has seen the letter and will be replying to Dr Whittingham shortly. Declining to comment on why Dr Whittinghams letters were either unanswered or prompted unsatisfactory replies, a Cathedral spokesman said: The Whittingham Cope is in our safekeeping at the Cathedral The cope is a beautiful vestment that has been worn and appreciated by members of our clergy on numerous occasions However, the fabric has become extremely fragile, especially around the fastening and our embroiderers have advised us against regular use because of the danger of causing permanent damage. The Cathedral Chapter will discuss Dr Whittinghams request for the return of the cope at its next meeting. On hearing the Cathedrals response, Dr Whittingham said: My distant memory of the cope is not of its being particularly fragile. I wonder if this is an excuse for not using it now. Benzinga The Biden administration was never expected to be an eager leader in the cannabis reform movement. However, with over 90% of Americans believing that pot should be legal for medical use and 60% supporting recreational use, it is fair to ask when or if the Biden administration will take action on the matter. That answer could come sooner rather than later with Congress making incremental progress such as when the House reintroduced the MORE ACT, which historically passed during the previous sessi The Emmett grandmother accused of concealing the death of her 8-year-old granddaughter has been ordered to face two charges in district court after an Aug. 31 hearing in the case. After considering evidence presented, Magistrate Judge Tyler Smith ruled there was probable cause for Connie Smith to be arraigned in the Third Judicial District of Idaho on charges of failing to notify law enforcement of a death and concealment of evidence. In April, authorities in Gem County initially announced that three Emmett siblings were missing. Two older children 17-year-old Tristan Conner Sexton and 14-year-old Taylor Summers were reported as runaways in 2020, and authorities initially believed that 8-year-old Taryn Summers, who was reported missing April 12, may have joined up with her siblings. (The Sheriffs Office later said that law enforcement and family members had made contact with Taryns two older siblings.) Multiple agencies, including the Gem County sheriff, Idaho State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue assisted with a search, which included using drones and search dogs, according to testimony at the Aug. 31 hearing obtained by the Idaho Statesman. State police investigators eventually discovered a body inside of a trash bag on the backseat floorboard of a Lexus parked in front of the house on Airport Road, near Highway 52, from which the girl had disappeared. The body was later identified as Taryn Summers, based on DNA evidence linking the girl to her biological mother, according to testimony from Lt. Jason McIntosh, the lead investigator at the Gem County Sheriffs Office. At the Aug. 31 hearing, Gem County prosecutor Erick Thomson called five witnesses to testify about the April 2021 events that led to Smiths arrest. Mattea Smith, a teacher at a preschool in Emmett, told the court that she had seen Taryn Summers and two other children in the Lexus about 1 p.m. on April 12, when Connie Smith drove to the preschool to pick up a different child in her custody. Story continues Mattea Smith said she heard Connie Smith tell the other child to be very quiet, because Taryn was asleep in the back seat. Taryn had her head tipped back in the seat like she was a sleeping kid, Mattea Smith said. McIntosh testified in court that he responded to the report of a runaway at Connie Smiths property in Emmett on April 12. He said that she told him that she had entered Taryns room about 4 p.m. that day to offer her snacks before leaving to offer food to the other children in her home. In his testimony, McIntosh said that Smith had told him she had custody of Taryn, and had adopted her, or something like that. In a probable cause affidavit, signed by McIntosh and obtained in April by the Statesman, Smith is identified as the grandmother of TS, who was found inside the Lexus. Smith told McIntosh she returned to Taryns room around 5 p.m. and found her absent. The girl was reported as a runaway around 7 p.m., McIntosh said. During his testimony, McIntosh added that Connie Smith told him Taryn Summers had, at some point, defecated on the carpet in her room. Unable to clean it up, Smith said she had cut out the carpeting and burned it in her backyard, he said. She also said she could not find the keys to the Lexus, which was parked out front. After extensive search efforts in the neighborhood to locate Taryn over multiple days, on April 15 a patrol sergeant with the state police located an assortment of keys that were on top of a cabinet next to the kitchen sink in Smiths home, according to his testimony. One of the keys opened the Lexus. After searching the trunk, a different state officer, Det. Sgt. Jason Horst, unlocked the doors and noticed a reflective material through the window of the back seat, he said in his testimony. He opened a back door and discovered a black trash bag. I kind of got that feeling of what Id find when I opened it, he said in court. Inside, he saw the body of a young girl. I immediately thought that it was the body of Taryn Summers, he added. The charges Smith faces are punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of $60,000. The cause of Taryn Summers death is not publicly known. Smith will be arraigned in district court before Judge George Southworth on Sept. 13. Three sex workers told Insider that OnlyFans' boom in popularity had changed their work. mediaphotos/Getty Images OnlyFans experienced a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, changing the porn industry. Three in-person escorts told Insider that OnlyFans' popularity changed their work as well. They said that demand to produce digital content for clients had increased. Visit Insider's homepage for more stories. When OnlyFans announced - and then reversed - its decision to ban hardcore porn on the platform, the backlash was loud and swift. The five-year-old company known for its adult creators and audience has revolutionized online porn and sex work by allowing individual creators to build a subscriber audience in a central location. The ripple effects of OnlyFans' explosion, which largely took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, aren't limited to online performers. Veteran sex workers who provided in-person escort services long before OnlyFans say the platform has changed their jobs as well. Three sex workers told Insider the boom led to a huge increase in demand for digital content from their in-person clients. But they said OnlyFans' unpredictability had made them hesitant to use the platform. Escorts saw increased demand for digital content during the pandemic OnlyFans recently announced and then reversed a ban on hardcore porn on its platform. NurPhoto / Contributor The sex workers told Insider that one of OnlyFans' biggest effects on the in-person sex-work industry was that it increased demand for digital content. Justine*, an escort in New York, told Insider that many of her escort clients asked her to join OnlyFans during lockdown so that they could support her with monthly subscriptions. But Justine doesn't use the platform because she doesn't see the time commitment as worth it, she said, adding that she wanted to avoid the churn of creating constantly. Justine said she'd still exchange digital content with individual clients. Ella Blaire, an escort in Toronto, said she used OnlyFans but was considering deleting her profile because she'd rather invest her time in her in-person services. She said that while she'd experienced success on the platform because of her large Twitter following, "a large percentage of my fan base on OnlyFans are my in-person clients, so there is that crossover." Story continues For escorts, that crossover is common - but it must be executed strategically, according to Kehlela*, an escort in New York, who said she separates her OnlyFans from her in-person services for security reasons. She told Insider that sex workers try to establish that separation so that they can use the platform without breaking its rules against promoting escort services or using coded language to communicate anything that would violate its policies. Some use dating apps to bring in customers. But because many of these apps prohibit directly advertising OnlyFans profiles, sex workers might direct people to another social-media platform, like Twitter, where they can then send the prospective clients to OnlyFans and book IRL sessions. Kehlela said she was debating opening up her OnlyFans to clients from Seeking (formerly known as SeekingArrangement) by directing them to Instagram, because she, too, had seen dramatic increases in requests for digital content. "The flow of traffic can go two ways, where people on Instagram and OnlyFans know that they can hire me as an escort, or the people who hire me as an escort can also see my Instagram and OnlyFans," she said. "It's just a matter of do I want a guy to have the potential ability to out me - like, 'You're a whore' - and put it out on the internet." IRL sex work can streamline content creation for OnlyFans. Kehlela said she once met a regular client and sold content from that session to an OnlyFans user, something her escort clients find "fun and exciting." The user offered payment for a topless photo in her Uber ride home, which the driver accommodated when she offered a hefty tip, she said. On top of the $2,000 she made for the initial content, she made $100 for the Uber content, and other users approached her for exclusive content that evening, she said. "It can add up really quick," she said. OnlyFans' volatility has made some sex workers reluctant to use the platform Despite the increased demand spawned by OnlyFans, the platform's volatility has deterred some women from investing in it. None of the three professional escorts interviewed for this story expressed surprise at the platform's flip-flop on hardcore porn. They said that such unpredictability was par for the course for sex workers but that because of their diverse streams of income they were better prepared financially and more flexible than the sex workers coming up exclusively on OnlyFans. Blaire said a lot of sex workers saw the potential for a crackdown when Pornhub faced an exodus of credit-card companies last year. "It was shocking and upsetting for a lot of people, but veterans in the industry weren't surprised," she said. Blaire said she'd already been considering deleting her account because she's unwilling to provide the type of sexually explicit material necessary to make big bucks, even in private communications with clients. Kehlela has taken a more reluctant step back from the platform. She said that while she liked using it because it offered her the flexibility to work from home when dealing with chronic health issues, the unpredictability had changed her cost-benefit analysis. "I have the privilege to pick and choose," she said, adding that the risk of her identity being exposed coupled with the volatility of the platform had made her move away from OnlyFans. Kehlela said OnlyFans had deepened a divide in sex work between people who offer in-person services and those who don't. "It puts a divide between 'I only do this' versus 'I'm full service,'" she said. "I would say that it's created a new wave of people that wouldn't categorize themselves as sex workers." All three sex workers said it would take more than OnlyFans to shift that boundary. *Name has been changed to protect the source's privacy. Read the original article on Insider More than 500 arrests have been made during Extinction Rebellions two weeks of protests in London. Scotland Yard said 508 people had been arrested since the environmental group began its Impossible Rebellion protests on 23 August. Saturdays March for Nature marked the final event in the groups fortnight of protests in the capital. The march was staged by sister groups Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion and sought to bring the voices of the forests to the streets, according to Animal Rebellions Facebook page. Extinction Rebellion UKs event website for the march drew attention to rising extinction rates and habitat loss, before calling for world leaders to cease all fossil fuel investment. A species goes extinct every 5 minutes. We have lost almost 70 per cent of all plant and animal life on this planet in just 50 years, the website said. Our feet march for the disappearing forests, coral reefs, prairies, marshlands, mangroves and beyond. Our eyes see the fires, floods, drought and destruction. Our hands rise and point to world leaders to stop this harm. Our demand is to stop all fossil fuel investment immediately. The demonstration began at Trafalgar Square around 1pm with speeches about decolonising conservation, and oil drilling in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, before thousands of protesters began their march, journeying past Buckingham Palace and ending in Hyde Park. Protesters were photographed wearing colourful costumes, holding signs and banners that read Stop the Harm, Act Now and The Amazon Rainforest is at a Tipping Point. Others dressed as animals, including bees and panda bears, and a giant pink octopus was wheeled through the streets of London by Marine Extinction group. More than 100 police officers were stationed around Trafalgar Square, and many more were waiting for the protesters along the planned march route. Ten people were arrested throughout the course of the demonstration for a variety of offences, the Met Police said. Story continues On Friday, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said that nearly 2,000 officers were involved in policing the Impossible Rebellion protests every day. Speaking on Times Radio he said: Its not the number of protesters but its the level of serious disruption that theyre looking to cause, which is impacting on other Londoners. Weve said right from the start, we know that Extinction Rebellion have the right to protest and the right to assemble. But what we also made clear is these are qualified rights and they have got to be balanced against the rights of the rest of London and Londoners, the people, the businesses, the communities who want to lawfully go about their business. Where weve seen cases of both very serious and totally unreasonable disruption looking to be caused, we have to take action and move in and make arrests. The two weeks of protests have seen protesters glue themselves to a McDonalds restaurant, a giant pink table erected in Oxford Circus, banks splattered in paint, and countless roads and bridges blocked throughout London. While the Impossible Rebellion has ended, Extinction Rebellion UK has vowed to continue to disobey until the government commits to urgent action to fight global warming. InStyle Welcome to the new Look of the Day, where we comb through every celebrity outfit from the past 24 hours and feature the single most conversation-worthy ensemble. Love it, leave it, or shop the whole thing below. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate's filibuster rule likely imperils a bill intended to protect abortion rights that Democrats are readying following the Supreme Court's decision not to block a strict new Texas ban, a leading Democratic senator said on Sunday. Senator Amy Klobuchar told CNN's "State of the Union" that some Senate Republicans support abortion rights but not enough to overcome the chamber's rule requiring 60 of its 100 members to agree on most legislation. The nation's 6-3 conservative top court this week allowed Texas' six-week abortion ban to go into effect, which observers said showed the justices may be ready to overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that established a national right to abortion. That decision led House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to declare that the Democratic-controlled chamber will soon debate and vote on legislation aimed at stopping similar state anti-abortion regulations. But Klobuchar said that bill faces little to no chance of passing the Senate. "My solution to this ... I believe we should abolish the filibuster," Klobuchar, chair of the Senate Rules Committee, told CNN. "I do not believe an archaic rule should be used to allow us to put our heads in the sand ... and not take action on these important issues ... We just will get nowhere if we keep this filibuster in place." Progressive Democrats have repeatedly over the past year suggested doing away with the filibuster to allow other Democratic priorities to pass, including a voting rights bill intended to counteract a wave of new voting restrictions passed by Republican-governed states. Senate moderates, including Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema, have rejected that idea, however. Klobuchar said one way to discourage the frequency of filibusters would be to make senators who object to ending debate actually stay on the floor debating. This "talking filibuster" was the tradition until the 1970s. She said another approach would be a "carveout" that would only change the filibuster for legislation directly tied to one subject, such as abortion rights. (Reporting by Susan Cornwell; Editing by Sonya Hepinstall) Investigators are combing a charred Houston, Texas home for evidence after firefighters discovered four bodies with bullet wounds inside the smoldering structure Sunday morning. According to police chief Troy Finner, the bodies of a middle-aged man and woman, and two kids, ages 10-13, were found in the southwest Houston home, and whoever is behind the killings is still at large. Firefighters responded to the blaze around 8:10 a.m., but police dont know when the four were killed. I want people to pray for the family, but I also want people to pray for our first responders. . . . We have to process these scenes, and it gets tough, Finner said. Finner did not say how the victims are related, but with no signs of forced entry at the home, he believes this is a domestic violence incident. The fire was likely set intentionally to destroy evidence, Finner said, but added he is confident that enough of the scene survived to conduct a successful investigation. Im angry about it. Im angry when anyone in our city dies to violence, but Im especially angry when its small kids, Finner said. They hadnt even lived their lives. Its just not fair. Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward to the Houston Police Department. Driver runs over cop, rams home before police kill him in wild chase, Texas police say Homeowner shoots and kills aggressive man he found in his car, Texas sheriff says Who is Mercedes Moor? Drake dedicates new album to slain Texas Instagram model 19-year-old kills parents before jumping to his death off Oklahoma bridge, cops say South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma will be released from prison after serving only 2 months of his 15-month sentence for contempt of court, after he was found to be eligible for medical parole, the country's Department of Correctional Services said Sunday. The big picture: Zuma has spent the last month in the hospital, where he has undergone surgery. The department did not specify the nature of his illness. Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free. The decision to grant parole followed a report received by the department about Zuma's medical state. Catch up fast: The 79-year old was jailed in July for defying a court order to give evidence at an inquiry into allegations of high-level corruption during his time in office, per Reuters. What they're saying: "Medical parole placement for Mr Zuma means that he will complete the remainder of the sentence in the system of community corrections," the statement read. "[H]e must comply with a specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires." "We want to reiterate that placement on medical parole is an option available to all sentenced offenders provided they meet all the requirements. We appeal to all South Africans to afford Zuma dignity as he continues to receive medical treatment." Like this article? Get more from Axios and subscribe to Axios Markets for free. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., takes an escalator from the Senate subway on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, July 30, 2021. Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP Photo A restrictive abortion law went into effect on Wednesday in Texas. The Supreme Court refused to block the law in a 5-4 ruling. A GOP senator said they'll eventually "swat it" away and that it's being used to distract from other issues. See more stories on Insider's business page. GOP Senator Bill Cassidy said he expects the US Supreme Court will "swat" away Texas' restrictive abortion law. "I think the Supreme Court will swat it away once it comes to them in an appropriate manner," Cassidy said during an interview with ABC's "This Week" on Sunday. The Texas Heartbeat law, or SB 8, went into effect on Wednesday and bans abortions after six weeks, before most women know they're pregnant. The Supreme Court refused to block the law in a 5-4 ruling. The ruling was not on the merits of the law or the landmark 1973 Roe V. Wade decision that made abortion legal in the US. Instead, the court said it couldn't step into the dispute, with a majority of the justices saying they were not ready for a full hearing. "This order is not based on any conclusion about the constitutionality of Texas' law, and in no way limits other procedurally proper challenges to the Texas law, including in Texas state courts," they wrote. Cassidy told ABC's George Stephanopoulos that the ruling "had nothing to do with the constitutionality of Roe v. Wade," but was about those bringing the case not having "standing" or not enough stake in the case to file the challenge. "If it is as terrible as people say it is, it will be destroyed by the Supreme Court," Cassidy said. Some supporters of legal abortion have called the decision a "soft" overturn of Roe v. Wade. President Joe Biden was critical of the law and said it "will significantly impair women's access to the health care they need." "It just seems, I know this sounds ridiculous, almost un-American," Biden said on Friday. Story continues Cassidy said Democrats were using the ruling to distract from other issues, like the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. "People are using it to gin up their base to distract from disastrous policies in Afghanistan, maybe for fundraising appeals," Cassidy said. "I wish we would focus on issues as opposed to theater. It was about if they had standing, nothing to do with constitutionality. I think we should move on to other issues." Read the original article on Business Insider A taxi driver was struck in the head by a stray bullet fired by a 15-year-old boy in a wild Harlem gunfight, leaving the cabbie clinging to life, police said Sunday. The teen opened fire after he was shot in the stomach about 9:45 p.m. Saturday during a confrontation on 131st St. near Frederick Douglass Blvd., cops said. Missing his rival, the teen struck the innocent 34-year-old driver, who was behind the wheel of his taxi. EMS rushed the cabbie to Mount Sinai Morningside, where he was in critical condition Sunday with a gunshot wound to the head. A passenger in the backseat of the cab when the driver was shot escaped unscathed, sources said. The shooter who wounded the teen fled and has not been caught, cops said. The wounded teenager was taken to New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia in stable condition, police said. Charges against him were pending. In an unrelated incident early Sunday, four friends were each shot in the leg after a gunman drove by and opened fire in the Bronx. The group of friends were hanging out on White Plains Road near E. 243rd St. in Wakefield when the shooter passed by in a vehicle and indiscriminately unloaded on them about 3:45 a.m., police said. All four victims two men, ages 24 and 47, and two women, ages 27 and 36 were taken to area hospitals and expected to recover. After keeping silent for years, more than a dozen women hope their harrowing testimonies will spur prosecutors to pursue a pillar of the French fashion industry, accused of abusing young models with widely known impunity over dozens of years. "It's haunted me for 20 years," Lisa Brinkworth, a former BBC journalist, told AFP of her encounter with Gerald Marie, the former Europe chief of the Elite modelling agency, and its fallout. Brinkworth is one of several women who met with investigators from the French police's child protection brigade last week, with others set to do so in the coming days. The inquiry was opened in September 2020 after complaints lodged over alleged rapes and sexual abuse between 1980 and 1998, including of minors. Although that would normally put them beyond France's statutes of limitations for prosecution, the women hope their accounts will nonetheless lead to criminal charges, especially if they spur more recent victims to speak out. "I just think now that the time is right. He was untouchable for too, too long," said Brinkworth. - 'Kept on going' - At the time of the alleged offences, Elite Models had launched the careers of household names including Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford and Marie's former wife, the supermodel Linda Evangelista. Brinkworth encountered Marie in 1998, when she was posing undercover as a model for a report on abuse in the modelling industry. In 2015 Gerald Marie's name came up again in conversations with models when she also investigated links between Jean-Luc Brunel, a French modelling agent and Jeffrey Epstein, the US financier who was facing multiple charges of sex trafficking of minors before his 2019 suicide. Brunel was charged with rape of minors over 15 as well as harassment last December. "I was just astonished by the number of women who were making allegations against Gerald Marie," she said. During a dinner at a nightclub in Milan, she says, Marie repeated propositioned her and offered to pay for sex, before pinning her to a chair and assaulting her through her clothes. Story continues "I was absolutely powerless to do anything, and I was saying 'no, no, no' and he just kept on going," she recalled. But even though Brinkworth managed to film much of the incident, she says she was prevented from coming forward by an agreement between the BBC and Elite in 2001 following a defamation suit. - 'I froze' - Ebba Karlsson, a former Elite model from Sweden who also spoke with investigators last week, said Marie quickly disabused her of any notions of a glamorous career as a face of fashion. She recounted a meeting where Marie showed photos of the agency's models, asking if she knew how they got to be famous while putting his hand on her leg. "He said, 'Well, to be able to be so famous, you have to give something from yourself'," she said, and then put his hand up her dress to assault her. "I felt like somebody chopped my head off. My power just disappeared. I had no power. I froze," she said. Sources close to the inquiry told AFP that at least five other former models will speak with investigators this week, while around a dozen others have made similar abuse claims but remain reluctant to formally file reports. Marie is also facing a criminal complaint filed in New York last month by Carre Sutton, a former Elite model, accusing him of serial sexual assault starting when she was 17. Sutton, known as Carrie Otis during her modelling career, is to hold a press conference in Paris on Tuesday. Marie has denied any wrongdoing but has not yet been questioned about the allegations, his lawyer Celine Bekerman told AFP. "He is reserving any eventual statements for the competent authorities," she said. But Karlsson, Brinkworth and others hope the sheer number of women coming forward in the wake of the MeToo movement denouncing sexual abuse and harassment will prompt prosecutors to take action. "We have lawyers and we are powerful and the more we are, the more power we have," Karlsson said. "If he is not convicted for this crime, at least we have been causing some sound, some noise, that can create more awareness about the world as such in the model industry." gd-alh/js/cw/sjw By Gustavo Palencia TEGUCIGALPA (Reuters) - Honduras' main left-wing opposition party, led by ousted former president Manuel Zelaya, said on Sunday that if it wins November's presidential election it will seek to "readjust" the country's debt and establish diplomatic relations with China. Zelaya's Liberty and Refoundation Party (LIBRE) is for the second time fielding his wife, Xiomara Castro, as candidate, who set out her plans at a news conference in a Tegucigalpa hotel. "I will order an international audit on the internal and external debt, and the readjustment of it," Castro, 61, said without elaborating on what steps that would entail. Honduras currently has diplomatic relations with Taiwan, but if victorious, Castro said she would "immediately open diplomatic and commercial relations with mainland China." At the end of 2020, Honduras had public debt of more than $13 billion, a sum equivalent to 55 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), according to finance ministry data. Of that, $8.45 billion is foreign debt, and over 30 percent of the national budget is allocated to paying off debt. No reliable polling has yet been published for the election, in which Castro and several other candidates will face Nasry Asfura, the mayor of Tegucigalpa, who has been backed by outgoing president Juan Orlando Hernandez, a conservative. Hernandez's rule has been dogged by allegations of vote-rigging in his 2017 re-election and accusations raised in U.S. courts - which he denies - of his links to drug traffickers. But he remains an influential figure and his National Party is still the strongest force in Honduran politics. Honduras, one of the poorest countries in the Americas, suffered a 9% decline in GDP last year during the coronavirus pandemic, and was badly mauled by a pair of major hurricanes that ravaged Central America last November. This year, the central bank of Honduras has forecast the economy will grow by between 3.2% and 5.2%. (Reporting by Gustavo Palencia; Editing by Sandra Maler) Even if it's not a huge purchase, we think it was good to see that Anthony Smith, the Non-Executive Director of IODM Limited (ASX:IOD) recently shelled out AU$137k to buy stock, at AU$0.30 per share. Although the purchase is not a big one, increasing their shareholding by only 1.7%, it can be interpreted as a good sign. View our latest analysis for IODM IODM Insider Transactions Over The Last Year In fact, the recent purchase by Anthony Smith was the biggest purchase of IODM shares made by an insider individual in the last twelve months, according to our records. We do like to see buying, but this purchase was made at well below the current price of AU$0.37. Because the shares were purchased at a lower price, this particular buy doesn't tell us much about how insiders feel about the current share price. Anthony Smith purchased 1.46m shares over the year. The average price per share was AU$0.22. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Does IODM Boast High Insider Ownership? Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. IODM insiders own about AU$75m worth of shares (which is 44% of the company). Most shareholders would be happy to see this sort of insider ownership, since it suggests that management incentives are well aligned with other shareholders. So What Does This Data Suggest About IODM Insiders? The recent insider purchase is heartening. We also take confidence from the longer term picture of insider transactions. However, we note that the company didn't make a profit over the last twelve months, which makes us cautious. When combined with notable insider ownership, these factors suggest IODM insiders are well aligned, and quite possibly think the share price is too low. Nice! So these insider transactions can help us build a thesis about the stock, but it's also worthwhile knowing the risks facing this company. Our analysis shows 6 warning signs for IODM (3 shouldn't be ignored!) and we strongly recommend you look at them before investing. Story continues Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. Iskra Lawrence says she was on contraception and already nearly nine weeks along when she and partner Philip Payne discovered they had conceived. (Photo: Gonzalo Marroquin/Getty Images for American Eagle) Iskra Lawrence is speaking out about the doubts and anxiety she felt after becoming unexpectedly pregnant just a year into her relationship with partner Philip Payne. According to a new Instagram post by the British-born, Austin-based model, who was using contraception at the time, she didn't learn of the pregnancy until she was nearly nine weeks along which, under Texas's controversial new legislation banning abortions from six weeks on, would have made it illegal for her to terminate. "I had no idea I was pregnant," Lawrence captioned one in a series of shots taken of her and Payne at six, seven and eight weeks into the pregnancy. While the couple welcomed a son in April 2020, she admits that they wrestled with the question of whether or not they were ready to become parents. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. "I didnt know until nearly nine weeks into my pregnancy," the body positivity advocate wrote. "This is very normal." She admitted that the surprise pregnancy initially shook her, writing, "I didnt feel ready and I was using contraceptive. We werent married and I thought everything Id built for myself and my family could fall apart. Philip saw how upset and scared I was and lovingly reassured me." Ultimately, they chose to keep the baby "even though I hadnt imagined we would be pregnant only a year into our relationship we knew we wanted this," she shared but Lawrence noted that not every woman in her situation would make that choice, or have the resources to even make that a possibility. "I had the privilege of financial security, the safety of owning a home and the support from not just a loving partner but my family," she continued. "Our baby coming into our lives is the greatest blessing and I dream of a world where this could be everyones reality but This isnt everyones story. And no one, especially men, have a right to tell women what to do with their bodies." Story continues She added, "There are so many reasons a women may need or want an abortion from maternal death to abusive relationships or simply not having the financial means to feed and raise a child Women need access to abortions and that is their decision to make. What needs to happen is greater access to contraceptive and education around it as well as sex/reproductive education... What we do know is abortions will still happen, but they wont be safe. This is an attack on womens rights." Lawrence urged her followers to donate to organizations, including Planned Parenthood, Avow, the Texas Equal Access Fund, the Lilith Fund and Fund Texas Choice, working to reverse the "misogynistic and racist" ban in her adopted state. Lawrence isn't the only Texas resident decrying the anti-abortion law. Last week fellow Austinite Brooklyn Decker called out Gov. Greg Abbott and other lawmakers as the ban went into effect. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Want lifestyle and wellness news delivered to your inbox? Sign up here for Yahoo Lifes newsletter. KIRKUK, Iraq (Reuters) - Islamic State militants killed 10 Iraqi policemen and wounded four during an overnight attack on a guard post near the city of Kirkuk, police sources said on Sunday. Police sources said the attackers clashed for two hours with police stationed at a village in the town of Rashad, 30 km (18 miles) southwest of northern city of Kirkuk. Militants used roadside bombs to prevent police reinforcements from reaching the post, destroying three police vehicles, police sources said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but Islamic State militants are active in the area and a security source said they were involved. Separately, at least three Iraqi soldiers were killed and one was wounded on Sunday when gunmen attacked an army checkpoint southeast of the Iraqi city of Mosul, security sources said. Despite the defeat of the Islamic State militant group in 2017, remnants of the group switched to hit-and-run attacks against government forces in different parts of Iraq. (Reporting by Mustafa Mahmoud in Kirkuk; Additional reporting by Jamal al-Badrani in Mosul; Writing by Ahmed Rasheed; Editing by Frances Kerry) When a leaked video last month showed a local police chief suffocating a suspect, it was not just the revelation of torture and death in police custody which shocked the Thai public. The former police chief, Colonel Thitisant Utthanaphon, was more commonly known by the moniker "Joe Ferrari" - an apparent reference to his expensive tastes. He, along with six others, was pictured wrapping plastic bags around the head of a 24-year-old arrested for selling methamphetamine pills. The suspect eventually died. He has admitted to mistreating the suspect but denied demanding a bribe. When police raided Mr Thitisan's luxury home in Bangkok they found a dozen high-priced cars. The Customs department believes he owns at least 42 cars, one of them a rare Lamborghini Aventador Anniversario, of which only 100 were made, priced in Thailand at 47 million baht ($1.45m; 1.05m). So how did he amass such wealth, at the age of 39, on a salary of just 43,000 baht - or just over $1,000 - a month? The route to success and wealth Had he not decided to put six plastic bags over the head of the drug suspect, had he not failed to disable one of the CCTV cameras in the room or had another officer not decided to send the video from that camera to a lawyer, little more might have been heard of Joe Ferrari. After failing to resuscitate the suspect, the police took him to hospital and, according to investigating officers, insisted he had collapsed during his arrest. Investigations of abuses by the security forces in Thailand rarely go far. Mr Thitisant's dramatic rise and fall tells us a lot about the Thai police force. The popular image most Thais have from their own experience, is of bumbling lower-ranked officers engaged in petty acts of extortion and self-enrichment. This belies the reality of an institution which has long had an essential role in the opaque power networks which run the country. That is why many ambitious young Thais see the police as a quick route to success and wealth. Story continues "The police have long been central to Thailand's political power structure," says Paul Chambers at the Center of ASEAN Community Studies in Naresuan University. "Because they have preserved it, armed and legitimised as a domestic enforcement agency for the palace, the army, and for powerful people. In return they are allowed to operate endless extortion rackets with impunity as a sort of legal mafia. As a result, Thailand often 'discovers' Joe Ferrari-type cases in the police." Thaksin Shinawatra was also a former student at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School Born into an ordinary family in Bangkok, Mr Thitisant won a place at the prestigious Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School, and went on to the Police Cadet Academy, graduating in 2003. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra chose exactly the same career path. Both institutions enable students to make important connections with future military and police leaders. From there Mr Thitisant went into the narcotics suppression unit in Bangkok, and then for a period in Narathiwat in the deep south, near the notoriously porous border with Malaysia. Policing the huge illegal drugs trade in Thailand is known to be a rich source of illicit funds for officers. At some point Mr Thitisant also got involved in confiscating luxury cars, another lucrative operation. Thailand imposes taxes of more than 300% on supercars like Ferraris, Rolls-Royces and Lamborghinis, for which, in a country with plenty of billionaires, there is a large market. This has created a substantial business in tax avoidance, either by bribing customs officers to report a much lower value for the cars, or describing them as parts or partially-assembled. Thailand imposes taxes of more than 300% on supercars l Some are stolen in other countries and smuggled in. Confiscated cars are auctioned, and until recently the police and officials were paid "finders fees" of around half the value, netting well-connected officers millions of dollars. Thai customs officials say Mr Thitisant confiscated 368 such cars since 2011, which could potentially have earned him around 400 million baht. In 2009 he married into a wealthy family, posting pictures enjoying high society events with his new wife. Then in 2014 he made headlines by proposing marriage to a high-profile actress in a videoed ceremony, going down on one knee with a large bouquet of flowers. When challenged over his existing marriage, he said he had left his wife, but the actress refused him. In 2017 she told Thai media he had promised her 230 million baht in cash. He has most recently been in a relationship with another well-known television personality, whose father was his boss, the powerful regional police commander in northern Thailand where Mr Thitisant's last two postings were. With his flamboyant lifestyle and conspicuous taste for luxury cars, Mr Thitisant made no effort to hide his wealth. After all, many of Thailand's most senior police officers declare millions of dollars in assets they could not possibly have accrued on their regular salaries. Thailand's police have an essential role in the opaque power networks which run the country This year Forbes listed a recently-retired deputy police chief, Wirachai Songmetta, as the 36th wealthiest man in Thailand, based on a substantial energy business his family owned and ran for many years even while he was rising up the ranks. Top policemen can expect to move into other lucrative senior positions, in politics or business. Getting rich in the police is easy, because in a country where law enforcement is, to put it politely, flexible, there are endless opportunities to make money. "There are so many that I can't name them all," says Major Chavalit Laohaudomphan, a former police officer and now an MP in the opposition Move Forward party. "Let's just say that for anything that's illegal, the police can ask for bribes to turn a blind eye. Even for ordinary citizens who come for help, like those who need the police to hunt down a culprit for them - the police also ask for money in the form of 'the cost to proceed the case'. "And remember, lower-ranked police officers then have to pay their bosses, to ensure they rise to a position where they can make even more money." One of the lawyers who received the leaked video says Mr Thitisant was heard demanding a substantial bribe, while suffocating the unfortunate suspect. Informed sources believe that, though a fast-rising star in the police, he was just a cog in the money-making machinery, making plenty himself, but funnelling much of it up to more powerful players, who, until his misjudgement with the plastic bags, would almost certainly have protected him. Successive Thai governments have promised to reform the police, but none of those promises has yet been fulfilled. TRIPOLI (Reuters) - Libyan authorities have released Saadi Gaddafi, a son of the former leader Muammar Gaddafi who was ousted and killed during a 2011 uprising, a Libyan official source and a unity government source said on Sunday. Saadi Gaddafi fled for Niger during the NATO-backed uprising, but was extradited to Libya in 2014 and has been imprisoned since then in Tripoli. He immediately departed on a plane to Istanbul, the official source said. Libya has suffered chaos, division and violence in the decade since the uprising. The Government of National Unity was installed in March as part of a peace push that was also meant to include elections planned for December. His release resulted from negotiations that included senior tribal figures and Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh, the official source said. Another source said the negotiations also involved former interior minister Fathi Bashagha. In 2018 the Justice Ministry said Saadi Gaddafi had been found not guilty of "murder, deception, threats, enslavement and defamation of the former player Bashir Rayani". In July the New York Times said it had interviewed Saadi's brother, Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, who was held for years in the town of Zintan, as his supporters indicate he will run in the presidential elections planned for December. (Reporting by Ahmed Elumami and Hani Amara; writing by Angus McDowall; Editing by Sandra Maler) Moses Macedonia African Cemetery in Bethesda, Maryland is the burial site of hundreds of enslaved and formerly enslaved ancestors Before a Maryland judge intervened, a historic African-American burial ground was at risk of being sold for millions. Now, the sale is temporarily restrained until further deliberation is held on the matter in late September. Montgomery County Judge Karla Smith on Wednesday issued the temporary restraining order during a hearing for a lawsuit filed by allies and direct descendants of the hundreds of ancestors buried in the historic Moses Macedonia African Cemetery in Bethesda, Maryland. The lawsuit contested the Montgomery County Housing Opportunities Commissions (HOC) $51 million sale of the Westwood Tower Apartments, partially built upon the ancient burial ground. In the suit, the Bethesda African Cemetery Coalition (BACC) claimed that the HOCs sale is not in compliance with a state law requiring a court judgment to be obtained before a cemetery property can be sold. That law was enacted to ensure the proper dignity and respect is accorded to the remains of people buried on the land, said Steve Lieberman, a partner at the law firm which filed the suit, who added that buried underneath the property are hundreds of bodies including the bodies of freed slaves and their descendants. HOC, for whatever reason, chose not to comply to that statute. It has entered into an agreement with a private developer to sell the Moses African Cemetery, Lieberman said at an August 12 hearing after the lawsuit was filed. Why did HOC ignore the law? We dont know that yet. Judge Smiths order on Wednesday prohibits the sale until September 27 when a preliminary injunction is scheduled to take place on the matter. In her order, Judge Smith explained that the cemetery was not only comprised of freed slaves, but also enslaved individuals who had worked on one or more of the four plantations in the River Road area of Montgomery County prior to the Civil War. Story continues Montgomery County Media reported that in the early 1900s, the land by River Road was used for the burial ground but was sold in the 1950s to construct the apartment complex. HOC leased the property from 1977 to 2017 when it purchased the property for approximately $20 million. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Since 2017, community advocates have fought against further developments threatening the displacement of the burial ground. Montgomery County is trying to hide this chapter of its history, BACC President Marsha Coleman-Adebayo told WTOP in July 2020. This is the definition of white supremacy a government agency and individuals seek to erase all traces of the existence of Black people. Following Wednesdays ruling, one of the plaintiffs in the suit, Rev. Dr. Segun Adebayo, said in a statement that the restraining order is another small but crucial first step toward racial justice for the living and the dead in Montgomery County. Have you subscribed to theGrios Dear Culture podcast? Download our newest episodes now! TheGrio is now on Apple TV, Amazon Fire and Roku. Download theGrio.com today! The post Maryland judge temporarily blocks sale of property atop ancient African-American burial ground appeared first on TheGrio. This story was originally published August 22 by THE CITY. Logo for THE CITY The restart of fully in-person public school classes in less than a month will bring the return of nearly a million students along with more than 4,000 school safety agents. Thats reignited a raging debate over what role, if any, cops should have in classrooms, at a time when many children are especially vulnerable and anxious as the city slowly emerged from the COVID crisis. Last summer, following mass protests against over-policing, Mayor Bill de Blasio promised to shift oversight of school safety agents from the NYPD to the Department of Education by June 2022 a move opposed by the agents and decried by advocates who want them removed altogether. Now, two years since the last normal first day of school, the argument over what keeps kids safe is being heated by physical-distancing and pandemic-related mental-health concerns, a historic reckoning on police brutality and a spike in shootings as the economy and social programs falter. Were really concerned about the emphasis on return to normal, because what was considered normal really wasnt working well for a lot of kids, said Johanna Miller, director of the New York Civil Liberties Unions Educational Policy Center, which has long fought to remove police from schools. Were really worried that theres not enough energy spent on thinking about how to make the system safer, better, kinder for every kid, said Miller. Disparities in Who Gets Policed According to the NYCLU, Black and Hispanic children were the subject of nearly 90% of police interventions at schools in the 2018-19 school year, the last full pre-pandemic academic year, and 90% of arrests in 2019. Black and Hispanic students, meanwhile, made up 66% of the public school population. Overall, arrests and restraints of schoolchildren had been falling before the pandemic, according to NYPD data and an NYCLU analysis of those numbers. Much of that can be attributed to Mayor Bill de Blasio, who despite his reluctance to completely disband the school police force, has supported a few reforms. Story continues Related: Police-Free Schools Movement Faces First Major Test As Students Return to Classrooms After a Traumatic Year Away In 2019, City Hall, the DOE and the NYPD signed a long-awaited memorandum of understanding agreement to limit the circumstances under which school staff should call safety agents or when those agents could make arrests. The mayor and previous Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza also pushed for limiting suspensions and taking a restorative justice approach to discipline. Social justice advocates note that, despite these reforms, use of force by school safety agents continues to be disproportionately leveled against children of color. The NYCLUs analysis of the NYPD data points out that since the implementation of the new MOU in summer 2019, the proportion of [school safety agent] incidents involving Black and Latinx students actually slightly increased. And this past June, a new analysis of city policing data by the nonprofit Advocates for Children showed that police involvement in child in crisis incidents where students are taken to hospitals in response to emotional distress were on the rise pre-pandemic. Theyd risen from 2,700 incidents in the 2016-2017 school year to about 3,500 incidents in the 2017-2018 school year, the Daily News first reported. There were particularly high rates for Black students and for those in schools that serve youth with special needs. But proponents of school policing still say that safety agents are necessary to protect students from harm. Walking Into a Jail Some point to a particularly terrifying moment of violence in April when 17-year-old Devonte Lewis was shot and killed outside Urban Dove Charter School in Midwood, Brooklyn. As a charter school, it does not employ NYPD safety agents. Jai Nanda, the executive director of Urban Dove, contends that the shooting should not be a part of the school safety debate. Because the people who shot the student were not students in our school, it didnt happen in our school, it didnt happen during school. So its a little bit misleading, Nanda told THE CITY. We could have had five police officers in our building and they wouldnt have been at the scene of this. Urban Dove does bag checks, and uses metal-detecting wands, but only employs one outside security guard, according to the school. Liyah Rivera, 19, a senior who was there the day of shooting, initially appreciated the lack of NYPD safety agents. When the Brownsville teen first transferred to Urban Dove, it was a relief not to feel like walking into a jail, she said. Rivera previously attended Brooklyns Franklin K. Lane High School, which has a heavy presence of police officers at its Cypress Hills campus. There, Rivera and her peers had to constantly check your back because they believed safety agents played favorites, even allowing children to fight, kind of amping it up, she told THE CITY. Since the shooting, Rivera said shes 50/50 in terms of whether safety agents should be present in schools, but shed like to see a more community-oriented strategy toward stemming violence. A Sanctuary of the Mind In a June survey of city youth by the nonprofit Citizens Committee for Children, nearly 45% of young New Yorkers surveyed said police made them feel safer a sign that despite protests, students opinions on school cops arent unanimous . Still, another survey of New Yorkers 21 and under in April by the Urban Youth Collaborative found that 76% of respondents ranked security officers as the last area they would invest in at school, and nearly two-thirds wanted school cops removed. In that same survey, 78% of Black students reported having or knowing someone who had a negative experience with school police. Dariel Infante, a 17-year-old high school student in Queens, told THE CITY in Spanish that his own experiences as an immigrant in a heavily policed high school made him decide that safety agents are more harmful than helpful. When we immigrants see the police, we get scared, sometimes we panic if we do something and the police dont like it, if we disrespect them, our immigration status in this country could be at risk, the Dominican Republic-born teen said. Infante said hes seen incidents where calm students were driven to panic by gruff treatment from school safety agents at his school. He wishes there were more counselors than cops. School should be a sanctuary, a sanctuary for the mind, he said, adding thats why hes participated in multiple protests against school policing. De Blasio Refunds the Police After the city exploded into protests against police brutality in May 2020 following the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis cop, calls from protesters like Infante grew louder than de Blasio could ignore. Unlike some other major cities like Oakland and Minneapolis, which disbanded their school safety programs in the wake of the Floyd protests, de Blasio left New Yorks safety agent budget, staffing numbers and limited oversight largely untouched. But the mayor did pledge to move the oversight of school safety agents from the NYPD back to the citys Department of Education for the first time since 1999. He also promised to fund an additional 500 social workers at city schools in his new budget unveiled in July, as well as create 100 new so-called community schools for high-needs children, where students would have direct access to social services by local nonprofits. De Blasio also used federal dollars to boost tutoring programs. But the mayor has been criticized for making the transition slowly and the programs ultimate fate will likely rest with Democratic mayoral candidate Eric Adams, a former police captain. The mayors office did not respond to requests for comment, but a DOE spokesperson said the moves are in progress. We are well on our way to hiring over 500 new social workers and adding over 100 more community schools to ensure every student has a caring adult to go to when in crisis, the spokesperson, Nathaniel Styer, wrote in a statement to THE CITY. Styer did not say whether the social workers would be in place by Sept. 13, the first day of school. Our years of focus on the social, emotional, and mental health of our students means a safe and welcoming reopening for all students, he said. School safety agents themselves have already seen some changes since the mayors announcement: They were required to undergo training in conflict resolution, restorative justice and implicit bias last spring part of the eventual transition, according to the education department. But the coming new school year presents many challenges, said Gregory Floyd, president Teamsters Local 237, the union that represents safety agents. He pointed to a shortage of 650 agents compared to the last full school year and uncertainty over still-to-be-confirmed coronavirus mandates that are viewed as inadequate by some, he told THE CITY. His members are dealing with critics who contend that they have no place in those buildings, fueling mental stress in an already demanding job, he added. School safety agents will try to ignore the critics and meet the challenges to help recover, return, and restore a sense of normalcy to the more than one million public school students, said Floyd. The NYPD said its working with City Hall and the Department of Education regarding staffing vacancies of school safety agents, but referred questions on the logistics of school safety work in the time of COVID to the Mayors Office, which did not respond. Opting Out At least one young Brooklynite wont be present on the first day of school because of the policing question. His mother felt that the way school cops harshly interacted with her second-grader in a local public school was enough to remove him from the public school system completely. I used tovolunteer in a prison, and its a horrible place, and the schools really, in a lot of ways are not so different, said Camille Acey, 40, the director of a tech company who has now joined a Brooklyn homeschooling resource center. She said while friends children in private school reported getting a warm reception and bagels when starting school, her sons experience was starkly different. These children just [are] getting normalized about someone sort of barking orders at them and making demands of them, that sometimes even defy the wishes of their parents, she told THE CITY. Its just really scary to me, so I just wanted to keep my kid close and away from people like that. Related: Sign up for The 74s newsletter A non-fatal shooting took place Saturday afternoon in what police are saying was the result of a road rage incident. Shortly before 3 p.m., police responded to a reported shooting near the Hy-Vee gas station at 23rd street and Lees Summit Road. The shooting stemmed from a road range incident, Independence police said. A victim was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Police said they dont have any suspect information. MARRERO, La. (AP) Amid the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida, there was at least one bright light Sunday: Parishioners found that electricity had been restored to their church outside of New Orleans, a small improvement as residents of Louisiana struggle to regain some aspects of normal life. In Jefferson Parish, the Rev. G. Amaldoss expected to celebrate Mass at St. Joachim Catholic Church in the parking lot, which was dotted with downed limbs. But when he swung open the doors of the church early Sunday, the sanctuary was bathed in light. That made an indoor service possible. Divine intervention, Amaldoss said, pressing his hands together and looking toward the sky. A week after Hurricane Ida struck, many in Louisiana continue to face food, water and gas shortages as well as power outages while battling heat and humidity. The storm was blamed for at least 16 deaths in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. In the Northeast, Idas remnants dumped record-breaking rain and killed at least 50 people from Virginia to Connecticut. As Mass began Sunday, Amaldoss walked down the aisle of the church in his green robe, with just eight people spread among the pews. Instead, the seats brimmed with boxes of donated toothpaste, shampoo and canned vegetables. For all the people whose lives are saved and all the people whose lives are lost, we pray for them, he said. Remember the brothers and sisters driven by the wind and the water. Through the wall of windows behind the altar, beyond the swamp abutting the church, the floodgates that saved the building could be seen. The Gospel was the story of Jesus bringing sight to a blind man, and throughout the tiny church, stories of miracles were repeated. Wynonia Lazaro gave thanks for newly restored power in her home, where the only casualties of Ida were some downed trees and loosened shingles. We are extremely blessed, she said. Some parishioners suffered total losses of their homes, or devastating damage. Gina Caulfield, a 64-year-old retired teacher, has been hopping from relative to relative after her cousins trailer, where shed been living, was left uninhabitable. Still, she was grateful to have survived the storm. Story continues "Its a comfort to know we have people praying for us, she said. Some parishes outside New Orleans were battered for hours by winds of 100 mph (160 kph) or more, and Ida damaged or destroyed more than 22,000 power poles, more than hurricanes Katrina, Zeta and Delta combined. More than 630,000 homes and businesses remained without power Sunday across southeast Louisiana, according to the state Public Service Commission. At the peak, 902,000 customers had lost power. Fully restoring electricity to some places in the state's southeast could take until the end of the month, according Phillip May, president and CEO of Entergy, which provides power to New Orleans and other areas in the storm's path. Entergy is in the process of acquiring air boats and other equipment needed to get power crews into swampy and marshy regions. May said many grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses are a high priority. We will continue to work until every last light is on, he said during a briefing Sunday. In Jean Lafitte, a small town of about 2,000 people, pools of water along the roadway were receding and some of the thick mud left behind was beginning to dry. At St. Anthony Church, the 4 feet (about 1.2 meters) of water once inside had seeped away, but a slippery layer of muck remained. Outside, the faithful sat on folding metal chairs under a blue tent to celebrate Mass. Next door, at the Piggly Wiggly, military police in fatigues stood guard. In times such like these, we come together and we help one another, the Rev. Luke Nguyen, the churchs pastor, told a few dozen congregants. Ronny Dufrene, a 39-year-old oil field worker from Lafayette, returned to his hometown to help. People are taking pictures of where their houses used to be, he said. But this is a chance to get together and praise God for what we do have, and thats each other. In New Orleans, many churches remained closed due to lingering power outages. But First Grace United Methodist Church opened its doors and held service without power. Sunlight from large windows brightened the sanctuary, where about 10 people sat. Whatever situation youre in, you get to choose how you see it, said Pastor Shawn Anglim, whose first time pastoring the congregation was after the church recovered from Hurricane Katrina 16 years ago. You can see it from a place of faith, a place of hope and a place of love, and a place of possibility. Jennifer Moss, who attended service with her husband, Tom, said power had been restored to their home on Saturday. Weve been blessed throughout this entire ordeal," she said. That storm could have been a little closer to the east, and we wouldnt have a place to come and worship." In Lafitte, about 28 miles (45 kilometers) south of New Orleans, animal control officer Koby Bellanger experienced his own little blessing after he heard the sounds of an animal crying as he rode through the flooded streets with a sheriff's deputy. Bellanger waded through the water and found a tiny, green-eyed black kitten clinging to the engine of a car outside a devastated house. He hoisted the animal up, to the delight of Lafayette Parish Deputy Rebecca Bobzin. Bring him! Bobzin screamed in delight. Louisianas 12 storm-related deaths included five nursing home residents evacuated ahead of the hurricane along with hundreds of other seniors to a warehouse in Louisiana, where health officials said conditions became unsafe. On Saturday, State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter ordered the immediate closure of the seven nursing facilities that sent residents to the warehouse. As recovery efforts continued, state officials were monitoring a developing storm in Mexicos Bay of Campeche, which appeared set to move into the central Gulf of Mexico closer to Louisiana. Predictions so far dont show it strengthening into a hurricane, but the governor warned that even a smaller storm would be hard for the state to handle. ___ Morrison reported from New Orleans. Associated Press writer Denise Lavoie in Richmond, Virginia, contributed. A former aide to Prince Charles has temporarily stepped down from his role heading a charity founded by the British heir after newspaper revelations about his links to a Saudi businessman. The Prince's Foundation said chief executive Michael Fawcett had agreed to suspend his duties pending an internal investigation into the allegations by The Sunday Times and Mail on Sunday. Fawcett, a former valet to Charles who is said to remain close to Queen Elizabeth II's heir, is alleged to have coordinated work to grant a royal honour and even UK citizenship for Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz. The Saudi businessman had donated large sums to restoration projects of particular interest to the Prince of Wales. Mahfouz reportedly denies any wrongdoing. Charles' foundation, which helps jobless people get back into work and start small businesses, said it took the newspaper reports "very seriously". "Michael fully supports the ongoing investigation and has confirmed that he will assist the investigation in every way," it said. As a trusted valet, Fawcett would squeeze Charles' toothpaste onto his brush and help to dress him, according to reports. "I can manage without just about anyone except Michael," the prince was said to have once commented. In 2003, Fawcett was cleared of allegations of financial misconduct over the sale of unwanted royal gifts. He was appointed as head of the foundation in 2018 following a reorganisation of Charles' charities. jit/wdb Princess Eugenie (pictured in 2019) usually wears her hair curly. (Getty Images) She usually dons curly locks in public but Princess Eugenie has unveiled a fresh sleek hairstyle while on a date night. The Queen's 31-year-old granddaughter, who became a mother for the first time earlier this year, looked stunning as she wore her brunette mane poker-straight for a charity event. She attended the Horan & Rose Gala at The Grove in Watford alongside husband Jack Brooksbank, 35. While her hairstyle might have been new, the royal recycled her black maxidress by Sandro and her red coat by Galvan. The Queen's granddaughter debuted new, straighter locks for an evening out with husband Jack Brooksbank. (Getty Images) The princess finished off her stylish ensemble with a quilted handbag from Chanel, and a pair of black heels. It was a rare evening off for the new parents, who welcomed their son August in February. They recently took their little boy up to Scotland for his first trip to the Balmoral estate to stay with his great-grandmother. In July, Sarah Ferguson praised her youngest daughter and son-in-law for how they have embraced starting a family. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Speaking to People, the Duchess of York said: "When little August, my grandson, comes in to see me, and now it's slightly easier, I firstly look at my wonderful and beautiful daughter Eugenie and Jack. "I am so proud of them as parents. I've known Jack for 10 to12 years now, so he's like my son, he is my son-in-law, but he's like my son. "I adore them both. To see Eugenie and Jack being beautiful parents of little August, I'm really proud." The couple reside at Frogmore Cottage Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's former home near to Royal Lodge, where the duchess lives in Windsor. Watch: Royal weddings through the years After a failed evacuation attempt during the double suicide bombing last week, an Afghan mother and her five children remain stuck inside Afghanistan with little direction from the State Department on when or how they will leave. "It's an open-air prison," an American relative of the mother told Fox News. "There's no safe way to leave the country." In a pre-arranged meeting scheduled for Aug. 26 and coordinated between the American relative, U.S. lawmakers, and the State Department, the Afghan mother and her children were to meet a security official at 5 p.m. outside Abbey Gate so they could be safely escorted into the airport. FAMILY OF MOTHER STUCK IN AFGHANISTAN WITH CHILDREN DESCRIBES CHAOS AMID KABUL BOMBING The chaos that ensued following the attack forced her to flee the scene and seek shelter with her children. The mother's relative, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of Taliban reprisal, explained to Fox News that they have been unable to re-establish contact with U.S. officials for further guidance. The State Department on Wednesday said that it will be tailoring evacuation plans for Americans, Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, and Legal Permanent Residents also known as green card holders but it did not respond to Fox News questions about what it is doing to help other at-risk Afghans. "Kabul has gotten increasingly more dangerous," the relative explained. "So she went back to her house, about ten hours north of Kabul. "It's a little bit more remote, but they're still doing door-to-door checks," she added, referring to the Taliban. The American relative said her cousin has described a scene of terror unfolding throughout Afghanistan with Afghans now attempting to flee to surrounding nations like Tajikistan in the north and Pakistan to the east. "She said she spoke to people who had actually gone to the Tajikistan border and they were conducting searches of people in the vehicles," the relative said, referring to the Taliban. "If you had younger boys they were recruiting them and taking them and not allowing them to cross." Story continues AFTER CALIFORNIA STUDENTS RESCUED FROM AFGHANISTAN, OFFICIALS SAY THERE COULD 'EASILY' BE THOUSANDS MORE The American relative described a similarly chaotic scene for those attempting to flee into Pakistan, where daughters have allegedly been seized by members of the insurgent group. Fox News could not verify whether the Taliban have in fact begun separating families at border crossings. Ahmed Mohammed, legal director for the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), told Fox News that "fear is driving" rumors across Afghanistan. "Its a frustrating process, to say the least," Mohammed said. "There just doesn't seem to be a lot of direction either from congressional offices or from the State Department." The situation for the Afghan mother has been made more precarious by the fact that she and her children do not qualify for the SIV program because she did not have direct involvement with the U.S. or coalition forces. But they are known in her village and by members of the Taliban to be related to family members who did work with the U.S. as translators throughout the 20-year long war, which creates danger for them. STATE DEPT. WON'T SAY WHAT HAPPENS TO AFGHAN EVACUEES WHO FAIL RIGOROUS VETTING PROCESS Her oldest daughter who was able to evacuate was known to be married to an SIV holder. "That puts them at a huge risk," the American relative explained. Adding the Taliban views the family as "in line with westerners." "You're letting your daughter marry a westerner, you guys are in line with the Westerners, you guys see eye-to-eye with them," she said in explanation of the Talibans perspective. "You are evil." State Department spokesperson Ned Price said Thursday that the double suicide attack near the Kabul airport changed the "operational environment" and the ability to evacuate more at-risk Afghans by the Aug. 31 deadline. "We will continue to process individuals," Price said. "The president has spoken of our commitment to bring individuals who wish to leave Afghanistan to safety." But the relatives of the Afghan family remain frustrated that they have not yet received updated guidance from the State Department or from their state lawmakers on an evacuation plan. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., and Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., reportedly helped to coordinate between the Afghan family and the State Department in the leadup to the attack but did not respond to Fox News questions. The State Department also did not return Fox News questions on when and how the family can expect to be contacted for evacuation. "It's like they're untouchable," the relative told Fox News. "I get theyre super busy. But you know, literally, every minute counts." CNN Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) joined a growing Democratic chorus on Sunday, calling on the Senate to abolish the filibuster in order to codify Roe v. Wade into law following the Supreme Courts refusal to block Texas new draconian abortion ban. With conservatives holding a 6-3 majority on the Supreme Court, fears that abortion could again be left to the states to decide on inched closer to reality after the court declined to step in and stop S.B. 8, the new Texas law that prohibits Texas women from getting an abortion after six weeks of pregnancybefore many women even know they are pregnant and well before the roughly 20-week fetal viability standard established by Roe. The Texas law essentially deputizes private citizens to seek out bounties on anyone who aids or abets a woman seeking an abortion after a fetal heartbeat can be detected. The Court majority said that because citizens rather than government agencies were involved here , it could not intervene. Appearing on CNNs State of the Union, Klobuchar said that while she hoped the highest court in the land wasnt on track to overturn Roe, she warned that the signs all point to them soon overturning the landmark abortion case. In the past when they had cases that were so blatantly against Roe v. Wade, they would stay those cases when such requests came up. They did it with another Texas law. They did it in 2015. They did it in 2019, she exclaimed And, so, here you have them this year, this week, basically telling women in Texas that 85 percent of them seeking abortion services cannot exercise their constitutional rights. The Minnesota lawmaker added: And they know very well that there are over 500 laws that are messing around with this, and youre going to see cases just like this come before them. They did it at midnight with just less than 72 hours of debate, in Justice Kagans words. And basically greenlighted a law that is blatantly against Roe v. Wade. Asked by anchor Dana Bash what Democrats in Congress can do to protect abortion rights now that the Texas law has been allowed to take effect, for the time being, Klobuchar noted that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is bringing a House bill up to vote that will guarantee abortion access. This ban necessitates codifying Roe v. Wade, Pelosi said in response to the Texas law. Story continues Bash, however, pointed out that the filibuster will likely kill the bill in the Senate, since there likely arent 60 senators who will support it. Klobuchar, meanwhile, pointed to eliminating the filibuster altogethera movement that has grown among Democrats in recent months as a way to pass voting-rights legislation and other items on President Joe Bidens agenda. My solution to thiswhich is my solution for voting rights and so many other things, including climate change, where one side of the country is in flames, the other side of the country is flooded with people dying submerged in their carsI believe we should abolish the filibuster, the Democratic senator declared. I do not believe an archaic rule should be used to allow us to put our heads in the sand, to use Justice Sotomayors words, to put our heads in the sand and not take action on the important issues, the challenges that are facing our country right now, now and over the next years, she continued. We just will get nowhere if we keep this filibuster in place. Klobuchar also noted that Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV), a conservative Democrat who has been opposed to eliminating the filibuster, has expressed support for a so-called standing filibuster in which lawmakers would have to take to the Senate floor and speak non-stop for hours (or even days) in order to block further legislative action. The former presidential candidate went on to say that she is also still open to the idea of expanding the size of the Supreme Court. At the same time, she acknowledged that she doesnt believe the court will be changing any time soon, noting that this is the reason she feels the best thing is to get rid of the filibuster. Bash also asked Klobuchar if she still felt Justice Stephen Breyera liberal member of the Supreme Court who is now 83 years oldshould consider retiring in the near future, prompting the senator to renew her call for him to step down. If this decision doesn't cry out for that, I don't know what does, she replied. I think if he's gonna do it, sooner rather than later. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. The derelict San Jose building with its window frames removed as seen at 04:30 in Johannesburg, South Africa Inner-city Johannesburg in South Africa tends to be dangerous for outsiders, with high levels of crime, drugs and prostitution. Photographer Shiraaz Mohamed gained the trust of some who live there to find out more about their home in one of the area's infamous and derelict buildings. An unidentified man is seen leaving the San Jose the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa It is more than 17 years since the authorities declared the San Jose building in Hillbrow unfit for human habitation. Today the multi-storey structure stands bare - stripped of all its furnishings and fittings, including the door and window frames. They were all converted to cash at scrapyards a long time ago. An unidentified woman peeks out of her room. With the doors and door frames removed, a fabric sheet serves as a makeshift door in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa The residents who have moved in have put up blankets and fabric sheets to cover the massive holes where the windows once stood in order to keep the place warm. Temperatures plummet during the winter, making life really tough at San Jose. An unidentified man sitting on his bed in one of the makeshift rooms in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa On a cold winter's afternoon, the smell of faeces is strong in the dark corridors of San Jose, whose inhabitants are a mix of South Africans from neighbouring townships and rural areas, as well as migrants from across Africa. The building's population has nearly doubled to about 200 - including women and children - because of the curfew implemented to stop the spread of coronavirus and the difficulties brought about by pandemic lockdowns. Residents as seen sitting in a room of the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa Those who used to live here before it was condemned won a court battle to be rehoused and were moved to accommodation provided by the city authorities in 2008. The evictions from San Jose and other condemned buildings were intended to spruce up Hillbrow and neighbouring areas like Berea. But this has not happened and the structure has yet to be demolished. Angela doing her daily chores, washing clothing from a plastic bucket in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa When squatters move in, abandoned buildings are colloquially said to have been "hijacked". In some cases the "hijackers" are gangs who charge residents - but such is the state of disrepair at San Jose that people who come here do not pay rent to anyone. The basement, disused elevator shaft and surrounding areas are filled with waste and sewage. There is no electricity, running water or toilets. Residents relieve themselves in dark empty spaces in the building and sometimes on the pavement. Story continues "Winter makes things very difficult for the residents," says 38-year-old Sabelo Mapempeni (pictured above). He has been living in the building for the past four years and keeps an eye out for his fellow residents. "We live off 'mbawulas'," Mr Mapempeni says, using the Zulu word for the metal drums used for fires. "Morning till night the fire is burning." Although meant to provide comfort, mbawulas bring health risks from the smoke as wood, leather, plastic and whatever else that can be scavenged is used as fuel. An unknown man walks past two others at the entrance to the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa "It's very scary living here. People get sick and have to get taken to hospital," says Mr Mapempeni, who has spent much of his life in prison or living on the streets. Two people died from the cold in July, at the height of the southern hemisphere's winter, he says. "You feel like your heart was ripped out by a lion," Mr Mapempeni says about the discovery of their bodies. "They also had dreams for a better life but they are no more. "They were found like stones, humans that turned into stone. They had no carpet let alone a mattress to sleep on." Inside one of the rooms, Derrick Brown (above) crouches over, trying to get a fire started to make coffee for himself and a friend. The fire serves as his stove as well as a means of staying warm. Mr Brown has recently been released from prison for identity fraud and has nowhere to go. An unknown man pours water from a container into a pot over an open fire in preparation of cooking a meal in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa It is a hard fight for survival for the residents, some of whom wake up in the morning to search for food in dustbins. Others go knocking on people's doors in neighbouring communities asking for food. Residents of the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg stand in line waiting to receive their share of bread, tinned food and a blanket from the Muslim Association of South Africa Churches, religious organisations and charities play a vital role in sustaining them. Here some queue for bread, tinned food and a blanket from the Muslim Association of South Africa. An unknown man smokes mandrax, a sedative crushed and smoked in a broken bottle head mixed with marijuana in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa Mr Brown, who has been in and out of prison most of his life, says he battles with drug addiction - like many of those living in San Jose. The resident pictured above is smoking Mandrax, a crushed sedative which is mixed with marijuana. It is smoked through the neck of a broken bottle. Moosa Sikhele in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa But it is not all doom and gloom. Twenty-three-year-old Moosa Sikhele (above) says he has found sanctuary at San Jose after living on the streets. He could no longer bear the cold and a friend took him in. A newcomer or someone unknown to the residents is likely to be robbed unless they have a contact in the building. An unidentified woman stands in a room containing a mattress and other minimal essentials in the derelict San Jose building in Johannesburg, South Africa Residents do their best to keep their rooms neat and tidy - and to stop the building deteriorating further. In particular they do not want criminal troublemakers to move in as that could make life even more difficult. Mr Sikhele has been living in the abandoned building for the past few months - and says he is happy to be in San Jose. He tries to earn a living by selling cheap Chinese watches and belts but also relies heavily on people for clothing and food. "Life is tough here. I am struggling, but I will make it." All photographs subject to copyright PESHAWAR, Pakistan A suicide attack killed at least four people and injured 20 others in Pakistan's southwestern province of Baluchistan early Sunday, officials in the country said. A convoy of the paramilitary Frontier Corps was targeted as it was changing duty at a security post, Azhar Akram, a senior police officer in Baluchistan's capital, Quetta, said at a news conference. He said the attacker used a motorcycle to get near the paramilitary force, which is in overall charge of security in Baluchistan, a restive province in northwest Pakistan that borders Afghanistan's south. More than 13 pounds of explosives were used, he said, adding that body parts were found at a distance from the security post. Image: (Arshad Butt / AP) The militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility. The TTP is a separate organization from the Taliban in neighboring Afghanistan. "Our fidaee [suicide bomber] had planted explosives on the motorbike and rammed into the military convoy in Quetta," TTP spokesman Mohammad Khurasani said from an undisclosed location Sunday. "The security forces were about to leave for patrolling when they were attacked." Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the attack on Twitter. "My condolences go to the families of the martyrs & prayers for the recovery of the injured," Khan said. "Salute our security forces & their sacrifices to keep us safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorists' designs." The attack comes just weeks after the Afghan Taliban marched unopposed into Afghanistan's capital, Kabul, without firing a shot. The TTP renewed its allegiance to the Afghan Taliban as they pushed out the Western-backed government and has recently stepped up its campaign against the Pakistani army. Islamabad fears a rise in militant attacks along the Afghan-Pakistan border as the Afghan Taliban tries to fill a vacuum left by the collapse of the Afghan government. Story continues However, the Afghan Taliban's leaders have given reassurances to their neighbors and other countries that their territory will not be used to plan attacks on foreign soil. There was no immediate reaction to the attack from the Taliban leadership in Afghanistan, which is expected to form a new government this week. Mushtaq Yusufzai reported from Peshawar. Yuliya Talmazan reported from London. OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sunday that people are not bargaining chips, adding the U.S. stands with Canada in calling for the release of two Canadians detained in China for 1,000 days. Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were detained in China in what many countries label hostage politics after Canada arrested an executive of Chinese tech giant Huawei in 2018 on a U.S. extradition request. Kovrig, a Canadian diplomat on leave to an international organization, and Spavor, an entrepreneur, were arrested in apparent retaliation. Both have since been convicted of spying in closed Chinese courts a process that Canada and dozens of allies say amounts to arbitrary detention. Today marks the 1,000th day of the arbitrary detention of Canadian citizens Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig by the Peoples Republic of China (PRC)," Blinken said in a statement. "We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Canada and the international community in calling for the PRC to release, immediately and unconditionally, Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig. He added: The practice of arbitrarily detaining individuals to exercise leverage over foreign governments is completely unacceptable. People should never be used as bargaining chips. The arrest of Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of Huaweis founder, infuriated Beijing, which sees her case as a political move designed to prevent Chinas rise. The U.S. accuses Huawei of using a Hong Kong shell company called Skycom to sell equipment to Iran in violation of U.S. sanctions. Spavor's and Kovrig's relatives and supporters are pushing for some sort of political resolution that could bring them home. They staged a march in Ottawa on Sunday seeking to replicate the 7,000 steps that Kovrig has tried to walk every day in his cramped jail cell to maintain his physical and mental well-being. Its an extremely difficult milestone, but one that we want to mark in this way, in part, to honor the strength and resilience that Michael and Michael Spavor have shown, Kovrigs former wife, Vina Nadjibulla, said. Story continues Spavor was sentenced to 11 years in prison on national security charges. China's government has released few details other than to accuse Spavor of passing along sensitive information to Kovrig. Both have been held in isolation and have had little contact with Canadian diplomats. "We worry about him, but we find strength from all the support we get, said Paul Spavor, his brother. China says Spavor and Kovrig committed serious crimes against its national security and, although denying a direct link with Mengs case, routinely mention her when referring to the detention of Canadians in the country. The Chinese Embassy in Canada on Sunday protested comments by Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau referring to arbitrary detention and a lack of transparency in the Chinese judicial process. Those remarks grossly infringed on Chinas judicial sovereignty and violated the spirit of the rule of law, the embassys statement said. Three Canadians convicted in separate drug cases were sentenced to death in 2019. In one, Robert Schellenberg had received a 15-year sentence initially that was abruptly increased to death in January 2019 following Mengs arrest. Canada and other countries face trade boycotts and other Chinese pressure in disputes with Beijing over human rights, the coronavirus and control of the South China Sea. The U.S. has warned American travelers face a heightened risk of arbitrary detention in China for reasons other than to enforce laws. China has tried to pressure Canada's government by imposing restrictions on imports of canola seed oil and other products. The Taliban are accused of preventing people from leaving Afghanistan on charter flights (file picture) A US lawmaker has accused the Taliban of stopping Afghans and Americans from leaving Afghanistan via Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport. Republican House member Michael McCaul said on Sunday that planes had been trying to leave the airport "for the last couple of days". An NGO confirmed to the BBC that it had people waiting to board one of the flights. The Taliban has denied the claims, labelling them as propaganda. Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told the BBC: "This is not true. Our Mujahideen have nothing to do with ordinary Afghans. This is propaganda and we reject it." Mr McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Fox News there were six planes carrying American citizens and Afghan interpreters waiting at the airport. "[The State Department] has cleared these flights and the Taliban will not let them leave the airport," he said. The Texas representative added: "We know the reason why is because the Taliban want something in exchange." In an email to members of Congress seen by CBS News, the State Department acknowledged there were charter flights at Mazar-i-Sharif that the Taliban will not allow to fly until they have approved the departure. Marina LeGree, founder and CEO of the NGO Ascend Athletics which works with Afghan girls and women, told the BBC that the number of planes could be higher than six, saying she has heard there could be as many as 1,000 people waiting to get out. Her organisation has a group of 34 people who have been waiting to leave for six days, among them 19 Americans and two green card holders. They are part of a larger organised evacuation under the auspices of the US government. Ms LeGree said she believed a dispute or negotiation between the Taliban and the Afghan airline Kam Air was holding up the flights. "We're just patiently waiting like everyone else and we've got people with families, there's a three-year-old in our mix who has been hauled around for a week now," she said. Story continues She added that the Taliban had come into the place where people were being held and arrested people a couple of times. "It's just a worrying situation overall," she said. In a statement to the BBC, a spokesperson for the State Department said the concern felt was understood, but added: "We do not have personnel on the ground, we do not have air assets in the country, we do not control the airspace - whether over Afghanistan or elsewhere in the region." The US withdrew its troops from Afghanistan last week after 20 years in the country. More than 120,000 US citizens, allies and Afghan citizens were evacuated from Kabul airport. As a result of the withdrawal, the State Department said it did not have to the means to confirm details of the flight or those waiting to board.do However, "we will hold the Taliban to its pledge to let people freely depart Afghanistan," the spokesperson said. KABUL, Afghanistan Afghanistan's Taliban rulers resumed some domestic passenger flights to and from Kabul on Sunday, as the religious militia's fighters stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. More: What happened to US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan? Since the takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast the group as a different from its 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and enforced strict controls across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. A Taliban soldier stands guard at the gate of Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Sept. 5, 2021. Some domestic flights have resumed at Kabul's airport, with the state-run Ariana Afghan Airlines operating flights to three provinces. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. Story continues Trying to flee: Two women tried to flee Afghanistan. One family escaped. One did not. Kabul's streets are again clogged with traffic, as Taliban fighters patrol in pickup trucks and police vehicles brandishing their automatic weapons and flying the Taliban's white flag. Still, some signs of normalcy have returned: women are on the streets, schools have opened, and moneychangers work the street corners. Traffic police have returned to duty, and giant cement barriers sealing off upscale neighborhoods have been removed. Pilots of Ariana Afghan Airlines walk on the tarmac after landing at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Sept. 5, 2021. Who's who: Taliban government: Who are the leaders to know in Afghanistan's changing power structure As Taliban leaders hold meetings and promise a government in the coming days, technical teams from Qatar and Turkey are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said Kabul station manager Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Associated Press Writers Rahim Faiez and Tameem Akhgar in Istanbul contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Afghanistan news: Fighting in Panjshir, domestic flights return KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) At least four planes chartered to evacuate several hundred people seeking to escape the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan have been unable to leave the country for days, officials said Sunday, with conflicting accounts emerging about why the flights weren't able to take off as pressure ramps up on the United States to help those left behind to flee. An Afghan official at the airport in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif said that the would-be passengers were Afghans, many of whom did not have passports or visas, and thus were unable to leave the country. He said they had left the airport while the situation was sorted out. The top Republican on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, however, said that the group included Americans and they were sitting on the planes, but the Taliban were not letting them take off, effectively holding them hostage." He did not say where that information came from. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the accounts. The final days of America's 20-year war in Afghanistan were marked by a harrowing airlift at Kabul's airport to evacuate tens of thousands of people Americans and their allies who feared what the future would hold, given the Talibans history of repression, particularly of women. When the last troops pulled out on Aug. 30, though, many were left behind. The U.S. promised to continue working with the new Taliban rulers to get those who want to leave out, and the militants pledged to allow anyone with the proper legal documents to leave. But Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas told Fox News Sunday" that American citizens and Afghan interpreters were being kept on six planes. "The Taliban will not let them leave the airport, he said, adding that hes worried theyre going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan. He did not offer more details. The Afghan official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said it was four planes, and their intended passengers were staying at hotels while authorities worked out whether they might be able to leave the country. The sticking point, he indicated, is that many did not have the right travel papers. Story continues Residents of Mazar-e-Sharif also said the passengers were no longer at the airport. At least 10 families were seen at a local hotel waiting, they said, for a decision on their fates. None of them had passports or visas but said they had worked for companies allied with the U.S. or German military. Others were seen at restaurants. The State Department has no reliable way to confirm information about such charter flights, including how many American citizens might be on them, since it no longer has people on the ground, according to a U.S. official. But the department will hold the Taliban to their pledges to let people travel freely, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. The small airport at Mazar-e-Sharif only recently began to handle international flights and so far only to Turkey. The planes in question were bound for Doha, Qatar, the Afghan official said. It was not clear who chartered them or why they were waiting in the northern city. The massive airlift happened at Kabuls international airport, which initially closed after the U.S. withdrawal but where domestic flights have now resumed. Searing images of that chaotic evacuation including people clinging to an airplane as it took off came to define the final days of Americas longest war, just weeks after Taliban fighters retook the country in a lightning offensive. Since their takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast themselves as different from their 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and imposed repressive restrictions across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: Government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. Among the promises the Taliban have made is that once the country's airports are up and running, Afghans with passports and visas would be allowed to travel. More than 100 countries issued a statement saying they would be watching to see that the new rulers held to their commitment. Technical teams from Qatar and Turkey arrived in recent days and are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said official Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Meanwhile, the Taliban stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Fahim Dashti, the spokesman for the group that is fighting the Taliban, was killed in a battle on Sunday, according to the group's Twitter account. Dashti was the voice of the group and a prominent media personality during previous governments. He was also the nephew of Abdullah Abdullah, a senior official of the former government who is involved in negotiations with the Taliban on the future of Afghanistan. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. ___ Associated Press writers Rahim Faiez and Tameem Akhgar in Istanbul and Ellen Knickmeyer in Oklahoma City contributed to this report. DALLAS Hours after Texas restrictive abortion law went into effect Wednesday, Blair Wallace took to Houstons Tranquility Park with some 60 other people in protest. Its not a surprise to me that the Republican leadership at the Texas Legislature would allow something like this to go through, said Wallace, a policy and advocacy strategist with the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas. We know the brunt of this will fall on our Black and brown communities and our poor communities the most. Wallace is one of many critics of Senate Bill 8, which bans abortion as early as six weeks into pregnancy and allows anyone to sue abortion providers or anyone who helps someone get the procedure after the time frame. Wallace, who worked with the ACLU of Texas to halt the bill, and others say it will make getting an abortion in Texas nearly impossible and disproportionately affect poor people who give birth, especially Black and Latino residents. People would have to drive 248 miles on average to undergo the procedure out of state, up from 12 miles in state, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a nonprofit organization that researches reproductive rights. People with money could fly out of state to get abortions. But for those with lower incomes, work obligations, lack of transportation, and financial struggles could make it far more difficult to leave Texas. As many as 8 of 10 people who seek abortions could be forced to continue their pregnancies, according to the University of Texas at Austins Texas Policy Evaluation Project. Marsha Jones, executive director of the Afiya Center, which partners with abortion centers and provides people with resources to access safe abortion services, said laws like Texas only perpetuate poverty for poor and Black and Latino people. When systems are in place that force folks to have children that they cannot take care of and theres no system in place to assist them with taking care of those children, nothing but a system that penalizes our parenting, youre creating generational poverty, Jones said. Story continues Texas Republicans maintain that the abortion legislation is intended to save lives. Research shows that unintended pregnancies hold people back from completing their educations and getting and keeping jobs and even lead to poor health and economic outcomes for the children. People denied abortions are more likely to live in poverty, with economic instability and poor physical health. A string of Republican-led measures that would disproportionately affect poor people around the country. Last year, President Donald Trump was voted out of the White House after months of historic anti-racism and police brutality protests. This year, in many states, Trumps party has regrouped and enacted tough new laws about subjects ranging voting rights and Medicaid to education and abortion rights. By May, Republicans had introduced at least 253 restrictive voting bills in 43 states, according to the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York University School of Law. As of last month, eight states had passed election laws that opponents say make it harder for people, placing restrictions on in-person voting to mail-in voting. Officials have said the restrictions would silence Black voters and other voters of color, who are credited with powering Joe Bidens presidential win. And as oppressed groups battle voter suppression, they must also contend with GOP efforts to limit Medicaid. At least 12 states, including Texas, Florida and Georgia, have refused to expand Medicaid, deciding to stick with Trump-era restrictions that allow work requirements and funding caps on health care for low-income recipients. Poverty is a policy choice. It all seems very intentional, said organizer and activist Johnathan Perkins, who co-hosts Black&, a podcast about identity and racism. Theres no reason that there should be people starving to death in the wealthiest nation to ever exist. And the people who are in power benefit. The GOP has made these wedge issues, so they have to come up with laws and enforce them against the people they see as their enemies or not going to vote for them i.e. Black people, poor people, Perkins said. Thats why gerrymandering is a thing. Gerrymandering has been a major concern for organizers and Democrats throughout this redistricting cycle. This years is the first redistricting process since the Supreme Court gutted key federal voting rights protections against discriminatory maps in 2013 and, in 2019, decided to allow partisan gerrymandering. As a result, advocates have warned that in states where they control the legislatures, Republicans could draw boundaries that would diminish the power of Black and Latino communities. A separate Texas law banning homeless encampments throughout the state went into effect Wednesday. The bill makes it a class C misdemeanor to camp in unapproved public spaces. The move comes shortly after the city of Austin reinstated its public camping ban, which voters approved this year, making it a class C misdemeanor punishable by an up to $500 fine. Organizers across the country who have worked to combat the GOP-led bills said they would only make life more difficult for poor people. Organizers have launched crusades against Republican-backed anti-protest bills and gerrymandering attempts and laws that would harm and criminalize unhoused people. It is this organizing that Perkins maintains is key to combating legislation that would disproportionately affect poor people. What we do is look to the people that are doing the good work on the ground of organizing, Perkins said. In order to combat what the GOP is doing, we have to trust, support and follow the Black and brown women who are doing the hard work. Follow NBCBLK on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Getty/Anadolu Agency Multiple tenants became behind on rent at Trump Tower, according to a Washington Post report. The Trump Organization sued the maker of Ivanka Trump's shoe line earlier this year for $1.5 million in unpaid rent. One tenant that consistently pays its bill is a PAC for Donald Trump, according to The Post. See more stories on Insider's business page. Marc Fisher Footwear, the former manufacturer of Ivanka Trump's shoe line, fell behind nearly $1.5 million in unpaid rent at Trump Tower in New York City, according to a lawsuit filed by the Trump Organization earlier this year. The lawsuit, which was filed in March and first reported by Bloomberg, alleges the company owed rent for a lease that started in 2015 for the entire 21st floor and parts of the 22nd floor at Trump Tower. The suit said Marc Fisher had not made a rent payment since November 1, 2020. The shoemaker manufactured Ivanka Trump's shoes before she shut down her fashion line in 2018. A Washington Post report published Friday said the suit was settled in April for an undisclosed amount. According to the report, the company wasn't the only tenant to miss rent payments at the Manhattan skyscraper. Court documents reviewed by The Post said suit maker Marcraft Clothes, which rented the 18th floor of Trump Tower, was behind $644,000 in rent before going out of business last year. Another company once owned by Kris Jenner owed $198,000 in rent as of October 2020, the court documents said. Insider's Grace Panetta reported that Trump Tower has experienced similar financial woes as other commercial real estate properties in New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic. Low tourism rates and a decline in foot traffic on Fifth Avenue, known for its luxury shopping, played a role. However, a political action committee for Donald Trump has been a consistent source of income for the Trump Organization's flagship building. The Post reported that the PAC is paying nearly $40,000 in rent for office space on the 15th floor. Story continues The outlet reported that the PAC staffers rarely use the space, as most work from home or from Trump's other properties in Florida and New Jersey. "We are paying market rate for leased office space used to help President Trump build a financial juggernaut to help elect America First conservatives and flip both the House and Senate to the Republicans in the midterm elections," Trump spokeswoman Liz Harrington told The Post. Read the original article on Business Insider UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an end to violence in Afghanistan amid fears of a new civil war now that the Taliban has seized power. "I call for an immediate end to violence, for the safety, security and rights of all Afghans to be respected, and for adherence to Afghanistans international obligations, including all international agreements to which it is a party," Guterres said in a report to the Security Council this weekend. The document, obtained by AFP, has not yet been released publicly. "I urge the Taliban and all other parties to exercise utmost restraint to protect lives and to ensure that humanitarian needs can be met," Guterres said. The report was compiled as the mandate of the UN political mission in Afghanistan is scheduled to expire on September 17. The UN says Afghanistan is mired in a humanitarian crisis affecting 18 million people, or half the population. UN aid efforts can finance help for only 38 percent of the population, so the world body urgently needs nearly $800 million, the report says. "I call on all donors to renew their support so that life-saving response is urgently scaled-up, delivered on time and suffering is mitigated," said Guterres, who has convened an international aid conference for Afghanistan in Geneva for September 13. He also called on countries to take in Afghan refugees and refrain from deporting any they might already be hosting. And in an allusion to the Taliban's brutal first stretch of rule from 1996 to 2001, Guterres said: "Reports of severe restrictions on human rights throughout the country are highly concerning, particularly accounts of mounting human rights violations against the women and girls of Afghanistan who fear a return to the darkest days." prh/iba/dw/bbk HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam's coronavirus epicentre, Ho Chi Minh City, and capital Hanoi must vaccinate all of their adult residents with at least one shot by Sept. 15, the ministry of health said on Sunday. Vietnam has one of the lowest coronavirus vaccination rates in the region, with only 3.3% of the country's 98 million people fully vaccinated with two shots, and 15.4% with one shot. The country is battling a worsening COVID-19 outbreak that has infected more than 520,000 people and killed 13,000, the vast majority in the past few months. Ho Chi Minh City, the country's business hub, accounts for half of the infections and 80% of the fatalities. The cities must "mobilise all capable forces including private medical facilities, to vaccinate people at full capacity", the ministry said in an emergency dispatch. Government data showed 88% of Ho Chi Minh City's adult population of 6.97 million have been inoculated with at least one shot. The rate is 53% for Hanoi's adult population of 5.75 million. The ministry also set the Sept. 15 deadline for the southern industrial provinces of Binh Duong, Dong Nai and Long An to vaccinate all of their adult populations. It said Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong and Long An have been allocated enough vaccine doses for the vaccination drive. Vietnam has so far received 33 million coronavirus vaccine doses, and it expects to receive 17 million more by the end of this month, the government said late on Sunday. Vietnam could be facing a lengthy battle against the coronavirus and cannot rely on lockdown and quarantine measures indefinitely, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said last week. (Editing by William Mallard and Emelia Sithole-Matarise) Over a dozen voting centers opened on Saturday in Sacramento County for people to cast their ballots in the upcoming gubernatorial recall election. "We put a lot of work into creating convenience for voters," explained Janna Haynes, Sacramento County spokesperson. "As of yesterday we had 873,208 active registered voters. 230,108 have returned their vote by mail ballot." Haynes added the county is opening another fifteen additional voting centers next weekend and is keeping the facilities open through Election Day, Sept.14. See more in the video above. A mystery sits at the heart of the economic recovery: There are 10 million job openings, yet more than 8.4 million unemployed are still actively looking for work. The job market looks, in some ways, like a boom-time situation. Business owners complain they can't find enough workers, pay is rising rapidly, and customers are greeted with "please be patient, we're short-staffed" signs at many stores and restaurants. Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. But the nation remains in the midst of a deadly pandemic with covid-19 hospitalizations back at their highest rates since January. The surge is weighing on the labor market again, with a mere 235,000 jobs added in August. There are still 5 million fewer jobs compared to before the pandemic, reflecting ongoing problems, including child care as some schools and day cares shut down again from outbreaks. From the White House to the local Waffle House, there's a struggle to understand what is going on - and what's likely ahead. This weekend, the employment crisis will hit an inflection point as many of the unemployed lose $300 in federal weekly benefits and millions of gig workers and self-employed lose unemployment aid entirely. Some anticipate a surge in job seekers, though in 22 states that already phased out those benefits, workers didn't flood back to jobs. At heart, there is a massive reallocation underway in the economy that's triggering a "Great Reassessment" of work in America from both the employer and employee perspectives. Workers are shifting where they want to work - and how. For some, this is a personal choice. The pandemic and all of the anxieties, lockdowns and time at home have changed people. Some want to work remotely forever. Others want to spend more time with family. And others want a more flexible or more meaningful career path. It's the "you only live once" mentality on steroids. Meanwhile, companies are beefing up automation and redoing entire supply chains and office setups. Story continues The reassessment is playing out in all facets of the labor market this year, as people make very different decisions about work than they did pre-pandemic. Resignations are the highest on record - up 13 percent over pre-pandemic levels. There are 4.9 million more people who aren't working or looking for work than there were before the pandemic. There's a surge in retirements with 3.6 million people retiring during the pandemic, or more than 2 million more than expected. And there's been a boost in entrepreneurship that has caused the biggest jump in years in new business applications. "The economy is going through a big shift overall and that has ramifications," said Ben Bernanke, the Federal Reserve chair from 2006 to 2014. "We are reallocating where we want to work and how we want to work. People are trying to figure out what their best options are and where they want to be." It doesn't help that the abundance of job openings right now are not in the same occupations - or same locations - where people worked pre-pandemic. There is a fundamental mismatch between what industries have the most job openings now and how many unemployed people used to work in that industry pre-pandemic. For example, there are nearly 3.5 million job openings in the hospitality sector and fewer than 1.5 million unemployed people whose most recent job was in hospitality. Similar mismatches have arisen in education and health services, where there are nearly twice as many job openings as there are people whose last job was in that sector. In recent months, heath care workers and educators have quit their jobs at the highest rate on record, stretching back to 2002, Labor Department data show. "This is typically the time of year we recruit for the upcoming school year, but we literally can't get enough candidates, and we're seeing tenured people leave," said Cindy Lehnhoff, a 36-year veteran of the child care industry who currently heads the National Child Care Association. "If you get one good candidate, there are 10 others contacting that same person. It's a crisis. People can't work without child care." Lehnhoff has been helping a child care center in northern Virginia recruit more staff. Their infant room remains closed, because they don't have enough people, and one of their veteran workers was just poached by a nearby elementary school. As she spoke with The Washington Post, Lehnhoff pored over the Indeed.com job portal. It showed more than 2,000 job posts in the Fairfax County, Va., area for child care teaching assistants. Most paid $12 to $13 an hour, a bit less than many nearby fast food restaurants and retail stores. Nationwide, most industries have more job openings than people with prior experience in that sector, Labor Department data show. That's a very different situation than after the Great Recession, when the number of unemployed far outstripped jobs available in every sector for years. To find enough workers, companies may need to train workers and entice people to switch careers, a process which generally takes longer, especially in fields that require special licenses. While companies say they are struggling to find workers, many unemployed say they are having trouble getting hired, especially if they haven't worked for a year. Forklift driver Brandon Harvey and his wife used to work in a warehouse outside Atlanta that closed during the pandemic and never reopened. Harvey, 33, searched for a job for months, looking online and driving around South Fulton. He submitted countless applications but rarely got calls back. "I fear that employers are pretty hesitant to give you an opportunity right now if you haven't worked in a while," Harvey said over the summer, when his search seemed especially frustrating. Harvey and his wife fell behind on rent. Their landlord wanted to evict them. They struggled to stay positive in front of their two kids, a toddler and 13-year-old. Harvey saw plenty of $10 and $12 an hour jobs all spring and summer, but it wouldn't be enough for his family to survive. He made $17 before the pandemic. "I definitely wasn't going to work for $10 or $12 an hour. That wasn't going to do anything," Harvey said. After months of job hunting, in late August, he finally received a job offer for $21 an hour in a major retailer's warehouse. He expects to start Sept. 4. Companies across the economy are raising pay at a rapid pace in an effort to entice more people back to work. It's helped, but the pandemic and reallocation pains are still significant barriers. Average pay for rank-and-file workers is up 2.8 percent in the past five months, outside the pandemic that's the fastest rate of increase since 1981. There has been especially fierce wage competition for lower-paid positions, especially since many former service sector workers say they won't return at any price due to long hours, grueling work and increased exposure to the virus. Pay is up 8.8% for nonmanagerial workers in the restaurant-and-hospitality sector and 6.1% for warehouse workers in the past five months. It appears to be helping lure some workers back. Of the 3.1 million jobs gained since March, almost half are in hospitality, though hiring in the sector stalled in August as the delta variant surged. Some Americans are being forced to shift careers whether they want to or not. The pandemic has lingered longer than anyone initially anticipated and the ranks of long-term unemployed have swelled. About 40 percent of the currently unemployed - 3.2 million - have been out of work for six months or longer. Years of research, especially after the Great Recession, show these people have a much harder time getting back to work. Hiring managers are skeptical that their skills are still fresh, and these workers' prior jobs and employers are often gone, forcing job seekers to rely on sending out resumes online without any personal connections. "One of the most well-known facts in labor economics is people unemployed for a short time get jobs really quickly. People unemployed a long time have a harder time getting a job," said Peter Ganong, assistant professor of economics at the University of Chicago's Harris School of Public Policy. Some of the long-term unemployed have become so discouraged that they retired earlier than planned. Annie Farley of Hutchinson, Kan., said she hadn't intended to retire early, but she nonetheless recently applied for Social Security at age 63, because she no longer had any unemployment benefits coming in. She has struggled to pay for the basics. She can't afford to repair her car so she can commute to a retail job. Farley worked for years at an embroidery business, helping to run the machines and manage orders, but she was laid off at the start of the pandemic. She had hoped to return this summer but found the company had replaced her with a younger, cheaper worker. "It's been pretty rough. I've missed credit card payments and I'll probably have to do a pay agreement with the electric company," said Farley, who takes care of her two grandchildren. "It feels like there's a million people applying for two positions around here." Economists point out that overall jobs are actually rebounding at a remarkable pace. Over 75 percent of the jobs lost during the pandemic are back, a much faster recovery than almost anyone anticipated a year ago. Private forecasters anticipate all the jobs lost could be back by mid to late 2022 - a rebound of about two years compared to the six-plus years it took for the labor market to recover from the Great Recession. But, as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome H. Powell put it recently, it's been a "vigorous but uneven recovery." Job losses remain steepest for Black and Hispanic women, as well as Americans without college degrees. The uneven recovery is evident in how different states are faring. In some areas of the country, the labor market is booming. All the slack has vanished in Idaho and Utah, where employment recovered months ago and the unemployment rates were nearing their all-time lows at 2.6 percent and 3 percent respectively. But other states are still reeling: Hawaii is still missing 12 percent of its jobs, New York is still missing 9%, and Nevada and Alaska are more than 7 percent behind, as tourism-dependent economies struggle amid fast-spreading covid-19 variants. Similarly, urban downtowns in San Francisco and Washington D.C. have struggled to rebound as more office workers remain at home. The shops and restaurants that supported these office workers aren't coming back yet, especially as bellwether employers such as Google, Amazon, Apple and Facebook push back openings to January. (Amazon founder Jeff Bezos owns The Washington Post). Meanwhile, the most urgent need for workers is often in suburban areas, where housing costs have skyrocketed, making it difficult for low-wage workers to live there. As the recovery proceeds, the holes in the labor force have shifted. Half of all jobs are still missing in high-contact industries such as buffets and movie theaters, but other industries that were hit harder in the early days of the crisis, such as RV dealers, carwashes, breweries and appliance stores, have staged a full comeback, buoyed by record consumer spending on goods. Some lucky industries, such as delivery services, mortgage lenders, and breakfast-cereal manufacturers seemed to have sailed through the entire crisis without shedding jobs. They now have 10 or even 20 percent more employees than they did in February of 2020. The White House and many business leaders hope a combination of rising vaccination rates, reduced unemployment benefits and more time will lead more unemployed Americans to find new careers - and to be excited about them. Sarah Henrie, 39, from the San Francisco Bay area, lost her corporate job at Bloomingdale's in June of 2020 and struggled to find any job openings in her area of expertise: International marketing and tourism. Initially, she was shocked to find herself unemployed for the first time in her career. But after her daughter was born, she decided she wanted a more flexible career. She's about to take the real estate exam in California. If all goes well, she will start as a Realtor early next year working with her brother. "It's been a crazy year and we're still kind of navigating," Henrie said. "The nice thing about real estate is it's flexible and you're not commuting and going into an office. I think it will allow me to work and also be able to have more time with my daughter than I would have if I had been in my old role." The key to this great reallocation will be ensuring some workers aren't left behind. Related Content Jordan White recorded the D.C. police fatal shooting of An'Twan Gilmore. Here's how it changed her. The summer before 9/11 After 9/11, Kenneth Feinberg was asked to do the unthinkable: Assign a value to each life lost that day Jacqueline Jackson, the wife of the Rev. Jesse Jackson, was released from the hospital Friday after being treated for Covid. Both Jacksons were admitted to the hospital last month after they suffered from Covid symptoms. Jesse Jackson, 79, had been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, while his wife, 77, had not. They have been married for almost 60 years. "Our mother is leaving the Northwestern Memorial Hospital and coming home," their son Jonathan Jackson said in a statement provided to NBC Chicago. "Our family is grateful to God and the medical team that treated her and that is allowing her body to continue to heal from the COVID-19 virus." Jesse Jackson has been moved to a rehabilitation center for intensive occupational and physical therapy for his Parkinson's disease, the statement said. Jesse Jackson Jr. posted on Facebook that his father had recently tested negative for the virus following treatment. Jesse Jackson, who founded the civil rights organization Rainbow Push Coalition in 1971 and twice ran for president in the 1980s, announced in 2017 that he has Parkinson's disease. Jacqueline Jackson has also been a prominent voice for civil rights. The Jackson family encouraged all those who have not been vaccinated to get the shots and thanked everyone for their prayers and support, saying, "The love that has been poured out to our family at this time of sickness and need from around the world has helped in our parent's healing." Emergency services were called to the home of a 92-year-old after she became impaled on a bannister at home in Wombourne, Staffordshire. (SWNS) An elderly woman was left fighting for her life after she became impaled on a bannister at her home. The 92-year-old managed to dial 999 after becoming impaled on the railing at her home on Wednesday morning. Emergency crews including an air ambulance raced to the home in Wombourne, Staffordshire at 9am on Wednesday (1 September) where they found the woman. Firefighters spent an hour using specialist cutting equipment to remove the bannister from her before she was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. The woman was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. (Stock image: Getty) A spokeswoman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "An elderly woman has been taken to a major trauma centre after being injured in her home. "One ambulance, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Cosford were sent to the scene in Wombourne, Wolverhampton at just after 9.00am on Wednesday. Read more: Aircraft crashes at Bournemouth Air Festival injuring two people "The woman was treated for potentially serious injuries and received advanced trauma care on scene. She was taken by ambulance to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham; the doctor from the aircraft travelled with her." A spokesman for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue said: "Fire crews were called at 9.08am on Wednesday, 1 September, to Ounsdale Road in Wombourne following reports of a 92-year-old woman impaled on stair railings. "Wolverhampton and Cannock firefighters attended, along with the technical rescue team from Wednesbury, and doctors via Midlands Air Ambulance." Watch: Is a UK state pension enough to survive on in retirement? Kaleigha Smith, 12, is tested for the coronavirus Aug. 11 at Northridge Middle School. (Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times) President Biden has a huge opportunity in the next few months to regain his footing as a foreign policy president after the fall of Kabul a chance to demonstrate that the United States can still lead and to push back against China. Its an opportunity he cant afford to duck, because it involves a deadly challenge: the continued spread of COVID-19. The current wave of the pandemic has been a cruel reminder of how far we are from taming this virus. But so far, the U.S.-led international effort to provide vaccines to poor countries has been a story of shortfalls and failures. When vaccines first became available last year, rich countries bid against one another to be first in line. It wasnt pretty, but it was understandable; politicians in every country take care of their own first. Still, almost everyone understood that the pandemic could be stopped only if its spread is checked everywhere. Stamping out the virus everywhere protects our health and our economy here at home, Bidens COVID-19 coordinator, Jeffrey Zients, said last week. The United States and other vaccine-producing countries promised to make sure the rest of the world had access to immunizations as soon as possible. They havent delivered. We still see shocking inequities in access to vaccines, the head of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said last week. More than half of the 5.4 billion vaccinations around the world have occurred in only 10 wealthy countries plus China. The United States has put enough shots in arms for 58% of its population; France is up to 68%. But Pakistan, with 238 million people in an unstable region, has vaccinated only 14%, and Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, only 1%. At the current rate, most of the worlds population wont be vaccinated by the end of 2022, three years after the pandemic began. The virus will continue to spread and mutate, producing new, perhaps more dangerous variants. Biden and his aides know these things. Story continues From the beginning of my presidency, Ive been very clear-eyed that we need to attack this virus globally, not just at home, because its in Americas self-interest, Biden said last month. Were going to be the arsenal of vaccines to beat this pandemic, as we were the arsenal of democracy to win World War II. But his administrations actions havent matched those words. The United States has delivered 130 million vaccine doses to poor countries more than the rest of the world combined has donated, U.S. officials frequently point out and has promised 500 million more. But its only about 5% of worldwide need. Its a drop in the ocean, Lawrence Gostin, a global health expert at Georgetown University, told me last week. "Its the greatest moral failing in global health in a long time. Turning that around offers Biden a huge opportunity. Later this month, Biden will push to expand the global effort when he speaks online at the United Nations General Assembly, officials have indicated. The test, Gostin said, is whether the president is willing to do something big and bold. Intentions arent good enough," he said. The most effective thing Biden could do, he said, would be to pressure manufacturers like Pfizer and Moderna to share their know-how with firms in other countries a step the U.S. companies have resisted because it would weaken their control over the technology that generates their profits. You can donate a vaccination and save a life, but if you share the know-how, you can save a whole region, he said. If Biden doesnt take that bold step and theres no sign that he will a key test will be how high he sets the global goal for vaccine production. An adequate number would be north of 10 billion, Gostin said. Whats in it for the United States? First, there's the chance to protect ourselves against further spread of the virus. Next is the opportunity to show global leadership, said Thomas Wright, coauthor of "Aftershocks," a book on the foreign policy impact of COVID-19. It would be a good way for the president to do something Xi Jinping cant do. Our vaccines are better than China's, and China has too few allies to organize a global coalition. It would also be a good way to put something positive on the agenda for international meetings this fall, instead of recriminations over the fall of Afghanistan. Weve had a global crisis, with no international leadership," Wright told me. "Biden needs to rally the rest of the world." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Several families of capybaras stroll through Nordelta, one of the most exclusive gates communities in Argentina. They slowly cross the main street and feed in the gardens of the mansions. (Photo by STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images) The Nordelta community in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a wealthy gated community built on natural wetlands. The capybaras have invaded the community with environmentalists saying they're simply going back home. They're now at the center of a bitter environmental debate. See more stories on Insider's business page. In Argentina, a wealthy gated community has been taken over by unexpected visitors: the world's largest rodents, capybaras. Located in the capital Buenos Aires, Nordelta's manicured lawns have been occupied by rampaging capybaras munching on the grass, attacking dogs, and pooping where they like, local news outlet La Nacion reports. The rodents measure roughly 39 to 51 inches in length and weighing in at 60 to 174 lbs (27 to 79 kilos), according to National Geographic. Environmental advocates say the influx of dog-sized rodents should not be a shock, as the neighborhood's luxury homes were built next to wetlands. Some of the animals are coming back to find what they once knew. Argentinian environmental lawyer and ecologist Enrique Viale said that we shouldn't see the capybaras - known as "carpinchos" in Argentina - as invading the areas. "It's the other way round: Nordelta invaded the ecosystem of the carpinchos," Viale told The Guardian. "Wealthy real-estate developers with government backing have to destroy nature to sell clients the dream of living in the wild - because the people who buy those homes want nature, but without the mosquitoes, snakes, or carpinchos," he added. "Nordelta is the supersized paradigm of gated communities built on wetlands. The first thing it does is take away the absorbent function of the land, so when there are extreme weather events, the poorer surrounding neighborhoods end up flooded. As always, it is the poor who end up paying the price." This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Many people take the view of Viale, with one person tweeting "My support to the Peronist capybaras of Nordelta recovering their habitat." Story continues Adding to the support, one person replied "The capybara revolution!!" The Parana wetlands cover a large swath of the country, from Northern Argentina to the River Plate and Atlantic ocean, but is being diminished as developers take the land to build on and for cattle and soy farms. In 2020, the vast wetlands were engulfed in flames due to cattle ranching, drought, and soaring temperatures. Read the original article on Business Insider In the late 1970s, Yolanda Lopez began brainstorming ideas for her final project for a master's degree in fine arts from UC San Diego. She settled on a venerated icon: the Virgin of Guadalupe. Fusing her interest in conceptual and feminist art, Lopez embarked on a series of paintings that reimagined the image of Mexico's patron saint with herself, her mother and grandmother as stand-ins for the Empress of the Americas. Lopez stripped her docile demeanor and transformed herself and her family members into living, breathing, everyday yet holy brown women. For her self-portrait, Lopez painted herself exuberantly running in white sneakers while clutching a rattlesnake in one hand and holding the saint's star-patterned mantle in the other. In the second piece, her sunburst-enveloped mother sews the blue cloth back together. The final image shows her grandmother sitting on La Virgen de Guadalupe's mantle, holding a knife and a skinned rattlesnake. Her series was so radical that the panel of university judges didn't understand it and Lopez, the only Latina in her class, had to explain the significance. "I knew it was very dicey," Lopez said in a 2020 interview. "Most of my professors were not Christian. They were totally blind to the fact. I realized I had to tell them this is Christian image, this is the Virgin Mary, this is the mother of Jesus Christ. This is the Mexican version of the Virgin Mary." Although she wasn't the first to reinterpret Guadalupe, Lopez's triptych became immediately iconic in its own right. Her Guadalupe series is one of the earliest feminist reinterpretations of the Virgin of Guadalupe, which became a major focus of Mexican American artists who were influenced by Lopez's work, said Jill Dawsey, curator of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. "Yolanda turns this image into a figure seen as rebellious and with unbridled joy and that's key to her legacy and what she put into the world." Story continues It set a high standard that Lopez topped again and again in multiple platforms, in a career that continued through the cancer that ultimately took her life. She died Friday morning in her longtime apartment in San Francisco's Mission District, according to her son, artist Rio Yanez. Lopez was 79. "She had the razor-sharp wit of a satirist and traded barbs and sits [with] the best of them," Culture Clash co-founder Richard Montoya wrote on Facebook. He was one of a group of artists and friends who said their goodbyes to Lopez in her final weeks. "She wanted artists to embrace our intellectuality and its fevered origins." Lopez was born in 1942 and raised in San Diego's Barrio Logan neighborhood. Days after she graduated from high school, Lopez packed her belongings in a suitcase and moved to the Bay Area with her uncle and his male partner, looking to leave her conservative hometown and join the counterculture. The young Chicana jumped into the Bay Area's activist scene. She joined the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and the Third World Liberation Front, and was part of the five-month strike at San Francisco State College that shut down the school and prompted the creation of the nation's first College of Ethnic Studies and Department of Black Studies. But it was her involvement with a police brutality case that earned Lopez her first plaudits for art. In 1969, she drew a poster titled "Free Los Siete" that featured the faces of seven wrongfully imprisoned Latino men behind the stripes of a U.S. flag made to look like prison bars. It was a constant at rallies for their ultimate freedom. Then there was her 1978 poster titled "Who's the Illegal Alien, Pilgrim?" The black-and-white image depicts a man in an Aztec headdress and armband with a stern face, aggressively pointing a finger like Uncle Sam as he crumbles a bundle of notes titled "Immigration Papers." "I wanted to portray a feminist gift to movement men," Lopez said in a 2020 interview. "An expression, anger, self-righteousness." Lopez lectured, produced videos and created installations throughout her career. But her muse remained the Virgin of Guadalupe. She reimagined Guadalupe as an Indigenous women nursing her child, as the Aztec goddess Coatlicue and as Boticelli's Venus. Mexican critics fumed when her "Walking Lupe" Guadalupe in open-toe heels, calves exposed under a shorter version of her traditional dress graced the cover of the Mexican feminist magazine Fem in the mid-1990s. The magazine's headquarters in Mexico City received bomb threats. Her son, Rio Yanez, recalled how galleries that showed her work were frequently vandalized. Strangers would leave death threats over the phone or confront Lopez at exhibits. "I think of Sarah Connor on 'Terminator 2' of how I pictured my mom," Yanez said. He was the inspiration behind her 1988 piece "Things I Never Told My Son About Being a Mexican," which used the cheery setting of an elementary-school bulletin-board project to discuss assimilation, stereotypes and racism. Lopez's work became a mainstay of exhibitions and permanent collections prints of "Free Los Siete" and "Who's the Illegal Alien, Pilgrim?" are with the Smithsonian American Art Museum. As recently as this year, she released reprints of her artwork on business cards with sayings such as, Once we as women start treating [men] as victims of patriarchy, they will begin to rebel against it, but they will begin to understand it. But no one ever approached Lopez to do a solo museum show until 2019, when Dawsey expressed her interest to host one at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. In their first meeting, Lopez almost immediately asked her guest one question: What year did the Vietnam War end? Dawsey answered correctly. In following meetings, the two had dinner to discuss Dawsey's offer, and Lopez invited Dawsey to her damp basement, where she kept the bulk of her work, some that she hadnt unearthed since the 1970s. Her art from the 1970s and 80s will be featured as Yolanda Lopez: Portrait of the Artist. It is scheduled to open Oct. 16. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. It would be entirely understandable if you overlooked the fact that in 2019, Lynchburgs economy had a relatively good year. Much of the data on which such assessments are based come from the U.S. Census, but the release of 2019 data didnt occur until mid-December 2020. At that time, youll recall, our attentions were focused on political recriminations, COVID-19, and recession. You may be aware that Lynchburgs poverty rate (using 5-year estimates from the U.S. Census) had been stuck above 20 percent ever since the Great Recession (2008-2009), reaching as high as 25 percent in 2014. In 2019, after five years of steady declines it finally dropped below 20 percent (19.5 percent to be exact). Median household income increased to $46,409 in 2019 with Black households for the first time experiencing the bulk of those gains. As a result, Black incomes as a percentage of White incomes increased from only 53.9 percent to 62.6 percent in a single year! When I said that Lynchburg had a relatively good year, it is because there were measures of well-being suggesting that our work at fighting poverty and inequality are not yet over. Consider first, the reduction in income inequality (from 53.9 to 62.6 percent) just mentioned. While this is absolutely an encouraging outcome, lets think about what that really means, as it is easy to get lost in percentages. White median household income was $54,197; for Blacks it was only $33,953. That is greater than a $20,000 difference! That is not inconsequential! Think of the contribution to Lynchburgs economy if Black households had an extra $20,000 per year to spend. One year, that might represent sending a son or daughter to college. The next year, it might represent a new car. In other years, it might mean starting a new business, a home remodeling job, meals out at local restaurants, and so on. A new contender poised to join the race to succeed Japanese leader Yoshihide Suga could become the country's first female prime minister, as former communications minister Sanae Takaichi intends to declare her candidacy for the top post in the ruling party, Nikkei has learned. Takaichi, one of the most prominent female cabinet members in recent years, is an ally of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. She has Abe's support to seek the leadership of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party in the Sept. 29 vote. Takaichi is expected to announce her vision for government as early as this week. She would join a race upended by Suga's decision last week not to run after months of sagging cabinet approval ratings. Taro Kono, Suga's cabinet point man for vaccine distribution and administrative reform, is also set to announce his candidacy as soon as this week. Leading in a Nikkei opinion poll of likely LDP leadership candidates with 16% support, Kono will face declared candidate Fumio Kishida, a former foreign minister. A Kyodo poll also put Kono ahead, followed by former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba -- who has not revealed an intention to run -- and Kishida. Japan's ruling party will choose a new face to lead it into a general election looming after the LDP race. With an LDP majority behind her, Takaichi as the party's leader would be only a confirmation vote away from becoming Japan's first female prime minister. She would be only the second woman to run for the LDP leadership, after current Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike in 2008. Tokyo Lens - Sep 13 Today we are taking a peek inside of Tokyo, Japan's cheapest apartment. At just 9,800 yen per month (or, around $100), this is currently the cheapest apartment available in the central Tokyo area. As the 20-year anniversary of 9/11 approaches, the Gretna Public Library is doing its part to educate the community on the events of that day. September 11, 20021: The Day That Changed the World, a poster exhibition from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, is on display at GPLs main library branch. The educational exhibition recounts the events of Sept. 11, 2001 through the personal stories of those who witnessed and survived the attacks. Told across 14 posters, the exhibit includes archival photgraphs and images of artifacts from the museums permanent collection. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum made the exhibit available to libraries across the country through a partnership with the American Library Association letting them know by email it was available, if interested. To visit the actual museum in New York is not something all of us are able to do, especially right now, said Library Director Krissy Reed. Its nice theyre providing photographs and documents to us to display so that people here in Nebraska can kind of have a taste of what the museum has to offer. The posters will be displayed in the main librarys lobby and meeting room. People can drop by and walk through at their leisure. You are a guest in someones home for the very first time. In getting to know your host, you engage in conversation, appreciate the art displayed on the wall, consider the furniture and the music playing in the background. Yet, perhaps, the best way to discern the interests, passions, background, education and perspectives of your host is to peruse the titles of books that line the shelves and rest upon the coffee table. The library in the Historic General Dodge House stands out as the most authentic and well-preserved room in the house, with every item original to the home. Upon entering the library, you are literally going back in time to around 1880 nearly a century and a half ago. That the room and its literary inventory remain intact is somewhat of a miracle, or at least the result of great foresight. In 1951, the city of Council Bluffs refused to accept the Dodge House and its furnishings as a gift. Consequently, the trustees of the estate were forced to sell the house and auctioned off everything well, almost everything. That was in part the result of attempts to Christianize parts of Europe by purging towns and villages of pagan and nonconformist, nonreligious practices including tattooing. As Catholic churches expanded their influence via missionaries and campaigns of assimilation beginning in A.D. 391, tattoos were frowned upon as un-Christian. Not like us As Western colonizers pushed into places like Africa, the Pacific Islands and North and South America in the 1400s and 1500s, they found entire groups of native peoples who were tattooed. These tattooed individuals were often pointed to as proof that the untamed natives needed the help of good, God-fearing Europeans to become fully human. Tattooed individuals from these cultures were even brought back and paraded through Europe for profit. The Council Bluffs Schools Foundations annual Vendor Fair raised $16,000 to support its programs for schools. The event was held in conjunction with the Council Bluffs School Districts Back to School Celebration on Aug. 20 at the Mid-America Center. Forty-seven vendors participated, making it the foundations largest vendor fair ever, according to a press release from the organization. Vendors included nonprofits and community resources, banks and local businesses. The fair was sponsored by First Student, which the district contracts with for busing. The Back to School Celebration, held annually on the last weekday before the school year begins, is a pep rally for school district employees. Staff members from each school or department cheer as their team is announced. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} This years event featured the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Color Guard, Thomas Jefferson High Schools Monticellos Regiment, Abraham Lincoln High Schools Marching Lynx and a keynote address by Superintendent Vickie Murillo. District personnel also took a quick look back at the 2020-21 school year and honored employees of the year, according to Diane Ostrowski, chief communications officer. The initial draft called for teaching children as young as first grade about gender identity and gender stereotypes and older children about homophobia, transphobia and vaginal, oral and anal sex. Within days of the first draft being released, Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts called for scrapping the sex-education topics, which he said were developed with input from activists and promoted "gender ideology." Fifty-two of Nebraska's 244 school districts adopted resolutions opposing the first draft, with additional districts expressing concerns, according to the office of Sen. Joni Albrecht. This week 27 of Nebraska's 49 state senators urged the board to halt development. Nebraska Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt acknowledged in July that concerns over the health standards had helped "fuel a crisis of confidence in the department and across the education system in Nebraska." He promised then that some of the material critics found objectionable in the first draft would be removed, which was done. Advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer youth had hailed the initial draft as a positive step toward inclusion, but they expressed disappointment when the second draft stripped out most references to gender identity and sexual orientation. If the proposal is adopted into the Iowa Constitution, future state courts may be less likely to strike down abortion restrictions. The latest Republican effort to negate the 2018 high court ruling was introduced this week. Sixty state legislators, all Republicans, signed onto a brief submitted by multiple conservative groups, including The Family Leader in Iowa, which asks the Iowa Supreme Court to overturn its 2018 ruling. Attorneys representing the conservative group are arguing that the 2018 court grossly overstepped its authority and that nothing in the Iowa Constitutions text, structure, history, or tradition suggests that abortion is a fundamental right. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Three justices remain from the 2018 court that ruled on Planned Parenthood v. Kim Reynolds, including the two who dissented: Edward Mansfield and Thomas Waterman. The only justice who remains from the majority in that ruling is Brent Appel. However, that could be one reason the current court may be unlikely to strike down the 2018 ruling, Frank said. She said courts are often hesitant to overturn a previous ruling just because there are new justices on the bench. We are grateful to have the commitment and support of the Womens Fund of Southwest Iowa, said Kandace Miller, president and CEO of AIM. This funding will allow us to expand the reach of our Southwest Iowa Tech Training Initiative to area schools and do a women-focused recruiting campaign. Through the Southwest Iowa Tech Training Initiative, we will help address the need for more tech professionals in the southwest Iowa region. By connecting interested parties to a comprehensive training program that aims to connect, develop and transition local talent to resources, mentors, and opportunities in technology, we will create new tech workers that will help the Southwest Iowa area thrive. Family, Inc. was awarded $10,000 to support their Maternal Health Program, a program that provides nursing education and psychosocial support to pregnant women in Pottawattamie and Mills Counties who are on Medicaid through six weeks postpartum. The Maternal Health Programs explicit goal is to make sure more babies can celebrate their first birthday (prevent infant mortality) and improve birth outcomes, and accomplished through Family centered, community-based services. The City of LeClaire is still working to recover $102,000 from scammers who posed as three vendors the city works with. In total, $222,373 in LeClaire city funds were directed to three fraudulent accounts through cleverly disguised and modified emails that resembled legitimate emails from legitimate vendors, interim City Administrator Ed Choate wrote in an email to the Quad-City Times. The scam occurred over a four month period from November 2020 to February of this year. LeClaire has recovered about $120,618, Choate said, by freezing the accounts. Choate said the city is continuing to work with the FBI, the citys bank, and its insurance carrier to recover and/or reach a settlement for the remaining about $102,000. In two of the three situations, Choate said, the city discovered the cyber attack because the actual vendors contacted the city to alert officials that they hadnt received payment. In the third case, the city clerk discovered the fraud and contacted the vendor. The cyber attack is similar to one that happened in Rock Island County, in which a scammer pretending to be a legitimate contractor asked county officials to wire money, amounting to $115,000, to a new bank account. He said his client acknowledged the violations but said that it was Orwellian for the government to seek to jail a man who was sitting in his garage listening to the news. Jensen was among the first people to enter the Capitol during the Jan. 6 attack, crawling through a broken window. On Thursday, prosecutors cited new video evidence to claim he was also among the last to leave over an hour later, scuffling with officers on his way out. He told investigators he positioned himself as one of the riot leaders because he was wearing a shirt promoting QAnon and he wanted the theory to get the credit. Jensen was widely photographed during the attack. Jensen had a knife in his pocket when he led a crowd of people toward Capitol Police officer Eugene Goodman, who was by himself and had only a baton. The crowd chased Goodman up a flight of stairs toward the Senate chamber as Jensen ignored Goodmans orders to stop and put his hands up. Before his July release, Jensen had spent six months in jail after he was arrested Jan. 8. He faces the prospect of years in prison, and lawyers on both sides said Thursday they were unsure if the case could be resolved in a plea or would go to trial. CETINJE, Montenegro (AP) Arriving in a military helicopter, the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro was inaugurated in the state's old capital on Sunday amid clashes between police and protesters who oppose continued Serb influence in the tiny Balkan nation. Hospital officials in the city of Cetinje said at least 60 people were injured, including 30 police officers, in clashes that saw police launch tear gas against the demonstrators, who hurled rocks and bottles at them and fired gunshots into the air. At least 15 people were arrested. Sundays inauguration ceremony angered opponents of the Serbian church in Montenegro, which declared independence from neighboring Serbia in 2006. Since Montenegro split from Serbia, pro-independence Montenegrins have advocated for a recognized Orthodox Christian church that is separate from the Serbian one. Evading road blockades set up by the demonstrators, the new head of the Serbian church in Montenegro, Metropolitan Joanikije, arrived in Cetinje by a helicopter along with the Serbian Patriarch Porfirije. TV footage showed the priests being led into the Cetinje monastery by heavily armed riot police holding a bulletproof blanket to shield their bodies. Photo: Charles Rex Arbogast/AP/Shutterstock Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot has mandated vaccination for all city employees, and Fraternal Order of Police president John Catanzara is not taking it well. This has literally lit a bomb underneath the membership, he told the Chicago Sun-Times. Were in America, goddamn it. We dont want to be forced to do anything. Period. This aint Nazi fucking Germany. Making vaccination a condition of municipal employment was not in fact one of the tenets of National Socialism. (Nor, for that matter, is it literally a bomb.) What is at least slightly reminiscent of Nazi Germany, however, is detaining people at an off-the-books warehouse and denying them legal counsel, which was both a real practice of Chicago police and one of the first steps taken by the Nazis after Adolf Hitler took power. Catanzara isnt the only cop who has some peculiar ideas about which kinds of government powers are necessary measures to preserve public safety and which are terrifying abuses. Police unions are denouncing vaccine mandates in New York, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, Tucson, and Richmond, among others. We are a union and we will defend our members, national FOP executive director Jim Pasco told Axios. You cannot tell people what to do. Its still an individual and personal choice. In cities that have made their mandates stick, police have warned of mass exodus. Its usually easy for police to scare a mayor by threatening to leave the streets undefended. But in this instance, vaccine mandates present a rare opportunity for a double win. Cities can simultaneously defend an important anti-pandemic measure, and induce at least some of the most dangerous police officers to leave their jobs. The public-health benefits of a vaccine mandate are obvious enough. The subtler, but longer-lasting, effect of the mandate would be to push out police officers who refuse vaccines. While most police officers are trying to protect people and treat the public fairly, a disturbingly large minority are authoritarian bullies with overtly or covertly racist beliefs. The central obstacle to reforming police practices, and restoring trust between Black communities and the people entrusted with their protection, is ridding departments of their worst members. Police unions often make it virtually impossible to remove or even discipline abusive cops. If cops decide to walk away over the vaccine mandate, theyll have accomplished what decades of reform efforts have failed to do: weed out the most dangerous cops. Of course, not every anti-vaxx cop is a racist abuser, nor is every racist abuser anti-vaxx. But the two groups are likely to have a heavy overlap. Opposition to the vaccine is strongest among white Republicans. The news sources that have spread fear about the vaccine are the same ones that generally cater to white paranoia. It stands to reason that the police officers most likely to object strongly enough to a vaccine mandate to leave their jobs are the ones most committed to the paranoid worldview of the far right that has generated most of the intense vaccine resistance. The reality is that police are paid quite well in comparison with other blue-collar jobs. The number of police who actually walk away over a vaccine mandate is likely to be far less than the threatened numbers. But however many police decide to self-purge over vaccine mandates is one less risking becoming that citys next Derek Chauvin. Police threats shouldnt make mayors scared to enforce a vaccine mandate. It should be seen instead as a side benefit. (Bloomberg) -- Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is hiring bankers from rival firms Citigroup Inc. and HSBC Holdings Plc as the U.S. lender seeks to expand its business in the Middle East amid a surge in deals from the region. Jassim AlSane, a senior Citigroup banker, will join Goldman Sachs Dubai office in November as managing director and the co-head of investment banking operations for the Middle East and North Africa. Also, Omar AlZaim is joining the bank as an executive director and the head of investment banking for Saudi Arabia, according to a spokesman for the bank. The hirings come as deal activity picks up in the Middle East, fueled by governments and state-owned firms looking for new ways to raise money and diversify their economies after last years slump in revenue from oil sales. Mergers and acquisitions activity in the Middle East and Africa region has more than doubled this year to about $125 billion, according to data compiled by Bloomberg, boosted by deals like a $12.4 billion stake in Saudi Aramcos oil pipelines. Goldman Sachs is also beginning to win new business in Abu Dhabi after it was sidelined by some of the emirates biggest firms about two years ago following a lawsuit by wealth fund Mubadala Investment Co. to recover losses from its dealings with Malaysias 1MDB fund. Representatives for Citigroup and HSBC declined to comment. Deal Pipeline Goldman Sachs is poised for a lead role in the potential initial public offering of Emirates Global Aluminium in Abu Dhabi, a deal which could value the business at more than $15 billion, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg News on Thursday. Its also working with JPMorgan Chase & Co. to advise Saudi Aramco on the sale of a stake in a subsidiary that controls its natural gas pipelines, people familiar told Bloomberg in July, and was one of the joint bookrunners on Qatar Petroleums $12.5 billion bond sale the same month. Looking to bulk up its presence in the Gulf, Goldman earlier named Fadi Abuali and Zaid Khaldi as co-chief executive officers for the Middle East and North Africa after Wassim Younan, the regional CEO, retired at the end of 2020. Its other recent hires include Nadim Nazha, who joined from Morgan Stanley in July to become executive director at Goldmans investment banking division in Dubai, according to his LinkedIn profile. Story continues Competition for talent is intensifying as state-owned entities embark on large asset disposals and businesses seek out initial public offerings. Moelis & Co., which is devising Saudi Aramcos strategy for selling stakes in some subsidiaries, has hired Joelle Korban from Standard Chartered Plc as an executive director in its Dubai-based investment banking team. Korban spent nearly 15 years at Standard Chartered, mostly in mergers and acquisitions, before joining Moelis in September, according to her LinkedIn profile. Victor Charpy meanwhile left his role as investment banking associate at Moelis to join Abu Dhabi wealth fund Mubadala Investment Co.s France investment program last month. Moelis and StanChart declined to comment. New Faces AlSane will join Goldman Sachs after spending more than 13 years at Citigroup, where he was most recently a managing director in the investment banking division. AlZaim will start in the autumn and will be based in Riyadh in his new role. He will replace Eyas AlDossari, who left the bank earlier this year to join the kingdoms sovereign wealth fund. At Goldman, AlSane will work together with Selma Hassan, who was appointed as the banks head of MENA investment bank in 2019, to help boost the banks business with sovereign wealth funds and large corporates. AlSane began as an analyst at Citigroup in 2008, before rising to become a managing director last year, according to his LinkedIn profile. (Updates with other hires under first subheadline.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Subscribe now to stay ahead with the most trusted business news source. 2021 Bloomberg L.P. We may receive commission from purchases made via links on this page. Pricing and availability are subject to change. Skechers keep your feet dancing (Photo: Amazon) Labor Day celebrates the hard work we do all year, but our poor tired feet should have a holiday of their own; they're the ones supporting us in all our schlepping and toiling, day in and day out. Thankfully, youll be heading into fall with a spring in your step thanks to Amazon's huge Labor Day sale on Skechers' stylish yet comfy line of sneakers, sandals and more, with prices running as low as $30! Thanks to their distinctive look and feel, Skechers has made fans out of shoppers and pros alike! New York City-based podiatrist, Dr. Polina Zaydenberg, DPM, shared with Yahoo Life: They look breathable and supportive. And one nurse gushed, Simple elegant lines and so cushioned and comfortable. The first time I wore them many people complemented me on my shoes and ask me where I got them! And nurses know what they're talking about when it comes to long-haul foot comfort! Of course, if you have Amazon Prime, youll get free shipping. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And even those without Prime get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.) Check out our selects below and youll be walking on air in no time! Sweet color scheme, huh? Our suggested accompaniment? A box of Good & Plenty. (Photo: Amazon) Your year-round, lightweight, snazzy sneakers have arrived! With Skechers high-end memory foam that fits snug around your feet no matter what size or shape there's no awkward breaking-in period or squished pinky toes. Lace this D'Lite-ful number up and you'll be ready to go! Available in 38 color schemes! One reviewer who titled her post I think this makes my 25th pair of Skechers declared, I LOVE SKECHERS...the style and colors are great (I have black & white, blue, pink, turquoise, beige, lots of white) The D'Lites are the best as they provide good support all over. Another home run!" Story continues $48 $70 at Amazon No flip-flopping here: We're foursquare behind these go-anywhere sandals. (Photo: Amazon) Take a stroll on the "Sunny" side of the street with these flip-flops, tailor-made for the beach, the shops, your fave alfresco eatery or wherever your feet take you. They pass both the cute and comfy test and provide arch support, which is key, as podiatrist Jane Anderson, DPM, tells Yahoo Life. The shoe should have the appropriate amount of support for your foot, taking into account whether or not you wear an insert or custom orthotic." These are the best sandals I have ever had!!"said this satisfied customer. "Perfect fit, crazy comfy, and the price sealed the deal!! I will most likely buy another pair in a different color. I LOVE my sandals!! $39 $45 at Amazon These are our clear choice for ballet-inspired slip-ons, barre none. (Photo: Amazon) These Skechers flats will keep you on pointe thanks to their stretchable material that hugs your feet. Slip these on with a pair of jeans when you're running out the door or pair them with a floral maxi dress for a romantic evening. And though they may be flats, these comfy-casual shoes have memory foam that provides much-needed padding for when you're pounding the pavement. They even hold their support after a spin in the washing machine. We went to an outdoor party where there was a lot of dirt, they got super dirty/dusty," revealed this shopper, "so when we got home I threw them in the washer on the delicate cycle and then air-dried them. They came out super clean and fit like a glove! $32 $50 at Amazon Run, don't walk, to snag these. (Photo: Amazon) So popular they have over 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. So versatile you can wear them for walking or working out. The Go-Walk mega-performance sneakers sport an Ultra Go sole that gives you extra cushioning and a breathable mesh top that wards off the dreaded sneaker smell. Easy to slip on and get out the door. But first, get clicking this discount won't last long! These Go Walks also offer stylish support on the job! One reviewer wrote, I had to attend a weeklong work convention and knew I needed comfortable yet work-appropriate stylish shoes. I went to the Skechers store and this was the hands-down winner. I was the only coworker who was not miserably sore at the end of each day. $30 $60 at Amazon That criss-cross strapping conspires with a tougher-than-expected insole to make these anything but dainty. Still....so cute! (Photo: Amazon) Don't let the name fool you...completely. While these Dainty Flat Sandals are winsome in their way, they'll also stand up to a good trek around town thanks to their Goga Mat technology that surpasses the typical foam insole. This means more resiliency for the shoe and more spring in your step. With a heathered (yay!) mesh top that's breathable and sassy. This reviewer emphasized the all-important comfy factor. These Skechers were AMAZING!! So soft and no more pain after a full day of walking in them. So glad I purchased these, will buy another pair as I plan to wear them year round. I also like having a pair of 'indoor only sandals' to wear around the house! True to size! Get 'em! $40 $45 at Amazon Tell that rocky hiking trail, cobblestone street and Stairmaster: They're not the boss of you! (Photo: Amazon) The Skechers Adult D'Lite Interlude elevates your sneaker game and soothes your feet while providing much-needed support. After you lace it up you'll know that this won't be just any old sneaker. The Interlude fits like a dream and looks great doing so, meaning you'll never want to take it off. This pair is described as "unisex," but we'd suggest getting them used to your dogs' shape and scent ASAP you won't want to be sharing them! I saw these and immediately fell in love with them!" said one smitten reviewer. "I love how colorful they are without being too feminine, and as always, they fit just right from the get-go. I also really enjoy the air-cooled memory foam foot-pad, they are extremely comfortable for all-day use and feel really nice on my foot. I just love everything about these shoes; they are stylish, comfortable, fit just right, and are long-lasting. $55 $60 at Amazon Take a walk on the wild side. (Photo: Amazon) We're going to go ahead and write down a previously unwritten fashion rule: You cannot go wrong with leopard print! But the allure of this Sporty Sandal doesn't end there: It will also put pep in your step, thanks to Skechers' 5GEN advanced sole material that cushions your foot, and Goga Mat technology that extends longer than other memory-foam insoles. This wild sandal provides maximum performance at a price that won't last! This happy shopper exclaimed: These fit perfectly, look cute and are very comfortable!! I was a little leery of the textured foot as my feet are sensitive to all other types I have tried, but this one does not hurt my feet and actually adds to the comfort! The velcro strap makes these easy to put on, so there is nothing to complain about with thesejust a good-looking comfy shoe that you will love! $39 $55 at Amazon You know what they say: "If you buy only one pair of shoes this year..." (Photo: Amazon) The black-on-black look of these Play-On D-Lites makes them both rugged and stylish. So you can break a sweat with effortless chic. Good for walking, working out, or just keeping up with the chaos of the day, it's "play on, player" with this sporty number. What we also love: Their leather uppers make them look like you paid waaay more than just 50 bucks. My feet are wide and flat with bunions," revealed this customer who knows all about shoes. "I have little to no arch, so most sport-type shoes hurt my feet because of how high the arches are. And yet? These are so comfortable straight out of the box. I didn't have to lace, loosen or tighten them, and they fit perfectly!! So much so that I honestly almost ordered a second pair just to have hiding in my closet! $50 $65 at Amazon These shoes are made for walking....but if you want to just sit around and chill, fine by us. You'll look great either way. (Photo: Amazon) In pursuit of the perfect walking shoe? Well, look no further. The Skechers Pursuit is radically lightweight, highly responsive, and energizes your every stride. With a soft mesh top and seamless construction, these shoes are built to last. But this discount isn't, so hurry and snag this pair before it's too late! Said his happy shopper (who included photographic accompaniment): I looked at several versions of this shoe before deciding on this one. I chose it for the great price plus the overall look. I wore them out running errands and extensive walking on different terrains throughout the day. These shoes were comfortable right out of the box. And they are cute! Great shoe. I'm giving them five stars! $50 $60 at Amazon What's so funny 'bout peace, love and timeless branding? We give you Bobs from Skechers. (Photo: Amazon) For a ballet flat to get more than 22,000 five-star Amazon reviews means it's something else. The Peace and Love Ballet Flat is made of canvas and comes in this groovy shade of red (and 36 other colors!). You'll love how easy it is to slip on and off, how it looks so chic and cute, and that it has breathable foam and extra comfort. All this at a price that'll make you want to buy them for you and your fab friends. This reviewer liked that Bobs is part of the Skechers family of comfy, stylish shoes. Since these were still Skechers I had high expectations, expectations that have been met from wearing them for a couple of weeks. First off, they look really nice, so I can wear them to work, which is absolutely imperative for me; second, they're comfy enough for me to wear while running errands. I would absolutely recommend these shoes to anyone looking for a comfortable, pretty, flat shoe for daily wear. $30 $42 at Amazon Read more from Yahoo Life: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day. Want daily pop culture news delivered to your inbox? Sign up here for Yahoo Entertainment & Lifestyle's newsletter. Now that employers are becoming more aggressive in requiring employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19, we are also seeing a lot of requests from employees for religious exemptions. Guidance issued by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission says that employers can require employees to be vaccinated without violating federal law, but they must try to accommodate employees who are unvaccinated due to a medical condition that precludes vaccination or a religious objection to the vaccine. Religious exemptions include not only Christianity, Judaism and Islam, but also generally recognized belief systems that are less common in the United States, as well as individualized beliefs that are not part of any generally recognized system. The religious belief must be sincerely held to be entitled to accommodation, and employers are to start out with the assumption that the employees religious belief is sincere. There is no easy way for employers to screen out the bogus requests from the legitimate ones. Here are a few tips that may help. Know your employees, or consult with people who do. Does their history indicate that they really do have sincere religious beliefs, or moral/ethical beliefs that rise to the level of being religious in nature? Washington, PA (15301) Today Thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 73F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms in the evening. Cloudy skies overnight. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. After a dreary stretch that saw oil markets record the worst monthly loss this year, the markets have kicked off trading in September on a brighter note. Both WTI and Brent crude were above $70 per barrel for the first time in weeks after OPEC+ agreed to keep its current production agreement in place, maintaining the 400K bbl/day hike scheduled for October. The group took less than an hour to make its announcement this time around, a stark contrast to the lengthy negotiations at previous talks. Later on Friday, WTI slipped just below this level, but the catalysts are there to bring it back. The markets have taken this to signal that global oil markets are in better shape than earlier feared, with the delta variant of Covid-19 causing widespread lockdowns and fears of another recession. But that's just one of several positive developments that have turned the oil markets decidedly bullish. Here are other bullish catalysts that will impact the oil markets positively over the next few months. #1 Record Revenues Last month, Norwegian energy consultancy Rystad Energy reported that the U.S. shale industry is on course to set a significant milestone in 2021: Record pre-hedge revenues. According to Rystad, U.S. shale producers can expect a record-high hydrocarbon revenue of $195 billion before factoring in hedges in 2021 if WTI futures continue their strong run and average at $60 per barrel this year and natural gas and NGL prices remain steady. The previous record for pre-hedge revenues was $191 billion set in 2019. The estimate includes hydrocarbon sales from all tight oil horizontal wells in the Permian, Bakken, Anadarko, Eagle Ford, and Niobrara. That said, Rystad says corporate cash flows from operations may not reach a record before 2022 due to hedging losses amounting to $10 billion worth of revenue in the current year. The good thing is that hedging losses might not be that high in the coming year because producers are not so keen on using them. Shale companies typically increase production and add to hedges when oil prices rally, in a bid to lock in profits. However, the mad post-pandemic rally has left many wondering whether this can really last and led to many firms backing off from hedging. Indeed, 53 oil producers tracked by Wood Mackenzie have only hedged 32% of expected 2021 production volumes, considerably less than the same time a year ago. Goldman firmly belongs to the bull camp and sees oil staying between $75-80 per barrel over the next 18 months. That level should help companies deleverage and improve their returns. Goldman has recommended Occidental (NYSE:OXY), ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM), Devon (NYSE:DVN), Hess (NYSE:HES), and Schlumberger (NYSE:SLB), among others. Goldman is not the only oil bull on Wall Street. In early June, John Kilduff of Again Capital predicted that Brent would hit $80 a barrel in summer and WTI to trade in the $75 to $80 range, thanks to robust gasoline demand. #2 Demand Recovery in China Crude demand in China has started showing signs of a strong recovery after the country reopened its economy, and Beijing moves closer to finalizing a probe into its independent refiners, thus allowing so-called teapots to resume importing crude. After nearly five months of slower purchases due to a shortage of import quotas, COVID-19 lockdowns that muted fuel consumption and drawdowns from high inventories, demand for spot crude by the world's biggest importer of the commodity is now on a recovery path. Since April, weak consumption in China as well as a sharp drop in China's refining output to 14-month lows have depressed the prices of staple crude grades from West Africa and Brazil to multi-month lows. But analysts are now saying that Chinese crude importers are ramping up purchases and even paying higher premiums to secure supplies from November onwards thanks to lockdown restrictions easing. About a month ago, authorities in Beijing reimposed massive lockdowns by curtailing public transport and taxi services in 144 of the worst-hit areas by the delta variant nationwide, including train service and subway usage in Beijing. The lockdown has clearly worked and Beijing recently claimed that it had brought delta infections down to zero. Meanwhile, traders are growing increasingly optimistic that Beijing will soon wrap up a probe on independent refiners, aka the teapots. Private refiners currently control nearly 30% of China's crude refining volumes, up from ~10% in 2013. Beijing recently announced huge cutbacks in import quotas for the country's private oil refiners. According to Reuters, China's independent refiners were awarded a combined 35.24 million tons in crude oil import quotas in the second batch of quotas this year, a 35% reduction from 53.88 million tons for a similar tranche a year ago. Related: WTI Oil Jumps Above $70 On Bullish U.S. Demand Data The big reduction came as part of a government crackdown on private Chinese refiners known as teapots which have become increasingly dominant over the past five years. This was intended to allow Beijing to more precisely regulate the flow of foreign oil as it doubles down on malpractices such as tax evasion, fuel smuggling, and violations of environmental and emissions rules by independent refiners. But Beijing is now close to finishing the cleanup exercise and could allow more teapots to begin importing crude again. Indeed, the fourth batch of quotas is expected to be issued in September or October, which could revive demand from independent refiners. Something else working in the teapots' favor is that crude stocks by China's national oil companies are very low, and private refiners could help bridge the shortfall. Imports into China's Shandong province, home to most teapots, fell below 3 million barrels in both July and August, compared with ~3.6 million barrels on average in the first half of 2021. #3 Supply Crunch Another Wall Street punter is strongly bullish on oil but for a different reason: Supply crunch. Bank of America commodities strategist Francisco Blanch has forecast oil prices to hit $100 a barrel oil in 2022 as the world begins facing a major supply crunch: "First, there is plenty of pent up mobility demand after an 18 month lockdown. Second, mass transit will lag, boosting private car usage for a prolonged period of time. Third, pre-pandemic studies show more remote work could result in more miles driven, as work-from-home turns into work-from-car. On the supply side, we expect government policy pressure in the U.S. and around the world to curb capex over coming quarters to meet Paris goals. Secondly, investors have become more vocal against energy sector spending for both financial and ESG reasons. Third, judicial pressures are rising to limit carbon dioxide emissions. In short, demand is poised to bounce back and supply may not fully keep up, placing OPEC in control of the oil market in 2022," explained Blanch. Blanch's bullish prediction is so far the boldest by mainstream Wall Street banks, and it makes sense even on a longer time frame. Though less frequently discussed seriously compared to Peak Oil Demand, Peak Oil Supply remains a distinct possibility over the next couple of years. In the past, supply-side "peak oil" theories mostly turned out to be wrong mainly because their proponents invariably underestimated the enormity of yet-to-be-discovered resources. In more recent years, demand-side "peak oil" theory has always managed to overestimate the ability of renewable energy sources and electric vehicles to displace fossil fuels. Then, of course, few could have foretold the explosive growth of U.S. shale that added 13 million barrels per day to global supply from just 1-2 million b/d in the space of just a decade. It's ironic that the shale crisis is likely to be responsible for triggering Peak Oil Supply. In an excellent op/ed, vice chairman of IHS Markit Dan Yergin observes that it's almost inevitable that shale output will go in reverse and decline thanks to drastic cutbacks in investment and only later recover at a slow pace. Shale oil wells decline at an exceptionally fast clip and therefore require constant drilling to replenish lost supply. Indeed, Norway-based energy consultancy Rystad Energy recently warned that Big Oil could see its proven reserves run out in less than 15 years, thanks to produced volumes not being fully replaced with new discoveries. According to Rystad, proven oil and gas reserves by the so-called Big Oil companies, namely ExxonMobil, BP Plc. (NYSE:BP), Shell (NYSE:RDS.A), Chevron (NYSE:CVX), Total (NYSE:TOT), and Eni S.p.A (NYSE:E) are all falling, as produced volumes are not being fully replaced with new discoveries. Source: Oil and Gas Journal Last year alone, massive impairment charges saw Big Oil's proven reserves drop by 13 billion boe, good for ~15% of its stock levels in the ground, last year. Rystad now says that the remaining reserves are set to run out in less than 15 years unless Big Oil makes more commercial discoveries quickly. The main culprit: Rapidly shrinking exploration investments. Global oil and gas companies cut their capex by a staggering 34% in 2020 in response to shrinking demand and investors growing weary of persistently poor returns by the sector. The trend shows no signs of moderating: First quarter discoveries totaled 1.2 billion boe, the lowest in 7 years with successful wildcats only yielding modest-sized finds as per Rystad. ExxonMobil, whose proven reserves shrank by 7 billion boe in 2020, or 30%, from 2019 levels, was the worst hit after major reductions in Canadian oil sands and US shale gas properties. Shell, meanwhile, saw its proven reserves fall by 20% to 9 billion boe last year; Chevron lost 2 billion boe of proven reserves due to impairment charges while BP lost 1 boe. Only Total and Eni have avoided reductions in proven reserves over the past decade. Yet, policy changes by Biden's administration, as well as fever-pitch climate activism, are likely to make it really hard for Big Oil to go back to its trigger-happy drilling days, meaning U.S. shale could really struggle to return to its halcyon days. By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Chevron has recently met with representatives of activist investor hedge fund Engine No. 1 to talk about plans for emissions reductions, as the U.S. supermajor is getting ready for a possible proxy battle similar to the one Exxon led and lostearlier this year, The Wall Street Journal reported on Friday. Engine No. 1, which launched in December 2020, scored a huge victory for activist shareholders at Exxons annual general meeting in May 2021, winning three board seats despite the tiny stake that it holds in the oil supermajor. The Engine No. 1 win signaled an unprecedented shift of shareholder sentiment in the oil and gas industry. The vote, according to observers, signals the continued displeasure of a growing number of shareholders with how Exxon is handling the push for lower-carbon energy and calls to do more to mitigate the impact of its business on the environment. Now Chevron is bracing for a potential fight with activist investors. The talks between company executives and Engine No. 1 representatives were described as cordial, and the activist hedge fund didnt indicate it would launch an Exxon-like proxy battle at Chevron, the Journals sources familiar with the matter said. Nevertheless, Chevron has a contingency plan to respond to an event in which an activist investor would try to sway major shareholders to win board seats. We have contingency plans to respond to many different types of events, including an activist investor, Chevron spokesman Braden Reddall told the Journal. Chevron also plans to announce in the coming weeks more ambitious targets to cut emissions, the Journals sources with knowledge of the plan say. According to one of those sources, the U.S. oil and gas giant, however, will stop short of the net-zero business pledge that has become very popular among European oil majors, including Shell, BP, Eni, Repsol, Equinor, and TotalEnergies. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: In the 20th century, oil became a major geopolitical weapon, most notably during OPECs 1973 oil embargo which caused a cataclysm shift in global power relations. OPEC continues to utilize this weapon to influence policy in the 21st century. Today, however, we are witnessing the development of another energy-related weapon that OPEC does not control: CO2. The power of CO2 was recently displayed by China when it signaled to the U.S. that it would not comply with its climate and decarbonization efforts if the U.S. continued accusing China of genocide. At the same time, China is increasing its reliance on coal, which will impact the global emissions targets set by Net Zero nations and allies. Notably, atmospheric CO2 from emitting countries is not beholden to terrestrial land borders. It is unlikely that China will be the last nation to utilize its CO2 emissions as a geopolitical weapon. Ultimately, it is at the discretion of sovereign states as to whether or not they uphold their oil consumption, CO2 emissions, and decarbonization goals. On the other hand, it is not beyond the realms of possibility that Net Zero nations will enforce climate policies on emitting countries that do not conform to climate objectives. Such CO2 policy enforcement aligns with Von Clausewitzs view of war [being] a mere continuation of policy by other means. Importantly, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd James Austin III, declared that climate change is an existential threat to America and that globally, the climate crisis[makes it] difficult for us to carry out our mission of defending [the U.S.] and our allies." A Blueprint for Weaponization OPEC members Iran, and Venezuela have been targeted with oil sanctions by the U.S., impacting their respective economies (sanctions are at times compared to economic warfare). However, CO2 enforcement (should it arise by sanction) would be much more challenging to control compared to the flow of oil as CO2 is not beholden to waterborne or piped transportation: it spreads unhindered into the atmosphere, disregarding terrestrial sovereignty. It is this fact that makes the achievement of the Paris Agreement, which counts on over 100 nations working together to arrest global warming, so difficult. Just as nuclear weapons are viewed as an existential threat to nations, atmospheric CO2 (as emphasized by U.S. Defense Secretary Austin III) is now gaining a similar status. Regarding nuclear weapons, it is not surprising that Iran has utilized its nuclear potential to sway policy, as reflected with the Obama administration (and subsequent administrations); while North Korea flashed its nuclear capability to impact geopolitics, by launching missiles into the Sea of Japan just this year. It stands to reason that certain nations may expand on the CO2 weapon for geopolitical purposes (as China did earlier this year), as opposed to the nuclear option. Taken a step further, nations with spare capacity to increase CO2 output (on demand) can initiate a CO2 war, which is similar to Saudi Arabia utilizing its spare oil-producing capacity to achieve geopolitical objectives, as highlighted by the 2020 oil war. Here too we see the interconnectedness of oil and the prospective CO2 weapon. An Organization of Emitting Countries Presently, Canada, Japan, the U.S., and the U.K., are not only members of the G7 coalition, but also signatories of the Paris Agreement, which by default forms a Net Zero coalition. It remains to be seen if this Net Zero coalition will be the one to enforce decarbonization policies. However, the potential for a CO2 coalition could lead to the formation of an Organization of Emitting Countries (OEC) to counterbalance a Net Zero coalition. Thus, OPEC may be inclined to band with CO2 emitting nations, being that various OPEC countries rely on oil production to fund their nations. Additionally, the growth and/or development of OPEC and non-OPEC nations GDP is linked (to some extent) to access and consumption of CO2 emitting energy, as noted by Vaclav Smil. Weaponizing CO2 can be actioned to not only impact policy and geopolitics but also to have an organization collectively shield their economies and resources from a Net Zero coalition. Countries that have not reached the same level of development as the G7 coalition may not be as inclined to stop their reliance on CO2 emitting energy (as its linked to economic growth). Case in point: Guyana is experiencing and expanding on its offshore-oil Bonanza, and is not inclined to cut its emissions, as highlighted by Guyana's Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, at the Offshore Technology Conference held in August. The International Monetary Fund projects Guyana to be the 4th largest growing economy in 2021. While its southern neighbor, Suriname, is making pivotal offshore discoveries. Thus, the incentive to decarbonize has a different appeal for different countries depending upon where on the development ladder they find themselves. Moreover, India, much like China, is increasing its reliance on coal. Decarbonization Options It is key to consider the possibility and the logic that Net Zero nations, which take a firm stance on emissions, may apply the approach espoused by Von Clausewitz via the continuation of policy by other means. By applying Net Zero reinforcement by way of actionable policy, developed nations can exercise their decarbonization options, which may not align with those of developing nations. On one hand, developed nations will be able to introduce policies to influence developing nations, but on the other hand, an Organization of Emitting Countries (via OPEC and developing nations, for instance) could utilize CO2 as a weapon to offset said policies. The Energy Transition will involve walking a tightrope in this regard, as nations on both ends of the CO2 spectrum will feel they are in the right. By Fernando C. Hernandez More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: LINCOLN Political observers have noticed a change in Gov. Pete Ricketts, who has ramped up his public criticism of policy changes coming out of Washington in recent months. In his weekly columns, press statements and public appearances, the Republican has taken President Joe Biden to task for the chaotic exit from Afghanistan, trampling on gun rights, canceling the Keystone XL pipeline and rescinding a prohibition on using U.S. foreign aid for abortion. These days, Ricketts isnt just decrying Nebraskas high property taxes and chronic labor shortages, but weighing in on Marxism, foreign trade and the teaching of critical race theory, even declaring July Victims of Communism Remembrance Month. Thats above and beyond crisscrossing the state for multiple rallies he organized to condemn Bidens proposed 30-by-30 conservation goals. The last time a Democrat occupied the White House, the governor was critical, but his darts against President Barack Obama came in trickles, not torrents. It all leads many to ask: Whats Ricketts up to? Why is a blue-ribbon lineup of top GOP presidential prospects former Vice President Mike Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas coming to Ricketts annual steak fry on Sept. 12? Is he running for something, maybe even president? Or just applying for a post in some future Republican administration? Ricketts and some of his key supporters swatted down the presidential talk like so many flies in a feedlot, saying there are just a lot of things to criticize coming out of Washington these days. Ive got a lot more to be critical about with this administration than the last one, Ricketts said last week. When asked whether he is positioning himself for a run at the White House or a Cabinet post by weighing in on more federal issues, the 57-year-old millionaire said what hes been saying for months hes working only on being the best governor I can be for the remaining 16 months of his second term. Thats what Im focused on, he said. His main political consultant for the past 15 years, Jessica Flanagain, said it would be one thing if Ricketts were traipsing across Iowa and New Hampshire shaking hands in coffee shops and flipping pancakes at GOP events. But hes doing something quite different: attending events here and lambasting federal policies that affect Nebraska. Hes not politically calculating. Hes not using one office to get to another, Flanagain said. When he says hes focusing on finishing up the job he was elected to do, thats what hes going to do. Other political observers see a method to Ricketts madness about Bidens policies. They see some calculation in the political hits and see the invitation of three GOP heavy hitters to his steak fry as a clear indication that he is looking toward his political future after he leaves office in January 2023 because of term limits. Most of the steps hes taken have been in that direction, said Democrat Paul Landow, a retired University of Nebraska at Omaha political science instructor. Anything he does, like criticizing Biden, whats the point of doing that unless he sees it as a way to ingratiate himself to national Republicans? He certainly doesnt want his political career to end at the end of his second term as governor. Perre Neilan, a political consultant and lobbyist based in Lincoln, put it this way: The old saying was always that U.S. senators wake up in the morning and see a presidential candidate in the mirror. I would say that applies to governors now, too, perhaps for Pete Ricketts. Several observers interviewed said its a rare politician who doesnt think about their next move or next office. Plus, theres quite a tradition in Nebraska of former governors moving on to federal positions, such as terms in the Senate by former Govs. Bob Kerrey, Ben Nelson and Mike Johanns, who also became U.S. secretary of agriculture. Flanagain works for Kansas City-based Axiom Strategies, which ran Cruzs 2016 presidential campaign, and those kinds of multimillion-dollar campaigns are what pay the bills at such firms. Ricketts served as chairman of the Republican Governors Association in 2019, and was recently picked to co-chair that group in 2022, which gives him a national platform. That shows a level of trust nationally within the party, said Kyle Kondik, managing editor of Sabatos Crystal Ball, which handicaps political races. The Ricketts family has national political cachet, he said. Ricketts, who reported his wealth at $45 million to $50 million when he ran unsuccessfully for Senate in 2006, has the personal money to aid a campaign. His family, which founded TD Ameritrade and now owns the Chicago Cubs, is among the top contributors to conservative causes in the country. And his brother Todd has served as the finance chairman of the Republican National Committee. The personal and family money would be an asset to any candidate, or to a candidacy by Ricketts. But John Hibbing, a political science professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, said the big question would be how Ricketts would differentiate himself from other Republican governors who are also tossing darts at Democratic policies. Theres no doubt, Hibbing said, that Ricketts has become more aggressive in his criticism of Biden, but so have other GOP governors, including neighbors Kristi Noem in South Dakota and Kim Reynolds in Iowa. Several governors are said to be potential presidential candidates, including DeSantis and Greg Abbott of Texas, along with Pence, who is a former governor of Indiana. Its going to be a crowded field with people saying the same thing, Hibbing said. Its paint by the numbers to appeal to the same kinds of people that (former President Donald) Trump appealed to. To be sure, long lists of potential Republican candidates do not name Ricketts. Noem is near the top, with Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska near the middle of those mentioned. And theres no indication that Ricketts is raising money for some kind of campaign. Ricketts could run for Senate again (he lost to Nelson in 2006) or, with his background in investing and focus on economic growth, could be a candidate for secretary of commerce. Brother Todd was nominated by Trump for deputy commerce secretary but withdrew his name, citing the potential appearance of a conflict of interest with his investments and those of his family. Pete Ricketts has said he might have the same entanglements. Jane Kleeb, chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party, said Ricketts criticisms of Biden are part of a national strategy to block everything the commander in chief proposes. It might also be a way, she said, to fire up rural Republicans for Jim Pillen, the University of Nebraska regent who is running to replace Ricketts. Pillen has shared the stage with the current governor at some of his 30-by-30 rallies. But former Gov. Kay Orr said that Ricketts knows the views of Nebraskans and that he is speaking for them when he criticizes heavy-handed policies coming out of Washington. We need good people to stay in government, she said. Ricketts loves politics, several people said, and could remain involved in politics in ways other than serving in office. He co-founded the Platte Institute, a free-market think tank based in Omaha, and he was also involved with the anti-gambling group Gambling With the Good Life. Orr, who turned down offers to run for the Senate, questioned why anyone would aspire to go there. I wouldnt go there if you carried me, she said, adding that she did not know what Ricketts plans might be. Tom Ricketts, the brother who runs the Chicago Cubs, said Pete has reduced the rate of state spending in his 6 years in office and kept Nebraskas unemployment at the lowest rate in the country. He has big potential to utilize his experience and have a national or international impact with it, he said. Whatever he decides to do next, I know his focus will be improving the lives of all Nebraskans. As for the upcoming barbecue with the three potential GOP presidential contenders, views were split on whether it was a way for Pence, DeSantis and Cruz to kiss the ring of a member of an influential Republican family; a chance for Ricketts to pitch himself for a Cabinet job; or a way to share the spotlight, and stay connected, with some of the partys top stars. The steak fry is being held in Nebraska City, just across the Missouri River from Iowa, the site of the first political test in the 2024 presidential race. Ricketts said its none of those things, just a continuation of an annual barbecue that has hosted other GOP biggies, including Abbott and Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Trumps former press secretary. As for future political aspirations, Ricketts said hes not thinking about that now. Im going to worry about that when Im done being governor, he said. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. From military veterans to former Afghan refugees, to churches, mosques, businesses and individuals, Nebraskans are stepping forward to offer help for the people evacuated from Afghanistan who are expected to settle in Omaha and Lincoln. That help will be much needed as soon as hundreds of Afghans begin arriving this fall, and then for many more months as they strive to make new homes and lives in Nebraska. And the new Afghan arrivals may need more community assistance than most refugees because, at least as the situation now stands, they will qualify for fewer of the government benefits designed to help refugees get on their feet. The three refugee resettlement agencies in Nebraska have initially committed to resettling 655 Afghan evacuees in Omaha and Lincoln. They stress that the number is fluid and likely to grow. And many local people who work with refugees expect that more will come through secondary migration from other U.S. cities. Lutheran Family Services of Nebraska has committed to resettling 280 Afghans in Omaha and Lincoln. The Refugee Empowerment Center in Omaha has committed to resettling 250. Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska has committed to 125. Our tomatoes finally turned red. We wondered why this took so long this year. Could it be the higher temperatures in June, including higher overnight lows? Sure enough, the Extension office confirmed that when temperatures exceed 85 degrees, the ripening process slows or even stops. The many above-90 degree days and warming nights we suffered in June prevented our tomatoes from turning red. Changes and extremes in Nebraska weather are nothing new. As Dr. Martha Shulski, Nebraska state climatologist, recently said: Natural variability is always going to influence our climate. Climate change is the steroid. The emulsifier that makes these weather variabilities and these weather extremes worse. A multibillion-dollar spring flood (March 2019), hurricane-level wind storms (July 2021), wildfires in Nebraska, hazardous air quality from both western U.S. and Canadian fires, and flash flooding in downtown during a drought (August 2021) which trapped three people in an elevator filling with water are shocking. But they come as no surprise to scientists who warned for decades we are headed toward climate catastrophe. Why are nurses called heroes in the good times and dispensable in the bad times? Once again, our governor has put forward an executive order this time to address a capacity emergency of his own making! The Sunday, Aug. 29 article Nurses exhausted, frustrated with the unvaccinated illustrated our avoidable pandemic of the unvaccinated and the profound toll on nurses in stark detail. Thank you, OWH, for the long-overdue in-the-trenches reporting. Those nurses and their provider colleagues are, indeed, heroes. Ironically, the governors new executive order does not reference COVID-19 because he declared, on June 30, that the pandemic was over in Nebraska. By not recognizing our recurring public health emergency, he can continue to suppress data from Test Nebraska (or any of the local health departments) and the coronavirus dashboard (both of which he ended) and, instead, base emergency and substandard staffing proposals on conversations with hospital administrators, rather than actual evidence. Laurel Hill Cemetery (Lone Mountain Cemetery) Opened: June 28, 1854 (Dedicated as Lone Mountain Cemetery on May 30, 1854.) Location: Bounded by California Street, Geary Boulevard, Parker and Presidio Avenues. Renamed: Laurel Hill Cemetery in 1867. Closed: Bodies moved in 1939-1940 to Cypress Lawn Cemetery in Colma, California. The young city of San Francisco had previously buried most of its dead at the Yerba Buena Cemetery, where the citys Civic Center is today. The site had been considered outside of town at the time of the cemeterys establishment, but by 1853 the city needed a larger, more remote burial ground. Originally, Lone Mountain Cemetery was intended to be 320 acres and to encompass the western eminence for which it was named. A year later, however, according to The Annals of San Francisco (1855), the cemetery planners found that one hundred and sixty would form a sufficiently large cemetery. Thus, from its beginning, Lone Mountain Cemetery was only in view of its namesake. At the time, Larkin Street represented the western edge of the city of San Francisco, and the Annals noted how difficult it was to traverse the wild land of todays Western Addition: The present mode of access to the cemetery is by a circuitous route, nearly four miles in length, by way of Pacific street and the presidio. When the western extension of Bush street is graded and planked, which is proposed to be done during the summer of 1854, the distance from the plaza [Portsmouth Square] to the magnificent gateway of the cemetery, about to be erected at the termination of that extension, will be about two miles. The first descriptions of Lone Mountain Cemetery feel extravagant considering how reviled the burial site became in the early twentieth century, when Richmond District boosters fought to have it removed to open up commerce, transportation, and real estate development. The Annals again: "There are many beautiful spots within this space. Delightful dells, scooped out among the hills, with the evergreen oaks bordering and fringing their quiet beauty; valleys smiling all over with flowers, of every hue, and knolls covered with shrubs, rejoicing in their crowns of white lilac. The views are as various and sudden as the avenues and their turnings. There are portions full of hidden springs, and, in a word, the spot is capable of being made one of the most delightful in California." The winding lanes and avenues between the rows of burial plots were named after large East Coast cemeteries such as Mount Auburn (Massachusetts), Green-Wood (Brooklyn, NY), Oak Hill (Washington, D.C.), and Laurel Hill (Philadelphia, PA). The addition of the Outside Lands to the city of San Francisco in the 1860s created a battle over the administration of Lone Mountain that went to court and was eventually resolved in 1867 with the formation of a new cemetery association and a name change to Laurel Hill Cemetery. In 1902, San Franciscos Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance to ban further burials in the city. With diminished revenue, Laurel Hill fell into disrepair and was a frequent target for vandals. The Richmond Banner, a neighborhood newspaper, campaigned for almost two decades to have the cemeteries removed. (A typical editorial, from April 4, 1924, reads This district of ours, beyond the land of the dead, wants to be firmly united to the rest of San Francisco.) Despite being the final resting place of many San Francisco pioneers, U.S. senators, and Civil War heroes, Laurel Hill succumbed. From 1939 to 1941, some 35,000 bodies were reinterred, most to Cypress Lawn Cemetery in Colma, California. The Laurel Heights neighborhood stands on the site today. Contribute your own stories about western neighborhoods places. NORMAL Illinois State Universitys new president had two major requirements for any potential new job she was applying to a year ago: It had to be in the Midwest and it had to be a public university. Terri Goss Kinzy and her husband, Scott Kinzy, both grew up in small towns in Ohio. While she spent time as a professor and vice president at Rutgers University in New Jersey, she knew she wanted her future to be back in the Midwest. We are Midwesterners by birth and by choice, she said. The accessibility of public universities is also important to her. They can provide an unparalleled potential step for first-generation college students, Kinzy said. She knows this because she was one herself, on both her fathers side and her mothers side. College can be a practical advantage for any future career, Kinzy said. The experience of college can help you in just about all of them, she said. It was far more than being a public university in the Midwest that brought Kinzy to ISU, however. A large part of the appeal of the position was the strong history of the institution, dating back to 1857. There are plenty of stories to tell at the school, Kinzy said, including the excellence of its programs, which extend well beyond its teaching school. I think whats special about Illinois State and why its done so well is its maintained its focus on students; it has remained committed to quality, not quantity; and I think its chosen strategically to invest in specific areas and make sure those work well, she said. I think just not enough people know the Illinois State story, and thats one of my top priorities. Kinzy holds a Ph.D. of biochemistry from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio. She was still active in research up to taking the presidents job at ISU, with two articles she co-authored coming out so far in 2021. That background helps in her current role as well. Science is based in unbiased observations, she said. As a new president at a university, she is doing a lot of observing, she said, and adjusting hypotheses as needed. Science is also collaborative and international, two other vital skills for her new position. For Kinzy, a strong student research program falls naturally into a strong education. People when they hear 'research,' they think test tubes and they think widgets, but creative scholarship, it includes the arts, the humanities, all of those are happening at Illinois State University and our students are really involved in (them), Kinzy said. Broader history is also of interest to Kinzy. She has joined the board of the McLean County Historical Society. She and her husband are now active in the Central Illinois Sheltie Rescue, along with Boki, their Shetland sheepdog. Along with those groups, Kinzy said she is excited to attend some of the yearly events on campus and around Bloomington-Normal. That includes events at Heartland Community College and Illinois Wesleyan University: Having three colleges in town brings a collaborative energy, Kinzy said, and a wide array of events, including with the fine arts departments. Stepping into the presidential role at this time, Kinzy has a chance to hopefully oversee the beginning of a new college at the university, as the university looks for approval from the Illinois Board of Higher Education to start an engineering school. We want to create a college of engineering that is really built for the future, certainly not the past, maybe not even the present, she said. Kinzy has been at ISU for just over two months now, but the return of students to campus about three weeks ago really brought new energy to the school. It just inspires and reminds you why youre here, she said. At the same time, though, last year required a massive effort from faculty, staff and students, she said, underlining that the pandemic is not over. Vaccination is the best way out, she said, adding that she is taking every opportunity to encourage everyone who can get vaccinated to do so. The economic impacts of the pandemic are also still being felt, and did not affect all demographics equally, she said. Like many workplaces right now, the university is assessing its workforce needs and what a modern workplace looks like, Kinzy said. That includes updating its polices about diversity initiatives and the potential to work from home. COVID led to a nationwide decline in college enrollment that was disproportionately seen in students of color. The Multicultural Center that is opening this fall is a prime example of the diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives Kinzy wants to encourage at the school. It's important to have that sort of space, as well as the programming happening from the offices within the space, Kinzy said. At the same time, there needs to be space for dialogue and new experiences between people who might disagree. We want to be an institution where people can have robust conversations, even if its on difficult topics. That people have safe spaces to gather where they can have those conversations and be in an affinity group, but they can also be with people of differing opinions and have productive dialogue on these topics, Kinzy said. Contact Connor Wood at (309)820-3240. Follow Connor on Twitter: @connorkwood Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Want to see more like this? Get our local education coverage delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Nowadays, new medications are carefully vetted before entering the market, but in the 19th century that was not always the case. Government regulation was minimal, and as a result the market was flooded with a variety of treatments and cure-alls, known as "patent medicines," that were sold over the counter at pharmacies and doctors offices throughout the country. McLean County was no exception, and by the 1850s, Bloomington was home to Dr. C. Wakefield & Company, which manufactured and sold medicines such as their popular Blackberry Balsam nationally. Other medicines were sold or created by local physicians, many of whom operated drugstores as part of their medical practice. Many of these early medications are represented in the collections of the McLean County Museum of History. One artifact is a small glass bottle that once contained Oil of Life, a liquid sold by Hill & Vannatta, a drugstore once located in downtown Bloomington. Also known as the Peoples Drug Store, Hill & Vannatta was named for its owners, physician Dr. William Hill and Sanford K. Vannatta, who had come to Bloomington by the late 1860s, following the U. S. Civil War. Not much is known about their prior relationship, but both were from Butler County, Ohio, and had served in the Union Army during the war. Established by late 1869, Hill & Vannatta was located in the Liberty Block at the corner of Grove and Main streets, close to Hills office. The Lincoln Parking Deck now occupies the site. Besides an assortment of toiletries, cigars, perfumes, baking powders and dyes, Hill & Vannatta advertised and sold patent medicines, including Normans Chalybeate Cough Syrup, and beauty products such as Mrs. Gridleys Queen of Beauty. As a compounding pharmacy, they also created and sold their own preparations, including cherry-flavored expectorant for cough and herbal bitters for digestion. The Oil of Life once contained in the museums bottle was one of these original products and most likely was a type of liniment although its exact use or contents are uncertain. Whatever it was, it was sufficiently in demand to warrant creating a custom labeled glass bottle embossed with the product's name on the front and the store's name on the side. This partnership between Hill and Vannatta was ultimately short-lived, however, and was formally dissolved in November 1871 after only two years or so in business. The drugstores remaining stock was sold to another physician, Dr. R.D. Bradley, who continued to operate the Peoples Drug Store at the same location as well as a doctors office. Though their business partnership was at an end, Hill and Vannatta remained lifelong friends. William Hill became one of Bloomingtons most prominent physicians as well as a local politician. The unabashed Democrat served in the Illinois state legislature in 1881-1882 and as a United States consul in Port Sarnia, Canada, in 1885. Hills medical reputation was such that he was called to serve patients throughout Central Illinois and was sought after as a teacher by many would-be doctors, including many that would go on to serve the residents of McLean County. Vannatta built a career as a liquor merchant, working as an agent for Kentucky distilleries before eventually settling in Chicago. He was often a patient for Hill, and it was Hill he summoned to his bedside in Chicago during his final illness in October 1899, although Hill would reach Vannatta several hours too late. In a strange addendum to their relationship, Hill was called as a witness for an inquest into Vannattas death after suspicions arose that his fatal stomach ulceration was caused by poison. It was ultimately ruled as due to natural causes, however. Hill himself would die a few years later, in 1906. Known for his honesty and outspokenness, Hill was an important fixture in local society and his death was seen by many as the end of an era. Hill (1829-1906) is one of eight feature characters in the 2021 Evergreen Cemetery Walk, to be staged in person on the weekends of September 25-26 and October 2-3 with tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. each day at the cemetery. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the museum or Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, or by visiting the museums website mchistory.org. In-person tickets are $20 for the general public, $18 for museum members, and $5 for students with ID. Tickets also can be purchased for a virtual version of the walk for $25 per general public household and $20 for a museum member household. It will be available for viewing online Nov. 1 through Dec. 31. And new this year, hybrid tickets can be purchased for $30, good for one ticket to attend in-person and for household access to the virtual walk. Pieces From Our Past is a weekly column by the McLean County Museum of History. Chelsea Banks is registrar at the museum. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 BLOOMINGTON Police in Bloomington are continuing to search for 25-year-old Jelani Day, an Illinois State University graduate student who was reported missing Aug. 25. Officer John Fermon with the Bloomington Police Department the lead investigative agency in the case said Sunday they have several detectives helping with the investigation. "For the last few days the detectives have been mostly focusing on combing through digital data to learn more about the circumstances behind his disappearance," Fermon said. "This data includes personal electronics, online records, other digital data trails." The investigators also listened to voicemails, made phone calls, and responded to emails of tips they received, the officer added. The investigation continues after a body was found Saturday morning in the Illinois River in the LaSalle-Peru area, east of the Illinois Route 251 bridge. The LaSalle County Coroner said it could take many days or several weeks to identify the body. BPD asked people in a Sunday press release to refrain from speculation, as the investigation is still active and could take "considerable time." Fermon told The Pantagraph that without positive identification of the deceased, they won't make any preliminary opinions. "We will release information once we get it from the La Salle County Coroner's Office," the officer said. Day's family, which is from Danville, has offered a $25,000 reward for his return, and created a GoFundMe to increase that amount. Over $9,000 had been raised as of Sunday afternoon. On Friday, over 100 people attended an ISU event in support of the search for Day. The student's mother, Carmen Bolden Day, told people at the event that she wanted them to know her son is still alive "and we will find him." She also said she would "quash" any rumors that Jelani Day struggled with depression, adding that he had many people he could talk to. The mother added her son got good grades at Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, he is strong, and she wanted people to pray for his strength. "I need Jelani to survive," Carmen Bolden Day said Friday. "My life will not be nowhere the same if I can't have Jelani here with me to survive. I need you to help me find my son." Bolden pleaded for anyone who knows anything about where her son may be to contact authorities. Day is described as a Black male, 6-foot-2, 180 pounds, with short black hair, brown eyes and some facial hair. Police said his 2019 Chrysler 300 was found Aug. 26 in the woods south of the Illinois Valley YMCA in Peru, some 60 miles north of Bloomington-Normal. He was last seen Aug. 24 at the Beyond/Hello cannabis dispensary on Veterans Parkway in Bloomington. Bloomington police asked that anyone who may have seen Day, or know of his whereabouts, contact Detective Paul Jones at 309-434-2548 or at pjones@cityblm.org. Contact Brendan Denison at (309) 820-3238. Follow Brendan Denison on Twitter: @BrendanDenison Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. PERU Bloomington police are assisting in the investigation after a body was found Saturday in the Illinois River in LaSalle County, authorities said. A press release provided by the LaSalle County Sheriff's Office said several police, fire and rescue agencies conducted an organized search Saturday throughout the LaSalle-Peru area. The search team found an unidentified body at 9:47 a.m. just off the south bank of the Illinois River, east of the Illinois Route 251 bridge, the report said. The LaSalle County's Coroner's office, the LaSalle County Sheriff's Office, the Bloomington Police Department, and Illinois State Police Crime Scene Services were called to the scene. No identifying information on the body was available. Bloomington Police Officer John Fermon said they won't make any preliminary opinions on the matter without positive identification. The report said an investigative autopsy was set for Sunday. It could take many days or several weeks to identify the body, according to the coroner. Responding organizations included the Peru Police Department, Illinois Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police, LaSalle County Emergency Management Agency, the Illinois Search and Rescue Council Members, Spring Valley River Rescue, and the Utica Fire Protection District. Peru Police, Bloomington Police, the LaSalle County Coroner's Office, and the LaSalle County Sheriff's Office are heading the joint investigation. The news comes as authorities have continued to search for information about missing Illinois State University graduate student Jelani Day. The 25-year-old's car was found Aug. 26 in a wooded area in Peru, which is in LaSalle County about 60 miles north of Bloomington. Day was reported missing Aug. 25. Police have said he was last seen the day before at the Beyond/Hello cannabis dispensary in Bloomington. Bloomington police have asked that anyone who might have seen Day, or know of his whereabouts, contact Detective Paul Jones at 309-434-2548 or at pjones@cityblm.org. Contact Brendan Denison at (309) 820-3238. Follow Brendan Denison on Twitter: @BrendanDenison Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. CHICAGO At least 15 people, including a 4-year-old boy, have been wounded in city shootings since around 8 p.m. Friday into early Saturday morning, Chicago police said. Shortly before 9 p.m. Friday, a boy suffered two gunshot wounds to the head after gunfire from outside went through the window of his residence in the 6500 block of South Ellis Avenue in the Woodlawn neighborhood. The young boy was taken in critical condition to Comer Childrens Hospital, police said. The most recent shooting happened about 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the 1900 block of West Ogden Avenue in the Tri-Taylor neighborhood. Police said a 16-year-old boy was seated in a vehicle when he heard shots and felt pain to the left elbow. He got himself to Stroger Hospital where his condition was stabilized. Around 8:30 a.m., a 35-year-old man was standing on the sidewalk in the 3800 block of West Adams Street when a vehicle stopped and someone began waving him toward the car. Soon after, the person began firing shots in his direction, police said. The victim was struck several times throughout the body, and was taken in serious condition to Mount Sinai Hospital. . A 21-year-old man was shot around 2:30 a.m. Saturday on the Far South Side in East Side neighborhood in the 10500 block of South Avenue G. Police said the man was driving when he heard shots and felt pain to the hip. He was driven by a friend to Advocate Trinity Hospital where he was transferred to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn where he was listed in fair condition, police said. Shortly before 12:15 a.m., five people were shot in a drive-by on the West Side in the 1400 block of South Tripp Avenue in the Lawndale neighborhood. The victims were among a large group when someone inside a black 4-door Nissan opened fire. A 22-year-old man was hit in the shoulder, and another man, 27, suffered wounds to the back. Both men were taken to mount Sinai Hospital and listed in good condition. Two woman, ages 25 and 33, got themselves to Mount Sinai with the youngest suffering a graze wound to the hip, and the oldest being shot in a leg. Both were listed in good condition, police said. A fifth victim, a 34-year-old woman was shot twice in the leg, and was taken to Stroger Hospital where she was listed in fair condition, police said. In other attacks overnight: Around 10:15 p.m. Friday, a 24-year-old man was shot in the foot while walk in the 2700 block of South Lawndale Avenue in the Little Village neighborhood. He was taken in good condition to mount Sinai Hospital, police said. Around 10 p.m., a 32-year-old man was shot in the leg while he was outside in the 2600 block of West 22nd Place also in the Little Village neighborhood. He was driven by a friend to Saint Anthony Hospital where he was listed in good condition, police said. Shortly after 8:15 p.m., a 32-year-old man was shot multiple times to the arm while he was a passenger of a vehicle traveling in the first block of East 59th Street in the Washington Park neighborhood. He was driven by a friend to Mercy Hospital and Medical Center, but later transferred to Stroger Hospital where he was listed in good condition, police said. Around 8 p.m., a male victim was shot in the back in the 3800 block of West Van Buren Street in the Fifth City neighborhood. The victim, whose exact age was unknown, got himself to Stroger Hospital where he was listed in good condition, police said. Around the same in the Gresham neighborhood, a male victim was shot in the head in the 1300 block of West 76th Street. He was taken in critical condition to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, police said. Shortly before 7:30 p.m., a male victim was shot in the 4000 block of West Grenshaw Street in the Lawndale neighborhood. The victim suffered a wound to the arm, and was taken in fair condition to Mount Sinai Hospital, police said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 100 years ago Sept. 5, 1921: Four people are dead and another is fighting for her life after their car was hit by a southbound passenger train near Ocoya, north of Chenoa. The victims are believed to be from out of state. The train crew said it appeared the car was trying to beat the train to the crossing. 75 years ago Sept. 5, 1946: The polio outbreak hit a slump in McLean County. The last reported case was on Aug. 28. Polio cases usually slack in mid-September. Dr. John Turner, county health director, says the most cases reported in a week are five. And the average victims age is 7 years. 50 years ago Sept. 5, 1971: The buildings at the now-defunct Winston Churchill College in Pontiac were sold for $240,000. They consisted of a general purposes building and four dorms. A separate house owned by the college brought $15,000, but bids were rejected on another parcel of college land. 25 years ago Sept. 5, 1996: About 40 Pontiac prison inmates trashed their cells and set fires earlier this week. This apparently stems from prisoners concerns about a new telephone system and loss of free mailing privileges. Tactical officers from Pontiac and other prisons quelled the disturbance. Compiled by Jack Keefe; jkeefe@coldwellhomes.com. A team of Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT) officers have arrested one Samuel Asante at the Christiansburg Castle junction area for trading in substances suspected to be narcotics. A news brief from the Police said the suspect, 38 years old, was arrested at about 1045 hours and upon a thorough search, some suspicious items were retrieved from his room. The brief said the items included; seven sacks full of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp and 10 bottles of alcoholic drinks brewed with substance suspected to be Indian hemp. It said the Police Service would continue to adopt strategies to rid communities of criminals, in a bid to prevent crime and ensure law and order. The brief encouraged the public to continue assisting the Police with information on criminal activities Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Dr Herbert Gustav Yankson, Director, Cybercrime Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Ghana Police Service, says cyber fraud makes up 45 percent of all cybercrime cases, making it the topmost. However, in terms of the amount lost to criminals, cyber fraud is the second-highest after crimes such as intrusion and stealing within cyberspace. Dr Yankson made the disclosure on Thursday in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on the role of the Police in combating Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud. He explained that MoMo fraud involved fraudulent acts perpetrated against MoMo users through the use of deceit for unsuspecting victims to part with money. Dr Yankson said some of the schemes used by MoMo fraudsters include: the Raffle Scheme (one receives a call that he or she has won a raffle and to claim the prize, some amount of money would have to be paid); Long Service Award (one receives a call that he or she has been a long-serving customer and is eligible for an award. The fraudsters then request for money as part of requirements for the award). Another scheme is the False SMS (a false SMS is sent to your number claiming that money was mistakenly sent to you and that you should send it back. If an unsuspecting victim fails to crosscheck from his or her account balance, he or she may end up sending their own money to the fraudsters). He also mentioned the Sick Child Scheme (the fraudsters manage to gather intelligence on their target victim, call with the information that his or her child is sick and has been admitted to the hospital. They would then request for some amount of money urgently needed to settle some bills of the victims child otherwise the hospital staff would not attend to the child). Others are; Police Arrest Scheme, Romance Scheme (mostly carried out on social media), Transaction Reversal Scheme, Spiritual Schemes (someone calls claiming that he has been asked to kill you through spiritual means but then he wants to spare your life so send him some money as compensation) and Fraudulent SIM Swap Scheme (the fraudsters are able to convince the Tele-Communications Company (TelCos) to change someones SIM and re-register it under their details so that they can have control and use it). Dr Yankson advised the citizenry to probe information from strangers and not fall gullible to their schemes. He asked them not to allow greed to take the better of them to embrace deals that were too good to be true and be wary of calls, messages or internet links that carried a sense of urgency, pressure or dire consequences. The Director also advised the public to be abreast with the official call centre numbers of service providers, desist from sharing their MoMo codes with others and ensure that their phones were secured. Dr Yankson said in case anyone fell victim to MoMo fraudsters, the person should immediately report it to the Service provider to block movement of money from the number and lodge a formal complaint with the Police for investigations. He said because cybercrime was a new phenomenon in the country, Police officers were being trained to understand the subject better and know what details to request, especially from the TelCos to aid in investigations. The Director said the Cybercrime Unit was also working on improving the technical capabilities and expertise of its staff to tackle cybercrime head-on. He said the inability to easily and quickly get access to data from the TelCos impeded their work and slowed down the rate at, which investigations progressed. Over the years, one of the things we have tried to do is work with them but in all, the Court orders are still necessary because, without that, you cant get access to the data you have requested, he said. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commissioned the 2.1 million dollar rubber processing plant at Wassa Dompim, in the Wassa East District of the Western Region. The Narubiz Rubber Factory is a 100% Ghanaian owned company with current capacity to process 20 tonnes of rubber daily for export to Turkey, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. The factory is expected to export a total volume of 6,240 tonnes of processed rubber annually, amounting to USD9.6 million of forex into the economy. The project is owned by three shareholders, each of them having a rubber plantation of 200 acres and more. The factory, whose construction began on February 10, 2020, currently offers direct and indirect employment to over 1,340 employees, including out-growers, latex harvesters, farm maintenance workers and transporters. The company is sourcing its raw materials from Western, Western North and Central Regions and this is going to boost rubber production in these catchment areas. The Ghana Commercial Bank provided a USD1.38 million loan facility to the company out of the USD2.1 million used to put up the plant, under the One District-One Factory Initiative, being implemented by the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Commissioning the factory at the commencement of his two-day tour of the Western Region, President Akufo-Addo noted that the siting of the factory in the Western Region would encourage more Ghanaians to engage in the cultivation of natural rubber in the catchment area, as well as other neighbouring regions to feed the state-of-the-art factory. With Ghanas emerging automobile industry, he expressed confidence that the factory would play a critical role in the development of component parts for the auto industry. These include vehicle tyres, car seats and fan belts, which could be produced from the raw materials currently being manufactured from Narubiz Rubber Factory. President Akufo-Addo commended the business promoters and traditional authorities of the area for their unflinching support for the project. He also commended the GCB Bank for providing the loan facility for the establishment of the factory. He said the factory had been granted import duty exemptions on plant, equipment, and machinery from the Government, which among other incentives, had been designed to boost the competitiveness of the companies operating under the One District-One Factory programme. Government through the Ministry of Trade & Industry has supported Narubiz with Interest subsidies, exemption on machinery and equipment, as well as a transformer for the smooth operations of the company. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video The Ghana National School Feeding Caterers Association (GNSFCA) has appealed to the Government to increase the feeding fees of school children by 50 percent, from GHC1.00 to GHC1.50 pesewas. Mrs Caroline Aboagye, Public Relations Officers of GNSFCA, who made the call at a press conference in Accra, said, it would go a long way to help the caterers prepare sumptuous and more nutritious meals for the pupils. The PRO said, the Association was concerned about the welfare of their members, hence, the need for the Government to make prompt payment of the second term feeding fee. She urged the caterers to collaborate with the desk officers of the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) and the Zonal Coordinators at the various zones to ensure that their data were submitted on time to ensure smooth processing. Mrs Aboagye commended President Nana Akufo-Addo and Madam Adwoa Safo, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, for their timely intervention in settling the first term arrears of the caterers of the Ghana School Feeding Programme which had brought relief to them. We, the entire executives and members of the Association are amazed by the timely intervention by Mr. President and the Minister in ensuring that the Finance Ministry releases money for the payment of caterers despite the current economic shakeup as a result of the COVID-19, she said. They applauded the efforts and contributions of Dr Afisah Zakariah, Chief Director MoGCSP and Dr Mrs Gertrude Quarshigah, National Coordinator and the National Secretariat of the GSFP which had been essential in the smooth running of the current payment despite the few challenges. She said the challenges included the mismatch of Ezwich card numbers, faulty and expired Ezwich cards, and non-payment of the Western and Western North Regions, which they were hopeful that it would be resolved soon. Mrs Aboagye said, their Association was the only Caterers Association registered at the Registrar General's Department and recognized by the Ministry and the National Secretariat of GNSFP. She cautioned members across the country to be weary of people carrying themselves as an association and extorting monies from them. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Research Scientists at the Radiation Protection Institutes (RPI) of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) have dismissed fears about the health risks of Microwave Ovens. They explained that radiations emitted by microwave ovens are not harmful because they are non-ionising and could not change the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in man when exposed to this radiation. "The type of radiation that can be dangerous when exposed and can change human's DNA and damage the body is the ionizing radiation. It can cause cancer in men as well as defects in pregnant women," they noted. The Research Scientists made this known during an interview at the Health Physics Center (HPC) of the RPI at the GAEC in Accra. The Manager of the HPC, Dr. John Owusu Banahene, shed light on the workings of microwave ovens and noted that they work on the principle of conversion of electromagnetic energy into thermal energy. He added that these microwaves are produced inside the oven which causes water molecules in the food to vibrate, producing heat that warms the food. "The microwave energy is changed to heat energy and then absorbed by food, and does not make food radioactive or contaminated," he emphasized. Dr Banahene further stated that the microwave oven does not pose any danger even when foods being microwaved are left uncovered. He, however, noted that microwave oven only poses a health risk if a person is exposed to a faulty oven that leaks some of these non-ionising radiations. "In the event of such leakages, persons who stay too close to faulty ovens and the human eyes exposed to this radiation while it operates are likely to develop glaucoma and other health complications after a while," he noted. In his contribution, Dr Philip Deatanyah, a Research Scientist with the HPC at the RPI admonished users of microwave ovens to keep some distance from it when it is in use. That, he said, reduces the chances of radiation from the microwave oven having an effect on the human body especially the lens of the eye. Dr Deatanyah cautioned users of microwave ovens against putting metal utensils such as spoons, forks, and certain grades of plastic materials into microwave ovens, since those objects may overheat and cause severe damage and injury. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) officers from the Wli Afegame Border Post, on Friday, September 3, intercepted 104 compressed parcels of leaves suspected to be Indian hemp. The parcels, which were intercepted at Gbi-Godenu in the Hohoe Municipality were being transported on a "SANYA" branded black motorbike which had no number plate. Deputy Superintendent Odoi Jeffery Nii Laryea, Commander of the Border Post, who spoke to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) said the suspect upon identifying the officers, abandoned the goods and fled into the nearby bush. He said the officers were on an assignment when they spotted the rider of the motorbike. The parcels have "G3" and "G5" inscriptions on them whilst the sack in which they were packed had "O K" written on it. Same officers in July 2021, intercepted 607 parcels of suspected Indian hemp heading to Togo at Wli Todzi which also had inscriptions. The Commander said looking at the packaging of the earlier parcels and the current one, it was believed to be coming from the Gbi-Godenu area but meant for different recipients. He advised the public to desist from carrying or dealing in narcotics and illegal substances. A Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) sticker found on the motorbike revealed the registration number as M-20-VR 4076. The motorbike and the parcels were handed over to the Narcotic Control Commission for further investigations. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Ghana on Saturday took delivery of 1,229,620 doses of Moderna COVID -19 Vaccines from the United States (US) Government. The donation was through the COVAX Facility and the largest shipment of COVID-19 vaccines received in Ghana. The 1.2 million doses of Moderna will increase the range of COVID-19 vaccines available to Ghana and boost efforts at protecting more people from Coronavirus. Alhaji Asei Mahama Seini, a Deputy Minister for Health, who received the vaccines said the US support to Ghana was highly appreciated and that the Government of Ghana would ensure that they were used in the fight against the pandemic. He said an additional 1.3 million Pfizer vaccines were expected in the country by the end of September and thanked the development partners for the support to ensure that herd immunity was achieved in the country. Madam Stephanie Sullivan, US Ambassador to Ghana, urged the media to keep educating the public on the availability of vaccines in the country and the benefits of vaccination. She said the vaccines along with other proven COVID-19 prevention protocols would help control the pandemic and slow the development of new variants. Madam Sullivan said the US Government was committed to leading the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerating global vaccine distribution as the world's largest single donor to COVAX. She said the US had already delivered over 1. 25 million vaccine doses to more than 80 countries, including; 26 million doses to Sub Sahara Africa. "Since the beginning of the pandemic, the USA has contributed over 30 million dollars to Ghana's COVID-19 response, building on decades of partnership in the health sector between the two countries," Madam Sullivan said. She said the US support to Ghana was aimed at addressing the immediate and long-term effects of the pandemic on the health, agriculture and education sectors and support hard-hit private sector businesses. The US Ambassador to Ghana said the US would continue to do all it could to build a world that was safer and secured against the threats of infectious diseases. Madam Anne-Claire Dufay, United Nations International Childrens Emergency Funds (UNICEFs) representative to Ghana, commended the Government of Ghana for its efforts in containing and preventing the spread of Coronavirus in Ghana. She said the arrival of the vaccines would ensure that more people in Ghana were protected to limit infection spread. I would like to call on all Ghanaians to get immunized because this is the only way you can protect yourself and your loved ones," she said. The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is the second vaccine to be granted Emergency Use Authorisation in the United States. Currently, it is authorized for adults aged 18 and over. The Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) recommended the use of the Moderna vaccine at a schedule of two doses (100 g, 0.5 ml each) 28 days apart, if necessary, the interval between the doses may be extended to 42 days. The Moderna vaccine has been shown to have an efficacy of approximately 94.1 percent in protecting against COVID-19, starting 14 days after the first dose. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Mali's anti-terror police have been widely condemned after armed officers marched on a prison to demand the release of their commander - who was then set free. The exact circumstances of how Oumar Samake was released are not clear. Some reports say prison guards stepped aside, while others say the government ordered his release to avoid unrest. Commander Samake was accused of murder over the deaths of at least 14 anti-government protesters in July 2020. Mali's interim government condemned the action by "uniformed and armed men" from the Special Anti-Terrorist Forces (Forsat) in a TV statement, AFP news agency reports. The Malian Association of Human Rights (AMDH) said it was "deeply shocked" and called it a serious attack on the rule of law. Source: BBC 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. Featured Video Heavy gunfire has been heard in the centre of Guinea's capital, Conakry, while soldiers have been seen on the streets near the presidential palace. It is not clear what is behind the shooting, and authorities in the West African country have not commented. The district of Kaloum is reported to be deserted as terrified residents heed soldiers' orders to stay at home. A senior government official told Reuters that President Alpha Conde was unharmed but gave no further details. The only bridge connecting the mainland to the Kaloum peninsular, which houses most ministries and the presidential palace, had been sealed off and many soldiers, some heavily armed, were posted around the palace, a military source told Reuters. There are unconfirmed reports that three soldiers have been killed. Videos shared on social media show convoys of armoured vehicles and trucks carrying soldiers patrolling the streets, although these have not been verified. President Conde was re-elected for a third term in office amid violent protests last year. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Five suspected armed robbers died during a shoot-out with residents of Denkyira Akwaboso in the Upper Denkyira West of the Central Region. The bodies have been conveyed to Sefwi -Bibiani Hospital morgue for identification, preservation and autopsy, while two others a male and female managed to escape. Confirming the incident to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Cape Coast, Inspector Evans Ettie, the Regional Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, said on Friday, September 03, at about 0615 hours, the Diaso District Police Command had information from the Denkyira Akwaboso on the incident. He said information revealed that a group of armed robbers attempted to rob residents of the town, which led to a shoot-out between the robbers and residents leading to their death. Inspector Ettie, said the Police team proceeded to the scene and found five young men lying dead and the bodies together with the scene were photographed and inspected. The police team saw various degrees of gunshot wounds on their body. The Deputy Police PRO, stated that the team retrieved two locally manufactured guns and 14 cartridges on them. The residents identified one of the robbers as Attah, a hardened armed robber within the community who is on the police wanted list. Inspector Ettie, said the case was under investigation. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Mr Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Minister of Information, Sunday refuted claims that government has inflated the cost of district hospitals under the Agenda 111 project. At a media briefing in Accra, Mr Nkrumah said the cost of 17 million dollars per a district hospital under the Agenda 111 constituted 50 percent of same constructed by the erstwhile National Democratic Congress (NDC) Administration between 2013 and 2016. He said the then NDC-led government constructed each district hospital at a cost of between 25 and 35 million dollars, compared to 17 million dollars by the New Patriotic Party-led government. Mr Nkrumah encouraged healthy conversations on the Agenda 111 project and condemned the deliberate whipping up of partisan political sentiments to discredit the programme. The Minister explained that all the 88 hospital projects awarded to 217 contractors under the programme were legally done in compliance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act. He noted that the 100 million dollars (equivalent to GHC600 million) Commencement Funding had been made available to begin the construction and refuted claims that the amount had already been spent. President Akufo-Addo announced in April, this year, that the Government would build 88 hospitals in districts without hospitals. The number was later increased to 111 to include six regional hospitals in newly created regions, a new regional hospital in the Western Region, renovation of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, and two specialized hospitals in the middle and northern belts of Ghana following the COVID-19 pandemic. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video In recent years niqabs had largely vanished from the streets of Kabul, but were seen more frequently in smaller cities and towns (AFP/SAJJAD HUSSAIN) Women attending private Afghan universities must wear an abaya robe and niqab covering most of the face, the Taliban have ordered, and classes must be segregated by sex -- or at least divided by a curtain. In a lengthy document issued by the Taliban's education authority, they also ordered that female students should only be taught by other women, but if that was not possible then "old men" of good character could fill in. The decree applies to private colleges and universities, which have mushroomed since the Taliban's first rule ended in 2001. During that period, girls and women were mostly excluded from education because of rules regarding same-sex classrooms and the insistence they had to be accompanied by a male relative whenever they left the house. There was no order for women to wear the all-enveloping burqa in the new regulations issued late Saturday, but the niqab effectively covers most of the face anyway, leaving just the eyes exposed. In recent years burqas and niqabs have largely vanished from the streets of Kabul, but are seen more frequently in smaller cities and towns. The decree comes as private universities prepare to open on Monday. "Universities are required to recruit female teachers for female students based on their facilities," the decree said, adding that men and women should use separate entrances and exits. If it is not possible to hire women teachers, then colleges "should try to hire old men teachers who have a good record of behaviour". While women now have to study separately, they must also end their lesson five minutes earlier than men to stop them from mingling outside. They must then stay in waiting rooms until their male counterparts have left the building, according to the decree issued by the Taliban higher education ministry. "Practically, it is a difficult plan -- we don't have enough female instructors or classes to segregate the girls," said a university professor, who asked not to be named. Story continues "But the fact that they are allowing girls to go to schools and universities is a big positive step," he told AFP. Afghanistan's new rulers have pledged to be more accommodating than during their first stint in power, which also came after years of conflict -- first the Soviet invasion of 1979, and then a bloody civil war. They have promised a more "inclusive" government that represents Afghanistan's complex ethnic makeup -- though women are unlikely to be included at the top levels. Over the past 20 years, since the Taliban were last in power, university admission rates have risen dramatically, particularly among women. Before the Taliban returned in a lightning military campaign, entering the capital Kabul last month, women studied alongside men and attended seminars with male professors. But a spate of deadly attacks on education centres in recent years sparked panic. The Taliban denied being behind the attacks, some of which were claimed by the local chapter of the Islamic State group. emh/pjm/fox/axn In this Feb. 1, 2018 file photo, trail crew workers hike the Pacific Crest Trail as it winds through the burn area of the Eagle Creek fire in the Columbia River Gorge near Portland, Ore. Credit: Jamie Hale/The Oregonian via AP, file Andy Farquhar's plans for an outdoor adventure have gone up in smoke twice this summer. The retired attorney and teacher from the Philadelphia area had planned to hike with a friend for several weeks on the Pacific Crest Trail north of Lake Tahoe until the second-largest fire in California history stampeded across the Sierra Nevada, closing a 160-mile (257-kilometer) stretch of the trail and blanketing the region in thick smoke. "I saw a satellite view of where we were going, and all it was was fire," he said. The two scrambled and chose a seemingly fireproof backup plan: canoeing a massive network of lakes and bogs on the Minnesota-Canada border. That plan went poof when lightning-sparked fires forced the closure of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. "We're batting zero now," Farquhar said. Untold numbers of camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, rafting and biking adventures have been scrapped as U.S. wildfires have scorched nearly 7,900 square miles (20,460 square kilometers) this year in forests, chaparral and grasslands ravaged by drought. The vast majority are on public lands in the West that also serve as summer playgrounds. In this Aug. 30, 2021 file photo vehicles idle in bumper-to-bumper traffic in South Lake Tahoe, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. Credit: AP Photo/Sam Metz, file More than 24,000 camping reservations out of 3.2 million so far this year have been canceled due to wildfires, according to data kept by Recreation.gov, which books campsites on most federal lands. That does not account for no-shows or people who left early. All national forests are closed in California to prioritize fighting blazes, including the Caldor Fire near Lake Tahoe, a year-round outdoor paradise that attracts skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, boaters and paddleboarders. Lassen Volcanic National Park also is closed because of the Dixie Fire, the blaze that forced Farquhar to cancel his plan to hike from the Lake Tahoe area to the Oregon border. In June, fires closed several national forests in Arizona, derailing plans Kristin Clark made with family to camp by Lynx Lake in Prescott National Forest for her mother's 70th birthday. She reserved the campsite in February. As the vacation neared, she watched as wildfires grew, bringing new closures. She knew her trip was over before it began. In this July 25, 2018 file photo, Hannah Whyatt poses for a friend's photo as smoke from the Ferguson Fire fills Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. Credit: AP Photo/Noah Berger, File "That is the reality in Arizona. More and more frequently, we get wildfires," Clark said. "I was bummed. My husband was bummed. We were really looking forward to a week in nature to kind of disconnect." Intense wildfires have coincided with a sharp uptick in people trying to find serenity in the wild after being cooped up during the coronavirus pandemic. Competition for online campground and backpacking permit reservations is stiff, and they can fill up six months in advance, leaving less flexibility for spontaneous trips or easy rescheduling. One of the toughest tickets to score in California is a pass to summit Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Hundreds who managed to win a permit and trained for the arduous hike were foiled in June when a fire broke out near the main trailhead in the Inyo National Forest. The trail was closed 10 days, preventing up to 1,850 people from hiking, said Debra Schweizer, a forest spokeswoman. In addition to forest and park closures that have required people to cancel or change plans, plenty of other trips have been altered by approaching fires and the omnipresent pall of smoke that has created a respiratory hazard for millions nationwide. In this June 11, 2019, file photo, canyon walls are shrouded with smoke from a prescribed burn in Kings Canyon National Park, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. Credit: AP Photo/Brian Melley, File Kerry Ellis of Boise, Idaho, and her family didn't do anything last summer because of COVID-19. So they were excited for a July rafting trip on the Salmon River with friends. After a daylong drive, they arrived to find the area blanketed in smoke that made it uncomfortable for Ellis, who has asthma, to breathe. The outfitter described scenarios of the fire jumping the river, embers flying and smoke making it impossible for guides to see. "They pointed out that once you push off, you're committed for the entire six days," Ellis said. "You have no cell service. It's Idaho backcountry. With that level of wildfire and smoke, the chances of evacuation would be difficult." The outfitter canceled the trip. It was disappointing, but Ellis said it was the right decision. Wildfire smoke has increasingly become a fixture on the Western landscape, ranging from a strong campfire odor in its most mild form to a serious health hazard that causes coughing fits and headaches. Satellite images show plumes from fires pouring into the sky and spreading widely, even reaching the East Coast. In this Sept. 1, 2021 file photo boats float in the water away from a dock as smoke from the Caldor Fire fills the air in South Lake Tahoe, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong,File For many, though, smoke appears to be an irritating but tolerable inconvenience when pricey or hard-to-get plans have been made. Even as smoke shrouded the Tahoe basin last weekbefore evacuations were ordered at the south end of the lakepeople in masks walked the beach or pedaled bikes along the shore. A study of 10 years of campground bookings on federal land found relatively few cancellations or departures when smoke was present. The study by Resources for the Future, an independent nonprofit research institution, suggested campers were less likely to pull out of popular destinations like Glacier National Park in Montana or Yosemite National Park in California. "Limited visitation seasons at northern parks like Glacier, as well as competitive reservations at popular parks like Yosemite, could lead campers to brave the smoky conditions rather than forego a trip altogether," the authors said. Those patterns could change, particularly after the past two years of severe, pervasive fires that were not accounted for in the study, said Margaret Walls, a senior fellow with Resources for the Future who co-authored the study. She thinks the potential for smoke could factor into future plans. In this Sunday, Aug. 12, 2018 file photo provided by the National Park Service, an interpretive ranger talks to visitors about the Howe Ridge Fire from outside Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park, Mont. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. Credit: National Park Service via AP,File "In the past, maybe you just went. You didn't think about the smoke," Walls said. "You used to be able to say, it'll be all right around the Grand Canyon. Not anymore." When the Boundary Waters in Minnesota's Superior National Forest was closed last month, Farquhar was one of hundreds of paddlers who lost out. The outfitters who rent canoes, sell supplies and help them plan their trips also were hit hard. Typically, the parking lot of Sawbill Canoe Outfitters is full of cars in August and all its roughly 200 canoes are in the wilderness, said Clare Shirley, the third-generation owner. Despite a blue sky and no smell of smoke recently, the boats were all on their racks late last month and the parking lot was nearly empty. "It's very, very quiet around here, which is eerie," said Shirley, who estimated she was losing tens of thousands of dollars. "We're definitely missing out on a big chunk of our peak season." Farquhar has pivoted once again. He and his friend were fixing up a canoe last week for a trip to the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Maine. The state's forest service designated that area with its lowest rating for fire danger. Explore further Pristine Lake Tahoe shrouded in smoke from threatening fire 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. CHESTER A Saranac Lake man who drove the wrong way on the Northway and crashed into a car, killing two people Friday night, was drunk at the time of the accident, according to police. Dennis M. Ford, 65, was driving his 2017 Mini Countryman north in the southbound lane at about 10:30 p.m. in Chester when he crashed head-on with a 2004 Volvo XC70 traveling south. The driver of the Volvo, identified by police as 31-year-old Lauren Huff, of Boston, was taken by helicopter to the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington in critical condition. An update on her condition was not available on Monday. The two passengers in the Volvo were pronounced dead at the scene. They were identified by police as Matthew G. Huff, 27, of Westfield, New Jersey, who was the front-seat passenger, and Kerry OReilly, 31, of Dorchester, Massachusetts, the rear-seat passenger. Ford was airlifted to Albany Medical Center and was in fair condition on Saturday. Charges are pending against Ford. The state police public information website lists charges of felony aggravated vehicular homicide and misdemeanors of DWI and reckless driving. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Interviewed after the meeting, Evan Sanchez, the other principal in Authentic City Partners, said the plan is to demolish the building by the end of the year and start construction as early as possible in 2022. The total project could cost close to $5 million, he said. The CRDA functions as the land use board for Atlantic City within the tourism district. Sanchez, who was not at the meeting, said he hopes the proposal will be approved by the full CRDA board in October. Sanchez said the new property would not be completed for next summer and was reluctant to give a timeline for when it might be, citing the uncertainties of construction projects. Architect Bill McLees of Somers Point said he designed the building to combine a modern look and contemporary materials with elements of classic Atlantic City architecture. The project would be taller than the existing building. Its part of the area known as the Orange Loop, a collection of restaurants, bars, music and other attractions on St. James, Tennessee and New York avenues named for the color of those blocks on the classic Monopoly board. Those opposed to the death penalty should oppose releasing Sirhan, a move that would give death penalty supporters reason to claim that execution is the only way to remove from society the very worst offenders. And those favoring the death penalty surely should oppose releasing Sirhan. Under California law, Sirhan has not met the factors that would entitle him to release. For those sentenced to life, parole can be granted only upon a finding of suitability for release. The law leaves to the judgment of the panel how to weigh factors such as the crime itself, the convicts motivation and signs of remorse. When asked if he would kill again at his parole hearing on last week, Sirhan remarked, I would never put myself in jeopardy again. Even in asking the state for mercy, Sirhan thinks only of himself, and not at all of his victims. Bobby Kennedys nine surviving children have expressed divergent views on this issue. But as much as I sympathize with the pain felt by the majority of the Kennedy children, who oppose Sirhans release, no member of the senators family has a special claim to be heard here. The promise of our judicial system is to impart equal justice based on our collective moral judgments as embodied in law, not on the grief and anger of victims families. In this case, the question we need to answer is, what does an assassin deserve in matters of justice? Sirhan victimized not only the Kennedy family but also the American family. We the people were his victims. And it is we the people who should be outraged by the parole board panels decision to recommend his release. The full parole board should reverse that decision. If it doesnt, Gov. Gavin Newsom must. Laurence H. Tribe is an American legal scholar who is a university professor emeritus at Harvard University. Still, it seems to us that on this Labor Day weekend, as we recognize the American worker, it is past time for members of Congress, working with the states, to dedicate themselves to the task. The nations unemployment system during this pandemic has been a lifeline. And we certainly hope we never see an occasion that it will be as taxed as it has been the past year and a half. Still, this emergency has demonstrated the systems weakness. Congress stepped in and providing the funding needed to keep workers afloat during the pandemic. Now, it needs to lead the way in reforming the system so its retooled for the future. Is America safer after its 20-year war on terrorism in Afghanistan has resulted in the Talibans victory? The answer, like the war itself, is muddled. The lack of resolution should cause considerable discomfort to Americans who lived through the trauma of 9/11 and cheered the U.S. militarys quick routing of al-Qaida and its Taliban hosts in 2001. After the World Trade Centers collapse, Americans had every right to believe President George W. Bushs declaration from atop the wreckage that the United States would make the terrorists pay. Instead, radical Islamist terrorism has metastasized beyond all recognition. Extremist groups seem to be trying to one-up each other, as if theyre in competition to see who can be more devout, more oppressive or even more horrific in their zeal to impose their will on others. Hezbollah in Lebanon tried to exceed the outrages of their Palestinian mentors by using kidnappings and, in 1983, the suicide bombings of the U.S. Embassy and Marines barracks in Beirut. Al-Qaida and Taliban members found ways to exceed the outrages of Hezbollah. Islamic State founders have tried to go even further while exploiting power vacuums in Iraq and Syria to create a radical Islamic caliphate. For the September tour Burruss will be in the Montana Bliss Artworks Gallery, 101 S. 7th St., Hamilton, as the featured artist. She will be displaying elements from her studio such as her paintings, paper, pallets of colors in porcelain dishes and thumbnail sketches that show the direction she takes when building a painting. Watercolor has to be planned, white space has to be mapped out and saved. I enjoy giving gallery talks where you walk around and discuss the paintings you have on the wall, Burruss said. You share how you created them, the different effects that you were studying at the time and how you put it together. Ill also have a piece in progress where I can demonstrate how the brushwork is done. Her focus is often landscapes because she is inspired by the beauty of Montana. Lately, Im really fascinated with wanting to put figures in my work and how they are enjoying where they are at, Burruss said. Its new for me. I havent attempted many figures; Im looking at the overall figure not the detail. I studied gesture drawing quick sketches to get the gesture. Burruss said she loves watercolor paper. Bryson Foos knows his way around a kitchen. Ive worked at them all, the 30-year-old says of the fast food restaurant chains in Billings. Hes worked everything from washing dishes to prep work to cooking and delivering pizzas. Earlier this year, he decided it was time for a change. I had to step away from it, and I dont know if thats just from being existential and being a 30-year-old, but you have to take a good self-inventory every once in a while. Foos is far from alone in the shifting job market. Theres a glut of unfilled jobs in nearly every sector after COVID-19 disrupted the country's workforce. With vaccination rates on the rise and businesses reopening, the worker shortage is painfully highlighted, especially in food service and leisure industries as employers respond to people eager to travel, eat out and socialize. To attract workers, many companies are offering higher wages, sign-on bonuses and incentives. Yet, the workforce hasnt kept pace with demand for employees in the COVID-19 era. Slowing down The National Restaurant Association estimates two-thirds of restaurant employees lost their jobs during the pandemic about 8 million layoffs and furloughed workers, according to data released in April 2020. The industry is about 1 million jobs shy of returning to pre-pandemic employment levels, with the fast food and casual sector rebounding quicker (theyre about 4% down). Other segments of the industry are feeling deeper gouges. Employment in bars and taverns is down 24%; catering and mobile food service is down 30%; and employment is down more than 55% in cafeterias, grills, and buffets. When COVID hit, Foos was cooking at McDonalds and said he felt a bit more secure working for a corporation than some of his fellow restaurant workers. McDonalds has this magical ability to always remain staffed, he said, attributing that to the franchises appeal to young workers, many under the age of 16. The closures of lobbies forced some layoffs, but Foos and other kitchen staff stayed employed as take-out and drive-thrus kept restaurants operating during the pandemic. Working at McDonalds was the only thing keeping me afloat, said Foos, but the work was monotonous while also being more exhausting due to COVID-19 precautions. Everything changed. We had to wear masks, keep gloves on at all times, do extra this and that It was an adjustment. Though the wages were lower, he left to cook at a local restaurant. A couple of restaurant jobs later, Foos decided to be done with the business. Being an artist and a musician, I always felt like a black sheep in the workforce, said Foos. I am just doing this because I need to survive, not because that was my passion. Buyer's market Jason Marble opened The Marble Table on Montana Avenue with his wife, Jen Marble, in November 2020 and expanded the business six months later. In our industry, its not an easy job, he said. "And, if you arent passionate about it and love what you are doing, its going to chew you up and spit you out. Marble equates the labor shortage to the housing market, and currently its a buyers market. This is in contrast to hiring staff in a sellers market, where Marble would check credentials, references and past experiences. We have standards for what we do, but as far as hiring, its a free-for-all, said Marble. Someone with a warm body walks in the door, they are going to have a job. That warm body mentality isnt unusual in this labor market. When we first opened, we took anyone and everyone because they were willing to show up, said Harvey Singh, who opened Perch in June at 313 N. Broadway the same location of his former restaurant, Seva Kitchen, which closed in 2019. Singh decided Perch would stay open till 3 a.m. to take advantage of the late night bar crowds in downtown Billings. This caused a staffing challenge in an already tight labor market, and recently Singh changed hours to Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. When Perch opened, about 25 people were on staff. That number is now 12, but Singh could still use some help in the kitchen. Marbles also short-staffed in the kitchen. Before, it was like a revolving door, said Marble, but now there is no one coming in the door. Worker scarcity Sassy Biscuit in downtown Billings made headlines for temporarily closing on July 29. Owner Jilan Hall-Johnson said staffing had become a problem for the popular brunch restaurant. Starting in June, it really became an issue, and I think that part of it was just my decision making as far as leadership was concerned and not having the correct person in the right place, said Hall-Johnson. I take accountability for where the business is at today and am doing my best to move it in a positive direction. Hall-Johnson founded Sassy Biscuit in 2018 and opened a second location in New Hampshire when her family relocated east in 2020. Shes struggled with staffing at both locations throughout the pandemic. There are just no applications and no one to hire right now, said Hall-Johnson. Hiring outside the service industry has helped maintain staff at a newly-formed restaurant group in Billings that encompasses By All Means, Uberbrew, The Fieldhouse, and The Annex. The candidate without experience is now a great candidate, said Krystal Harman, who owns and operates The Fieldhouse and The Annex with her husband Ben. She is also the director of restaurant and taproom operations at By All Means and Uberbrew. Those without experience are keeping the business staffed and probably the only way we are existing right now. A singular hiring platform allows managers at various locations to place staff where theyre most needed and where they will fit the best, said Harman. Its hard to keep up with hiring. It takes a lot of time, and this is about meeting people where they are at, and it can all change on a whim. About 60 people are employed across the restaurant group, and most are full-time staff, but theres a need for more, said Harman, who slims or beefs up staffing numbers based on availability. Certainly not every shift, but we power play the shifts that really count, said Harman. You do have to choose your fires. Its a daily rating in your head. Shifting priorities The pandemic changed how Montanans operate, from online learning in the schools to remote workplaces. Childcare and education has become a central issue in many lives, with some parents opting to keep children home and take on the responsibilities of online learning. A shift to single earner households became a trend, in part to care for children, as well as early retirements and an aging population shifting out of the workforce. That has painfully highlighted Montanas challenges recruiting and training young qualified workers. With a median age of 40 across most of Montana, its the oldest western state, according to Patrick Barkey, director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana. Barkey points to migration of workers and age of the workforce as some of the states biggest challenges. Steve Arveschoug, executive director of Big Sky Economic Development Authority, agrees, pointing out that Montana needs to replace 40,000 workers who have left the workforce across the past decade due to retirement. "If you retain every single high school and college grad in our community to fill vacant jobs, you would still fall short," said Arveschoug, who helped launch Better off in Billings in 2016 to court people to the city and in turn, bolster the workforce. During the pandemic, some workers left major metropolitan markets to the relatively quieter West. Those who found themselves able to work remotely didn't fill an open job, but rather brought one with them. Relocation also brought with it demands on city infrastructure and dwindled inventory, creating higher housing prices. As the pandemic started, we have been seeing people move here just because of Montana as a whole, said Marcell Bruski, director of marketing for Big Sky EDA and BillingsWorks. We have space, and people are reevaluating their lifestyle and wanting to have a little more space. Though it's difficult to track the success of Better Off in Billings, it boasts the city as an attractive place because of its affordable housing (in relation to higher-priced markets), a lack of sales tax, and abundant recreational opportunities. We have a lot of quality of life amenities, said Bruski, pointing to investments in trail and park development and improvements to city infrastructure and roads. You are seeing the community invest in itself, which is an attractive quality for people willing to move or relocation. Looking to the future of the city, Bruski said attracting a workforce rests in new development. She points to the new medical school on the West End, businesses opening across town, renovations to the airport, the revitalization of industry in east Billings, MetraParks master plan, and the often aggravating road construction around the city. It is an inconvenience, however, we are getting better infrastructure, adding bike lanes, turning one-way to two-way traffic and making it more walkable and pedestrian friendly. Westward ho! Billings recently made headlines for its affordability and appeal to remote workers, according to the Wall Street Journal and Realtor.com, ranking Billings top of the list of emerging housing markets. The cats out of the bag, said Tana Lee, broker for the newly-formed Red Truck Real Estate in Billings. Montana is awesome. Billings is great. Lee, who has been working in real estate for seven years, said shes seen more cash offers on homes this year than ever before. Cash buyers are often more attractive to sellers, because they arent tied to a lender, therefore arent required to complete a home inspection or an appraisal. This is the first year Ive ever had buyers forgo the inspection process, she said. Without the hang-ups of what a home inspection will turn over, buyers can move forward quicker with the sale. Cash offers can kick out other offers, like Veterans Affairs or first-time homebuyer loans, which come with a lot of stipulations because the loans are backed by the government. Lees fear is that the rising home prices and the amount of cash offers wont make room for a diversity of home owners. We are a community with an abundance of baby boomers, she said. We are going to be struggling. We need to be a community that attracts younger and more willing workers. Living wage In the food service industry, wages are on the upswing because of the labor shortage, and in Billings, fast food corporations are boasting wages starting at $16 to $18 an hour. Over at the Marble Table, owner Jason Marble said he struggles to compete with wages that corporations like McDonalds can offer. We are a small business, and we dont have the resources that, say, a Taco Bell or McDonalds has to draw on. What other businesses are offering as an entry level position is above what I can afford to pay. Most restaurant workers rely on tips to augment their pay, often set at minimum wage. With or without tips, restaurant wages make it difficult to make ends meet. In May 2020, the median hourly wage in Billings for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was just shy of $19. Those in food prep and serving related occupations make on average 38% less, or $11.75 an hour, which is about 4% below the national wage for food service workers. If you wanted to finance a home, for instance, youd need to plan to spend about 28% of your gross income on housing, based on estimates by the National Association of Home Builders. With the average sales price for a home in Billings in July at $338,950, and depending on the amount you'd put down, as well as your debt to income ratio, it would be difficult to afford a median-priced home in Billings on a restaurant worker's salary. That is compounded with rising sales prices, up about 15% in July from the prior year, something that can be attributed in part to a low inventory of available homes (there's 50% fewer homes on the market now than a year ago). Newly constructed homes are costing around $350,000 to $390,000, according to Kimberly Welzenbach, executive officer at Home Builders Association of Billings. In response, builders have been busy, and the city has taken in the most residential construction permits this year since 2013, adding 225 single family homes and 116 new townhomes or apartments, as reported by the Gazette in August. Theres an upward pressure on wages because of a shallow workforce said Arveschoug with Big Sky EDA. "Those entry level wages have to come up, and that helps a bit, but it wont get you where you need to be if you want to buy a $300,000 house in this market. Arveschoug describes these forces as healthy for an economy, but difficult for an employer meeting the bottom line. Thats what happens in a market that is growing right now. We are in a relatively good place comparative to our peer set in the market, but we have to fight to stay affordable. Without some constant attention and partnerships in our community, finding creative ways to build new rooftops, I think we will start to lose that strength. The jurys out on if wages in food service are going to keep pace with the rising cost of housing. And, is it worth returning to an industry that has been so badly bruised by the pandemic? I want to work. I want to have a job," said Foos. "The thing that makes me wary going into a restaurant that is short staffed, you are automatically spread thin from the get-go. Even prior to the pandemic, the labor force was clashing with the evolving industry. Harman describes her restaurant, The Fieldhouse, as an evolving entity, which has allowed its survival. Change is inevitable there, which has become its culture. To sum up the last two years," she continued, "the lessons learned are invaluable for how you run a business, how you speak to people, and how to pull it all together. Were re-thinking and re-stabilizing and learning how to respond to this current time. Its different right now. What can we learn from it? Email Arts and Entertainment Reporter Anna Paige at apaige@billingsgazette.com or follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @penandpaige. With the spread of the delta variant and the rise of COVID-19 cases in schools, all four localities have reported a jump in requests from families to participate in virtual schooling. In Richmond, there are 2,000 slots available for the Richmond Virtual Academy, but the district isnt reopening the list. Kamras has said there arent enough staff members to support any additional students, but he encourages parents to either withdraw their students to homeschool them, or enroll them in the Virginia Virtual Academy. A district spokesperson said that while theres been an increased interest in withdrawing students for homeschooling, the actual number of students withdrawing for homeschool is low. Henrico will host its own virtual academy, but it has an extensive waiting list. There are around 2,400 people on a waiting list for virtual school in Henrico between the Henrico Virtual Academy and Virtual Virginia, which is down from nearly 3,000 in late August. Two weeks ago, Chesterfield opened its doors to roughly 62,000 students. There are over 1,800 students enrolled in the K-8 Virtual Learning Academy and 1,600 in the online course program, CCPSOnline, according to a schools spokesperson. For both virtual options, there are roughly 400 students looking to enroll and leave in-person instruction. It puts him on the spot, said Bob Holsworth, a longtime political commentator in Richmond who said abortion could become a bigger issue in this governors race than it was in 1989, when Democrat Doug Wilder used it to defeat Republican Marshall Coleman. He wont be able to dodge and duck on it any longer, Holsworth said, because the Texas situation will force Youngkin to say exactly what he would do on executive orders and legislation he would support on the issue. Youngkin, who throughout the summer had been elusive about how exactly he would wield the power of the governors office, is now headlining his campaign with an ambitious plan for tax cuts, including a tax rebate of $300 per person and $600 per couple. Its unclear if the plan is politically or financially feasible, but it could nevertheless prove attractive to middle-class voters. He also has pitched a proposal to limit local real estate property tax increases that Holsworth said could have the same appeal to suburban voters as Republican Jim Gilmores no car tax pledge did in 1997, when he defeated Lt. Gov. Don Beyer in the governors race. Its the no car tax pledge of 2021, Holsworth said, and he is hoping to appeal to suburbanites who are ticked off about rising [property] assessments. We are so pleased to welcome Dr. Gurley, Larson-Torres said in a news release. The Board is united in our support. In a pool of very strong candidates, we felt his interpersonal skills, his division-level administrative experience, and his deep commitment to equity reflected the community feedback we heard. Thanks to everyone who lifted their voice in a survey, a focus group, or by serving on the committee. Larson-Torres said the board received 40 to 60 applicants. The Illinois-based firm Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates helped to evaluate and rank those applicants. I commend our entire board for the amount of hours of work, and we couldnt have done this without the search firm, she said. What stood out to Larson-Torres and the board about Gurley was his efforts to bring different perspectives and voices into discussions, she said. Board member James Bryant said he was excited for Gurleys tenure. As a retired educator, Ive seen a lot of principals and a lot of superintendents, he said, adding that Gurley would help the division continue to move forward. Almost half of the demonstrators were children and teens, many of whom are students in Nelson County Public Schools. Delaney Armenti and Heaven Turner, both students at Sweet Briar College, made the trip to attend the rally because they were disturbed when they saw online what had happened to Harper. I think for me personally, being a person of color and going to predominantly white schools, I feel this oppression so when we get opportunities to advocate and stand up, and any moment we can get, we should rise above and show that the Black community is here to support others, Armenti said. Its wrong. Thats really it. You know, hes a 15-year-old boy and he had his teeth [chipped]. Its wrong, Turner said. Amber Harper, Tilors mother, said her son is still shaken up from the incident. Tilors doing OK, but hes still really emotionally a wreck. He still doesnt understand why or how this happened so quickly. But Im just telling him to keep his head up, she said. Harper thanked the crowd for coming out in support of her son. The sound of a milking machine is enough to make my heart sink still to this day because I know it must be 5 oclock and its time to get up, he said. So I was kind of familiar with the dairy industry a little bit, at least from the perspective of where I grew up in New Zealand. When Donnie Montgomery, co-founder and co-owner of Homestead Creamery, got the call requesting some milk, he decided to supply it to the scientists, though he didnt quite grasp the extent of their research at the time. Montgomery hadnt given much thought to the role that the milk his company produces might have in biomedical research. When they told me what the possibilities were, I thought it was pretty neat, a pretty cool idea, he said. The team has since been out to visit some of the farms that supply Homestead Creamerys milk Montgomery said Gourdie even had his photo taken in the milking parlor. During the pandemic, members of Gourdies lab, who include Kevin Pridham and Spencer Marsh, along with Jourdan, developed the isolation protocol. Gourdie said they found that purified exosomes make up about 10% to 15% of milk by volume. That such vast amounts of exosomes can be harvested from milk is good for research, as it allows for many experiments to be conducted. The county doesnt seem to be able to handle kids on the spectrum, she said. If you have a child that has any behavior issue that needs to be worked out, they just ship them off. After the suspension, the Sargents met with the school and their Individualized Education Program team to try to come up with a solution. But because of the policy that would require Oliver to be sent home whenever he showed aggressive behavior, the family didnt think it would work out. They recently moved into Roanoke and Oliver is attending Patrick Henry High School this fall. His teacher was great, but the administration did not want him there, Daphne said. Thats just how I felt. I didnt want to go through another school year where he was getting suspended. Thats not good for him. The county schools are great, theyre just deficient when it comes to training and policy for kids like Oliver. It isnt right how they handle it. County special education director Elisabeth Harman said every childs situation and behavior are unique, so she could not make a generalization about whether the policy is too harsh. The society dates to 1966 and was the first legal outfit of its kind in Virginia. Since then, its handled more than 100,000 cases, said David Beidler, general counsel. Its annual budget is roughly $1 million, and funding comes from taxpayers, court filing fees (a portion of which fund legal services for the poor); from interest on lawyers trust accounts and other sources such as grants and donations. In the fiscal year than ended June 30, the societys attorneys handled 1,297 cases. Right now, its lawyers are juggling 183 legal actions for people whose income falls below 200% of the federal poverty level. (The poverty level currently stands at $12,880 annually for an individual or $26,500 for a family of four.) Until the COVID-19 pandemic, the largest single category of legal work performed by the societys lawyers was in the realm of family law, which includes divorces, child custody issues and domestic violence actions. But since the pandemic began, landlord-tenant cases have overtaken domestic relations. To illustrate the need for civil services among the poor, compared to the number of lawyers who provide them, Beidler offered this statistic, referring to it as the justice gap. Four people from New Jersey are jailed in Montgomery County after a police chase that started on Interstate 81 and led onto back roads Saturday night, according to a sheriffs office report. Virginia State Police called for assistance at 8:13 p.m., in pursuit on I-81 of a grey 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivan that had been reported stolen, according to Capt. Brian Wright with the Montgomery County Sheriffs Office. In the vehicle were four people wanted in New Jersey on charges related to an armed robbery, according to a news release from the sheriffs office. They were presumed to be armed and dangerous. At 8:32 p.m., the four abandoned the minivan in the area of Benoit Drive in the Preston Forest area of Montgomery County, the release said. State police caught one of them at that time, and a perimeter to contain the others was established by the sheriffs office, state police, Blacksburg Police and Virginia Tech Police, the release said. A search, which included the use of drones, went on throughout the night. By 1:15 a.m. Sunday, the perimeter had been closed and state police left the scene, but Montgomery County deputies maintained a presence for the rest of the morning. In April, Belcher pleaded guilty to some of the charges against him and was sentenced to serve 20 years in prison. At Harmons plea hearing on Tuesday, Chief Deputy Commonwealths Attorney Patrick Jensen said that Harmon, who accompanied Belcher on some of his trips, told investigators that Belcher would pick up 4 ounces to half a pound of meth each time. Harmon said that some of that meth was then fronted to him and he would sell it to a half dozen or so people in the New River Valley, Jensen said. Harmons two defense attorneys, Chris Tuck and Joel Jackson, both of Blacksburg, agreed that Jensen accurately summarized the prosecutions evidence. In a plea agreement that dropped 14 charges, Harmon was convicted of distributing more than 100 grams of meth and was sentenced to 40 years in prison, and of possessing a Schedule II drug, for which he received another six months. Judge Colin Gibb ordered that the sentences run concurrently and that after Harmon served 10 years, the remaining term of incarceration would be suspended for 30 years. Harmon also was fined $1,000. After his release, Harmon is to be supervised by the probation office for five years, then to be on unsupervised probation for another five years, Gibb said. eHealth Technologies, a market leader in medical imaging services, came to the region by way of an informal conversation at a university board meeting not a marketing push. After talking with Will Payne of Bristols Coalfield Strategies, Mirza Baig of Aldrich Capital, the lead investor behind eHealth, became intrigued with the region enough to revisit his model of building out portfolio companies in metropolitan areas. Baig connected eHealth CEO Jeff Markin with Payne. They went to work on a location. At the same time, Payne brought Mountain Empire Community College into the equation, to tap its strength in health information management and programming. The partnership between eHealth and MECC delivered a new approach to training workers and onboarding them at warp speed. The result: during the pandemic, eHealth reached an unanticipated volume of client activity and committed to hiring 160 people, the employment goal it had set for 2023. What was a bit of a risk for Aldrich Capital, in considering a rural location, has turned into a business strategy of rural deployment. DARLINGTON, S.C. About the only thing more decorated than the cars at Darlington Raceway Labor Day Weekend were the fans who sported hats, flags, T-shirts, pins and who know what else to show their loyalty to their favorite driver. The midway outside Darlington Raceway was filled Saturday with more than a dozen vendors selling wares along with other companies, like Chevrolet, there to keep their name in front of fans. Scan a QR code, answer a few questions on your cell phone and a free Chevrolet T-shirt was yours for the taking. Not all souvenirs cost cash or information. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control was on hand Sunday to provide a COVID-19 vaccine for anyone who wanted one. For any fan who showed up without the appropriate fan gear, the vendors were ready to meet their needs. For Scott Aldridge, the need is simple. For me it would just be a lanyard, a Hendricks Motorsports lanyard. I wear them every day for work, Aldridge said. Nothing Id really feel cheated for not having. Bud and Tammy Green strolled the midway with one thing in mind. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} We put people to work faster, he said. Roth said it is his job to oversee SiMT corporate workforce development. Holland said they train about 3,000 students per year. Roth said some of these students are still in high school, while most are 18 and older. He said some of them are seeking an entry-level job and others are coming in for additional training for their job or to advance. A lot of our students have a college degree from somewhere but are here getting technical training for their job, Holland said. Roth said the nature of education is changing. He said in the future he sees people have to back to school every couple of years for additional training or to get certification to move to the next job level. We will be growing and expanding, Roth said. I think technical education is coming into its own. Technical schools are becoming noticed more. He said students coming out of high school are starting to question whether to attend a four-year institution with the rising cost of tuition or to attend a technical college, where they can learn a trade or specific skill set without having to go into debt. On Labor Day 2021, we should celebrate the dedication and resilience of the working men and women who helped us get through the challenges of the past year. And, as a resident of South Carolina, you can celebrate the fact that your state and 26 other Right to Work states across the country are now home to a majority of Americas working people. This means that workers in South Carolina and most employees in America can now freely choose whether to join or financially support a union or abstain from doing so. An overwhelming majority of Americans have demonstrated in polls for years that they believe all workers should have this freedom. Now, the majority of employed people do. Additionally, the 2018 Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court decision, argued and won by National Right to Work Foundation staff attorneys, ensures every public sector employee across the country enjoys Right to Work protections under the First Amendment. Even amidst all of this progress, however, in 23 states union bosses are still granted the power by law to force every worker in a private sector workplace even those who dont want the union and never asked for its so-called representation to fund union boss activities or be fired. Afghanistan: Over 700 from Taliban killed, claims Panjshir resistance 05 Sep 2021: Afghanistan: Over 700 from Taliban killed, claims Panjshir resistance Over 700 fighters of the Taliban were killed by National Resistance Front in the Panjshir province of Afghanistan, the latter has announced. Meanwhile, the Taliban claimed that it had gained the upper hand in Panjshir, the last province that remains out of the group's control since it overthrew the Afghanistan government on August 15. Since then, resistance forces have gathered in Panjshir. Resistance: Resistance says 700 Taliban fighters killed, 600 captured The National Resistance Front said that "thousands of terrorists" in Khawak pass and the Taliban abandoned their vehicles and equipment in Dashte Rewak. The resistance tweeted that 700 Taliban fighters were killed and 600 had been captured and imprisoned. In unverified videos shared online, the Taliban could be seen with a white flag. People could be heard saying that the Taliban were fleeing Panjshir. Taliban: Panjshir capital captured; governor's office breached, says Taliban The Taliban, on the other hand, claimed it has entered Panjshir's capital Bazarak and breached the office of its governor. Claiming the upper hand, the resistance said the Taliban was pushed back from Kapisa and Panjshir. Reportedly, the Taliban also claimed to have entered Anaba. Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi said that the Khinj and Unabah districts had been captured. Panjshir: Panjshir resistance reports intense fighting in Paryan Late on Saturday, the resistance forces had revealed that intense fighting was underway in the Paryan district. The fighting continued till Sunday morning. Thousands of fighterscomprising mainly the remaining Afghan Army, Special Forces, and the local militiahave gathered in the Panjshir valley. The resistance is led by Ahmad Massoud, the son of late ex-Afghan guerrilla commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, and ex-Vice President Amrullah Saleh. Afghanistan: What is happening in Afghanistan? Story continues It has been over two weeks since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan. The Taliban had reportedly held discussions with Afghan politicians to form an "inclusive government" in the country that is acceptable to all. The Taliban's military victory came after the Taliban and the United States signed a peace deal last year, under which the US decided to withdraw its troops from Afghanistan. The news article, Afghanistan: Over 700 from Taliban killed, claims Panjshir resistance appeared first on NewsBytes. Also see: Afghanistan: Taliban says Panjshir has fallen; resistance leaders deny claim Afghanistan: Taliban likely to announce its new government today No decision yet on recognizing Taliban government in Afghanistan: MEA Read more on World by NewsBytes. Afghan resistance movement and anti-Taliban forces take part in military training in the Dara district in Panjshir (AFP via Getty) The last battle in the Talibans takeover of Afghanistan is unfolding in the Panjshir Valley, with a rising tempo of fighting, and time becoming a critical factor in what lies ahead. Celebratory gunfire in Kabul on Friday night led to at least 17 deaths and more than 40 injuries after the Taliban declared it had captured Panjshir. But the valley had not fallen and the opposition insisted soon afterwards that it had repulsed the Islamists and taken back territory. The claims and counter-claims of supposed victories from both sides continue. A Taliban spokesperson, Belal Kareemi, said on Sunday that all areas of Panjshir had been taken except for the capital, Bazarak, and another district, Rokha. The opposition National Resistance Front (NRF)s version was: We have allowed the Taliban to enter the valley intentionally and now they are trapped. This is a tactic we have used from our playbook from the 1980s, when the Soviets entered the valley. The NRF is all over Panjshir and the Taliban have suffered heavy casualties. The Taliban have been saying until quite recently that they would prefer a negotiated settlement in the Panjshir, in much the same way as they have taken over the rest of the country. Edging closer to international recognition as the new government of Afghanistan, they do not want large-scale bloodshed to erupt and undermine the narrative of seeking stability and not strife. One senior Taliban official told The Independent: We have managed to avoid a long civil war with many dead, like the ones after the Russians left. We think that is recognised by other countries, even by the Americans, and it shows that we want peace now in Afghanistan, not more war. We have had peaceful handovers all over the country: that should happen in the Panjshir as well. But the negotiations have led nowhere so far. The Taliban claim the opposition has spurned their offers. The resistance say that they did not trust the Islamists, and that the terms offered would have amounted to surrender. Story continues Fighting has meanwhile intensified. Some factions of the Taliban now seek a victory as quickly as possible, while the NRF, on the other hand, want to hold the valley in the belief that time will buy them support. There are a number of factors at play. The Taliban are having problems forming a government. Capturing the last enemy-held territory would strengthen their position as the undisputed rulers, both at home and abroad, and, the hardliners feel, end the need to bring in moderate figures. Should I get injured, I have one request of you. Shoot me twice in the head. I dont want to surrender to the Taliban. Ever. Amrullah Saleh The head of the Pakistani intelligence service (ISI), Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul at the weekend, and his presence, it has been claimed, may play a key part in what happens in the Panjshir. The leadership of the resistance, especially former vice-president Amrullah Saleh, who was once the head of the Afghan intelligence service (NDS), are implacable adversaries of Pakistan, blaming the country for what has happened to Afghanistan in almost every announcement they have made. The ISI has been accused of being linked to the Taliban and to other insurgent groups, such as the Haqqani network. One of Lt Gen Hameeds tasks, it is claimed, is to help establish a government that would reflect the broad insurgency, including the Haqqanis and others. His presence is viewed as being of particular importance because Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban leader, has had a fractious relationship with the Pakistani security establishment in the past, having been arrested and imprisoned in the country. Mariam Solaimankhil, head of international relations coordination at the office of the former president Ashraf Ghani, tweeted: From what I am hearing, DG of ISI has come into Kabul to make sure Baradar does not lead this government and the Haqqani does. There are a lot of disagreements amongst the Taliban factions and Baradar has called all his men off of attacking Panjshir. It is highly unlikely, in reality, that Sirajuddin Haqqani, the leader of the Haqqani network, would supersede Baradar as the leader of the new government. Pakistani officials deny that Lt Gen Hameed is getting involved in the Panjshir campaign. But what happens in the Panjshir does appear to be an issue of division among the Taliban and their allies, and may delay decisive military action there. Any such delay would suit the resistance. Holding back the Taliban for a month would see the onset of winter, and it would be very difficult to sustain military operations in the terrain of the Panjshir for the next five months. The Valley of Five Lions, flanked by mountains, has proved a tough nut to crack in the past. The Russians failed to take it during their Afghan war. And, as the stronghold of the Northern Alliance, it withstood the attacks of the Taliban and other Islamist groups during the long and bloody civil war that followed the Soviet withdrawal. The hope among the opposition is that internal strife may surface among the Islamists during the winter break, that discontent and defiance against the Taliban may grow elsewhere in the country, and that the resistance may start getting support from abroad. That support has proved hard to obtain so far. There has been talk among former American and British military, many of whom were deployed in Afghanistan while in service, or later as private security contractors, about Afghans abroad allegedly starting to raise funds for private forces to fight the Taliban. But nothing has come of that so far. It is also clear from talking to US diplomats that such a move would get no support from the Biden administration, which is now on a path to establishing a relationship with the Taliban. There also appears to be little sympathy for Saleh or for other NRF leaders among these diplomats, who are apprehensive that politicians in America may try to drag the country back into a conflict by drumming up support for the armed opposition. A number of Republican members of congress have already stated that the US should stand by the resistance. A fellow leader of the resistance, Ahmad Massoud, the 32-year-old son of Ahmad Shah Massoud, the renowned mujahideen leader, wrote in The Washington Post requesting help before fighting in the Panjshir escalated. We have stores of ammunition and arms that we have patiently collected since my fathers time, because we knew this day might come. If Taliban warlords launch an assault, they will of course face staunch resistance from us, he said. That resistance is evident from the fighters, comprised of Tajik militias and members of Afghan security forces. However, they face formidable obstacles, surrounded by enemy territory, outnumbered as well as outgunned, with the Taliban now in possession of vast quantities of western weaponry, including artillery and aircraft either captured from troops or handed over to them as the allied forces withdrew. But even if the Biden administration washes its hands of the opposition, there is the possibility that other regional powers, caught on the hop by the collapse of the Ghani government and the Taliban triumph, may start providing support to the resistance, as they did to the Northern Alliance against the Talibs. Saleh is now the public face of the resistance, providing a steady stream of defiant messages from the Panjshir. He says that there has been heavy fighting, and that there have been casualties on both sides, and he acknowledges that there is no doubt we are in a difficult situation we are under invasion from the Taliban but we have held the ground, we have resisted. The opposition is bitter about the manner in which the US and its allies have walked away. The betrayal of Afghanistan by the west is colossal ... The scenes at Kabul airport in recent days represented the humiliation of humanity, an embarrassment for any nation that has been involved in Afghanistan since the Taliban were routed by the US-led coalition force in the aftermath of the 9/11 atrocity, said Saleh. This is not only shameful for President Biden, it is shameful for the whole of western civilisation. Saleh says he knew that when he set off for Panjshir, it might be a battle to the death. Speaking to the author Kapil Komireddi, he described how he made his chief bodyguard swear on the Quran to fulfil his last order: I told him, we are going [to] Panjshir and the road is already taken. We will fight our way through, we will fight it together. But should I get injured, I have one request of you. Shoot me twice in the head. I dont want to surrender to the Taliban. Ever. Read More Afghanistan news live: UK into final hours of evacuation mission Who are Isis-K? Pen Farthings animals could die of heat at Kabul airport EAM Jaishankar with Danish PM Mette Frederiksen. (Twitter) Copenhagen [Denmark], September 5 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is on a visit to Denmark, on Sunday met Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and discussed the Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan and EU's global role. "Thank PM Mette Frederiksen of Denmark for receiving me today. Discussed the Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan and EU's global role," tweeted Jaishankar. Jaishankar is on an official visit to Slovenia, Croatia and Denmark from September 2-5, as part of a tour to boost bilateral ties and further strengthen India's cooperation with the Central European countries. He also appreciated the leadership of Frederiksen for taking forward the Green Strategic Partnership between the two countries. "Appreciate her leadership in taking forward our Green Strategic Partnership. Conveyed greetings and good wishes of PM @narendramodi. Valued her insights and assessments on the key issues of our day," tweeted Jaishankar. Underscoring the importance of bilateral ties with Denmark, Jaishankar said European countries can be enormously helpful for a country like India, in the field of green strategic partnership. "What's unique about our relationship with Denmark is that Denmark is the only country with which we have a green strategic partnership. And the way we look at it, you know, everybody says build back better, but we also want to grow back greener," Jaishankar said, in a press statement after the 4th India-Denmark Joint Commission Meeting on Saturday. The minister termed Denmark as a "very very unique partner because of its strengths and best practices which are enormously helpful for a country like India at this stage of its development." During his visit to Denmark, EAM Jaishankar met his Danish counterpart, Jeppe Kofod and thanked him for the initiative in bringing CEOs of various companies together for Green Strategic Partnership. Using Denmark's support, Jaishankar said India can carry forward its trade-investment agreements with the European Union. "We have 200 Danish companies operating in India. We have a growing number of Indian companies today here. We also discussed how apart from our own bilateral cooperation, how we could carry forward, our larger trade-investment agreements with the European Union and which we have, I believe have Denmark's support," he said. (ANI) Pakistan flag Kabul [Afghanistan], September 5 (ANI): Pakistan intelligence chief Faiz Hameed has taken an "emergency" trip to Kabul to resolve an evolving internal crisis in the Taliban after reports emerged about a clash between factions between in which the group co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar suffered injuries. Michael Rubin, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), writes in US-based 19 forty-five that the Hameed's emergency visit affirms that they are merely an ISI puppet. The Taliban, which captured Kabul on August 15, has been delaying the announcement of the government formation in Afghanistan over the past few days. While the group has not issued a statement over it yet, reports have emerged claiming that the government formation has been delayed due to differences between the Taliban and the Haqqani network over power-sharing. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the top Taliban leader who is set to head the new Afghan regime, was injured during the clash and is currently getting treated in Pakistan. Signalling there a rift in the Taliban, Rubin said that the Haqqani and many other Taliban factions simply do not accept Haibatullah as their leader. Pakistan intelligence chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed reached Kabul on Saturday leading a delegation of Pakistani officials. "There is no official word of the appointment of Haibatullah Akhundzada whom the group's representatives earlier signalled would be the Islamic Emirate's supreme leader based in Kandahar," he writes. "That delay also postponed Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar's efforts to become a political leader in Kabul. The delay may signal a much greater crisis within the Taliban, hence Hameed's emergency trip," Rubin adds. The Pentagon former official said with his recent visit, Hammed's hand in the toppling of the Afghan government has been exposed. "With Hameed's hand clearly exposed, the question for US policymakers then becomes why anyone should negotiate or recognize the Taliban when Hameed's emergency visit affirms that they are merely an ISI puppet," he adds. Story continues "A far better approach for Washington, however, may be to designate Faiz Hameed as the terrorist he is and the organization he heads as a terrorist entity which for too long has victimized Afghanistan and undermined any hope Pakistanis have to be a democracy and a normal state," he calls. Pakistan and its notorious intelligence agency have been accused of supporting the Taliban in taking over Afghanistan. Experts believe that Pakistan has been a key player in removing the elected Afghan government from power and establishing the Taliban as a decisive power in Afghanistan. Recently, a UN Monitoring report has said that a significant part of the leadership of Al-Qaida resides in Afghanistan and Pakistan border region. In the piece, Saleh hit out at the western power, saying betrayal of Afghanistan by the West is colossal. Former Afghan vice president Amrullah Saleh has asserted that the Taliban are being micromanaged by Pakistan notorious intelligence agency--the ISI, adding that Islamabad is in-charge of the war-ravaged country effectively as a colonial power. (ANI) PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari Islamabad [Pakistan], September 4 (ANI): Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has slammed the Imran Khan government over sacking a large number of employees saying that the PPP government gave jobs while the ruling party snatches them. While addressing the party workers in the Obaro area of Ghotki district on Friday, Bhutto stressed that no one could snatch away the jobs given by the parliament and vowed to appeal a Supreme Court verdict that declared a PPP-era law unconstitutional and illegal, Pakistan's The News International reported on Saturday. The current PTI government has removed about 1.5 lakh employees from their jobs during its three years in office. The majority of those rendered jobless are from Sindh, Pakistan's Awami Awaz reported. He mentioned that his party would provide relief to all those people whose jobs had been snatched. Bhutto also stressed that Imran Khan ignores poor people as the PTI-led government has introduced tax amnesty schemes for rich people. He demanded a tax amnesty scheme for the poor and said Pakistan could develop by engaging its energetic and vigorous poor people and not the rich class, according to The News. (ANI) Representative image Geneva [Switzerland], September 5 (ANI): Some 13.4 million Syrians throughout the beleaguered country are in need of assistance, the UN humanitarian office said on Saturday, calling for "greater access and expanded funding", to better help them. Concluding a seven-day visit to Syria, Lebanon and Turkey - his first official mission in the region since assuming the function of UN Emergency Relief Coordinator - Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths stressed that "the UN needs to be able to reach people who depend on its aid both from Turkey and from within Syria". "Humanitarians and donors must keep Syria high on our collective agenda to prevent an entire generation being lost", he underscored. During meetings with the Syrian Foreign Minister and his deputy, Griffiths emphasized the need to expand humanitarian access, protect civilians and help Syrians envision a future for themselves. His visit coincided with the first humanitarian cross-line operation into northwest Syria since 2017, which he welcomed as an important step to reaching more people in need with critical assistance. Travelling to Damascus via the UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS), Griffiths held constructive meetings with senior government officials and the humanitarian community, including the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and Red Crescent Societies, among others. And in Beirut, he spoke with donors and discussed with the Deputy Prime Minister and Humanitarian Country Team, the country's fast-growing needs, including a severe fuel crisis that jeopardizes health care and safe drinking water. During his visit, the humanitarian chief announced a USD4 million allocation from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support an increased supply of fuel for the continued operation of essential services. Meanwhile, the UN and its partners have developed the 2021-2022 Emergency Response Plan for Lebanon to provide life-saving humanitarian support to 1.1 million of the most vulnerable Lebanese people and migrants affected by the ongoing crisis. The USD 378.5 million humanitarian plan complements the UN's programmes for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and the Lebanon Crisis Response Plan, which also includes Syrian refugees and the communities hosting them. (ANI) Image Source: Twitter @UNReliefChief Kabul [Afghanistan] September 6 (ANI): United Nations Under-Secretary-General Martin Griffiths on Sunday reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to delivering humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan. The developments came after Griffiths met with the Taliban's deputy head Mullah Baradar in Kabul, a statement from the United Nations (UN) informed. "I met with the leadership of the Taliban to reaffirm UN's commitment to deliver impartial humanitarian assistance & protection to millions in need in Afghanistan," Griffiths said in a tweet. Griffiths emphasized the critical role of women in the delivery of aid and called on all parties to ensure their rights, safety and well-being. He called for all civilians - especially women and girls and minorities - to be protected at all times. Griffiths expressed his solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, a statement from the UN informed. Further meetings between both parties are expected in the coming days. Meanwhile, the Taliban have also committed to cooperate with the humanitarian community to ensure assistance is delivered to the people of Afghanistan, added the statement from the UN. Earlier, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said that he will convene a high-level humanitarian conference for Afghanistan on September 13. Secretary-General Guterres had also expressed his deep concern about the humanitarian and economic crisis in Afghanistan and the threat of a total collapse in basic services. (ANI) Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan. (File Pic) New Delhi [India], September 4 (ANI): Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan on Saturday chaired a high-level review meeting with 11 north-east and hill states and Union Territories over the COVID vaccination drive. These States/UTs include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura and Uttarakhand. At the outset, the Health Secretary underlined that the states and UTs need to quickly saturate the first dose coverage among the beneficiaries above 18 years, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Bhushan also urged the states to focus on the beneficiaries above 60 year age group as the coverage of both the doses in this category is "unsatisfactory" in Assam, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Meghalaya. The details of State/UT-wise balance stock of 0.5 ml Syringes, Vaccination Coverage among Special Groups (Transgender Persons, Persons with Disabilities, PWI and Prisoners), COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among women particularly pregnant and lactating women was also discussed, read the release. States and UTs were advised to closely monitor the stock from State Vaccine Stores to Cold Chain Point, check rational distribution and restrict vaccine wastage to below 2 per cent, update data on eVIN (electronic vaccine intelligence network) on a daily basis, check the supply of other denomination syringes as per availability (0.5 ml/ 1ml/ 2 ml/ 3ml Auto Disable/Re-use Prevention Syringes(RUP)/Disposable) for COVID vaccination. (ANI) Heres an example: Lets say you own a 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus it gets an EPA-estimated 24 kWh/100 miles and your utilitys pricing plan starts at 18 cents per kWh and rises to a maximum of 37 cents per kWh. As such, it would cost as little as $8.64 to recharge at home after driving 200 miles or potentially $17.76 if you recharged during your utilitys peak rates. EVs vary in efficiency too. Lets say you sold your Model 3 in the above example and replaced it with a 2021 Audi e-tron. The Audi uses an estimated 43 kWh/100 miles. Now youd be paying $15.48-$31.82 after driving 200 miles, using the same rates above. Cost of a home charging setup Besides understanding what it will cost to power an EV, its also important to know the cost of the charging equipment itself. Technically, the vehicles charger is actually built into the car. That box with the colored lights, long cord and connector plug that you hang on the wall of your garage or carport is properly known as the electric vehicle supply equipment or EVSE. But its OK if you call it a car home charging station or an EV charger almost everyone does. Omaha insurance executive Steve Menzies recently established the St. Francis Day Foundation, a nonprofit that seeks to address social issues. And, according to Menzies, he has the blessing of Pope Francis. The St. Francis Day Foundation, headquartered in New York City, is being propelled by a $50 million investment from four major investors, including Menzies namesake foundation, The Steve Menzies Global Foundation. The St. Francis Day Foundation is named after the 13th century Italian Catholic saint, Francis of Assisi. According to a news release, one of the first steps the St. Francis Day Foundation, which Menzies chairs, will undertake is providing vaccines and medical equipment to displaced populations. It also will seek to create educational materials to teach people about healthy use of technology and the dangers of digital addiction. The foundations initiatives fall under the umbrella of what Pope Francis and Menzies call human ecology. Global relations arent the same either. Countries that were once allies now distrust each other. Americas place in the world marketplace has shifted as well. And, we, as citizens, arent as naive, perhaps, as we once were. Swirl it all together and you can see Sept. 11 was a turning point. This week, we'll look at these issues and also look at lessons learned. Earlier this summer, we asked you for your observations of that day. Well have those as well as ones from across the country in a special section that will appear in Saturdays Journal. Well talk with Siouxlanders who were affected by the terrorist attacks, including some who were in Washington, D.C. that day. The coverage is designed to help you look back and see what changed and why. Most of all, we hope youll remember the way we came together and didnt worry about political beliefs. Americas people united in 2001. We can do so again. This week, read the stories well share and be sure to provide feedback. You can email us, comment on social media or write a letter. Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana thinks the sweeping anti-abortion law in Texas has its days numbered and Democrats are using it to distract from other issues, including Afghanistan. I think the Supreme Court will swat it away once it comes to them in an appropriate manner, Cassidy said on ABCs This Week. If its as terrible as people say it is, itll be destroyed by the Supreme Court. If it is as terrible as people say it is, it will be destroyed by the Supreme Court, GOP @SenBillCassidy tells @GStephanopoulos about the new Texas abortion law. https://t.co/PdXq8zVVKi pic.twitter.com/QbKFc2Bjsx This Week (@ThisWeekABC) September 5, 2021 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a 5-4 vote, the Supreme Court allowed the new law to take effect without ruling on its merits. Cassidy said the only reason the justices rejected the challenge to the law was because of a lack of standing and Democrats are now overreacting. People are using it to gin up their base to distract from disastrous policies in Afghanistan, maybe for fundraising appeals, he said. I wish we would focus on issues as opposed to theater. It was about if they had standing, nothing to do with constitutionality. I think we should move on to other issues. Several Democrats, however, vehemently disagreed with that interpretation. Rep. Veronica Escobar from Texas warned the new law will have deadly consequences for residents of the state. There are folks who want to believe that you can eliminate abortion, but what this law and other laws like it will do is simply make it deadlier, more dangerous. Women are going to take their health into their own hands. It will impact young women, poor women and women of color, and Im really afraid of the lives that will be lost as a result, Escobar said on CBS Face the Nation. I say theres no law that you can create that will eliminate abortion. All thats happening is youre eliminating safe, legal abortion, causing women significant harm. Democrats werent the only ones to criticize the law. Rep. Adam Kinzinger said he didnt like the way the law was designed to get private citizens to take on the role of vigilantes. Im pro-life, but what I dont like to see is this idea of every citizen being able to tattle, sue an Uber driver, as you said, be deputized to enforce this abortion law to whatever they want, Kinzinger said on CNNs State of the Union. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley said it was likely there would be conditions for a civil war to develop in Afghanistan, which could, in turn, lead to a resurgence of terrorist groups. My military estimate is that the conditions are likely to develop of a civil war, Milley said during an interview on Fox News. I dont know if the Taliban is gonna be able to consolidate power and establish governancethey may be, maybe not. Advertisement A civil war could then leave an opening to terrorist groups to gain power in the region. I think theres at least a very good probability of a broader civil war and that will then, in turn, lead to conditions that could, in fact, lead to a reconstitution of al-Qaida or a growth of ISIS or other myriad of terrorist groups, Milley added. He added that it was likely thered be a resurgence of terrorism from the region within 12, 24, 36 months. Milley had previously told lawmakers terrorist groups were likely to reconstitute in Afghanistan much faster than initially expected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Afghanistan, Taliban forces are fighting against the last pocket of resistance to its rule in the isolated Panjshir Valley. The anti-Taliban stronghold is home to some 150,000-200,000 people and has become a refuge for Afghans trying to escape the Talibans grip on the country. There is no doubt we are in a difficult situation. We are under invasion by the Taliban, Amrullah Saleh, one of the resistance leaders, told the BBC in a video message. Saleh, who was vice-president of the former government of Ashraf Ghani, warned of an overwhelming humanitarian crisis and pleaded for international assistance. We call on the United Nations and the international community to do its utmost to prevent the Talibans onslaught into Panjshir Province and encourage a negotiated political solution to ensure thousands of displaced and hosting civilians are saved, Salehs office said. The surge in the highly infectious delta variant has made Americans more worried about contracting COVID-19, according to a new poll. Nearly half of Americans, or 47 percent, say they are at moderate or high risk of becoming sick from the coronavirus, up 18 percentage points from the end of June, according to the latest Washington Post/ABC News poll. Among partially or fully vaccinated Americans, concern over becoming infected with the virus has surged 20 points during the time to 52 percent. Among the unvaccinated, concern about contracting the virus has also grown, from 22 percent to 35 percent. Despite the increased concern about contracting the virus that doesnt necessarily mean most are particularly worried. Only 39 percent of Americans said they are very or somewhat concerned about the consequences of infection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The poll is the latest to show a decline in vaccine hesitancy while suggesting that there is still room for more people to get vaccinated as the delta variant continues to spread. Even though 17 percent of adults say they probably or definitely wont get vaccinated, that number has declined from 24 percent in April. And there are 6 percent of adults who have not been vaccinated who say they will probably or definitely get the shot in the future. Many of the unvaccinated are very adamant about not getting the shot. In all, 72 percent of those who are unvaccinated and are not self-employed say they would quit if they were required to get the vaccine and couldnt get an exemption. Advertisement More evidence that indoor mask requirements are more popular than the very vocal backlashes may suggest https://t.co/OacJTpqEPj pic.twitter.com/Mavm3oZV8J Fenit Nirappil (@FenitN) September 5, 2021 Advertisement The poll also shows theres broad approval for mask and vaccine mandates in schools. A clear majority, or 67 percent, support school districts requiring teachers, staff and students to wear masks. The same proportion of Americans support local mandates requiring masks indoors in public places. As cases continue to increase, the approval of President Joe Bidens handling of the pandemic has dropped sharply to 52 percent, down 10 points from June. The presidents overall approval rating fell from 50 percent to 44 percent during the period, dragged lower by the general disapproval of how he handled the withdrawal from Afghanistan. A September to remember kicked off at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday (Sept. 4) with a star-studded lineup of Grand Circuit stakes events, including eliminations for the 2021 Pepsi North America Cup, Goodtimes and Fan Hanover, plus finals for the Roses Are Red, Maple Leaf Trot and Canadian Pacing Derby. The Saturday night card of harness racing commenced with a pair of Ontario Sires Stakes events for two-year-old pacing colts before a swarm of stakes races featuring many of the sport's premier performers. Trot Insider provided live coverage of the stakes events below. Bulldog Hanover, Perfect Sting Pop In Cup Eliminations The eliminations for the 38th Pepsi North America Cup are in the books, with Bulldog Hanover and Perfect Sting emerging top of the flock on Saturday (Sept. 4) at Woodbine Mohawk Park heading to the $1,000,000 final next week....read on Allywag Hanover Serves Notice In Derby Todd McCarthy more than made his first venture to Woodbine Mohawk Park a worthwhile one, capturing Saturday's (Sept. 4) $590,000 Canadian Pacing Derby at Woodbine Mohawk Park with the seemingly unstoppable Allywag Hanover ($4.20)....read on Lindy The Great Wins Maple Leaf Trot After finishing second to Atlanta in last year's Maple Leaf Trot and racing in the shadow of Manchego through much of 2021 to date, Lindy The Great ($17.80) stalked the front flight and stormed home to a 1:51.3 victory in Saturday's (Sept. 4) $546,000 Maple Leaf Trot at Woodbine Mohawk Park....read on Lyons Sentinel Large In Roses Are Red Sent the 3-5 favourite, Lyons Sentinel worked a second-over trip in the overflow field of 12 and roared in front of the cavalry charge to win the $316,000 Roses Are Red final at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday (Sept. 4)....read on Favourites First In Fan Hanover Eliminations The betting favourites prevailed in the pair of eliminations for the Fan Hanover on Saturday (Sept. 4) at Woodbine Mohawk Park, with Hot Mess Express and Fire Start Hanover emerging victorious as decisive choices on the board....read on Fashion Frenzie, Locatelli Clinch Goodtimes Elims Fashion Frenzie ($5.80) and Locatelli ($12.20) recorded matching 1:53.2 miles to win their respective $30,000 eliminations of the Goodtimes, for three-year-old trotters, to kick off Saturday night's (Sept. 4) slate of Grand Circuit races at Woodbine Mohawk Park....read on Stonebridge Helios Moves To Head Of OSS Class Ontarios top two-year-old pacing colts opened an action-packed night of stakes racing at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday (Sept. 4), competing in two $100,000-plus Gold Series divisions on a card worth more than $1.9 million....read on To view the results from Saturday's card, click the following link: Saturday Results - Woodbine Mohawk Park. Todd McCarthy more than made his first venture to Woodbine Mohawk Park a worthwhile one, capturing Saturday's (Sept. 4) $590,000 Canadian Pacing Derby at Woodbine Mohawk Park with the seemingly unstoppable Allywag Hanover ($4.20). The four-year-old Captaintreacherous gelding was tested twice in the first half mile: He first strode clear of early speedster Cattlewash (David Miller) beyond a :12.2 opening furlong, and then reemerged midway up the backstretch after yielding to Catch The Fire (Scott Zeron) with five-eighths to go. Allywag Hanover was strung out some by Catch The Fire nearing a :54.3 half but cleared confidently only for Cattlewash to resurface first-over on the far turn. After being nudged to three-quarters in 1:22, Allywag Hanover sprinted away powerfully off the home corner, amassing three lengths of clearance at McCarthy's first asking and holding that margin nearly intact at the end of a 1:49 mile. Catch The Fire saved second from the pocket; This Is The Plan (Yannick Gingras) narrowly claimed third up the pegs over the fading Cattlewash. "It's very surreal; I'm thankful for the opportunity to be here under the circumstances," said McCarthy about his first foray north of the 49th parallel since relocating to the U.S. from his native Australia. Brett Pelling trains 15-time winner Allywag Hanover, who has earned just shy of $900,000 in his career, for the 10-person Allywag Stable partnership. Allywag Hanover's Canadian Pacing Derby win follows a series of high-level scores this season, including the Sam McKee Memorial and the William Haughton Memorial, the latter of which was the venue for his 1:47.1 lifetime mark. "He's just been terrific," McCarthy continued. "I was lucky enough to pick him up at the right time, and Brett's got him razor sharp right now. It was a big thing to come here, and to supplement certainly wasn't cheap." Click here to return to the News Centre. The eliminations for the 38th Pepsi North America Cup are in the books, with Bulldog Hanover and Perfect Sting emerging top of the flock on Saturday (Sept. 4) at Woodbine Mohawk Park heading to the $1 million final next week. Bulldog Hanover bested tempo-setter Rockyroad Hanover in a gutsy 1:49 mile to take the first $50,000 elimination for the Pepsi North America Cup. Rockyroad Hanover rolled to the top heading to a :27.3 first quarter as Southwind Gendry readied then halted a first-over move from fourth. Bulldog Hanover sat fifth into the backside, but with the pace slow up the backside driver Jody Jamieson hustled the Shadow Play colt for the front approaching a :56.3 half. Bulldog Hanover could not clear control from Rockyroad Hanover into the final turn, and the duo dueled at high speeds to three-quarters in 1:22.4. The pace remained hot into the straightaway, but Bulldog Hanover put away Rockyroad Hanover under minimal encouragement into the final eighth to win chased home by Desperate Man in second. Rockyroad Hanover settled for third, with Southwind Gendry and Bettor Sun completing the top five. I just think hes the best horse on the continent, Jamieson said after the race. To come the race that he did there he just felt so great to me. We were walking going to the half and he was settled in like a great horse does. I didnt even ask him to pace going to the half and he just took off. When I called on him at the head of the lane, he kicked into another gear again. I dont even know what gear it was; hes just an amazing horse. I didnt expect the race to go like that, nor did I expect it to go that slow. But he just overcame a bad trip and a bad drive I guess. Thats just the things that great horses do and hes a great horse. I think he might be the best horse Ive ever driven, and I dont say that lightly Co-owned by trainer Jack Darling through his Jack Darling Stables Ltd. along with Brad Grant, Bulldog Hanover won his sixth race from eight starts this season and his 10th from 14 overall, earning $577,811. He paid $2.60 to win. Perfect Sting displayed his grit when taking the second $50,000 elimination in a 1:49.4 mile. Away third to a :27 first quarter, driver David Miller brushed Perfect Sting to the point into the backside and cruised by a :55.4 half with Whichwaytothebeach sitting the pocket and Summa Cum Laude stalking from third. Miller snagged a breather around the final turn as Whichwaytothebeach grew anxious from the pocket and came rolling for the lead to three-quarters in 1:24. Whichwaytothebeach headed Perfect Sting off the turn and maintained control to the eighth pole, where Perfect Sting held his ground to the pylons and fought back for the front. The resurgent colt by Always B Miki then edged away from Whichwaytothebeach nearing the line with Abuckabett Hanover closing for third. Simon Says Hanover and Jimmy Connor B rounded the finalists. He had not [fought back] since he raced the older horses, trainer Joe Holloway said after the race. He dug deep that night, and then hes just been there. Nobodys gone tougher trips; hes been consistent I think weve gotten beat a total of about 12 feet. But he just lets them get by. But tonight, he dug back in. David and I talked about it, and we made a bridle change and we had some earplugs in the holes in the bridle and pulled it out when Sylvain [Filion and Whichwaytothebeach] was next to him. I think that helped. [Dave] said I think he likes that; I think hes back. Its tough to say hes not there, but hes hit the board in every start, hes second in [1:]48 at Pocono, hes cut quarters in :25.1, but hes not been himself. Winning his fourth race from nine starts this season and his 14th from 19 overall, Perfect Sting surpassed $1 million in earnings with the victory. Farms LLC and Val DOr Farms own the $3.00 winner. To return to the News Centre, click here. Im King Conn ($2.10) looked every bit the part of a twenties-on favourite in his $7,000 division of the Ontario Prospect Series on Saturday (Sept. 4) at Kawartha Downs, drilling a 1:53.4 mile to take top honours. Dale Spence drove the Dr. Ian Moore trainee to his maiden-breaking score, outpacing pocket rival Rivercruise (Nick Boyd) through a :56.3 first half before steadily widening his margin of clearance up the backstretch and running up the score to an 18-1/2-length win. La Playa Deo (Tyler Jones) recovered from an early break to just edge Rivercruise for second. Breeder Princeton Farms co-owns the Hes Watching-Sweet Brown colt Im King Conn with Joanne McComb, along with Moore and Spence. Kim and Dan Sergeant's Final Cheeserecipe ($6.90) withstood a first-over grind to power past a Moore-trained favourite, Shadowmoon Rising, en route to a 1:54.1 win in the $7,100 first division. Tyler Jones set the Betterthancheddar-Ingrid Hanover gelding into motion from fourth up the backstretch, working alongside Shadowmoon Rising (Spence) past three-quarters in 1:23.2 before duelling him down off the corner for home. After putting the favourite away, Final Cheeserecipe sprinted away to evade E L Gladiator (Aaron Byron) by three lengths. Shadowmoon Rising held third. Blake MacIntosh trains Final Cheeserecipe, who also broke maiden. Thomas Riley recorded a training hat trick on the 11-race card, harnessing Anchor So Reel ($6.00, Murray Brethour, 1:56.3), YS Lotus ($2.20, Jones, 1:53.1) and Wags ($3.00, Brethour, 1:55.2) before their respective victories. Kawartha Downs hosted a memorable occasion for Russell and Mary Bax, who celebrated their 50th anniversary in style on Saturday night. It all started for the couple at Morrow Park in Peterborough, Ont. 50 years ago. The anniversary celebration was a complete surprise to Mary as family and friends joined the couple in the winner's circle on this very special day. To view Saturday's complete results, click the following link: Saturday Results Kawartha Downs. Ontarios top two-year-old pacing colts opened an action-packed night of stakes racing at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Saturday (Sept. 4), competing in two $100,000-plus Gold Series divisions on a card worth more than $1.9 million. Fans sent two-time Gold Series winner Stonebridge Helios as their top choice in the first $101,400 division, and the strapping son of Sunshine Beach did not disappoint. Driver Bob McClure eased the colt away from post 4 and settled in fourth as Bob Loblaw led the field to a :27 opening quarter, then sent his charge to the lead on the way to the :54.4 half. Macho Phil mounted a challenge heading by the 1:24.2 three-quarters, but Stonebridge Helios pulled away to a one-length victory in 1:52.2. Bootlegger Charlie and Coligny Hanover, also by Sunshine Beach, closed well for second and third. He really raced well. Bob [McClure] had to go to plan B off the gate there and he was used pretty hard til the half, and then Jody [Jamieson] came hard, and he looked like he won comfortably enough. Im sure if you asked the horse hed think he was tired, but it looked good from where I was standing, said trainer John Pentland of London, who shares ownership of the colt with John Fleischman of Ottawa and breeder Angie Stiller of Arva, Ont. I was impressed that off a three week lay-off he could come back and race that well. After debuting in the Ontario Sires Stakes program with a second-place result in the Grassroots season opener, Stonebridge Helios has been undefeated in Gold Series action, winning at Woodbine Mohawk Park on July 16 and Aug. 14. Through five starts, the colt boasts a record of three wins and two seconds for earnings of $162,125 and he sits atop the Gold Series standings with a perfect 150 points. Provided he remains happy and healthy, Stonebridge Helios will make his next start in the Sept. 11 Champlain Stakes at Woodbine Mohawk Park, finish the Gold Series regular season at Flamboro Downs on Oct. 3 and then return to Woodbine Mohawk Park for the Ontario Sires Stakes Super Final on Oct. 16. Theres not a lot left on his plate, but that race [Champlain] and the Super Final are the two I am looking forward to, said Pentland, noting that his staff have been critical to the colts success. Everybody in my stable is treating this horse like hes royalty and its kind of fun. Its just a fun year having a horse like this. Weve been down this road before, luckily, and its always a thrill. Keep throwing it at me, because I tell you it aint ever going to get old, its a thrill. In the second $100,600 Gold Series division, Magical Arthur stormed away from post 6 and hit the quarter in :27.4. On the way to the :56 half, driver Sylvain Filion yielded to favourite Betterhavemymoney and Magical Arthur shadowed that colt briefly before stepping to the outside heading by the 1:25 three-quarters. A big finishing kick propelled Magical Arthur past the favourite and on to a one and three-quarter length victory in 1:52. Camealongway closed to be second, leaving Betterhavemymoney to settle for third. Hes actually getting real good at the right time of year, I guess is what most people would say, right, said trainer Anthony Beaton of Waterdown, Ont. It didnt look like he was going to get there, but then all of a sudden it was like he shook the gears again. He hit the right gear at the right time anyway, and he mowed down Nicks [Gallucci, Betterhavemymoney] horse there, which is a very nice horse too. The win was Magical Arthurs third straight over the Woodbine Mohawk Park oval. The Artspeak son earned his first win in the Aug. 16 Grassroots Leg and then captured his Nassagaweya division on Aug. 28. The Nassagaweya was the only open stake event on the geldings calendar, so he will enjoy a bit of downtime before the Oct. 3 Gold Leg at Flamboro Downs. Hes probably earned the right to a few days off and maybe get a little freshening up. He still seems to be pretty fresh anyway, but it never hurts to freshen up a little, right, and get ready for Flamboro, said Beaton, who trains Magical Arthur for owner/breeder David Lumsden of Ancaster, Ont. Ive been super impressed with him, Ive been impressed with him all along, but Ive been just super impressed the last three starts with him, added Beaton. Im just hoping things keep going forward, and he keeps getting better and we can have a real good year by the end of it. Ontario Sires Stakes excitement continues at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Monday (Sept. 6) with the fourth Grassroots Leg for the two-year-old trotting colts and geldings. The colts will compete in a trio of $22,500 divisions, slated as Races 2, 6 and 8 on the card, which starts at 7 p.m. (EDT). Fans can download a program and watch the live stream on the Campbellville ovals website or register to attend in person. (Ontario Sires Stakes) To return to the News Centre, click here. With her third straight victory Sunday in the $5,500 Mares Preferred Handicap Pace, Kiss Me Bad can now wear the crown of 'Queen of the Mares' at the Hippodrome 3R. Owned, trained and driven to victory by Steven Gagnon, the five-year-old mare by Badlands Hanover once again showed her great ability in racing on the outside in capturing the eighth race feature. Race favourite Sophies Cam (Stephane Brosseau) took control of the race right from the starting gate. With You Rock Girl Kir (Stephane Gendron) grabbing the two-hole spot, Sophies Cam led to the first quarter in :27.3. Meanwhile, Kiss Me Bad and Gagnon got away poorly from post seven and started up first-over. Before the half-mile in :57.3, Kiss Me Bad flushed Sieras Rose (Pascal Berube), but once they reached the backstretch, the cover was not sufficient enough for Gagnon and he took Kiss Me Bad three-wide. They were able to clear first-over at the three-quarters in 1:27.3 and collared pacesetter Sophies Cam around the final turn. As they started down the stretch, Kiss Me Bad still had some late kick, pulling away for a 2-3/4 length triumph over Sophies Cam, with Y C Easy (Francis Picard) third. The time of the mile was 1:57 flat. L to R: Daniel Mondou, Steven Gagnon and Josee-Ouellet with Kiss Me Bad in the winner's circle at Hippodrome 3R. (Thephotodesk.ca) The win was the fourth of the year from 13 starts for Kiss Me Bad. She paid $7.20 to win as the 5-2 second choice. The fourth race trot was billed as a big match-up between the two top three-year-old trotters, the filly, X O X O, and the colt, Hall Win, both prepping for Super Sunday next weekend. But the match-up never materialized. Hall Win and driver Kevin Maguire shot right to the lead and cut the mile while X O X O (Jerome Lombart) was content to sit in third place. Eau Naturelle and driver Stephane Brosseau came first-over after a :29 opening quarter and :59.3 half-mile, continuing to gain on race leader Hall Win at the three-quarters in 1:29.2. Also joining the fray and tipping three-wide was Goaltender and driver Pascal Berube. Those three were neck and neck starting down the stretch as Hall Win began to tire and Eau Naturelle showed true grit in holding off Goaltender to win by three-quarters of a length in 2:00.3. Goaltender nosed out Hall Win for second place. X O X O settled for fifth place. The win was the fourth this year from 20 starts for Eau Naturelle, who is owned and trained by Carl Duguay. The eight-year-old mare by Windsong Espoir paid $19 to win. Entering Sundays program, both Pascal Berube and Stephane Brosseau were tied for the lead in the driver standings at H3R, 46-46. With Brosseau scoring a driving triple, he has taken command of the lead as Berube scored only one win, 49-47. Stephane Gendron also had a driving triple. Next Sunday, Sept. 12 is Super Sunday at H3R with the richest racing card of the year in Quebec. There will be more than $500,000 in purses headlined by the eight finals of the Breeders Trophy Series and the Future Stars Series. The four three-year-old Breeders Trophy Series finals will race for a purse of $60,000 each while the four two-year-old Future Stars Series finals race for $50,000 each. Track Notes: Next week's Super Sunday card starts at 12:10 p.m. A free program will be available at hippodrome3r.ca by Thursday. To view Sunday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Sunday Results - Hippodrome 3R. (With files from Quebec Jockey Club) Erdman said it is important for Nebraskans to see just how broken the current tax system is through the presentations provided. His EPIC Consumption Tax plan would replace income, property, sales, and inheritance tax with a new tax on retail sales of services and new goods. It would also come with a monthly pre-bate, covering tax burdens up to the federal poverty rate. Nebraskas tax system does not need to be reworked; it needs to be replaced, Erdman said via email. Trying to fix Nebraskas tax system is like putting a Band-Aid on an amputated limb. In January of this year, Erdman introduced a resolution, LR11CA, which called for a constitutional amendment in the state of Nebraska to impose a consumption tax. The bill advanced out of the Revenue Committee, but was two votes short of having the Legislature pass it. He said the Consumption Tax Institute, which developed the plan, could help petition for it to be back on the ballot next year with enough public support. I have found through my own experience that whenever people take the time to understand the EPIC Consumption Tax, they fall in love with it almost immediately, he said. The upcoming meeting, which will take place Friday, Sept. 10, from 9 to 11 a.m., will focus on the community of Morrill. The last meeting, which was back in February 2020, was the first meeting on Morrill, and Wolf said it was a large success. (We) had a great, great event; lots of people showed up, and it was one (with) really, really lots of stories. It was really kind of cool, he said. Then of course, March is when COVID hit, so were just going to start over again with Morrill. Wolf said they usually continue with one community until practically all memories of the various photos have been exhausted, and then they move on to a new community. Mitchell will likely be next. Well probably go through Morrill to the end of the year, because we just kind of keep going until we run out of stories, he said. The event is open to community members of all ages, since anyone might have a clue toward any of the photos. Wolf said that even individuals not from a specific community are welcome to join, even if they are just interested in learning more about that communitys history or its role in the general history of the Panhandle. You would think transparency with those paying your salary, the ones you work for, would be normal practice, however, too often with elected officials it is not. Instead of openness there is a desire to slip behind closed doors and practice old school Chicago politics. Remove the voter, the taxpayer, and speed up the process with a few back room deals. Whether it's the building of a road or the selection of a new council member, doing it all in a meeting with voters attending could throw a monkey wrench into everything. However, that is how democracy is supposed to work. Without transparency you have communism, totalitarianism. That is not America; instead we are a government "by the people and for the people." Open so all have the ability to have a voice in the direction their government is going. Politicians who would rather keep the public in the dark should not be kept in office. Keeping the voter and taxpayer out of the discussion is disrespectful to the men and women who voted for them. It is an arrogate politician saying, loud and clear, "I am smarter than you and I don't care what you think. Just shout up and blindly follow." This type of leadership also violates the Open Meetings Acts. Taliban forces pulled out the corpses of 11 people who had been crushed to death in the desperate crowd, she said. Once in France, she was taken to an abandoned building in a Paris suburb that the government hastily converted into temporary shelter for those fleeing Afghanistan. For three days, we were in complete quarantine so we couldnt go anywhere. I didnt have internet," she said. "When they released us, we had only two hours and I ran to the mobile shop to get a SIM card. But other people, they went to the Eiffel Tower, she said. I was angry because ... we lost a country and people seemed to me very careless," thinking about tourism instead of their homeland, she said. "But on the other hand, we already lost it, so what is the point of crying? Sadat joined a protest Sunday by aid groups and others demanding that Western governments do more to help those left behind and put pressure on the Taliban. Some Afghans who have been struggling for years to get asylum joined the demonstration, along with those who recently arrived. I got involved in suicide prevention because my daughter had attempted suicide, and I did not know how to help her. So, I did a lot of research and found the AFSP and became very involved with them, said Tolle. In todays society, suicide feels very prevalent. However, how are we to know that it was not this prevalent years ago? We do not know if suicide was as prevalent as years before, but we do know it is more reported than before. People think, Its more prevalent now, but maybe we are diagnosing it more now, said Mona Ismail, MD, and psychiatrist at Iredell Psychiatry. When I was young, and people had a mental illness, you hid them away because of the stigma. We used to whisper about it. But, weve made a lot of progress, and we reduce that stigma the more we talk about it, added Tolle. The more we, as a society, talk about and raise awareness of suicide, the more we reduce the stigma. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, many believed there would be a significant rise in depression and more suicides. As devastating as the pandemic was, and still is, a recent report from the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed that suicides in the United States actually decreased 6% last year. Post makes false claim about FDA approval for Pfizer's shot One Instagram post acknowledged the Comirnaty vaccine had received FDA approval, but made the false claim that the only available doses are Pfizer vials that are still just under emergency use authorization. In fact, Comirnaty is the brand name Pfizer is using to market its COVID-19 vaccine and there is no distinction between the two. In December, the FDA granted Pfizer's vaccine emergency use authorization based on a study of 44,000 people 16 and older who were followed for two months. During public health emergencies, the FDA can issue emergency use authorizations for products that prevent, treat or diagnose a disease. After Pfizer submitted six months of follow up safety data, the FDA granted full approval for those 16 and older to use the vaccine, now marketed as Comirnaty. The formulation used in the FDA-approved Comirnaty vaccine is identical to the shot that previously received emergency use authorization. "It's the same vaccine," Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, vice dean for public health practice and community engagement at Johns Hopkins University and former FDA deputy commissioner, told the AP. "There is only one vaccine." Sharfstein said since some people were waiting for the FDA to grant full approval, last week's announcement should encourage more vaccinations. Pfizer was already using the Comirnaty name on its vaccine vials and packaging before the vaccine received full approval for people 16 and older on August 23. Pfizer announced in December that it was marketing the vaccine in the European Union under that brand name. A Pfizer news release at the time said the name Comirnaty, "represents a combination of the terms COVID-19, mRNA, community, and immunity, to highlight the first authorization of a messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine, as well as the joint global efforts that made this achievement possible with unprecedented rigor and efficiency and with safety at the forefront during this global pandemic." Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccines remain under emergency use authorization for teenagers ages 12 through 15, and for immunocompromised individuals receiving a third dose, until Pfizer submits its application and safety data for those groups. If I stay out of the pool, then Im not competing with restaurants that feel safer opening, Horton said. I assume they made the best decision that they can make for themselves. New plans for an old building Before she purchased Old Creekside Cafe last summer, Danielle Rowley was in the Kalama food scene. Rowley owns Bear Country Catering and helps organize and cater events. She purchased the restaurant from Paige Espinoza, who owns the neighboring Country Folks Deli. Espinoza ran the restaurant for two months before the challenges of running two eateries at the same time during COVID became overwhelming. Rowley said the plan to eventually expand the cafe into a full event center always had been on her mind. She saw the need for a mid-size location to host community events a location smaller than the Expo Center, but with the capabilities to feed up to a few hundred people at once. Rowley said she also wants to keep the restaurants original welcoming nature. I want it to be a place where people can come by after work to have a drink and some small bites, maybe bring a date. But it will also be a family area, Rowley said. Google Clock app alarm: The Google Clock app is arguably one of the most important apps on a smartphone that it comes with, and while most alarm apps are usually quite reliable, a bug can cause issues for users. And this is exactly what has happened to the Google Clock alarm. Many users have taken to social media to complain about a new bug that has allegedly hit the Google Clock app, while Google appears to be investigating the issue. According to a report by Android Authority, many users have begun to vent their frustration with the Google Clock app on the apps listing on the Google Play Store, with one-star reviews. One of the most common complaints in connection with this issue is alarms not ringing, while a Reddit thread has also been created to explain the issue, with other users chiming in with similar experiences. It appears that the issue might be caused by users Do Not Disturb (DND) settings as well as using a third-party app like Spotify for alarm sounds. Also read: Looking for a smartphone? Check Mobile Finder here. Google also allows users who do not have a Pixel phone to download the Google Clock app on their smartphones. Some of the negative reviews on the Play Store come from users with other devices, and they also claim that they have been affected by the same bug. While a fix for other devices could take longer, Android Police spotted that the Google Pixel community account on Reddit has responded that a fix has been identified and it will be rolled out to users soon, while users are advised to stop using Spotify to set an alarm tone at least for now. In addition to the complaints on the Google Play Store and on Reddit, the Google Issue Tracker feature is also monitoring the issue, and TechRadar reports that the company is now looking into the issue. Since the issue appears to be caused due to the Spotify integration with the Google Clock app, it might be worth using one of the built-in system alarm sounds to fix the issue, until a reliable fix is identified. Users can also try downloading a third-party alarm app, and whitelisting it from the battery saving feature on their smartphone to make sure the alarms ring when they need to wake up. Optical Image Stabilisation or OIS feature is known to be present on most flagship devices. It provides stability to the videos as well as reduces blur due to hand-shiver in photos. While the feature is mostly found in the flagship segment, it is tipped that Samsung will include OIS on its Galaxy A series devices coming in 2022 and thereby take on Xiaomi. To recall, Samsung introduced OIS on the main cameras of a few of its Galaxy A series devices this year. These included Galaxy A52 as well as Galaxy A72. It looks like things will get better next year. The latest development comes from a report from Korea. It says that Samsung is likely to add OIS to the main cameras of all of the Galaxy A-series models that it is going to launch in 2022. This will lead to the democratisation of the feature as it is only available on the flagship smartphones and few budget flagships. For years, it has been reserved for expensive smartphones. If Samsung is indeed prepping to pull this off, it could be the differentiating feature for its mid-rangers in its war with Xiaomi, which offers a win on price compared to Samsung's offerings. However, OIS on Samsung Galaxy A series devices could result in Samsung gaining the upper hand over the Xiaomi offerings. The report also says a camera with OIS is around 15% more expensive than one without it, and the impact of adding OIS into a phone's bill of materials is about 3%. Hence, we can expect Samsung to add OIS to only mid-range Galaxy A-series devices and not the budget A series smartphones. For reference, Samsung offers budget Galaxy A devices in India that are present below the 15,000 range. It is unlikely for the company to include OIS on these smartphones. However, we expect the Korean giant to offer OIS on mid-range Galaxy A-series devices. We dont know the exact details of the sensors or megapixel numbers on the future Galaxy A series smartphones. Moreover, it is an open question how many people even know what OIS is or why it's important, or how many people would like to have the feature. Windows 10 and Android users are now facing a threat from a dangerous Bluetooth Classic flaw. As per the security experts, 16 vulnerabilities have been discovered, which have been collectively dubbed "BrakTooth." These impact a wide range of devices that rely on Bluetooth to connect to external speakers, headphones, mice, keyboards, and much more. Further, the flaws affect the chips provided by leading brands like Qualcomm, Intel, and Texas Instruments. For reference, these chips are used by a number of manufacturers including the likes of Microsoft Surface laptops, Dell desktop PCs, as well as several top-tier Android smartphones, including some Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus and more smartphones. The study was conducted by researchers on 13 chips from 11 vendors. That said, the paper from Singapore University says the bugs could be found on at least 1,400 embedded chip components in total. This bug affects a wide range of electronic items including smartphones, laptops as well as smart home gadgets since most of them come with Bluetooth connectivity. In total, more than one billion devices that rely on Bluetooth are believed to be impacted. As for the damage, it depends on the type of device with the chipset. Some devices can only be crashed after a specially crafted packet is sent to the flawed chip. If this happens, it can be resolved with a simple restart. However, hackers can take advantage of the Bluetooth Classic flaw to remotely run malicious code. It could allow malware to be installed remotely. As per the researchers, the vendors have been informed about these issues months ago before the findings were published. Hence, the vendors have had plenty of time for the relevant patches to be pushed out that remedy the flaws. How you can protect your Windows 10, Android gadgets: Notably, you will have to make sure that you're running the latest version of the operating system to be protected by the patch crafted by the manufacturers. Security experts at Malwarebytes pointed out that, since the threat revolves around Bluetooth Classic, a bad actor would need to be within "radio range" to carry out an attack. Theres no way Dee tried to attack her. Dee didnt have an aggressive bone in her body, said Amy Graham, one of Citizens friends. While these shootings happened before the new permitless carry law took effect, law enforcement officials and gun control groups like Moms Demand Action worry they could become more common, since more untrained people will be walking around armed. Guns are for defense. They are really to protect peoples lives, not to settle disputes, and thats what I fear happening, said Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, the top prosecutor in Houston. I just think more guns more access necessarily means more shootings and more killings. Thats bad for Houston. Thats bad for Texas." Young, with Texas Gun Rights, said gun control groups promise terror and violence and blood in the streets if theres any movement toward gun rights. But she contends that states with similar laws to Texas' are among the safest in the country. Angelica Halphen, whose 18-year-old son Harrison Schmidt was killed in a 2019 road rage shooting in Houston by someone who legally bought a gun but had no training, said she doesn't think the new law will make people safer. She fears it will result in more deadly road rage attacks. NEW YORK (AP) Willard Scott, the beloved weatherman who charmed viewers of NBC's "Today" show with his self-deprecating humor and cheerful personality, has died. He was 87. His successor on the morning news show, Al Roker, announced that Scott died peacefully Saturday morning surrounded by family. An NBC Universal spokeswoman confirmed the news. No further details were released. "He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit," Roker wrote on Instagram. "Willard was a man of his times, the ultimate broadcaster. There will never be anyone quite like him." Scott began his 65-year career at NBC as an entry-level page at an affiliate station in Washington, D.C., and rose to become the weather forecaster on the network's flagship morning show for more than three decades. His trademark was giving on-air congratulations to viewers who turned 100 years old. The death of the 13 U.S. military men and women in Afghanistan reminded us that a whole generation of young people have no memory of that awful Sept. 11 in 2001 when the world as we knew it came crashing down. Most of the 11 Marines, one soldier and one Navy medic were in the early 20s. In fact, five were only 20, born in the months around the terror attack on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Most of them had no memory of that day when Americans learned what a dangerous world we live in, learned that there are people who hated us so much they would go to any length to bring us harm. The 13 military personnel killed had no memory of the Oct. 7, 2001, opening of Operation Enduring Freedom, the war to defeat the Taliban and al-Qaida. While they were too young to remember, most Americans never can forget that late summer morning in 2001. Of course, there had been other attacks on Americans abroad, but they were far away and easier to ignore. We might get our temper up for a few days, but then everything returned to normal for most us but, of course, not for the loved ones of those killed attacks around the world. The buoyancy property of water helps to support the weight of the patient, reducing weight bearing and stress on the joints, which in turn reduces pain. The viscosity of the water adds resistance, aiding in strengthening and body awareness activities, and paired with the buoyancy for the reduction of stress on the joints, patients can participate in weight bearing and strengthening activities that outside of the water would be too painful. CVA, Land O Lakes support FFA program Central Valley Ag Cooperative has partnered with Land O Lakes Inc. and its Land O Lakes Foundation Member Co-Op Program to again support the Nebraska FFA Foundation and the I Believe in the Future of Ag Program. This program helps local FFA chapters raise money for innovative projects in their classrooms, leadership programming, community service projects, and field trips to advance agriculture education in their schools. FFA is so important for the future of agriculture and the local communities we serve, said Nic McCarthy, senior vice president for agronomy for CVA. Having a head start is what could make that possible, Otto said. You have to have five years of experience welding. I started when I was 16 at Chief, he said. I get a degree, then I can do it in four years. By the time Im 20, I should be able to test. In the nearer future, the Surgeons of Steel are planning another trip to Texas. In November, when we do go back to Houston, were trying out some different stuff underwater, Otto said. We also got invited, us five, to Arclabs, which is a welding school down there. Theyre going to hold a high school event, and were going to be able to do a demo for high school students. Its going to be crazy, because of the high schools ... teaching other high school students ... Holley mentioned Otto returning to GISH Academy of Technical Sciences as a presenter after graduation, sharing his passion with students who could be the next industry influencer. Hes just kind of taking this by the horns through this welding influencer path, he said. Thats something that we dont directly just say, hey, go out and do this, but hes taken upon himself and has the confidence to lead other students and other people around the world in this journey that hes on. Meanwhile, officers heard cries for help inside the home, but were unsure whether there were additional shooters and feared the home was booby-trapped. A brave sergeant rushed in and grabbed the 11-year-old girl who had been shot at least seven times. She told deputies there were three dead people inside, Judd said, adding that she was rushed into surgery and was expected to survive. Deputies sent robots into the home to check for explosives and other traps. When it was clear, they found the bodies of Gleason; the 33-year-old mother; the baby; and the babys 62-year-old grandmother, who was in a separate home nearby. Authorities released only Gleasons name, and did not say if or how he was related to the other victims. Authorities declined to say how many times the victims had been shot or where they were in the home, but said they were all hiding and huddling in fear. The family dog also was shot to death. Authorities said Rileys girlfriend of four years, whom he lived with, had been cooperative and was shocked, saying he was never violent but suffered from PTSD and had become increasingly erratic. I could hear the deafening bursts of gunfire being fired in the air by the Taliban as they celebrated the last U.S. flight out of Kabul. I was on WhatsApp with Yusif (Im using only first names to protect sources), one of many thousands of Afghan translators for the U.S. military whom the U.S. has abandoned to the Taliban, despite President Joe Bidens pledge to rescue them before leaving. As he huddled on the floor with his wife in an apartment near the airport, Yusif was terrified a gun battle might engulf them. In a surreal moment, as the news popped up on my screen, I informed him from Philadelphia that the guns were celebrating Americas defeat. This was a moment of deep shame for our countrys honor and moral standing. The abandonment of Afghan translators (along with 200 or so U.S. citizens) symbolizes the botched exit from Kabul. After former President Donald Trumps surrender pact with the Taliban, Biden was supposed to do better. They are the ones that have bullseyes on their back, Rep. Mike McCaul, R-Texas, told CNN, referring to translators. The White House must use every economic lever to compel the Taliban to let these Afghan allies go. The best bang for your buck! This option enables you to purchase online 24/7 access and receive the Sunday, Tuesday & Thursday print edition at no additional cost * Print edition only available in our carrier delivery area. Allow up to 72 hours for delivery of your print edition to begin. Print edition not available for Day Pass option. Around 12:10 a.m., a 22-year-old man was shot in the back of the head while traveling in the back seat of a car in the 2900 block of North Lawndale Avenue in the Logan Square neighborhood. Police said the man was shot at by two people on motorcycles who then fled the scene. The man was taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in critical condition. Two young men, 18 and 20, were shot around 12:05 a.m. in the 4800 block of South Ada Street in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, police said. Both were shot in the leg and taken to University of Chicago Medical Center in fair condition. They declined to provide further details about the shooting, police said. A man, 41, was shot around 11:50 p.m. Saturday in Lawndale. Police found the man lying between two parked vehicles in the 1600 block of South Central Park Avenue, they said; he had been shot in the chest. He was taken to Mount Sinai Hospital in critical condition and pronounced dead at 12:56 a.m. A man, 28, was shot while driving in the South Loop around 11:45 p.m. Police said the man was driving in the 500 block of South Wabash Avenue when he was shot in the foot, causing him to lose control of his vehicle and strike a light post. He was taken to Stroger Hospital where he was in good condition. Police said the man stated the gunman was wearing a white hooded sweater and was inside a white vehicle. A 21-year-old man was shot around 2:30 a.m. Saturday on the Far South Side in East Side neighborhood in the 10500 block of South Avenue G. Police said the man was driving when he heard shots and felt pain to the hip. He was driven by a friend to Advocate Trinity Hospital where he was transferred to Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn where he was listed in fair condition, police said. Shortly before 12:15 a.m., five people were shot in a drive-by on the West Side in the 1400 block of South Tripp Avenue in the Lawndale neighborhood. The victims were among a large group when someone inside a black 4-door Nissan opened fire. A 22-year-old man was hit in the shoulder, and another man, 27, suffered wounds to the back. Both men were taken to mount Sinai Hospital and listed in good condition. Two woman, ages 25 and 33, got themselves to Mount Sinai with the youngest suffering a graze wound to the hip, and the oldest being shot in a leg. Both were listed in good condition, police said. A fifth victim, a 34-year-old woman was shot twice in the leg, and was taken to Stroger Hospital where she was listed in fair condition, police said. In other attacks overnight: And then history repeated itself last week when the General Assemblys focus was supposed to be on the legislative remap do-over. Harmon couldnt close the climate/energy deal talks amidst numerous large and small objections from the governor and the greens. Blame Harmon, blame Pritzker, blame whomever. The talks failed. Three strikes, youre out, etc., so now the ball is in Pritzkers court. Harmon finally surrendered control and punted a climate/energy bill to the House, where Speaker Chris Welch has warned both Pritzker and Harmon that he isnt moving a bill unless all three agree to it. Harmons game plan has obviously been to appease trade unions in order to fund his redistricting-year campaigns in 2022. Speaker Welch has never expected to receive the same level of support from the white-dominated trades that flooded the kitty of his predecessor Michael Madigan, so he appears to be aligning himself with our billionaire governor to help fund the 2022 season. But, in reality, maybe it was time to hand all this over to fresh eyes, because what the Senate was doing just didnt move the ball forward enough. The proceedings last week often devolved into petty one-upmanship. Local editor's pick top story We could not have made it without you: Employers thankful for employees who worked during COVID GENE ZALESKI, T&D Orangeburg County Special Needs and Disabilities Board Arbor Point House Manager Christel White assists OCSNDB client Daniel Dale with his bedding. OCSNDB management praises employees like White for their commitment and dedication in working throughout the pandemic. GENE ZALESKI, T&D Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac automotive technician Alex Dent was among many employees at Orangeburgs Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac to work during the height of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. GENE ZALESKI, T&D Orangeburg County Special Needs and Disabilities Board Administrative Assistant Bria Fraiser has been the constant welcoming face at the OCSNDB offices on St. Matthews Road throughout the pandemic. GENE ZALESKI, T&D Calhoun Oil Company, Inc. St. Matthews Road BP service station employees, from left, cashier Krystal Smalls, Manager Diann Randolph and cashier Shirley Keitt worked throughout the height of the coronavirus pandemic. GENE ZALESKI, T&D Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac Sales Consultant Verne Whitmore was among many employees at Orangeburgs Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac to work during the height of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. GENE ZALESKI, T&D Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac service advisors Kendall Jamison, left, and Diana Waltz were among many employees at Orangeburgs Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac to work during the height of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. Labor Day has traditionally been set aside each year to honor and recognize workers and their contributions to the United States. For the last two years, Labor Day has taken on even more significance as the coronavirus pandemic has tested the stamina and fortitude of many workers. The sacrifices made by those who have risked health and safety to serve the public are being praised by employers who continue to struggle with workforce shortages. Calhoun Oil Company Inc. President Boyd McLeod III thanked the companys employees and nurses, doctors, truck drivers, teachers, law enforcement and all employees that have helped keep our communities moving forward. The company has tried to show its appreciation to its workers in a number of ways over the past year, McLeod said. It has raised its starting wages and also provided proactive raises for current employees. Deadline for Orangeburg County Fair Pageant Sept. 3 With fall just around the corner, you may be looking for wholesome family events and community outings to celebrate the coming of season. The 2021 Orangeburg County Fair is less than two months away, set to be open to the public from Tuesday, Oct. 5 through Sunday, Oct. 10. You can get involved now as many opportunities to participate in the annual excitement have already begun. We have used different tools to thank employees, McLeod said. Last Christmas, we had Santa Claus deliver gift bags to all our managers instead of having a Christmas function. Also, during the slowdown last year, we provided hours and pay equal to the employees normal pay, McLeod said. We also offered incentives to employees to take the vaccine when it became available, without making it mandatory, while it was under an emergency authorization. Calhoun Oil Company oversees convenience stores in Orangeburg, Calhoun and Sumter counties. The company also operates two Bojangles restaurants - one in Orangeburg and another in Santee. Orangeburg County plans industrial park; speculative building to be developed at U.S. 301-I-26 Orangeburg County is planning to develop a new industrial park at U.S. Highway 301 near the Interstate 26 interchange. Like other Bojangles, McLeod closed his two stores for a day to allow employees to rest. He said there are also plans to provide other employee recognition events in the future. But the company is still facing workforce challenges. McLeod said the labor shortage has gotten worse since the spring. We actually saw some rebounding for the summer, he said. This mostly came from younger employees that were out of various schools and colleges. When school started a few weeks ago, we lost those employees. He said, The loss of employees has left the management strained and the older managers are getting out of the workforce quicker than normal. We are down now approximately 30 to 35 employees. This includes the need for a unit director for Bojangles and assistant manager positions. The business is also looking to fill multiple cashier positions. Orangeburg's Fairey Chevrolet Cadillac was listed as an essential business during the pandemic, meaning it never closed. About 90% of our staff stayed on the entire time and didn't miss a day, dealer operator Joseph Fairey IV said. Fairey said he appreciates all of the businesss workers. We didn't change hours, but it required a lot of flexibility and patience. A year ago, we did not know what masks did. We didn't know if the world was ending at a certain point, he said. Former dealer operator Joseph Fairey III said employees were working harder than ever to provide sales and service. Our employees are us, essentially, Fairey III said. Orangeburg County Chamber of Commerce President James McQuilla said the COVID pandemic has perhaps created the largest disruption in the American lifestyle since at least the pandemic of 1918. He said the pandemic has been a real threat to health and well-being, but said the courageous spirit of the Orangeburg worker shone through. Many employees refused to give in or give up and found ways to be productive in the jobs that were available, he said. For that, they should be applauded, commended and rewarded. Orangeburg County YMCA Executive Director Demetrius Hardy said it has been difficult for the Y during the pandemic. Earlier this summer, the YMCA experienced a shortage in lifeguards, requiring the business to change hours and days of operation. Staffing has improved, but many current school-age staff members are having to adjust their schedules due to classes. When it comes to availability, we know the Y is only a part of our employees lives, Hardy said. The majority of our school-aged staff are also involved in extracurricular activities, so there are opportunities for an unemployed adult or an underemployed person looking to supplement full-time income with a few part-time shifts per week at the Y. Hardy appreciates those who continued to work during the pandemic. To those who worked during the height of the pandemic, I offer two words: THANK YOU! Hardy said. There is not enough time in the day to express how thankful the leadership team at our Y is for the time, effort and sacrifices our staff made in service to our members, guests and program participants. They returned to work after mandatory closures ended to increased safety protocols like social distancing, temperature checks and health screens and often faced extra scrutiny from the people we serve who were all trying to navigate a new normal, Hardy continued. Some of those sacrifices to ensure operations continue are still ongoing. Hardy said an example of the sacrifices that continue to be made include staff adjusting to work mini shifts. They come in and open the building at 5 a.m. work until 7 or 8 a.m., leave for class and then come back after class or work weekends for more traditional shifts, he said. Remote working and virtual/hybrid learning changed the way we see the workday in 2020 and the most successful members of our staff continue to adapt and adjust. As a non-profit, the Y requires a lot from our staff and encourages them to seek fulfillment in their work beyond the pay they receive, Hardy continued. By and large, most of our team does that and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude. The Orangeburg County Disabilities and Special Needs Board has continued to face workforce shortages. We are still having difficulty filling vacant positions and are urgently in need of qualified and dedicated candidates for employment, OCDSNB Executive Director Vonda Steward said. The agency has nine full-time and 26 part-time positions available. Steward called the staff members who have worked during the pandemic 'heroes. We are extremely fortunate and grateful to each and every employee who has diligently worked for OCDSNB throughout the pandemic, Steward said. We recognize and applaud their loyalty and dedication to persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We could not have made it without you, she told employees. Saying thank you seems not to be enough. We do sincerely hope that you know how much we really appreciate you! Kristin Bobenage, human resources director for Planet Fitness, gave a shout-out to those Orangeburg employees who worked throughout the pandemic. They included Club Manager Joyce Johnson, Assistant Manager Hunter Hutto, Certified Fitness Trainer Saxton Peele and front desk worker Kemesha Gillard. TheTandD.com: Full access for 6 months for just $1 Support local journalism by becoming a member at www.TheTandD.com The editor's limited time offer is full access to all the website has to offer for just $1 for six months. https://go.thetandd.com/june3 Without them, our business would not have survived, Johnson said. They were appreciated more than they could imagine. Employee loyalty is our number one predictor and indicator of member loyalty, Johnson said. A lot of our members came to the gym because of our friendly front desk staff. Johnson also thanked those employees who have moved on to other opportunities for their work at Planet Fitness. During the pandemic, those who stayed with us really stood out and stepped up to the plate, Planet Fitness Regional Manager Deborah Fletcher said. They are like family, we are fortunate to have them on our team. They were crucial to our success during that time and we couldn't have done it without them! The gym's employment situation is better now than it was earlier this year. Finding employees had been difficult as applicants often did not respond when contacted for further information. In some cases, they did not show up for interviews. The applicant pool has been much less than normal. The business has offered employee referral bonuses, created hiring brochures and is in the process of designing signs to attract applicants. The Orangeburg office still needs two more dayshift staff members and an additional fitness trainer. We participated in the recent SCWORKS job fair, which was very encouraging, Bobenage said. It was a great turnout, and we definitely received a spike in applicants due to the event. We are very optimistic that we can get our last few positions filled very soon. Workforce challenges continue despite S.C. Gov. Henry McMasters decision to end the state's receipt of extra federal coronavirus unemployment benefits at the end June. McMaster said workforce shortages were induced by the benefits creating a disincentive for people to work. The latest unemployment rates had Bamberg County leading the state with a jobless rate of 8.9% in July. This was up from 8.8% in June. Orangeburg County had an unemployment rate of 7.9% in July. Thats a decline from 8.1% in June. Orangeburg County's unemployment rate was the third-highest in the state. Calhoun Countys rate was 4.8% in July. Thats down from 5% in June. It had the states 17th-highest unemployment rate, tied with Colleton County. Through the end of August, Orangeburg County had about 2,900 job openings, according to South Carolina Works Online Services. Calhoun County had 140 job openings and Bamberg County had about 308 job openings, according to the SCWOS website. McQuilla said, We simply dont have enough people who want to work. I am personally concerned about what I believe is a deteriorating work ethic and will to work in our society. McQuilla described labor as the lifeblood of American ingenuity and innovation. If we cease to revere a hard days work or begin to value leisure above labor, then the result will be catastrophic for our economy and thus, our way of life, McQuilla said. We need to re-establish work as a life-long ambition. Most of us know John Rutledge as a founding father of South Carolina. He served in the First and Second Continental Congresses, helped draft the first state constitution, and served as South Carolinas President (Governor) in 1776. He went on to serve in Congress from 1782-1783 and was very active in drafting the U. S. Constitution. What is less known are the details of Rutledges birth and the emotional issues that plagued him. Rutledges father, Dr. John Rutledge, was from Ireland. Dr. Rutledges brother Andrew immigrated to South Carolina in the 1730s. Andrew established himself as a successful attorney and prominent landowner. He married a widow, Sarah Boone Hext, who had two homes in Charleston and two plantations. Sarah had only one child, a daughter also named Sarah, who would eventually inherit her mothers property. Hearing of Andrews prosperity, Dr. Rutledge decided to immigrate to South Carolina in 1735, when he was about 22. Three years after his arrival, he married his brothers stepdaughter, Sarah, who was 14 at the time. Labor Day has traditionally been set aside each year to honor and recognize workers and their contributions to the United States. For the last two years, Labor Day has taken on even more significance as the coronavirus pandemic has tested the stamina and fortitude of many workers. The sacrifices made by those who have risked health and safety to serve the public are being praised by employers who continue to struggle with workforce shortages. Calhoun Oil Company Inc. President Boyd McLeod III thanked the companys employees and nurses, doctors, truck drivers, teachers, law enforcement and all employees that have helped keep our communities moving forward. The company has tried to show its appreciation to its workers in a number of ways over the past year, McLeod said. It has raised its starting wages and also provided proactive raises for current employees. We have used different tools to thank employees, McLeod said. Last Christmas, we had Santa Claus deliver gift bags to all our managers instead of having a Christmas function. Americans promised never to forget after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The "We will not forget" pledge extended to the wars that followed in Afghanistan and Iraq. The Times and Democrat on the anniversaries of 9-11 has continued with its "We will not forget" commemorative posters, which include the photos of the 11 locals who died in military service to the country in Afghanistan and Iraq. Over the years, the poster remembrance has been expanded to include Memorial Day, July 4 and Veterans Day. As we mark 20 years since Sept. 11, 2001, The Times and Democrat is going beyond the poster commemoration this 9-11. We want the stories of our lost 11 to be told with more than a photo of each. To that end, we'll be reporting in a 9-11 special section on Saturday about the 11 and their families. The section is one of two you'll find in the Saturday print edition and e-edition online at TheTandD.com. Just as we remember the 11 locally, America as a whole must not forget what was lost on 9-11 and in the resulting wars. 2,996 people were killed in the attacks in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania on Sept. 11, 2001. This subscription will allow existing subscribers of The World to access all of our online content, including the E-Editions area. NOTE: To claim your access to the site, you will need to enter the Last Name and First Name that is tied to your subscription in this format: SMITH, JOHN If you need help with exactly how your specific name needs be entered, please email us at admin@countrymedia.net or call us at 1-541 266 6047. What happens is that people rush to the quickest paycheck they can get themselves back to, right, because why wouldnt they, Anderson said. They still have bills to pay, they need to get back on health care coverage, etc. Unfortunately, that isnt necessarily the best option, to do the quickest-to-get option. Part of the challenge is timing: By the time someones been laid off, theyve lost the ability to determine a path forward on their own terms, said Chauffe Schirmer, a national representative for the Utility Workers Union of America and a former employee of Wyomings Jim Bridger power plant. People make decisions to move and relocate hastily. They make decisions to take jobs hastily that then make it harder for them to get the training for what might be their ultimate goal, Schirmer said. But access to longer programs is often difficult for people who have been in the workforce for a while. They dont qualify for most scholarships, and often have families and cant afford to not work full time for the duration of a degree program. A handful of lawmakers have for the past several years attempted to create a state-sponsored scholarship specifically for adult learners 24 years and older called the Wyomings Tomorrow Scholarship. Battles over women's rights, the coronavirus and a warming climate are "not just in Texas, Florida, South Dakota, she said, referring to states with conservative governors. These fights have come to California. Newsom warned that Trump was defeated in 2020 but we did not defeat Trumpism. With just nine days remaining in the contest, Racial justice is on the ballot. Economic justice in on the ballot. Social justice in on the ballot. Environmental justice is on the ballot, the governor said to hundreds of sign-waving supporters, who responded by chanting Vote no on the recall. In recent months, Newsom appeared imperiled from widespread public frustration over his pandemic restrictions that shuttered schools and businesses. But he is hoping to bounce back with a decisive victory that could provide a springboard for 2022, when he will face reelection, and return his name to discussions about future White House contenders. Recent polling has suggested he has established a lead, but Newsom has been warning the race could be close. Mail-in ballots went to all 22 million registered voters in mid-August for the unusual, late-summer election. In the recall, voters are asked two questions: Should Newsom be removed? And, if so, who should replace him? Instead it has become the most conservative wing of the Republican Party. Wyoming had two active third parties in 2010 and has the same two minor parties today the Libertarian Party and the Constitution Party. I have always supported the third party movement because it offers voters a choice. In Wyoming, however the choice has been limited to varying types of conservative policies. Some third party hopefuls, like the Wyoming Country Party, have come and gone. The Wyoming Libertarian Party has been the most consistently active over the years. In the 2020 election for the Wyoming House, Libertarian Marshall Burt won over Democratic incumbent Stan Blake of Sweetwater County. This was a historic win for the national Libertarian Party as Burt was the first Libertarian elected to a state legislature in 20 years.The partys last win was in 2002 when Vermont Rep Neil Randall was elected to his second and final term in the Vermont Legislature. The current Wyoming Libertarian president, Dennis Brossman, could not be reached for comment. An attempt to contact Mike Wheeler, the former Libertarian gubernatorial candidate also was unsuccessful. This author champions a fundamentally conservative ideal: If people want economically viable, small to medium-sized communities, if they want stability and a societal model that permits the inclusion of responsible citizens of all stripes the values embodied in all these state constitutions then extractive industries must be seen as the icing on the cake, not the cake itself. When commodity extraction is perpetuated through political means as critical to the communitys existence, an economic roller coaster with social consequences, like rural population loss, is inevitable. These states need a realistic conversation about what constitutes acceptable partnerships with government. The regions endorsement of Donald Trump highlights voters devotion to conservative values that, due to their lack of agility, are ineffective against the greater forces that threaten to topple them: technology, climate change, a pandemic and foreign economic competition to name a few. Instead of Democrat or Republican, think about the values of 1889. Circa 2021, Republicans in these states embrace a scorched-earth policy toward government oversight. The 89er constitutional delegates were no fans of Washington, but they understood banishing it would lead to fiscal calamity. The current GOP stance on the role of government would be utterly alien to the signers of these state constitutions. Lastly, integrity was a central 89er value. Its ultimate expression is in freedom of conscience. This ideal permitted people of all faiths and beliefs to live amid mountains and plains. There have been a few sorry exceptions, like Montanas 1918 Sedition Law. It criminalized any negative statement about the government. Repeal came three years later. Yet freedom of conscience has fallen out of favor. Trending to the apex is loyalty, which is morphing into its ugly stepchild, obedience. Whoever packaged loyalty and obedience and sold it as freedom may be a marketing genius, but it is authoritarianism the ultimate anti-89ers value in disguise. The 89er states remain unable to reckon their cultural identity, a rural exceptionalism linked to commodity production, rooted in republicanism, with the multicultural, pluralistic society of our future. This seemingly unreconcilable split must be resolved. Samuel Western lives in Sheridan and writes about Northern Rockies economic and political history. Western, who has taught at Sheridan College and the University of Wyoming, is the author of Pushed off the Mountain, Sold down the River: Wyomings Search for its Soul. Contact him at samuelwestern@gmail.com. The 89ers: Finding Progressive Values in the Northern and Plains States Constitutions was originally published in the Summer 2021 issue of Montana The Magazine of Western History. To learn more about the magazine and for subscription information please visit: https://mhs.mt.gov/pubs/ or email tryan@mt.gov. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 The same goes for people with jobs that cant be done at home. If, for example, you work construction and your child is quarantined from school because they were potentially exposed to COVID, you will be stuck at home with them. And if you dont get paid days off, those quarantines will mean a loss of income that will be hard to replace. Small business owners will also take it on the chin from widespread quarantines. If you own a coffee shop or bookstore, and you dont have the workers to sell coffee or books, you dont make money. If you run a machining or welding shop, and your employees are all home with their kids, you cant fulfill your orders. All of that translates to an economic hit that Wyoming cant afford right now. And, ironically, its a hit we dont have to suffer. The reason why so many quarantines are occurring right now can be directly tied back to a pair of decisions: loosening rules on masking and the decision by many not to vaccinate. I write in response to news reports that, according to his spokesman, "The governor has no interest in accepting (Afghan) refugees. Does this cold statement by Governor Gordon really represent the view of the citizens of Wyoming? Reps. Yin (D-Jackson) and Brown (R-Cheyenne) don't agree and rightly conclude that we should instead show the Afghans some Wyoming love. These are people who stood by us at great cost, they are considered "family" by the soldiers who worked with them and they come to the U.S. with a work ethic and love of country that Wyoming should welcome. Wyoming had the seventh slowest growth rate in the nation in the last decade, why wouldn't we welcome these skilled refugees? Anyone with access to private land in the Sheridan region should find success, but those looking to hunt on public land will see high numbers of hunters. Wildlife managers encourage those looking to purchase a leftover license to first secure access to private land. Biologists also caution this is the second year of extreme drought for most of the region, which results in less food, higher fire danger, increased dust, poor snowpack and less surface water. Buck quality could also be down because of poor food conditions. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} Southeast The Laramie region has not suffered from drought as severely as much of the rest of Wyoming this year, though pronghorn numbers will still vary substantially. Numbers in some hunt areas on the southeastern edge of the state have decreased notably in the last four years, and then suffered again from the major March snowstorm that dropped about 2.5 feet of snow in some areas. Pronghorn in the Laramie Valley should be similar to prior years. While conceding that political patronage is a major factor in appointments to State enterprises, retired permanent secretary Arlene McComie says it has to be considered that those people must know what it means to govern. Do you have a news tip? Want to share good news story, or do you have information that should see the light of day? Then we want to hear from you. More here It is said, You can find a Trini anywhere. And this may be true, such as on board a US military ship. Trinidad-born logistics specialist, Officer Nadia Francis, is on board the US Navy vessel Burlington which is currently in T&T on a three-day trip to conduct joint training with the Coast Guard. The eyes and ears of employees and employers alike are intensely focused on the industrial relations battle between Republic Bank and the Banking, Insurance and General Workers Union (BIGWU) and, by extension, the trade union movement, regarding the banks position: unvaccinated workers are required to pay for Covid-19 tests every two weeks. Do US teens have the right to be vaccinated against their parents' will? It depends on where they live Hudbay officials say they wont have much in specifics as to how they might use any of these lands until the company completes its drilling and finishes a preliminary economic assessment of the west slope deposits in the first half of 2022. Could reduce government oversight Rosemonts leading environmental opponents say theyre surprised and very concerned at the scale of the private land holdings the company has accumulated over the years. They say mining on the west slope would destroy habitat for jaguars and other wildlife just as much as a Rosemont Mine on the east slope would, and will use large amounts of water. Of particular concern to these groups Save the Scenic Santa Ritas and the Center for Biological Diversity is the possibility that the company could build a mine totally on private land. That would greatly reduce the amount of government oversight of a project there, the opponents say. Theyre going to be using a huge amount of water that we dont have and causing devastation to the mountain, said Gayle Hartmann, president of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas. Company officials have said they wont be able to discuss potential water supplies for a possible west slope mine until theyre further along in planning for it. The bar and restaurant made up about 30% of Exo's revenues, Smith said, but with not having to pay rent or the food and labor costs, the loss didn't sting as bad. When she crunches the numbers, Smith said she believes Exo's business is where it was before the bar expansion in fall 2019. But with the havoc COVID's delta variant is wrecking, Smith said she doesn't have a clear picture of what impact the road closure is having on her business. "Week to week, it changes. Before COVID, you could make these predictions year over year" about business patterns, from the summer slowdown to the uptick when students and winter visitors returned in early fall, she said. "All bets are off now. Just around the corner at Anello, 222 E. Sixth St., the pizzeria's chef-owner Scott Girod sees the latest round of construction as a continuation of what he has been experiencing on Sixth Street since work began on the multistory Union on 6th apartment complex in early 2020. Had he not seen the "Road Closed" sign on his way to work Monday, he would not have blinked twice, he said. "I guess I'm just used to living with it. There's always construction," he said last Thursday as he prepped pizza dough for that's night's dinner crowd. "But nothing compares to the pandemic." "We also know that the vast majority of individuals who are assaulted are college-aged. This really does bring additional services closer to student survivors." SACASA still has a need for more certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, especially with the number of assaults on the rise. "We ideally would love to be able to respond to two hospitals or more at the same time, both with advocates and nurses, but we're not quite at that capacity," Monje said, adding that SACASA is continuously recruiting advocates and examiners. For now, SACASA does not have the staffing to send advocates and examiners to both TMC and Banner-UMC simultaneously. The grant will cover the cost of some advocates and examiners, and a state mandate requires that the county fund exams and on-call time for examiners. SACASA says its partnership with the county's behavioral health department means the cost of the exams and some of the on-call time is covered, but additional funding is still needed. Monje said it's important to believe survivors when they share their story, let them go at their own pace, and give them space. But it's just as important to make sure they know support and resources are available in the community. "As much as we wish this is a program that we wish never needed ever to be used, we recognize that there will be a need," Zukowski said. "This gives the survivor a choice. Wherever they seek that care to get what they need and empower them as a survivor and take control back for what has happened I think is incredibly important." Contact Star reporter Caitlin Schmidt at 573-4191 or cschmidt@tucson.com. On Twitter: @caitlincschmidt Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. ESTILL, S.C. (AP) A lawyer from a prominent South Carolina legal family who found his wife and son shot to death at their home three months ago was shot in the head and wounded Saturday after he had car trouble on a lonely rural road, a family attorney said. Alex Murdaugh was heading to Charleston when his car had stopped on Salkehatchie Road in Hampton County, his lawyer Jim Griffin told The State newspaper. A truck passed Murdaugh on the road before turning around and then someone in the vehicle shot him, Griffin added. The lawyer said he received that information from Murdaugh's brother, Randy. Murdaugh was airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina hospital in Charleston, said Griffin, who didn't know how many times he was shot. The State Law Enforcement Division, South Carolina's top law enforcement agency, confirmed the shooting Saturday, but released no further details. Local deputies referred questions to the state police. The Murdaugh family has suffered through more than any one family can ever imagine," said a statement released by Murdaugh relatives Saturday evening. We expect Alex to recover and ask for your privacy while he recovers. WARSAW, Poland (AP) A lawmaker in Poland says a second Belarussian athlete, an equestrian who was excluded from the country's Olympic team after criticizing state authorities, has been given a humanitarian visa and refuge in Poland. Belarus dressage rider Olga Safronova, who was barred from going to the Tokyo Olympics this summer, intends to train and compete with Polands national equestrian team, opposition lawmaker Joanna Kluzik-Rostkowska said Sunday. Safronova's problems began when she made angry comments about the authoritarian regime of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko while in Poland, when one of her horses was said to be limping and unfit for competition. The comments led to Safronova's removal from the Belarusian team for Tokyo and she was named as a national enemy, Kluzik-Rostkowska told The Associated Press. Safronova decided to seek refuge in Poland with her husband, and in mid-August they were issued humanitarian visas by Poland's consulate in Lviv, Ukraine, where they went to pick them up, according to Kluzik-Rostkowska. Veterinarians in Poland found no problem with the horse. Her two other horses have also been brought to Poland. ISTANBUL (AP) Turkey has neutralized nearly 18,500 people that it calls terrorists over the past six years, the Defense Ministry said Sunday. Since the start of this year, that figure was 1,865, spokesperson Maj. Pinar Kara told journalists in Ankara. The ministry uses the term to describe killed, wounded or captured combatants. The vast majority of the 18,455 neutralized since July 2015 are thought to be members of the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, which has waged war on Turkey since 1984. A 2-year ceasefire with the PKK listed as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the European Union broke down in 2015. Turkey targeted the Islamic State group after launching its first operation in northern Syria in 2016 but has since largely focused on the PKK and its affiliates in Turkey, Syria and Iraq. Although the total figure of 40,000 deaths is often cited for the 37-year conflict with the PKK, the International Crisis Group says the precise figure for the overall casualty toll of the conflict is impossible to confirm. OPINION: "We are staring across a chasm where the vaccine-hesitant see the pandemic in terms of a personal risk they believe they can manage, and the vaccinated see it as a world-wide public health crisis," writes our regular contributor Renee Schafer Horton. Tulsas largest career fair is coming up. Tulsa World Media Company has partnered with Oklahoma Employment Security Commission and Green Country Workforce. With a booth, youll get in front of more than 1,000 job seekers. This event will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 9. It is free and open to the public. For years, Tulsa World Media Co. has hosted Tulsas largest career fair, said Bernie Heller, Tulsa World Media Co. president. By providing a space where companies with positions can connect with job seekers, everyone wins. The career fair will be in the Central Park Hall at Expo Square, 1701 S. Sandusky Ave. The keynote speaker is Kari Mirabal, who will share innovative networking strategies. She will present two workshops at the event: Career Dating: Tools for Success and Top 10 LinkedIn Profile Must Haves. The workshops start at 10:30 a.m. For many Oklahoma viewers, the characters in the fictional town of Okern will ring true. My mom and dad, they grew up in areas like this when they were younger, Factor said, indicating that his father is from the Midwest City and Del City area and his mother grew up in Anadarko, where many family members live. My mom was telling me that some of us (in Reservation Dogs) are just like people she knew or these places would look really familiar, Factor said. I have some of my family members say did you film in this spot? or did you film over here? Nope. It was filmed in Okmulgee. Factor, who previously had appeared in a commercial for optometry-related State Question 793, said its still a little mind-boggling that he is part of a big project like Reservation Dogs. He attended an open casting call and kept getting call-backs until he was offered the role. He said it was nice getting to know people at the call-backs. He still talks to some of them: Me and DPharaoh talk about some of the people we met and what would have happened if this person got cast or something. How many actors tried out for the Cheese role? Ironically, Factor wasnt one of them. Nathan Pickard loves his work, but where he works makes it even better. Pickard, founder of ThirdLine, a financial technology software company, first set up shop above Soundpony bar in the Arts District. When COVID-19 hit last year and his small staff was coming into the office less, he decided to move his operation to 36 Degrees North, a coworking space down the street. And in July, ThirdLine was among the first companies to move into the new 36 Degrees North business incubator program on the fifth floor of City Hall, inside One Technology Center. This is the place to be if you have a tech idea, to bounce it off, see if it is legit, and then if it is, to grow, Pickard said. Devon Laney, president and CEO of 36 Degrees North, said a growing startup like ThirdLine is just the kind of company the incubator program was designed to help. We are looking for people that really have a full-time commitment to build, scale and grow a business that will create jobs, create economic impact, and they want to do it in Tulsa, Laney said. And what we have seen is, nowadays, the majority of businesses have some technology component, even if technology isnt the business service might be the business but what enables them to deliver that service is technology. It makes perfect sense, McCord said. But sometimes, until you ask for an outside perspective, you dont pick up on things like that. In another instance, board members convened to give feedback on body-worn camera footage from a citizen complaint filed against an officer. Members watched the footage cold, with no context, Franklin said, and afterward discussed what they saw and whether they felt there was concern to be raised. Overwhelmingly, the board believed that we handled that appropriately, Franklin said of the issue. The board will also soon review the departments updated Use of Force Policy, Wollmerhauser said, and though there is not yet a defined role for them on the departments new internal Use of Force Review Board, that is something Franklin is working toward. It is my hope that we are able to put in some of these CAB members to see and let them have insight on how we review those uses of force, Franklin told the Editorial Board. Bynum pointed out that these efforts are ongoing in a process of continuous improvement. TAHLEQUAH The COVID pandemic once again prompted Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. to deliver his State of the Nation address virtually on Saturday. This years 69th Annual Cherokee National Holiday Cultivating our Culture: Language. Literacy. Lifeways featured both virtual and in-person events. It also honors the 200th anniversary of Sequoyahs Cherokee syllabary. Cherokee Nation faced many challenges this past year, the two challenges that drew the most publicity were COVID and the U.S. Supreme Court decision known as the McGirt decision. What Oklahoma had 113 years to do, we are doing in a matter of months, Hoskin said referring to the aftermath of the McGirt decision. The decision said the land in northeast Oklahoma remains the Cherokee reservation. Last month, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals ruled the McGirt decision is still intact, but only applies to current cases rather than a retroactive decision. Gov. Kevin Stitts belief that McGirt is a crisis that needs to be solved will be met with the fierce and determined opposition of the Cherokee Nation, Hoskin said. Bottom lines: Jason Reese, Gov. Kevin Stitts general counsel, resigned after eight months on the job. ... Ridiculous, is how the Oklahoma Democratic Party described 2nd District Congressman Markwayne Mullins involvement in a scheme to get American citizens out of Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover. ... Third District Congressman Frank Lucas, whose sprawling district includes Osage and most of Creek Counties, met with the Tulsa Regional Chamber, Mayor G.T. Bynum and new University of Tulsa President Brad Carson, a former colleague in the U.S. House of Representatives. ... State Sen. Rob Standridge, one of the most vocal opponents of COVID-19 prevention mandates, said hes pushing Cleveland County commissioners to distribute information on the benefits of monoclonal antibody treatments, which have been given emergency approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, for COVID patients. ... The Lawton-Ft. Sill Region Airport received a $3 million federal transportation grant to renovate its passenger terminal. However, the war in eastern Ukraine was not started by Russia but by the Ukrainian government following the 2014 coup detat. The Eastern provinces voted to secede at that time because of Draconian language laws imposed on them; their distrust for Ukraines post-coup government; and close economic ties to Russia. Ukraine all-the-while has failed to abide by the Minsk peace agreements mandating considerable autonomy for the Eastern Ukrainian provinces that voted to separate. In his speech announcing the complete U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Biden lamented the huge financial costs of the Afghan war. The same lament could equally be applied to Ukraine. The government there is corrupt like in Afghanistan and country functioning as a black hole where U.S. military assistance helps to sustain a bloody civil war that should be ended by diplomatic settlement. To date, 14,000 civilians have died in Eastern Ukraine and over a million have been displaced. Because its military does not want to fight its own soldiers, the Ukrainian government relies on private militias financed by warlords which are dominated by right-wing extremists. These end results are satisfying. But what are the lessons today from the passage of House Bill 1525, which created TIF? The legislation was hotly contested over four years and only passed after a year of delay in the Senate. One lesson is that the desire for economic growth is strong, but the tools and ability to achieve it are not always clear or agreed by all. Most legislators mean well, but having small local business experience does not translate into a sophisticated understanding of finance or the dynamics of development. In general, new and complicated change has always been very difficult in Oklahoma. Progress is often messy and very slow. Also, provincialism has always been alive and well in Oklahoma. One very loud Republican legislator advocated against the legislation because the authors (myself and former Sen. Penny Williams) were from the Tulsa area. He claimed that his fellow Republicans should not vote for bills that would help areas represented by Democrats. That viewpoint is pathetic and a serious obstacle to any economic growth. If I could vote on boll weevils and feral hogs, others could step to the plate to help the needs in all areas of the state. Last week, Stitt said he is concerned about hospital capacity but is optimistic this is merely a blip. This is a different fight than it was last year. Oklahoma has really been back to normal since last June. Weve had ups and downs, and were in a little uptick right now, but this is going to go back down. This is a virus thats going through our nation, and there is no magic word or anything that we can do to keep that from happening. We disagree and believe more can be done for mitigation. The statement shows a disconnect between the governor and what Oklahomans are experiencing. Oklahoma has 200 fewer staffed hospital beds than it did in December. Oklahoma City hospitals have no more ICU beds available. Patients are being sent to hospitals as far away as South Dakota. Gunshot victims and those in emergency cardiac episodes have to wait. At schools, parents are getting notifications about students or staff testing positive but little instruction on what to do. Kudos to the letter "Everyone bears responsibility for the end of the war" (Aug. 31) for being perceptive. The U.S. isnt the first country to have failed in Afghanistan. First, the British and Russians provided lessons the U.S. ignored, and Vietnam should have taught all previous administrations. A conventional war cant be won against an entrenched indigenous enemy in an undeveloped country. Second, the invasion and subsequent war could have been avoided. The Taliban offered to surrender and completely disarm in October 2001. The Taliban also offered to extradite bin Laden if the U.S. would provide some of its intelligence related to bin Laden. Had the Bush administration accepted those offers, the entire war would have been avoided. Countless lives and capital were wasted. Third, President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo negotiated a May 1 withdrawal date, which was announced in March 2020. President Joe Biden extended that to Aug. 31. Representatives of active U.S. businesses in Vietnam called on the local government to provide them with assistance in administrative procedures, COVID-19 vaccine access, and taxes during a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh this weekend. Prime Minister Chinh hosted a reception on Saturday for Christopher Klein, Charge d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi, and a number of U.S. business representatives and investors running global supply chains in Vietnam. During the meeting in the Vietnamese capital, the company representatives spoke highly of Vietnams approach in quelling the COVID-19 epidemic and ensuring uninterrupted production. However, they also pointed out various hurdles that their firms are facing while maintaining the global supply chain from Vietnam, including transport, production, administrative procedures, tax and expenses, access to COVID-19 vaccines, as well as entrance and travel permits for foreign experts, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported. The businesses recognized local authorities effort in listening to their suggestions and providing assistance in untangling the issues. Nevertheless, they expected protocols at local-level governments to be more effective, thorough, and timely in the future. The Vietnamese premier reaffirmed Vietnam's desire to continue developing the Vietnam-U.S. comprehensive partnership. He expressed sincere thanks to the U.S. government and people for their donations of COVID-19 vaccines and medical equipment to Vietnam, part of which was announced during the official visit of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris to Hanoi in August. The premier acknowledged the issues that foreign firms are facing and ensured that Vietnam is rolling out many measures to push pack the epidemic. The Vietnamese government has put together a special working group to support the prime minister in removing difficulties facing businesses and people due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Chinh also promised that a resolution to aid businesses during the pandemic is coming next week. Grassroots-level authorities and relevant officials must pay attention to businesses requests, ensuring continued production activities and guaranteeing livelihoods for workers, he insisted, Addressing the foreign businesses inquiries on COVID-19 jabs, the premier reassured that Vietnam will arrange resources from its ongoing inoculation drive to vaccinate experts and workers of foreign-invested enterprises. Pointing to a global-scale scarcity of vaccines, Chinh suggested that U.S. firms communicate with the U.S. government and other partners to send more support for Vietnams combat against COVID-19. The Vietnamese government will continue to exert efforts to handle the proposals made by U.S. businesses, he said, emphasizing that what has been done must be done better. The premier called on the U.S. Charge d'Affaires and businesses to keep up their cooperation with Vietnamese officials in epidemic control, maintaining production activities, ensuring workers welfare, and facilitating Vietnamese businesses' investment in the U.S.. Klein and the U.S. businesses showed their desire to continue fostering investment and business activities in Vietnam, as well as their trust in the countrys early recovery from the health crisis. They also expressed their confidence that the comprehensive partnership between the two countries will grow and flourish in a more substantive and effective manner across a variety of fields, in which economic and trade ties will remain an important pillar. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The opening ceremonies of the 2021-22 school year took place in 57 out of 63 provinces and cities across Vietnam on Sunday morning, most of which were organized virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2021-22 academic year is considered a special school year as it begins amidst the complicated developments of the pandemic, while the opening ceremonies were held in various forms depending on the situation in each locality. In Ho Chi Minh City, the ceremony was organized at Le Hong Phong High School and was aired on HTV9 and HTV4 channels, as well as the YouTube channel of HTV. The event was attended by chairman of the municipal Peoples Committee Phan Van Mai, some other high-ranking officials, and several students and teachers. Students stand in silent homage to people who have died of COVID-19 during a school year opening ceremony at Le Hong Phong High School in Ho Chi Minh City, September 5, 2021. Photo: Quang Dinh / Tuoi Tre Similarly, the school year opening ceremony in Hanoi was organized at Trung Vuong Middle School with a limited number of attendees. The event was aired on VTV and several online platforms. In such localities as Phu Yen, Can Tho, Nghe An, where the COVID-19 pandemic is still serious, the ceremonies were live-streamed on YouTube or Facebook depending on the plan of each school. The opening ceremony of the 2021-22 school year is organized without any attendee at Nguyen Sieu School in Hanoi, September 5, 2021 in this supplies photo. Meanwhile, authorities in the northern province of Bac Giang have allowed such an event to be organized in the traditional way as the province has been able to put the pandemic under control. To prevent the spread of the virus, the number of students participating in the ceremony at each school must not exceed 100, while a safe distance must also be kept between each of them. A first grader attends a virtual school year opening ceremony in Kien Giang Province, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: Thu Huong / Tuoi Tre The same method was also applied in Hai Phong, Phu Tho, Dak Nong, and some other localities at low risk of COVID-19 transmission. The ceremonies took place with a limited number of attendees and only lasted for 30-35 minutes. A young girl attends a school year opening ceremony at her home in Da Nang City, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: D.C. / Tuoi Tre Vietnam had documented 511,170 COVID-19 cases by Sunday morning, with 282,516 recoveries and 12,793 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health. The country has recorded 506,912 local infections in 62 out of 63 provinces and cities since the fourth wave started on April 27. Ho Chi Minh City tops the table with 245,188 patients, followed by Binh Duong Province with 128,893, Dong Nai Province with 27,306, Long An Province with 24,329, and Tien Giang Province with 10,438. Students attend a school year opening ceremony in Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: Le Minh / Tuoi Tre Students attend a school year opening ceremony in Dak Nong Province, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: Duong Phong / Tuoi Tre A school year opening ceremony at an elementary school in Phu Tho Province, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: Vinh Ha / Tuoi Tre Students attend a school year opening ceremony inside their classroom in Dien Bien Province, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: N.Thuy / Tuoi Tre Parents take their children to an elementary school in Nghe An Province, Vietnam, September 5, 2021. Photo: Doan Hoa / Tuoi Tre Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Chinese startup CellX unveiled a selection of lab-grown pork dishes on Friday and said it was aiming to produce the more environmentally friendly meat at competitive prices for the world's top meat-eating nation by 2025. Investors were invited to taste one of the prototypes produced in its Shanghai lab from cells harvested from China's native black pig. "The taste is on the bland side ... but overall it's not bad," said Li Peiying, a guest who tested the minced pork blended with plant protein. Cultured meat, or meat grown from animal muscle cells in a lab, could significantly reduce the environmental impact of farming animals, say its proponents, while also avoiding welfare issues and disease. China in particular, which consumed 86 million tonnes of meat in 2020 or about 30% of global demand, is in urgent need of a cleaner meat supply to meet its carbon goals, says CellX. Meat grown in the lab could also offer a more stable food supply to a market that has faced huge shortages and volatility following the outbreak of African swine fever in 2018. But production costs in the nascent industry are still far higher than conventional protein, and analysts say consumers could balk at eating artificially grown meat. Guests look at a 3D printed salmon slice displayed during an event by CellX, a cultivated meat startup, to introduce product prototypes in Shanghai, China September 3, 2021. Photo: Reuters In China, however, "there are lots of people wanting to try it," CellX founder Yang Ziliang told Reuters. Yang declined to comment on current production costs but said the company, founded just last year, was aiming to be cost competitive with animal meat by 2025. A recent McKinsey report estimated cultivated meat could reach cost parity with conventional meat by 2030, as the industry increases scale and fine-tunes R&D. Lab-grown chicken meat was sold to consumers for the first time in Singapore last year, but there are currently no regulations permitting its sale in China. CellX, which raised $4.3 million earlier this year and is now seeking fresh funding, is also eyeing the global market, however. "Our vision is to change the way meat is produced. This isn't just a China issue, it's a global issue, so for us to achieve our vision, we need to be a global company," said Yang. Trapped on island habitats made smaller by rising seas, Indonesia's Komodo dragons were listed as "endangered" on Saturday, in an update of the wildlife Red List that also warned overfishing threatens nearly two-in-five sharks with extinction. About 28 percent of the 138,000 species assessed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) are now at risk of vanishing in the wild forever, as the destructive impact of human activity on the natural world deepens. But the latest update of the Red List for Threatened Species also highlights the potential for restoration, with four commercially-fished tuna species pulling back from a slide towards extinction after a decade of efforts to curb over-exploitation. The most spectacular recovery was seen in Atlantic bluefin tuna, which leapt from "endangered" across three categories to the safe zone of "least concern". The species -- a mainstay of high-end sushi in Japan -- was last assessed in 2011. "This shows that conservation works -- when we do the right thing, a species can increase," said Jane Smart, global director of IUCN's Biodiversity Conservation Group. "But we must remain vigilant. This doesn't mean we can have a free-for-all of fishing for these tuna species." Nowhere to run: Komodo dragons have a limited habitat. Photo: AFP 'Clarion call' A key message from the IUCN Congress, taking place in the French city of Marseille, is that disappearing species and the destruction of ecosystems are existential threats on a par with global warming. And climate change itself is threatening the futures of many species, particularly endemic animals and plants that live on small islands or in certain biodiversity hotspots. Komodo dragons -- the largest living lizards -- are found only in the World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park and neighbouring Flores. The species "is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change" said the IUCN: rising sea levels are expected to shrink its tiny habitat at least 30 percent over the next 45 years. Outside of protected areas, the fearsome throwbacks are also rapidly losing ground as humanity's footprint expands. "The idea that these prehistoric animals have moved one step closer to extinction due in part to climate change is terrifying," said Andrew Terry, Conservation Director at the Zoological Society of London. Their decline is a "clarion call for nature to be placed at the heart of all decision making" at crunch UN climate talks in Glasgow, he added. Thirty-seven percent of 1,200 shark and ray species evaluated are directly threatened with extinct. Photo: AFP 'An alarming rate' The most comprehensive survey of sharks and rays ever undertaken, meanwhile, revealed that 37 percent of 1,200 species evaluated are now classified as directly threatened with extinction, falling into one of three categories: "vulnerable", "endangered" or "critically endangered". That's a third more species at risk than only seven years ago, said Simon Fraser University Professor Nicholas Dulvy, lead author of a study published on Monday underpinning the Red List assessment. "The conservation status of the group as a whole continues to deteriorate, and overall risk of extinction is rising at an alarming rate," he told AFP. Five species of sawfish -- whose serrated snouts get tangled in cast off fishing gear -- and the iconic shortfin mako shark are among those most threatened. Chondrichthyan fish, a group made up mainly of sharks and rays, "are important to ecosystems, economies and cultures," Sonja Fordham, president of Shark Advocates International and co-author of the upcoming study, told AFP. "By not sufficiently limiting catch, we're jeopardising ocean health and squandering opportunities for sustainable fishing, tourism, traditions and food security in the long term." The Food and Agriculture Organization reports some 800,000 tonnes of sharks caught -- intentionally or opportunistically -- each year, but research suggests the true figure is two to four times greater. A shortfin mako shark being fished for sport in The United States in 2017. Photo: AFP Conservation tracker The IUCN on Saturday also officially launched its "green status" -- the first global standard for assessing species recovery and measuring conservation impacts. "It makes the invisible work of conservation visible," Molly Grace, a professor at the University of Oxford and Green Status co-chair, told a press conference on Saturday. Efforts to halt extensive declines in numbers and diversity of animals and plants have largely failed. In 2019 the UN's biodiversity experts warned that a million species are on the brink of extinction -- raising the spectre that the planet is on the verge of its sixth mass extinction event in 500 million years. The IUCN Congress is widely seen as a testing ground for a UN treaty -- to be finalised at a summit in Kunming, China next May -- to save nature. "We would like to see that plan call for the halt to biodiversity loss by 2030," said Smart. A cornerstone of the new global deal could be setting aside 30 percent of Earth's land and oceans as protected areas, she added. Here are todays leading news stories: COVID-19 Updates -- Vietnams Ministry of Health reported 9,521 local COVID-19 infections, including 4,104 cases in Ho Chi Minh City, on Saturday evening, raising the national tally to 511,170, with 282,516 recoveries and 12,793 deaths. -- The German government has announced the decision to donate Vietnam about 2.5 million doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Saturday. -- Ho Chi Minh City Party Secretary Nguyen Van Nen has requested the local steering committee for COVID-19 prevention and control to prepare a new pandemic response strategy for Cu Chi District and District 7 after September 15. The two districts recently announced that the local pandemic situation had been put under control. -- About 500 pregnant women and their family members in southern localities were brought back to their hometown in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong via a flight from Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday. Society -- Three children aged 10 to 13 drowned after falling into a lake while playing with their friends in the central province of Quang Tri on Saturday afternoon. -- Police in Lam Dong confirmed on Saturday they had arrested seven truck drivers for using drugs inside a quarantine facility. Education -- The opening ceremonies of the 2021-22 school year are scheduled to take place in 57 out of 63 provinces and cities across Vietnam on Sunday morning. The ceremonies in most of these localities are organized virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Business -- Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh convened a meeting with Charge d' Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam Christopher Klein and representatives of U.S. businesses in the country to listen to the difficulties that they have been facing amid the pandemic. Sports -- The award presentation and closing ceremony for Sniper Frontier and Emergency Area competitions was held in Hanoi on Saturday, within the framework of the International Army Games 2021. Vietnam won a gold medal in Sniper Frontier and a silver medal in Emergency Area. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The German government has decided to gift Vietnam around 2.5 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine to assist the Southeast Asian country in its fight against the raging COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Germany made the decision on Friday, following its earlier announcement to offer 75 ventilators, 15 medical monitors, and 20,000 oxygen meters to Vietnam, its strategic partner since 2011, the ministry said on Saturday. Such support shows the solidarity of the German government and people with Vietnam in difficult times, the ministry commented. The medical assistance resulted from Vietnams vaccine diplomacy efforts, including a letter sent by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to his German counterpart Angela Merkel and talks between the two sides. Vietnam has prioritized accessing multiple sources of COVID-19 vaccines to put the coronavirus spread under control. Germany has so far been the biggest vaccine donor among EU member nations to Vietnam. As one of the worlds largest contributors to the COVAX Facility with a total commitment of 2.2 billion euros (US$2.6 billion), Germany is expected to grant 30 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to developing countries by the end of 2021. Vietnam has received vaccine gifts from many other European countries, including 415,000 jabs from the UK, more than 500,000 from Poland, 250,000 from the Czech Republic, and 300,000 from Romania. The Southeast Asian country has also secured donations from many other nations, including over six million vaccine doses from the U.S., more than three million from Japan, 700,000 from China, and 12,000 from Russia. Australia, France, and Hungary have promised to gift Vietnam 1.5 million, 670,000, and 100,000 vaccine shots, respectively. Vietnam targets to obtain 150 million vaccine doses to vaccinate two-thirds of its 98 million population, but has so far got around 30 million jabs from different sources, including the COVAX Facility, contractual purchases, and donations. Meanwhile, Vietnams self-developed vaccine Nano Covax is going through steps to hopefully be authorized for emergency use in the country. By Saturday evening, the numbers of people getting the first and second vaccine shots had reached nearly 18 million and over three million, the health ministry reported. Since the pandemic struck Vietnam in early 2020, the country has documented 511,170 coronavirus infections, ranking 52nd among 222 countries and territories. Among the total, 506,912 cases, or 99.1 percent, have been recorded domestically since late April, when the fourth virus outbreak erupted in the country, with the Delta variant dominant in most of the infections. By Saturday evening, the country had registered 12,793 COVID-19 deaths, equivalent to 2.5 percent of the total infection cases, 0.4 percentage points higher than the global fatality rate, the ministry said. Except Cao Bang, the coronavirus has now spread to 62 out of the countrys 63 cities and provinces, with Ho Chi Minh City topping the list with over 245,700 infections, followed by Binh Duong and Dong Nai with nearly 129,000 and more than 27,300 cases. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnam has begun piloting its new quarantine regulation for international arrivals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with the landing of nearly 300 Vietnamese citizens from Japan. A flight carrying 297 Vietnamese residents from Japan landed at Van Don International Airport in the northern province of Quang Ninh on Saturday afternoon. The passengers, who have received two shots of COVID-19 vaccine, are required to undergo a seven-day quarantine period at Novotel Ha Long Bay Hotel following their arrival. The flight marked the beginning of Vietnams pilot plan to shorten the mandatory quarantine period for fully vaccinated international arrivals, said Phan Ngoc Sau, director of Van Don airport. A similar flight is expected to bring Vietnamese citizens from the U.S. to Van Don on September 12, Sau added. Passengers must meet certain requirements in order to be eligible for the new quarantine regulation. They must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with the final shot taken within the period of 14 days to 12 months before their entry. They must also test negative for the novel coronavirus via real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) methods within 72 hours prior to their arrival. The tests must be done by authorized facilities. Vaccinated passengers arrive at Van Don International Airport in Quang Ninh Province, September 4, 2021. Photo: Do Phuong / Tuoi Tre To minimize the risk of transmission, Van Don airport managers have intensified pandemic prevention and control measures. International travelers must have their body temperature measured and file health declarations upon their arrival, while their immigration procedures are carried out in a separate area. The airport has welcomed 45,872 passengers including Vietnamese citizens and foreign experts since the beginning of this year. Vietnam has been requiring all international arrivals to quarantine for 14 days and have their health monitored for another 14 days. In early August, the Ministry of Health announced its decision to shorten the quarantine period for international arrivals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to seven days. Vietnam had documented 511,170 COVID-19 cases as of Sunday morning, with 282,516 recoveries and 12,793 deaths, according to the Ministry of Health. The country has recorded 506,912 local infections in 62 out of 63 provinces and cities since the fourth wave started on April 27. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Ministry of Health recorded 13,101 domestic coronavirus cases in Vietnam on Sunday, along with over 9,000 recoveries and 281 deaths. The local cases were logged in 37 provinces and cities while the country reported another 36 imported infections, the health ministry said. The ministry had documented 9,521 domestically-infected patients on Saturday. It detected 7,521 of the new cases in the community, with the remainder found in isolated areas or centralized quarantine facilities. Ho Chi Minh City registered 6,226 domestic infections, Binh Duong Province 3,540, Dong Nai Province 1,243, Long An Province 756, Kien Giang Province 345, Can Tho City 100, Da Nang 64; and Hanoi 53. Vietnam has confirmed 520,013 community transmissions in 62 out of its 63 provinces and cities since the fourth and worst virus wave emerged in the country on April 27. Ho Chi Minh City is on top with 251,414 patients, followed by Binh Duong Province with 132,433, Dong Nai Province with 28,549, Long An Province with 25,085, Tien Giang Province with 10,571, Dong Thap Province with 7,422, Khanh Hoa Province with 6,856, Da Nang with 4,588, Hanoi with 3,775, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province with 3,685. By comparison, Vietnam confirmed a combined 1,570 locally-transmitted infections in the previous three waves. The health ministry announced 9,211 recoveries on Sunday, taking the total to 291,727. The toll has ascended to 13,074 fatalities after the ministry logged 281 deaths on the same day, including 222 in Ho Chi Minh City and 38 in Binh Duong Province. Vietnam has registered 524,307 patients since the COVID-19 pandemic first struck it early last year. Health workers have given around 21.4 million doses, including 336,381 shots on Saturday, since inoculation was rolled out on March 8. About 3.2 million people have been fully vaccinated. Health authorities aim to immunize at least two-thirds of a population of nearly 98 million people against COVID-19 by the first quarter of next year. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Local centerpiece Life of Dr. Samuel D. Houston, Tyler's first Black surgeon, celebrated Sarah Miller / Tyler Morning Telegraph File Dr. Samuel Houston is interviewed on video for the city of Tylers Black History Month production on Feb. 1, 2018. Sarah Miller / Tyler Morning Telegraph File Dr. Samuel Houston, 81, is pictured at his home in 2018 with his 1994 Gold-Headed Cane award from the Smith County Medical Society. Dr. Houston worked as a surgeon at East Texas Medical Center. Sarah Miller / Tyler Morning Telegraph File Dr. Samuel Houston is interviewed on video for the City of Tylers Black History Month production on Feb. 1, 2018. Sarah Miller / Tyler Morning Telegraph File Dr. Samuel Houston is interviewed on video by multimedia specialist Bob Mauldin for the City of Tylers Black History Month production on Feb. 1, 2018. Samuel DeLoyd Houston grew up in Tyler when segregation was commonplace in the South. Growing up in north Tyler, he never let the injustices associated with racial discrimination block his determination to strive for excellence in every arena of life. Family members, neighbors, as well as fellow doctors and surgeons, convened at College Hill Baptist Church on Monday to celebrate the life and legacy of Houston, who practiced general surgery for 29 years at Mother Frances Hospital and East Texas Medical Center. He served as chairman of the Department of Surgery at ETMC from 1993 to 1995. Bishop David R. Houston, of the Texas Northeast Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ, officiated the memorial service for his cousin, Dr. Houston. Our grandfathers were brothers. We were both born at the end of the Great Depression, Bishop Houston said. I am one month older than Sam. We grew up together, three blocks from each other. Sam displayed leadership qualities throughout his life, graduating as valedictorian at Emmett Scott High School in Tyler in 1953, top of his class at Prairie View A&M University in 1957 and top of his class at Meharry Medical College in 1962. According to many who were known as colored during the 1950s and lived in Tyler, children were aware of the segregation, but they were challenged to rise above the obstacles and achieve greatness no matter what. In attendance at the memorial was Rev. Larry Wade, who, as a boy, lived next door to Dr. Houston and his parents. His mother was a teacher, and so was mine. They instilled pride in us. They always encouraged us to grow up and be somebody and be successful, Wade said. We grew up in an atmosphere where parents looked out for all of the children in the neighborhood. Dr. Houston is an example of what happens when the village works together to help our children succeed. Dr. Houston knew that he had prepared himself to stand and flourish in life as a qualified surgeon. After graduating from medical school, he became a flight surgeon in the U.S. Army, serving at Ft. Hood and in the Vietnam War. With the love of his life, Dr. Edna Houston by his side, Dr. Houston returned to Tyler in 1971 and opened his own practice in the heart of the medical district. His wife was a thriving and successful anesthesiologist in Tyler, sometimes working in the same operating room. When Sam arrived in Tyler as a surgeon, I told him, I promise you, you will be accepted. He was fully accepted by other surgeons, Dr. Joseph Prudhomme, a longtime general surgeon in Tyler. Sharing humorous experiences he enjoyed with his surgery colleague that caused the audience to chuckle, Prudhomme treasured the special relationship he had with Dr. Houston. Sam was a dear friend and he was very much respected, Dr. Prudhomme said. He was never an abusive surgeon in the operating room. Scrub nurses and other workers appreciated working in his operation room. A longtime member of the board of trustees of Tyler Junior College, Prudhomme said he appreciated giving back to the community along with Dr. Houston, who was elected to the board in 1992. One thing I learned from Sam is that you do not need to speak loud to be heard, Dr. Prudhomme said, as he took his seat. Dr. Carl Westbrook, the first Black obstetrician-gynecologist in Tyler, said he knew Dr. Houston as a mentor, colleague and friend over a period of 43 years. Sam was a well-trained, experienced surgeon who chose to return to Tyler. He knew the legacy of Smith County and how colored people and poor whites were marginalized with delayed care, Westbrook said. It did not deter him. Westbrook said that Dr. Houston worked to create an alliance, which became a network that allowed patients to afford health care. At the height of his career as a surgeon, Dr. Houston was awarded the Gold-Headed Cane, which honors a physician who symbolizes the pursuit of the highest standards of scientific excellence and integrity. Dr. Houston worked with pioneering doctors in Tyler, such as Dr. Theodore J. Taliaferro, who arrived in Tyler in 1939 to work with Black patients, and also Dr. James M. Hilliard and Dr. Martin L. Edwards, Jr., who worked for many years as a physician in Tyler, and was elected as the first Black person to serve on the Tyler ISD board of trustees. Those doctors respected him, his expertise and professionalism, Westbrook said. They referred patients to him very easily. Another neighbor, Janelle Merritt, spoke kindly about how Drs. Samuel and Edna Houston responded when they realized they had moved next door to a couple with a house full of young children. My husband, Brad, and I told our kids to tone it down. Once Sam and Edna learned that we were telling the kids to keep the noise down, they told us to not do that, Merritt said. They wanted the children to act naturally like children would. Dr. Houston had a regular habit of patting each childs hand when he saw them, she said. They became like grandparents to our kids, Merritt said. They never complained about our kids and said they were always available if needed. They actually saved us from going to the ER a couple of times. Representing the family, Dr. Houstons only daughter, Cheryl Houston, said her father never wanted to be fussed over, during his lifetime, but he would have appreciated all of the nice things that had been expressed during the memorial celebration. She emphasized how she and her two brothers, Stuart and Michael, were blessed to have a father who loved being with his family and who spent quality time with his children. He was a very patient teacher. He taught us to make homemade kites from paper bags and twigs, Cheryl Houston said. It was amazing to see those homemade kites soar across the blue sky with the perfect breeze. Married for 59 years, Drs. Samuel and Edna Houston shared a love for medicine, family and community. Their three children are all successful professionals. Stuart D. Houston, the firstborn, specializes in IT (Information Technology), Michael S. Houston is a medical doctor and Cheryl Houston is a physician assistant. Following his retirement from general surgery, Dr. Houston donated his time as a medical provider at Bethesda Health Clinic in Tyler and the ETMC Wound Care Clinic. He was an active member of several Emmett J. Scott All-School Reunion steering committees throughout the years and served on the advisory board for the University of Texas at Tyler. More than anyone else, Dr. Edna Houston knew her husband best and will miss him most. I married my friend. We were always friends, she said. We had the same hopes and perspectives about what marriage should be. Children were the focus of everything we did and everything we hoped for. What Edna Houston appreciated most about her husband is also what she will miss the most. I appreciated his intellect and wisdom, she said. He would always give you sound judgment. I loved how he directed the children, and of course, his friendship. His wife and partner in life believes her husbands special qualities stood the test of time. He was a gentleman who possessed integrity and honesty, Edna Houston said. Qualities that lasted a lifetime. Quantalane R. Henry is a professional journalist, longtime educator, motivational speaker and evangelist. Her most recent published article in the Tyler Morning Telegraph was Uniting the Country Requires Hard Work, But It Can Be Done, on Feb. 2, 2021. She can be reached at henryquantalane@gmail.com. Reader comments sections of prominent western news websites have been infiltrated by pro-Russian trolls seeking to manipulate the picture of public opinion, researchers believe. The major influence operation is said to have targeted 32 media outlets online across 16 countries, including the Daily Mail, Daily Express, The Times, Fox News and The Washington Post. Almost 250 stories were found to contain provocative pro-Kremlin or anti-Western sentiments in the comments about matters of relevance to Russia such as tensions in Crimea since a probe began in April. The ongoing campaign is thought to have escalated since 2018, but more recently it has exploited the US and UK withdrawal from Afghanistan. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: This report highlights the threat to our democracy of Russian state backed misinformation on the internet. The UK is working closely with international allies to stand up to the Kremlin trolls peddling lies. Examples of headlines used on inoSMI.ru (Cardiff University/PA) Comments are often posted early on and receive an unusually high number of up-votes on sites that allow other readers to like and dislike, according to the Foreign Office-backed Open Source Communications Analytics Research (Oscar) programme at Cardiff University. These reactions are then selectively used as the basis for stories in Russian media to suggest western public approval of Kremlin policies or discontent against western governments. For example, an aggregator service called inoSMI.ru which is connected to the Russia Today network has a headline featuring a comment from an article on The Times, that translates to, British: Putin realised that Nato will not fight for Ukraine (The Times). They were then amplified via social media, as well as on fringe websites with track records of spreading disinformation and propaganda, some with links to Russian intelligence agencies. Though some of the comments could originate from western users, researchers say there are signals in the data that indicate a degree of inauthenticity with some accounts that point towards it being a coordinated effort. Story continues Professor Martin Innes, director of the Crime and Security Research Institute at Cardiff University, told the PA news agency it was easy to create an account and quickly begin posting comments on some sites without any identity checks. We were posting a comment as soon as you signed up, on a number of them you can post a comment and its almost instantaneously displayed, so its quite a vulnerability really and its open to be manipulated by state actors but anybody else as well, he said. Forensic behavioural analysis of account profiles posting pro-Kremlin comments showed that some of these users are repeatedly changing their personas and locations. In 2014, moderators for the Guardian noticed pro-Kremlin comments in their Ukraine coverage, though there was no conclusive evidence about who was behind it. Professor Innes told PA: My best assessment or best guess almost on this is, it happened in 2014, then I suspect a lot of the attention shifted more towards creating fake social media accounts on Twitter, Facebook, Reddit and places like that. But as those platforms have got better at defending themselves I have a feeling that those people who want to engage in this kind of activity have drifted back to these kind of sites, so probably from 2018, 2019 onwards and its kind of been growing since then. French prime minister Jean Castex responded to the eighth consecutive weekend of anti-vaccination rallies with a robust defence of the protesters complaining and agitating against the government efforts to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Theres a perfect right to demonstrate and to be against the vaccine or against the health pass, Castex told the TV programme On est en direct. But we don't have the right to use these motives to make antisemitic remarks, he added. We don't have the right because we are anti-vax to go and burn down vaccination centres, we don't have the right because we are anti-pass to physically attack a waiter in a cafe. More than 115,000 people have died in France since the first wave of the pandemic in January 2020. French health services reported around 10,000 new cases of infection on Saturday. The French interior ministry said more than 140,000 people attended protests throughout France on Saturday to voice their anger about compulsory anti-coronavirus vaccinations for health workers and the need to show proof of double vaccinations or a recent PCR test in order to enter cafes, restaurants and museums. Around 200 protesters clashed with police in central Paris after storming the Forum des Halles mall in central Paris. Other demonstrators barged their way into the Gare Saint Charles in Marseille and rampaged through the Passage Pommeraye in Nantes. In the anti-vax campaign, there are people who don't know, who are scared and we should never make fun of people who are afraid, said Castex. It is the governments responsibility to explain the reality. What has serious side effects, we are sure, is Covid. No vaccine has ever been so closely monitored in all countries as the Covid vaccines. Florian Philippot, one of the politicians urging the demonstrations, told supporters in Paris on Saturday that they should be ready to return to the streets next weekend to increase the pressure on the government. We have a certain number of constraints because the pandemic is here, Castex told the programme. When you are vaccinated, you can still transmit the virus. Vaccination is here but so is the epidemic. If there was no health pass, what would the alternative be? Closure as we have known it. The pass is useful, we put it where it is useful and it produces results. Only 1 of 125 guards at the British embassy in Kabul were evacuated despite promises by the UK government to help, report says People struggle to cross the boundary wall of Hamid Karzai International Airport to flee the country after rumors that foreign countries are evacuating people even without visas, after the Taliban over run of Kabul, Afghanistan, 16 August 2021. STR/NurPhoto via Getty Images Only one in 125 guards at the British embassy in Kabul were evacuated despite promises to help, the Guardian reported. The UK conducted a rescue operation to evacuate people from Kabul after the Taliban captured Afghanistan. The guard who was evacuated says his colleagues who were left behind are now at risk of reprisals. See more stories on Insider's business page. Just one of 125 guards who protected the British embassy in Kabul were evacuated from the country after it fell to the Taliban, meaning there are now fears that they could be the target of violent reprisals, the Guardian reported. Staff who guarded the British embassy at Kabul were employed on outsourced contracts by a firm called GardaWorld, which has now fired them, the Guardian reported. The Ministry of Defence initially refused to include them in its evacuation efforts because they were employed on outsourced contracts, but the Foreign Office later U-turned on the decision. During the August evacuation effort, the department issued a statement saying: "We will help all those Afghan security guards contracted through GardaWorld to protect the embassy. They will be granted the right to enter the UK and we are now working through the challenging logistics of getting them out of Kabul." But despite the UK government's promise of help, only one guard called Faiz successfully fled to the UK, the Guardian reported. Along with his wife and child, he is now quarantining at a hotel near Heathrow airport. He managed to secure a place on one of the last military evacuation flights out of the country last week. During evidence to fellow lawmakers, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said this week that the guards had been on a bus to Kabul airport that had been denied entry, meaning the staff could not be placed on a flight. Faiz told the Guardian that he is now unable to sleep due to concern for his former colleagues in Kabul, some of whom he said had already received threats from members of the Taliban. Story continues "I'm worried about each and every one of them and their families. Some have been receiving threatening messages and warnings," he told the paper via email. "I can't sleep. I feel mentally disturbed." Despite promises by the Taliban that they will not target people who worked with foreign countries, there are growing concerns that many of those individuals will be the target of violent reprisals by the organization. Read the original article on Business Insider Taliban militants in Afghanistan reportedly shot dead a female police officer in a door-to-door execution on Saturday. The woman, named locally as Banu Negar, was said to be killed in front of her husband and children at the family home in Firozkoh, central Ghor province. It is the latest incident of violence committed by the jihadi regime amid increasing reports of rising repression of women in Afghanistan. The Taliban claimed they were not involved in the killing of Ms Negar, who was reportedly six months pregnant and mum to a young son. Spokesperson Zabiullah Mujaheed told the BBC: We are aware of the incident and I am confirming that the Taliban have not killed her, our investigation is ongoing. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. Mr Mujaheed put the policewomans murder down to personal enmity or something else adding that the Taliban had already confirmed amnesty for people who worked for the previous administration. Leading Afghan journalist Bilal Sarwary, local media and the BBC reported Ms Negars apparent murder at the hands of the Taliban. Witnesses told the BBC that the Taliban beat and shot Ms Negar, while others are scared to speak out for fear of retribution. Images on social media appear to show her body lying on the floor with her face disfigured. A civil activist in Ghor told Etilaatroz that the officer had been working at the provincial prison before the area fell to the Taliban. Mr Mujahids secretary Bilal Karimi echoed that the Taliban had pardoned those who had worked with the former administration, the news outlet reported. The Taliban took power in Kabul on August 15 after the Western-backed government collapsed and President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. Protests have taken place in the country including a womens rights demonstration in Kabul which was broken up by Taliban officials. It comes after the group said it has changed and that they will protect womens rights and create inclusive government. One Afghan asylum seeker in London said he is scared to call home fearing his family will face Taliban reprisals in Kabul. Story continues Officials say at least four planes chartered to evacuate several hundred people seeking to escape the takeover have been unable to leave the country for days. Britains last military flight left Kabul late on August 28 after evacuating more than 15,000 people in the two weeks. Watch: Leader of Afghan holdout region 'ready to talk' Read More Taliban claim victory in last Afghan province to resist their rule Johnson to defend his handling of the Afghanistan crisis to MPs Withdrawal from Afghanistan unnecessarily messy former MI6 chief Uzbekistans impressive high-speed rail lines have proven to be major boon for the countrys economy and an example of well-planned public infrastructure, Emerging Europe reports. While much of Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia continues to struggle with outdated, often decrepit railway infrastructure, Uzbekistan has over the past decade developed a high-speed network that has become the envy of the region.Uzbekistans impressive high-speed rail lines have proven to be major boon for the countrys economy and an example of well-planned public infrastructure. While much of Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia continues to struggle with outdated, often decrepit railway infrastructure, Uzbekistan has over the past decade developed a high-speed network that has become the envy of the region.Today, ten years on from the inauguration of the first line, Spanish-built high-speed trains operate three routes, with the Uzbek government making plans to continue upgrading and expanding the rail systems capabilities. The first line of the high-speed rail system, linking the capital Tashkent with the historic Silk Road city of Samarkand was built at breakneck speed: initiated by decree from then president Islam Karimov, construction of the 344-kilometre line was completed in just five months. The project made Uzbekistan just the second country in the post-Soviet world after Russia and the first in Central Asia to have a high-speed rail system. This was a major development in Uzbekistans transportation infrastructure, says Alisher Juraev, a project manager at the Asian Development Bank (ADB). As well as significantly reducing logistics costs for businesses, the high-speed rail system also diminishes Uzbekistans carbon footprint. Ko Sakamoto, an ADB transport specialist for Central and West Asia agrees. This project enhances the attractiveness of railways as an environmentally friendly, reliable and affordable mode of transport for the people of Uzbekistan. Two hours, not five The electric trains used on the route, known as Afrosiyob, are manufactured by Spanish company Talgo and can reach a top speed of 250 kilometres per hour. It now takes just over two hours for passengers to travel from Tashkent to Samarkand, compared with up to five hours by car or bus. In 2016, Uzbek railways completed an extension of the Tashkent-Samarkand line, building a further 256 kilometres of track to the city of Bukhara. Presently, Uzbekistan boasts 600 kilometres of high-speed railways the fourteenth most extensive network in the world and double what can be found in the United States. While another extension, from Samarkand to the southern city of Qarshi, was opened in 2015, trains operating on this 141-kilometre track fall short of the threshold to be classified as high-speed (generally considered to be 200 kilometres per hour), running at a top speed of 161 kilometres per hour. From there, travellers can continue their journeys even further. Regardless, Uzbekistan is now in possession of close to 1,000 kilometres of electrified rail, the bulk of which is high-speed. Since 2018, the service has been operating beyond capacity due to excessive demand, with passengers often having to buy tickets months in advance. In response, the Uzbek government has ordered a two further trains from Talgo to add to the four already inoperation. The first of the new trains was delivered in July of this year. Noticing the success of the project, the Kazakh government announced earlier this year that it would be undertaking a similar project, connecting its southern province of Turkestan to Tashkent through a high-speed rail line. Luu Nguyen Nguyet Minh is working on sustainable solutions to help solve Mekong Deltas problems. Luu Nguyen Nguyet Minh wants to 'save' Mekong Delta Minh was born in 1996 and grew up in Can Tho. After graduating from the Ly Tu Trong High School for the Gifted majoring in literature, Minh studied tourism management at Can Tho University. However, she always had a special concern about the lack of fresh water for daily life because of saline intrusion in the Mekong Delta. When she was in third year at university, she won an Erasmus Mundus scholarship to study in the Netherlands under a student exchange program. The Netherlands has similar characteristics with Vietnams Mekong Delta. Both are located below water sea level. However, I was impressed that they have ensured water supply there. When I was in the Netherlands, we could drink water directly from the taps, she said. In the Mekong Delta, fresh water is seriously lacking, let alone clean water. It's the question I could not find the answer to, Minh said. In 2018, Minh became a volunteer at the event organized on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the Vietnam-Netherlands diplomatic relations. She had the opportunity to talk to the Dutch Vice Ambassador Pauline Eizema, who helped connect Minh with the manager of the project on "water supply towards climate change adaptation" in southwest Mekong Delta funded by the Dutch Government. Minh is still working on the project. Minh said she lacked basic knowledge on the issue. At seminars, when hearing experts warning that the Mekong Delta may sink in dozens of years, she thought it sounded too vague but after considering figures and doing field work, Minh realized that it was an urgent matter. Areas in the Mekong Delta such as Hau Giang and Soc Trang are affected by saline intrusion and land subsidence. The rapid subsidence is attributed to the excessive underground water exploitation, and climate change is due to rising sea water level. The entire Mekong Delta could eventually be submerged under water. The Government is making efforts to restrict underground water exploitation in the Mekong Delta, but still cannot find sustainable alternative water supply sources. That is why Minh wants to continue to have in-depth study on the issue to find more solutions and connect foreign enterprises which can give support to Mekong Delta. She became more determined to do this after being encouraged by the project coordinators. In early 2021, Minh obtained a full Chevening scholarship from the British Government. This is a great opportunity for her to learn about project management in a sustainable way, and water supply and climate change. She has decided to study project management at Cardiff University in Wales. She believes that she can learn how to set up a project and deal with the issues related to climate change there. She also hopes she can connect companies in Wales and local water companies. What I am striving for is learning how to set up an international cooperation project to build a water treatment plant using advanced technology to process sea and fresh water plant, while using renewable energy to operate the plant to reduce the carbon discharged into the environment. This will help solve the problem of saline intrusion and land subsidence." Thuy Nga Vietnamese student wins VND7 billion doctoral scholarship to study in the US After completing a masters program in South Korea, Nguyen Van Giang won a scholarship to study for a doctoral degree in computer science at Auburn University with the financial support of $80,000 per annum. If Vietnam does not focus on removing the IUU (Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing) yellow card and violations continue, it is very likely that the EC will switch from yellow card to red card. Illustrative image On October 23, 2017, the European Commission (EC) applied a yellow card to Vietnamese seafood exports because it did not meet regulations about illegal fishing. If Vietnam does not focus on removing the IUU (Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing) yellow card and violations continue, it is very likely that the EC will switch from yellow card to red card. At that time, Vietnam's seafood industry will lose about 500 million USD per year. Nguyen Thi Thu Sac, Vice President of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), said that seafood is the 5th largest export item in terms of value, with the highest turnover of nearly 9 billion USD/year. Seafood farming contributes 60-65% of the revenue and seafood catching accounts for 35-40% of the value. Export revenue of seafood increased from 1.8 billion USD in 2000 to nearly 8.6-9 billion USD in recent years, making Vietnam the third largest seafood exporter in the world, after China and Norway. However, Vietnam is one of 21 countries given a yellow card by the European Commission for not complying with the regulations against illegal, undeclared and unregulated fishing (IUU). The yellow card was imposed on Vietnam in October 2017, which means that the country's seafood exports to markets in the European Union will be 100% inspected instead of only checked. As a result, Vietnam's seafood exports to the EU have declined continuously since 2017. Vietnams seafood exports to the EU fell by 12% in 2019 compared to that in 2017, equivalent to 183.5 million USD. This downward trend continued in 2020, under other impacts from the Covid-19 epidemic to Brexit, with a decrease of 5.7% compared to 2019, reaching $959 million of revenue. The EU has dropped from the 2nd position to the 4th position among Vietnam's seafood export markets, after the US, Japan and China, since 2019. Recent studies on this issue show that Vietnam's caught seafood is directly affected by IUU regulations and the EUs yellow card while aquaculture suffers more from indirect impacts. The biggest risk for Vietnam will be a "red card" - an EC trade ban if it fails to address the requirements for combating IUU fishing. Vietnam's seafood will lose about 480 million USD if it loses the EU market. Specifically, losses from caught seafood, including tuna, krill, squid, octopus, etc., will be about 387 million USD per year. In addition, it will also make indirect impact on aquaculture due to the loss of prestige, increasing burden of customs control and failure to take advantage of preferential tariffs of the European Union- Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). In the medium term, if the ban lasts for 2-3 years, it could disrupt seafood exports and reduce income from caught seafood by at least 30%. Also, the ban will affect the reputation of Vietnamese seafood products in general. Other markets such as the US or Japan may follow ECs IUU regulations. What to do When imposing the IUU yellow card on Vietnams seafood in 2017, the EC also made nine recommendations for Vietnamese seafood exporters. The EC organized two field visits in Vietnam in May 2018 and November 2019 and continued to give four groups of recommendations that Vietnam needs to implement, including: legal framework; monitoring, inspecting and controlling fishing vessel activities, fleet management; certification of output and traceability of aquatic products from catching; law enforcement. Four years have passed, and the EC recognizes Vietnam's efforts in implementing the recommendations, but there are still shortcomings that need to be overcome. The EC also said that it would not withdraw the yellow card if Vietnam has not solved the problem of fishing in foreign waters. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien said that these four issues are of great concern, especially the violation of IUU of Vietnamese fishing vessels. Vietnam needs to manage fishing vessels well. According to the experience of Thailand, which removed the IUU yellow card in early 2019, it is necessary to punish violators and implement a strict inspection and monitoring mechanism and system on fishing fleets, including remote monitoring. It is important to apply technology such as the VMS fishing vessel monitoring system to see the position of all fishing vessels on the central screen. If any ship goes out of the national waters, the center's staff will immediately warn and ask the ship to come back. According to statistics of the General Department of Fisheries, as of April 30, 2021, nearly 27,000 ships were installed with the travel control device, reaching the rate of 86.8%. Vietnam needs to speed up this process. Along with that, it is necessary to develop, perfect and use an electronic fishery traceability system. The yellow card and the risk of getting a red card are a big risk, but according to experts, it is necessary to positively see this as an important test for Vietnam. Overcoming the yellow card and avoiding the red card is an opportunity for Vietnamese seafood to upgrade itself, improve its prestige and open great opportunities to enter picky markets. The EU is a market with the most stringent requirements. When Vietnam meets all the EC's recommendations, it means that Vietnam can create a sustainable production chain. Tam An Vietnam could lose US$480 million per year due to illegal fishing As the third largest seafood exporter in the world, Viet Nam's could lose about US$480 million per year if it fails in its fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. What about a mail or package service that delivers pills? Can a man who rapes a woman sue her if she tries to get an abortion? Could any number of a legislators constituents sue the legislator if someone finds out there was an abortion in his or her family and they knew about it? Third, and most horrifying, the law creates incentives for a system of citizen vigilantes and abortion bounty hunters in one of the most sensitive arenas of individual and public health care. How can that even be legal under the Constitution? If you allow this kind of provision, what is to prevent legislatures around the country from passing laws about other kinds of citizen action for which other citizens are the ones rewarded to report on them? If they wanted just to protect children, why not pass similar laws for child abuse? Is that not a recipe for chaos, or for a state like the former East Germany? It will make the political divisions in this country even more extreme and violent. Even in the record turnout of 2020, nearly 35 percent of registered voters in our county didnt show up at the polls. Its no wonder the political product is radicalized, more about ideology than practical, common-sense solutions for the population at large. Our apathy at the polls leaves them with no checks or balances. We cant do a thing about guns, but we can now sue someone we dont know on suspicion of helping someone else get an abortion. We give lip service to making substantive changes to how our electrical grid operates, yet the real regulatory language is not yet on paper even as we move past Labor Day. The CERA distinction will make Hicok better able to help the office and county auditors across the state in navigating elections, said Pate, who earned the designation in 2018, becoming the first secretary of state in the U.S. to complete the certification process while serving in that office. Hicok joined the Iowa Secretary of States Office in March 2016 following 10 years in the Bremer County Auditors Office, where he served in various roles, including deputy auditor. ALCOHOL SALES STRONG: Iowans continued to spend on alcoholic beverages, according to the state Alcoholic Beverages Division, which reported $415.8 million in liquor sales, a 13.2 percent increase from fiscal 2020 to 2021. The division reported an increase of about $900,000, or 2.7 percent, in liquor sales revenue for July 2022 compared with July 2021 when using an accrual basis of accounting, indicating that the growth in liquor sales may begin to slow. About $150 million was reverted to the state general fund and to the Iowa Department of Public Health for substance abuse treatment and prevention programs, more than the $141 million projected by the Revenue Estimating Conference. Through her network of contacts in her role as sponsor, Sullivan is reaching out to find homes for the artifacts from St. Marys. This can be a way we can bring all the museums together, she said. Were blessed that so many people, not just throughout the United States but throughout the world, are interested in the story of this ultimate sacrifice. The Sullivans represent so many who sacrificed. Therere so many different incredible museums who talk about that. Now, its going to be awesome. How wonderful to have St. Marys this beautiful church that the Sullivan boys and their parents attended and were very connected to in three states. I think the most enjoyable part of this project has been seeing how thrilled the St. Marys people are, she added. Theyre excited to have this piece of their history and their faith journey in a permanent location, in a permanent exhibit that will always be there for people to see, so that people know what St. Marys Church was. ... I was very happy and thankful that St. Marys (people) reached out to me. If the proposal is adopted into the Iowa Constitution, future state courts may be less likely to strike down abortion restrictions. The latest Republican effort to negate the 2018 high court ruling was introduced last week. Sixty state legislators, all Republicans, signed onto a brief submitted by multiple conservative groups, including The Family Leader in Iowa, which asks the Iowa Supreme Court to overturn its 2018 ruling. Attorneys representing the conservative group argue the 2018 court grossly overstepped its authority and that nothing in the Iowa Constitutions text, structure, history, or tradition suggests that abortion is a fundamental right. Three justices remain from the 2018 court that ruled on Planned Parenthood v. Kim Reynolds, including the two who dissented: Edward Mansfield and Thomas Waterman. The only justice who remains from the majority in that ruling is Brent Appel. However, that could be one reason the current court may be unlikely to strike down the 2018 ruling, Frank said. She said courts are often hesitant to overturn a previous ruling just because there are new justices on the bench. PODGORICA, Montenegro (AP) Protesters clashed with hundreds of riot police in the old capital of Montenegro on Saturday, setting up blockades of tires and large rocks ahead of the inauguration of the new head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the small Balkan nation. There once were summertimes when the living was easy, as the song from the Broadway musical "Porgy and Bess" melodically reminds us. But not this summer, not with COVID-19 still spreading dangerously across the land and uncertainty over what happens next after the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan. Still, despite this summer's flood of "breaking news," I managed time to re-discover a classic book by the English journalist Paul Johnson. It's titled "Modern Times" and it's more than just a history of the world from the 1920s to the 1980s, it's a chronicle of what can happen to a people and their leaders who deliberately ignore history and thus doom themselves to repeat it. In his chapter on the rise of Hitler in Germany, Johnson writes with profound implications for our day, which many Germans rejected: "The Western liberal notion of freedom of choice and private provision based on high wages (preferring) the paternalistic alternative of compulsory and universal security. The state was nursemaid as well as sergeant-major. It was a towering shadow over the lives of ordinary people and their relationship toward it was one of dependency and docility." Its hard to believe that records of our Afghan staff and translators, as well as U.S. citizens still in the country, were left intact due to the hasty exit. The Taliban has names and information on those who havent been evacuated. Many of our Afghan supporters will be killed as a result. This was an evacuation that had the flavor of an escape. A thorough plan would have provided enough troops for adequate airport security, to find remaining Americans and get them out. Instead, we relied on the Taliban for perimeter security. Thats ridiculous. Are there many truly stranded Americans? Have we broken our promise to get them out? President Biden declared that the U.S. has little national interest in Afghanistan. I disagree. In addition to our reputation, weve relinquished a lot by withdrawing. Prior to withdrawal, our ground troops were involved in very little fighting. We were providing training, intelligence, and air support to the Afghan forces. Our goal of denying terrorists safe sanctuary was being achieved. I believe we had reached a reasonable balance of peace, safety, and cost. A relatively small contingent could have maintained the existing equilibrium had we not withdrawn. Under Taliban control, Afghanistan will now revert to being a terrorist sanctuary and training ground. Theres two-lane New Mexico State Road 128 in the oil patch, aka Jal Highway. Or as some locals call it, Killer 128 because of its dips, blind spots and notorious head-on collisions involving oil field trucks. Theres the lack of running water, cracked bridges and earthen roads on the Navajo Nation. There are the vast broadband internet gaps in rural and urban areas throughout the state. There was extensive flooding this summer in Rio Rancho (again), and also near Roswell where a stone wall along the Hondo River Trail recently collapsed after flash flooding. New Mexico has had its share of infrastructure needs for decades just ask your local mayor or county commissioner. State lawmakers learned last week the state is on pace to reap an all-time record of more than $8.8 billion in revenue in the coming budget year. The estimates released Aug. 27 by executive and legislative economists project state lawmakers will have nearly $1.4 billion of new money a number that represents the difference between expected revenue and the states current $7.4 billion budget (which in itself was a 5% spending increase over the prior year). Current projections are nearly $1 billion more than what was projected in February due to surging oil and natural gas production and a rise in consumer spending. Theres some irony that the news was unveiled at a Legislative Finance Committee meeting at Taos Ski Valley, which has the highest gross receipts tax rate in the state of 9.4375%. Ironic because some lawmakers are suggesting using the sky-high revenue to help cushion an overdue overhaul of the states GRT system, which has been debated by lawmakers for years. Making the states tax system less onerous and more business-friendly has been an elusive goal for years that would be a long-term investment in the states future. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and legislative leaders are being handed an opportunity of a political lifetime thanks to O&G and Uncle Sam. The oil industry recovered quicker than expected after the price of U.S. oil plunged negative for the first time in history in April 2020. As travel and business restrictions have been lifted and vaccines have become available, the price of West Texas Intermediate, sourced primarily from the Permian Basin in West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, is approaching $70 a barrel. Natural gas production has also surged in New Mexico after a national supply glut previously stifled production and prices. And total personal income in New Mexico reached record heights during the pandemic, primarily due to federal stimulus checks and expanded unemployment benefits that recently ended, translating into higher-than-expected state gross receipts and income tax collections. The windfall allows for bold initiatives, big-ticket investments, and the governor can lead that charge by focusing on a handful of proposals and sticking to them. One priority should be revamping the GRT. And elsewhere those big-ticket items should focus on infrastructure. In the year 2021, its obscene there isnt clean, running water accessible to every home in New Mexico, particularly on the Navajo Nation. Our kids shouldnt have to sweat it out in 90-degree-plus classrooms, especially if we extend the school year into summer months. And the fact many New Mexicans cant join the internet age and many folks wont relocate their businesses here because of the lack of connectivity, well, those are a couple of good starting points. Sen. George Munoz, vice chairman of the Legislative Finance Committee, gets it. He suggests much of the revenue windfall should be spent on one-time expenditures and not built into the state budget. To commit this and thus future money for such things as state government employee salaries would squander this opportunity and indebt generations of taxpayers. Theres going to be a lot more money than we know what to do with in the next few years, but its not going to last forever, said Munoz, D-Gallup. Now is the time to tackle the structural issues of New Mexico, he told the Journal. The new revenue does not include $1.75 billion in federal relief funds that have only been partially earmarked by the governors administration, nor does it include more than $1.5 billion that is projected to automatically flow into a state rainy day fund and an early childhood endowment fund over the next two years. Perhaps the first step is to define infrastructure. Merriam-Webster defines it as the system of public works of a country, state, or region. That means bridges, broadband, highways, clean water not human infrastructure, not employee retention bonuses, not paying off employees student loans. We need game-changing projects that will last for years and make a difference in communities. We need things we can see and touch and say Hey, we paid for that. Its about damn time they got that done. Bring on the bricks and mortar. Pile up the steel girders. Hire the many union laborers. Lets not squander this bonanza. Lets fix those roads and bridges and highways that need it most, and ensure every New Mexican home has access to clean running water and the internet. 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. We are part of the Yazzie/Martinez lawsuit because New Mexicos children deserve a gold-standard education: one that embraces the unique assets of all students and gives them the best chance to be successful. Its been over three years since the court found the state is violating students constitutional right to a sufficient education, but little has changed. Were frustrated by the states inaction. For generations, our state has starved our education system, and children suffer because of it. Our culture and traditions are still not recognized by the schools and our languages arent part of the curriculum. There are not enough textbooks or access to technology. Theres not enough tutoring or transportation. Theres not enough professional support for our teachers or resources for children with disabilities. Even though many of our students lost much during the pandemic, theres not enough socio-emotional, behavioral and mental health support. I (Marsha Leno) know that when children cant get emotional support in school, their pain impacts their learning. After my sister passed away from cancer, I became guardian and mother to her three children. All five kids from my blended family suffered emotionally. We asked the school for support but never got it. Last year, my family got COVID. We almost didnt make it. The children are traumatized, yet theres still little emotional resources or support for students. Instead, theyre blamed for their behaviors and penalized for struggling to keep up with their work. One of my children has a disability. Hes never had the support he needed. Parents shouldnt have to beg for services for their children. Im tired of asking for it, but I wont stop fighting. I (James Martinez) am a father of four with another on the way. As I raise my children, I think about the kids I grew up with. Too many of them are now incarcerated or dead. So much wasted potential. It scares me to think about the odds my own children face. Its not right that my kids cant access the enrichment programs available at just a few schools. It would be a hardship for my family to drive all over town to different schools that offer some of what I want for them. All kids deserve highly trained, passionate teachers and a curriculum that exposes them to art and music, different histories, cultures and ideas so they can engage in the world around them. Thats why Im calling on leaders to make the changes we need. We urge the state to problem-solve and work collaboratively with plaintiffs and education advocates to implement the education remedy frameworks developed by Transform Education N.M. and the Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos of New Mexico based on well-researched programs that we know work. We know our leaders can take on enormous challenges. We saw it when the pandemic hit. The state made swift changes. Even the schools were able to pivot quickly. If they can make those big changes so immediately, they can make the changes we need for our Native American (students), English-language learners, students with disabilities, low-income students and all our children. Its time we start aiming for the gold standard education our children deserve. Marsha Leno is a member of Zia Pueblo and lives in Acoma. James Martinez lives in Albuquerques South Valley. Fiesta de Santa Fe comes next weekend. School is in session. Its starting feel like fall. And this year, for the first time for Santa Fe, that means local elections are approaching. Under a state election reform measure, Santa Fes mayoral and city council races, as well as campaigns for school board seats, have been moved from March in even-numbered years to November in odd-numbered years. Election day 2021 is Nov. 2. Early voting is about six weeks away, starting on Oct. 15. Except for a bit of low-level jousting in the mayors race that features incumbent Alan Webber, City Councilor Joanne Vigil Coppler and former Republican congressional candidate Alexis Martinez Johnson, public electioneering so far has been minimal. One Santa Fe City Council race has already, in effect, been decided. District 2 incumbent Carol Romero-Wirth has no opponent. In the other council races, the candidates, as of late last week, are: In District 1: Two-term incumbent Signe Lindell; Joe Hoback, former president of the Land of Enchantment Family Credit Union; and Brian Patrick Gutierrez, owner of Mr. Gs Pro Tow, who serves on the city Planning Commission. In District 3: Incumbent Roman Tiger Abeyta and challenger Lee A. Garcia, also on the Planning Commission and whose family runs Garcia Tires. In District 4, where Vigil Coppler has stepped down to run for mayor: Amanda Camille Chavez, former Cesar Chavez Elementary School principal and now special education director at Santa Fe Public Schools; and state Department of Health employee Rebecca A. Romero. Its time for the candidates to start talking and for voters to start listening. Some of the candidates have websites or Facebook pages up for public perusal. Santa Feans may be distracted by the plethora of national and world issues that crowd news spaces: withdrawal from Afghanistan; how Texas anti-abortion law will play out nationally; horrible weather-related disasters in Louisiana and California; and the continuing, tough-to-shake COVID-19 pandemic. But, of course, theres also plenty to talk about when it comes to local political issues. Front and center may be Santa Fes explosion of apartment building that has taken place under Webber. Is it the way to go to fill a chronic need for whats usually called workforce housing in Santa Fe? (The Journal North generally supports the idea, by the way). Or will all the new rental units exceed the capacities of Santa Fes water and traffic systems, force unwanted residential density into some neighborhoods and change the citys character for the worse? Candidates need to say whether they believe old Santa Fe should continue, limit or stop the building boom. The big cultural issue in play is, of course, how Santa Fe handles its historic monuments and the ethnic divisions they can inspire, a problem still simmering since protesters pulled down the Plazas Soldiers Monument obelisk during protests on Indigenous Peoples Day 2020. Will resentment in some quarters over the obelisk demolition on Webbers watch, after police officers stepped aside to avoid violence, significantly hurt the mayoral incumbent? Candidates also need to talk about what to do with the city-owned Midtown Campus and delays in its redevelopment, attacking homelessness and related issues, including neighborhood impact and the ever-present, mundane, but nagging, issues of street maintenance and weed control. Public safety, while not in the crisis mode that Albuquerques murder rate has generated there, is always an important topic in local politics. Even face masks to slow spread of the coronavirus, generally not much of an issue in Santa Fe, where masking is well accepted, might come up if things get down and dirty. Vigil Coppler was one of two councilors to vote in June 2020 against requiring masks in public settings, saying the mandate was unenforceable. Johnson was cited the following month while campaigning for Congress on the Plaza without a mask and later pleaded no contest to the charge. Webber supported the mask mandate. One other question concerns whether Santa Fes ranked-choice voting will be much of a factor in the city races with more than two candidates, including the mayoral contest. If Webber fails to get a majority vote in the first round, could Santa Fes conservative minority have a major impact if, say, Johnsons voters went en masse against the liberal incumbent with their second-choice votes? We all need to start paying attention and getting to know the candidates (who, by the way, deserve credit for putting themselves out there for scrutiny and giving voters choices). The election is coming fast. Get ready for it as best you can. Copyright 2021 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE Students sent home to quarantine for COVID-19 will soon have remote learning options at Santa Fe Public Schools. Nearly a month into the school year, students sent home with COVID-19 or because they had close contact with someone who had COVID-19 did not have any learning options raising the risk that they may fall behind in school. Since the school year began, 60 students have been sent home to quarantine with COVID-19 as of Aug. 27, according to the district. In addition, 328 students and staff members were sent home to quarantine after having close contact. Now, after an outcry from teachers and parents, the school district is launching a remote learning option for students in this situation. Superintendent Hilario Larry Chavez said the district had been working on a remote learning option for the past few weeks. He said it has come to an agreement with the teachers union to allow teachers to provide instruction outside the normal school day for which they will be compensated. Quarantined students will also have help with coursework throughout the day from volunteer tutors. The district currently has 23 volunteer tutors available to help students. So, were really trying to cover the entire day, providing options for the students to attend, Chavez said. Still having them meet with their teachers, still discuss maybe questions that they werent able to answer, or questions that they couldnt really resolve at the tutoring session during the day. Despite concerns, Chavez said less than 1% of the student population is quarantined at any one time and theres no indication that COVID-19 transmission is occurring in schools. He said the challenging part is making sure contact tracing is done properly and everyone is notified. Currently, students who had close contact with COVID-19 can choose to quarantine for 10 days, or can return to school with a negative COVID-19 test. Students who contracted the virus can return to school when, among other criteria, they are fever free for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication, according to the district. COVID-19 vaccinations are not required by the district at this time. Kate Noble, president of the Santa Fe Board of Education, said her own child had to be quarantined due to a COVID-19 close contact, but was able to return to school with a negative test. She said she thinks the team at Santa Fe Public Schools did a good job getting updated COVID-19 testing sites in coordination with the Department of Health. This has helped kids get tested and return to school more quickly. My perspective, as a school board member, is we have to keep assessing the situation, she said. COVID is very serious, and health and safety has to trump a lot of things. That being said, time out of school is significant. She said teachers are where the rubber meets the road and they need to keep the kids up to speed. She said hybrid teaching is very strenuous for teachers and that the district is looking at the burnout factor for staff. Grace Mayer, NEA-Santa Fe president, said creating the remote learning option for students was a mutual decision by the district and the union. She said there was a simultaneous realization that the district needed a remote option. She blames the New Mexico Public Education Department for not requiring students to get tested, which could be arranged with the school nurse. The parents have an option of testing them or not, and this is a huge problem, she said. The parent should not have an option. She said administering rapid response tests at schools could help working parents without a car or the ability to get to a testing site. Getting students more testing will help them return to school more quickly, she said, or help the district monitor a student who is sick with COVID-19, and arrange for services. To me, this is directly a result of not being prepared, Mayer said of the education department. She said its particularly frustrating because the district added 10 days to the school year to provide more instructional time, but thats a total wash if a student must quarantine for 10 days even when theyre not sick. Mayer said she thinks its inevitable schools are going to close down again. I think people are going to have to make hard decisions. We have a lot more cases now than we did when we were remote, she said. Im not sure what the governors position on that is, but I think we need to look at do we want our children sick or are we going to protect them? CAJA DEL RIO Atop this plateau stretching from La Cienega across the Rio Grande to Buckman Canyon and from La Bajada escarpment to the outskirts of Santa Fe itself a culturally rich and sensitive site has become the bulls-eye pitting a proposed federal government power line upgrade against history and future conservation. Los Alamos National Laboratory, through the National Nuclear Security Administration, is seeking a 12.5-mile, 115-kilovolt power transmission line that would cut across the plateau near an existing line, spanning the Rio Grande at White Rock Canyon. At stake is an area of some 104,349 acres steeped in pre- and post-European contact Native American cultural sites, such Spanish Colonial sites as El Camino Real and even such modern landmarks as nearly 100-year-old signage from Route 66, formerly NM 1. Within this area, some La Cieneguilla petroglyphs have been dated as more than 700 years old, and they occasionally share indigo-basalt panels with distinctly Spanish etchings a blending of the cultures. Examples of puebloan dry farming techniques are case studies for water management in dry habitats. Bears, cougars and other carnivores roam the area, as do elk, mule deer and big horn sheep. Collared lizards scurry for prey while trying to avoid becoming the same for raptors above. You cant go 100 yards on this place without some sort of Indigenous or Hispano artifact, said Garrett VeneKlasen, northern conservation director for NM Wild. The whole place is an artifact. We want to maintain that cultural integrity. Its New Mexican and American history; a history book on the land. Its the best one in the Southwest and I would argue in all of the Americas because of all of these crossroads coming together. The overhead electrical power line capacity upgrade will be routed near Forest Service Road 24 and run parallel to existing transmission lines until it crosses onto Los Alamos National Laboratory property. The NNSA has given its final environmental assessment for construction and operation for an underground fiber optic line project, which follows approximately the same course, with a finding of no significant impact. It is currently negotiating with PNM for a right of way, according to a laboratory spokesman. Special-use permit applications have been submitted to the U.S. Forest Service. The government received nearly 1,100 responses from the public during an open comment period. The NNSA says the new lines are needed because the old lines will reach physical capacity load limit within five years. Phoebe Suina of Cochiti Pueblo said the land, now overseen somewhat loosely by the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service, has long been sacred to puebloan peoples. One of the things to mention, and I think its important context, the Caja area and many areas around Santa Fe and around the Rio Grande before the Spanish came to this land, all of that was pueblo country, pueblo territory, she said. A number of pueblo communities were situated in this landscape and you can see the evidence of that even today within the footprint and the landscape of the Caja del Rio. One of the things to share, those descendents are still here, Tesuque, Cochiti, Santa Domingo in particular, we have ancestral ties, as well as current ties, to this landscape and the resources that are within the landscape that we hold dear, Suina said. And those of us living today feel a sacred responsibility to steward and protect the resources and the lands within this landscape for our kids, grandchildren and future generations, just as our grandmas and grandpas did for us since time immemorial. Stakeholders that include local permittees, conservation organizations and local pueblos are seeking to turn Caja del Rio into a cultural heritage area to preserve it from additional encroachment, and with stricter oversight to prevent additional damage. This has always been around, but we never took it seriously because nobody was ever protecting it because nobody ever destroyed stuff, said Julian Gonzales, a local rancher who occasionally runs cattle and hunts on the land. We used it. And if we used it, we cleaned it up. On an escarpment that overlooks the rugged Santa Fe River canyon and the old Ryal Ranch now on BLM land, stacks of pallets await the next group of carousers to ignite a bonfire as a hacked juniper struggles to survive. The area is littered with broken bottles and aluminum cans. Prev 1 of 4 Next During a recent community cleanup session, two large, roll-off dumpsters were filled within four hours, Gonzales said. Darrin Muenzberg, whose family has resided in La Bajada village for centuries, looks out over the escarpment and sees the past, as well as the future. As you see the river going down here and you see that it is being put to beneficial use and then you see the natural resources all around it, you realize that this is all an ejido, the common lands, all of these communities, from Cieneguilla to Las Cienegas, Canon, all the way down to La Bajada, he said. Its not just about the land, its about a way of life, Muenzberg said. As much as the land and these natural resources have sustained our culture over 400 years, its important to realize that our culture has sustained this land in the condition youre seeing it now over that same time, he said. This is not pristine and wild. This has been influenced by human attention and continuing stewardship. Thats what we see here. Thats what needs to maintained. As much as the land is integral to sustaining the culture, the continuation of the culture is integral to sustaining the land. Leaving the landscape without significant oversight, however, leaves it vulnerable. The challenge is instead of getting into this very compartmentalized, provincial mentality of this landscape of who owns this history and who owns this landscape and whose identity is more important, said Andrew Black, National Wildlife Federation public lands field director. The reality is lets look at this landscape as a much more ecological whole and a much more cosmic whole, and kind of talk about how do we steward this landscape and be really good stewards of creation. From a spiritual and a practical perspective, there are a lot of threats to this landscape from illegal shooting and poaching to illegal dumping, defacement and destruction of the petroglyphs, illegal trails being created, (off-highway vehicle) misuse, Black said. I think we need to stand back and say, hey, ownership is going to be completely irrelevant if the landscape is completely destroyed. Copyright 2021 Albuquerque Journal By Isabella Alves/Journal North Spanning the length of the state, U.S. Highway 285 is a major thoroughfare for truck transports and other traffic. This busy highway, nicknamed Death Highway due to the number of fatal accidents on it, may get busier. Concerned citizens in Santa Fe County recently called out the U.S. Department of Energys Waste Isolation Pilot Plant for expanding its mission in a permit renewal application to include more nuclear waste being shipped along the 285 corridor. Part of Highway 285 goes along the southern edge of the city of Santa Fe, and local activists are calling on local and federal leaders to halt this increase in nuclear waste transportation. The permit application is requesting to add two nuclear waste storage panels to WIPP that would increase the waste volume in these areas. The permit renewal was filed July 30 and, if granted, wouldnt increase the volume capacity of nuclear waste set by Congress in the Land Withdrawal Act for the plant. NMED is in litigation with the DOE for its failure to clean up legacy waste at Los Alamos National Laboratory. A successful resolution of the lawsuit is increased shipments of legacy waste from Los Alamos to WIPP, James Kennedy, state Environment Department Cabinet secretary, said via email. The DOE and Nuclear Waste Partnership continuing to accept out-of-state waste streams or any new waste streams in lieu of cleaning up and shipping legacy waste from Los Alamos to WIPP is completely unacceptable, he added. At a recent Santa Fe County Town Hall, activist Cindy Weehler of 285 ALL said the U.S. Department of Energy made it clear that its going to expand its nuclear waste program, she said. She said shes concerned about the new type of radioactive waste that would be traveling through the county, which would be diluted plutonium, instead of contaminated items. This is consistent with a notice of intent published by the department in December 2020. According to the notice, the National Nuclear Security Administration said there needs to be a Surplus Plutonium Disposition Program for surplus plutonium disposal. Part of this is a dilute and dispose approach for plutonium down blending, which is a chemical process to dilute the plutoniums potency, and would require new, modified, or existing capabilities at Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. The Department of Energys (DOE) goal is to complete its missions safely and efficiently, including the continued reduction in the amount of transuranic waste at LANL and creating a safer environment for the surrounding communities, a U.S. Department of Energy spokesperson said via email. DOE notifies state authorities weeks in advance of all shipments to WIPP, which are done in strict accordance with federal rules and regulations and state law. On average, there are about seven waste shipments a week that travel to WIPP through Santa Fe County from the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Idaho National Laboratory. In the coming months, pending any pandemic impacts, this number is expected to increase to 10 to 12 shipments per week. They have chosen a very unsafe way to deal with the surplus plutonium problem, Weehler said. Its unsafe to our neighborhoods and I think, if people are going to be put at risk, like we are with this new mission, they deserve to know about it. Don Hancock, nuclear waste program director at the Southwest Research and Information Center, said the original type of waste being disposed of at WIPP were plutonium-contaminated items, such as gloves and other equipment that came into contact with the radioactive material. Now, the plant is expected to dispose of the diluted plutonium, which is much more potent than contaminated material and poses a greater safety risk. Hancock said they expect a lot of shipments to the plant and its hard to drill down an exact number. This expansion is going to affect more than just Santa Fe County, it will impact people statewide, Weehler said. She said safety issues, such as preparing emergency responses for a nuclear waste spill if theres an accident along the highway, will be left up to the local municipalities. For Santa Fe County, this emergency response falls to its emergency management director who, Communications Coordinator Carmelina Hart said, has a background in these types of responses. In the event of an emergency, the Countys role would be the initial evaluation, perimeter control and activation of all our state and federal partners who specialize in these responses, Hart said in an email. The County maintains relationships with the other agencies in the realm of emergency management. We have participated in full-scale exercises with the Department of Energy and local public safety teams. She said the county is reimbursed $15,000 annually by the Department of Energys WIPP program for emergency response preparations the county must maintain. The county also is working to identify additional training and equipment needs should nuclear waste transportation changes occur. Santa Fe County Commissioner Hank Hughes said he has lived in Santa Fe before there was a WIPP project and has shared citizens concerns about nuclear waste transportation for many years. He said expanding WIPPs mission might mean more nuclear waste traveling through Santa Fe County. He said the county is as equipped as it can be to handle an accident. Since the transportation is considered classified information, local governments arent notified when nuclear waste is headed their way. I think the concern is, while its very unlikely that there would be any leak of radioactive material even if there was an accident just increasing the number of trucks going through Santa Fe County raises that possibility, Hughes said. Since nuclear waste is handled on a federal level, its mostly out of the commissions hands, he said. All the county can really do is make sure its prepared for an accident, and help its constituents express their concerns to the federal delegation. And these worries havent gone unnoticed. Maria Hurtado, spokeswoman for U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, D-N.M., said the office has received a handful of constituent calls regarding the nuclear waste transportation. Hurtado said Leger Fernandez considers the health and safety of New Mexicans her biggest priority, and shes committed to ensuring the Energy Department and labs have the resources needed to operate safely. Leger Fernandez recently requested funding for a LANL environment cleanup in the Energy and Water appropriations bill. She also joined the federal New Mexico delegation to urge U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm to oppose interim storage of spent nuclear fuel and waste in New Mexico. U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., sits on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, which oversees the WIPP program that is continually monitored by his staff. Heinrichs top priority is to ensure public health and safety are prioritized with any radioactive material projects in New Mexico. He also maintains its important to have public participation and transparency in the discussions surrounding radioactive waste disposal. Iconic symbols of the New York skyline, the World Trade Center gleamed like golden towers in the sunset, then smoked and fell with the devastation of 9/11. Such was the cycle of life for what had been once the tallest buildings in the world. Santa Fes Monroe Gallery of Photography is commemorating the 20th anniversary of that fateful day with 9/11 In Remembrance, an exhibit of more than 20 images. The photographs document the design and building of the World Trade Center, its reign over the city skyline and its fall on that crisp September day. World War II and lifestyle photographer Tony Vaccaro captured the towers during a 1979 sunset, as well as their architect, Minoru Yamasaki, in 1969. Yamasakis preference for aesthetic thinness surfaced in the narrow spacing of the buildings windows and the vertical patterning created by aluminum alloy sheathing. When construction ended in 1976, it garnered scant praise, but the skyscrapers became symbolic of the Manhattan skyline. When terrorists struck 25 years later, freelance photographer Eric OConnell had just moved to New York from San Francisco. He saw the burning towers, heard a rumble and grabbed his cameras and ran toward the flames. He got to the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church as everything exploded around him. When the pounding stopped, he didnt know if he was dead or alive. OConnells print shows both the towers and the church being swallowed by smoke and flames. He heard people yelling, Its coming down! and he dove into a lobby, gallery co-owner Michelle Monroe said. He couldnt tell what was inside and what was outside. It looks like a horror movie. That church became a symbol, co-owner Sidney Monroe continued. A lot of the rescue workers would go to the church. OConnell also captured the chaos and confusion of people engulfed in ash and dust in The group in dust, West Street, September 11, 2001. Shepard Sherbell photographed a horrified trio of firemen watching the collapse. There were 8 million faces that looked like that for weeks afterward, Sidney said. They shut down all the traffic in Manhattan, Michelle Monroe added. They designated streets as one-way for emergency responders. New Yorkers would line the streets as the shifts changed. The crowd applauded, waved signs of support and gave out water bottles and flowers, echoing the pandemics spontaneous salutes to first responders. Black bunting draped every firehouse, honoring the firefighters who died. Every firehouse was a shrine, Sidney Monroe said. New Mexicos Eric Draper photographed President George W. Bush on the phone in a Florida classroom when he learned of the attack. Draper was the presidents personal photographer. He was reading books to a kindergarten class, Sidney Monroe said. They set up an office in one of the school rooms, then they whisked him out on Air Force One and flew around until they figured out what was going on. After the devastation of 9/11, some wondered if live theater would ever return to New York. During the pandemic, some voiced the same thought. As the Vortex Theatre returns to virtual production Friday, Sept. 10, its director finds several parallels between what happened on that crisp autumn day and the current mask on/mask off/mask on shifts amid COVID-19. The Vortex will perform The Guys, Anne Nelsons play about a fire captain who enlists a journalist to write eulogies for eight men lost in the World Trade Center attacks. Nelson turned the play into a fundraiser to help the victims. After watching another group of first responders care for victims of all ages, races and creeds during the pandemic, it felt absolutely right to remember those lost on Sept. 11, 20 years ago, director Marc Comstock said. The play opens with New Yorkers still in shock less than two weeks after the attacks. An editor named Joan receives an unexpected phone call on behalf of Nick, a fire captain, who lost most of his men in the disaster. Hes looking for a writer to help him with the eulogies he must present at their memorial services. In the process of writing the memorials, Nick and Joan discover possibilities of friendship in each other and their shared love for the unconquerable spirit of the city. The Guys is based on a true story. Nelson closely based the character of Joan on herself. As we come upon the 20th anniversary, its really important that we honor that, Comstock said. Twenty years ago it was current. Now its kind of a memory play. Nick has to deal with his own grief, but he has to lead his family and the guys that are still there, he continued. Joan struggles with, Is this enough? Nick says, Yes, these are your tools. Comstock is using the music of Bruce Springsteens post-9/11 album The Rising to open the play. The songs resonate with feelings of loss, horror and hope. But we did come out of 9/11; we grew and we did this together, Comstock said. The music takes us back to that mindset without taking us over the edge. It cant be only doom and gloom. And (Springsteens) music has some hope in it. Copyright 2021 Albuquerque Journal New Mexico State Police identified the man accused of injuring two Valencia County deputies in back-to-back shootouts Friday afternoon before being killed by authorities near Los Lunas. State Police spokesman Ray Wilson said two Valencia County deputies and one State Police officer opened fire on Jose Angel Baca of Los Lunas following a chase. The 28-year-old was hit and died at the scene. Before being killed, Baca allegedly shot one deputy and injured another with shrapnel as he repeatedly exchanged gunfire with authorities. The deputies were taken to an Albuquerque hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Wilson said Baca was on probation after pleading guilty in 2018 to aggravated battery against a peace officer resulting in great bodily harm. There was a warrant out for his arrest for violation of probation. Around 3 p.m. Friday, a Valencia County deputy responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle on N.M. 6 west of Los Lunas. State Police said Baca who was with an unidentified woman shot at and struck the deputy and fled in a pickup truck. Deputies and State Police caught up to the truck headed east on N.M. 6 through Los Lunas and a chase ensued. State Police said Baca crashed the truck on N.M. 314, near Davila Road, and the woman fled as he fired at authorities. Two Valencia County deputies and a State Police officer fired back, killing Baca. One of the deputies was injured by shrapnel. During a 2018 domestic violence incident, Baca beat a Town of Bernalillo police officer outside a motel and left him with an orbital fracture, scratched eye and concussion. Baca was sentenced to a year in jail and two years probation. Courts moved to revoke his probation in 2020 after he tested positive for Suboxone and escaped a Los Lunas treatment center. I am willing to give up my old ways to change and become a better person for myself and my family, Baca wrote in May 2020 on a treatment center worksheet. Correction: A previous version of this story misspelled the name of New Mexico Corrections Secretary Alisha Tafoya Lucero. Copyright 2021 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE Privatization was once touted as a cure for what ailed New Mexicos long-troubled prison system. But after more than 20 years of housing inmates in corporate-run prisons at a higher rate than nearly any other state, New Mexico is swerving back toward state control. Amid chronic understaffing issues, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams administration has announced plans to take over management of three prisons in Clayton, Santa Rosa and Grants over the past two years. Once the transition is complete, it will mean roughly one-quarter of state prison beds are located in privately run facilities, down from nearly half or 49.6% at the start of 2019, according to state Corrections Department data. Corrections Secretary Alisha Tafoya Lucero said Lujan Grisham, who appointed her to the job in 2019, has made clear her concern over the states reliance on private prison managers. New Mexico certainly is looking at things differently, Tafoya Lucero said in a recent interview. Theres no doubt about that. As of 2019, New Mexico had the nations second-highest percentage of inmates in privately run prisons, behind only Montana, according to the Washington D.C.-based Sentencing Project. New Mexicos move away from private prisons has been prompted by a mix of changing political dynamics and fading profits for corporations due to a decline in the states inmate population. But it wont be cheap. The states takeover of the three prisons is projected to cost the state $9.9 million in additional funding over the coming years, according to Legislative Finance Committee analysts. Higher pay levels for corrections officers, whom the state has struggled to retain, would make up a big part of that increase. Tafoya Lucero said she disagrees with the legislative cost estimate of the shift in management, saying its too early to provide definitive numbers. But she acknowledged that expenses will be higher. Is it worth it? Yeah, its absolutely worth it, Tafoya Lucero said. We will provide people training, we will focus on inmate programing and expansion of vocational training, education courses and so forth. And I believe we will be able to staff it, she added. We pay better, and I believe, hopefully, well be able to stabilize that (workforce). Meanwhile, the labor union that represents many New Mexico corrections officers say the states shift away from private prisons is good for taxpayers, employees, inmates and communities. Even when officers or inmates have problems in public prisons, there is recourse because theres more transparency and worker rights, said Carter Bundy, the political director for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union in New Mexico. Private prisons are all about cutting corners, increasing inmate populations, and making as much money as possible by underpaying workers and giving them no real retirement and poorer health care, he said. How we got here The push to privatize New Mexicos prison system began in the 1990s under former Gov. Gary Johnson, a Republican-turned-Libertarian who said private prisons would help alleviate chronic mismanagement and crowding in state-run prisons. In a recent interview, Johnson said he inherited an untenable situation upon taking office in which hundreds of inmates were being housed out of state. He said private prisons offered a solution to the problem with a feasible price tag. Youre getting the same products and services for about two-thirds of the cost, Johnson said. The ex-governor said that he has not been closely following New Mexicos shift away from private prisons but that he has no regrets about his administrations crafting of a revamped prison system that was largely left untouched by the states next two governors, Democrat Bill Richardson and Republican Susana Martinez. If the numbers of prisoners going in is less, (its no surprise) theyre going to close private prisons first, Johnson said. However, Senate Majority Whip Linda Lopez, D-Albuquerque, who has been a member of the Legislature since 1997, said she and other lawmakers raised concerns over the years about the states reliance on a for-profit private system. Those concerns included reports from some inmates about the frequent use of solitary confinement, she said. I was pleasantly surprised to hear were moving as fast as we are to reclaim our prison system, Lopez said, describing the shift as the right thing to do. She also said increased expenses associated with the states takeover of the private prison facilities represent a worthwhile investment, arguing they could lead to a more stable and better-compensated workforce. Recent takeovers The states recent move away from private prisons has been an intentional shift, said Tafoya Lucero, who nevertheless described each takeover as having different reasons. It started in 2019 with the state takeover of Northeast New Mexico Correctional Facility in Clayton that has a capacity of about 625 inmates. Tafoya Lucero said the change was prompted by low staffing levels at the nearly 180,000-square-foot prison just east of Clayton that opened in 2008 and houses medium-security male inmates. That had prompted the state to levy fines on GEO Group, the private prison operator that previously ran the facility. More recently, the Corrections Department announced in June it would take over operations of the Guadalupe County Correctional Facility in Santa Rosa. The agency announced in July its plans for a similar transition of the medium-security Northwest New Mexico Correctional Facility in Grants. The takeover of the Santa Rosa prison was also prompted by a drop in staffing levels the vacancy rate for corrections officers reached 72% at one point that led to inmates being transferred to other facilities for safety reasons. The GEO Group announced it was terminating its contract after the state resisted proposed changes that would have included reduced programming for inmates, Tafoya Lucero said. We felt that it was a good thing, safe thing, the right thing to do to take over the operations at this facility, Tafoya Lucero said. As for the Northwest New Mexico Correctional Facility in Grants run by Tennessee-based CoreCivic, Tafoya Lucero said state takeover of the prison was less circumstantial. Rather, she said state officials had long been planning taking over the prisons operations to make a prison campus of sorts with the nearby Western New Mexico Womens Correctional Facility. Both private prison companies have been guarded about the transitions. A spokesman for the Florida-based GEO Group referred Journal questions to the state Corrections Department. Meanwhile, a CoreCivic spokesman said the company was committed to ensuring a safe and seamless transition of the Grants prison to state-level management. While contracts can and sometimes do end for a variety of reasons by and large, we see continuity in the use of our facilities, whether its government partners continuing with existing contracts, new partnerships developing to meet emerging needs, or previous partnerships starting anew, CoreCivic spokesman Ryan Gustin said. Staffing concerns Former correctional officer Ernie Garcia spent 20 years with the Department of Corrections. He said the difference between private and public correctional officer pay in his experience was typically $2 to $3 an hour. However, he said officers at state-run prisons were equally overworked and understaffed despite the higher pay and more generous retirement benefits. I just hope that somebody steps in to kind of monitor this transition that were going through meaning the Department of Justice, Garcia said. It really needs to be highly monitored because inmates lives are going to be at risk. Currently, New Mexico has a 27.1% vacancy rate for correctional officers statewide, a Corrections Department spokesman said. And Garcia pointed out that while private prison companies have faced fines when they couldnt fully staff their facilities, the state faces no penalties for its own understaffing. Meanwhile, another current correctional officer said that over his 17-year career prisons have become increasingly understaffed. He said the chronic understaffing is endangering peoples lives, and the officers are just warehousing people instead of giving them the entitlements they deserve, such as recreation time. The officer said public prisons typically have more guidelines and vocational programs than private prisons, but said the state will need to dedicate ample funding and staffing to run these prisons. As for addressing high vacancy rates among corrections officers, Tafoya Lucero said the state will pay qualified employees a starting rate of $20 an hour up from a $15.75 an hour starting wage currently at some private prison facilities. In addition to higher salaries, corrections officers at state-run prisons also typically get more generous retirement benefits than guards employed at private prisons. Population decline The transition to public prisons also comes amid a decline in prison populations. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the states male inmate population had dropped over 10% and the female population almost 25%, according to the New Mexico Sentencing Commission. The prison population was already declining before the pandemic but at a much slower rate, said Linda Freeman, the commissions executive director. Freeman said the commission is expecting an inmate population increase as normal activities begin again after the pandemic, and the courts have a chance to work through the backlog thats piled up from suspended jury trials and other court delays. However, the populations arent expected to ever reach pre-pandemic numbers. In the population forecast, which spans to fiscal year 2030, the population is still about 1,200 less than pre-pandemic numbers for men and women. I think one of the positive aspects of the pandemic is, if weve gotten this population down I think many policy makers would prefer to keep the population reduced, Freeman said. Its my hope that through preventative measures, and improving the services that are available to individuals as they release and hopefully, you know, breaking that cycle that we would not go back to those pre-pandemic highs. She also down played the link between private prisons and prison populations. She said male prisoners are often shuffled back and forth between private and public prisons during their sentences. I think one of the strengths of perhaps bringing these prisons under public service is that youll get greater efficiency in programming and staffing, and things like that, she said. Douglas Carver, the commissions deputy director, said private prisons have typically housed medium security prison inmates, and sometimes dangerousness classifications change which result in prisoners being shifted around. The shifts between state-run and private prisons have sometimes made it difficult for prison release programming to remain consistent for inmates, he said. Not a fix-all Prison rights advocates say the shift from private prisons is a good thing, but caution it isnt a fix-all for the chronic issues facing New Mexicos prison system. Steven Robert Allen, director of the New Mexico Prison and Jail Project, said prison corporations are bad things due to their human rights records and lower staffing levels, but said the declining prison population trend is much more significant. For instance, he said he has still heard reports from inmates at the Clayton prison about excessive force and inadequate medical care even after the states 2019 takeover of the facility. Some people think its worse than under the private prison company, he said. And even at New Mexicos state-run prisons, health care and food services are provided by private contractors. You can get rid of the private facility, but you still have these corporations making a ton of money off of punishing people and incarcerating them, Allen said. Lalita Moskowitz, staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico, said other companies will also still profit off incarceration under a public prison model, such as the companies who make the GPS ankle monitors. Many of the conditions in the prisons dont necessarily improve dramatically with the state taking over, Moskowitz said. But often, the problems have to do with low staffing, lack of access to medical care, and lack of access to other kinds of programming that have often to do with the location of the prison itself, or just the nature of running a prison. What happens next Once the two announced takeovers occur, the shift back toward state-run prisons will leave just two privately run prisons in New Mexico the Lea County Correctional Facility in Hobbs and the Otero County Prison Facility in Chaparral. Tafoya Lucero did not rule out the possibility of a state takeover for those prisons, but said its premature to speculate. She also suggested the Chaparral prison, in particular, would pose complications since it also houses federal immigration detainees. Even as is, New Mexicos recent shift has turned heads among prison experts nationwide, she added. Its not common for state entities to take over private facilities in other states, Tafoya Lucero said. For now, a huge projected state revenue windfall could provide ample dollars to cover higher costs posed by state-run prisons. But increased control will likely come with increased scrutiny and, as New Mexicos recent prison history has shown, even fixes can come with their own set of problems. Copyright 2021 Albuquerque Journal SANTA FE New Mexicos robust vaccination rate one of the strongest in the country has a weak spot. Young adults are far less likely than older New Mexicans to complete their vaccine series, a persistent challenge as the state tries to blunt another surge in COVID-19 infections. Just 45.1% of 18- to 24-year-olds in the state are fully vaccinated against the disease, trailing the adult population as a whole by more than 20 points, according to data released by the state Department of Health. New Mexicos young adults also lag behind the national average of 48.3% for their age group. Greg Romero, president of the Associated Students of the University of New Mexico, said he got the shot as soon as he was eligible this year. But some of his peers, he said, have put it off, planning to get the vaccine eventually but not motivated to act quickly. They just dont see an urgent need at this moment to get it, Romero said, even though it is urgent. A scientific survey by the University of New Mexico Center for Social Policy found that younger adults 18 to 29 years old are less likely to say they know how to get the vaccine in their community. Adults in their 20s or younger also expressed concern about rare blood clots a phenomenon that briefly paused distribution of the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine this year and they are more likely than older residents to worry about a potential impact on their ability to have children, the survey said. Theres no evidence the COVID-19 vaccines affect fertility, according to the state Department of Health and U.S. Centers on Disease Control and Prevention. Federal scientific advisers also determined the benefits of the Johnson & Johnson shot outweigh the risks and that anyone concerned about side effects may opt instead for the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. But some young adults arent convinced. In a Journal interview, Rose, a 23-year-old woman from Silver City, said she wants more information before deciding whether to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Blood clots and fertility, she said, have been topics of discussion among her friends and others her age. Im not against getting it in the future, Rose said Friday, but I think there needs to be more research, and they need to be more open about side effects. Rose said she isnt an anti-vaxxer and has received other vaccines. But she said she wants to make her own decision about the COVID-19 vaccine, not face a mandate. Rose works in the dental field, and her employer hasnt required her to get a vaccine. Fake stuff on the internet Dr. Jason Mitchell, chief medical officer at Presbyterian Healthcare Services, the states largest health system, said its critical for young adults to get vaccinated. They are more likely, he said, to be working multiple jobs, going to school and coming into contact with broader groups of people. Vaccination, then, is a way for young adults to protect the community around them, Mitchell said, not just themselves. But young New Mexicans, he said, also face risks to their own health. On a given day, he said, five to 10 people in their 20s or younger are hospitalized with the disease. Young people get really sick from COVID, Mitchell said, and can die from COVID. Fears about fertility, he said, simply arent justified. In a statement last month, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and other associations of physicians strongly encouraged pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19, explaining that the vaccines have no impact on fertility. The fertility concern, Mitchell said, has been completely debunked. There is absolutely, scientifically no impact on fertility. That was not real. That was fake stuff on the internet. 18-24 cohort trails others Adults 65 and older are the most likely to get the vaccine in New Mexico. An estimated 77.1% of adults that age have completed their vaccine series, 32 points higher than people 18 to 24 years old. Vaccine rates tend to grow with age, with one exception. Teenagers who are 16 or 17 years old have a slightly higher vaccination rate than their older peers. An estimated 49.7% of people ages 16 and 17 are fully vaccinated, almost 5 percentage points higher than adults 18 to 24. Broadly speaking, New Mexicos vaccination rates except for the 18- to 24-year-old cohort outpace those of the nation as a whole. New Mexico ranks No. 5 among states for vaccine doses administered per person among adults, according to CDC data. The statewide vaccination rate is 68.1% for residents 18 and older, or 4 points higher than the nation as a whole. Older adults were among the first allowed to get the vaccine under New Mexicos phased-in plan for vaccine distribution. Vaccine hesitancy The UNM Center for Social Policy this year surveyed more than 2,000 adults in New Mexico to help gauge attitudes toward vaccination. Just 48% of 18- to 29-year-old New Mexicans said they knew how to get the vaccine in their community, lower than other age groups. They were also more likely to have had arguments with family and close friends about the vaccine and had greater concerns about fertility. The survey finds that vaccination hesitancy among this group is driven by a combination of ideological and information barriers, the UNM report said. Targeted outreach to this specific sub-group of the larger population will be needed given their higher rates of hesitancy. The research said cash incentives are more likely to entice younger adults than other age groups. Their most trusted messengers for vaccine information were their doctors, close friends and family who have been vaccinated, and civil rights groups from their community, according to the UNM report. Messages that appeared to resonate with young people included assurances that their vaccine decision would remain private; that nurses, doctors and other providers agree the vaccine is safe and effective; and that vaccination would allow them to visit older loved ones who are more vulnerable. The report was authored by Gabriel Sanchez, director of the UNM Center for Social Policy, and Melanie Sayuri Dominguez, Betzaira Mayorga-Calleros and Shannon Sanchez-Youngman, all of UNM. David Morgan, a spokesman for the state Department of Health, said New Mexicos $100 vaccine incentive a program that ended in August appears to have succeeded in helping boost vaccinations among younger adults. Vaccination will remain key as theyre the ones most likely to move independently in public unmasked and unvaccinated, Morgan said in a written statement. Being young is not the same as being immortal, and with hospitals nationwide seeing more unvaccinated young people in their intensive care wards, that should be a sign that vaccination, distancing and masking is as much a safe bet for their long-term health as it is for everyone else. Mitchell, the Presbyterian physician, said vaccination is the only way out of the pandemic. He encouraged young adults or anyone else to talk to their physician or a health care provider. You have to consider which source is right for the question youre asking, Mitchell said. When its health care, its going to be your health care provider. For Romero, whos 21 and studying liberal arts at UNM, he said he was motivated by a desire to visit friends and relatives especially older family members without fear of spreading the disease. I didnt want to put them at risk, he said. WHITE SANDS MISSILE RANGE White Sands Missile Range will open the Trinity Site to the public on Oct. 2 after a pause in activities due to COVID-19. The Trinity Site is where the worlds first atomic bomb was tested at 5:29:45 a.m. Mountain War Time on July 16, 1945. The open house is free, and no reservations are required. At the site, visitors can take a quarter-mile walk to ground zero, where a small obelisk marks the spot where the bomb was detonated. Historical photos are mounted on the fence surrounding the area. While at the site, visitors can also ride a missile range shuttle bus two miles from ground zero to the Schmidt/McDonald Ranch House, where the scientists assembled the plutonium core of the bomb. Visitors will also be able to experience what life was like for a ranch family in the early 1940s. To comply with New Mexicos COVID-19 mandates, masks must be worn while inside the buses and inside the ranch house. The simplest way to get to the Trinity Site is to enter White Sands Missile Range through its Stallion Range Center gate, five miles south of U.S. 380. The turnoff is 12 miles east of San Antonio and 53 miles west of Carrizozo. The Stallion Gate is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors arriving at the gate between those hours will be allowed to drive unescorted the 17 miles to Trinity Site. The road is paved and marked. The site closes promptly at 3:30 p.m. Copyright 2021 Albuquerque Journal Police say a suspected drunken driver topped 100 mph multiple times on Albuquerque streets before being arrested in the early hours of Saturday morning. Adam Pacino, 25, is charged with aggravated DWI, reckless driving, aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer and negligent use of a deadly weapon. Albuquerque Police Department spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said Pacino was recorded driving up Montgomery NE at 140 mph at one point before he was arrested outside a country bar in the Northeast Heights. According to the criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court: Around 1 a.m., officers conducting a traffic enforcement operation in the area saw Pacino driving over 100 mph near Montgomery and Eubank. Police tried to pull over Pacino, who was in a 2020 Dodge Charger Hellcat, but he kept driving. A police helicopter tracked Pacino as he continued to drive over 100 mph on multiple streets and ran several red lights. Pacino eventually pulled into the Dirty Bourbon parking lot at Montgomery and Eubank. Pacino got out of the car and was quickly arrested by police, who said he had bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and smelled of alcohol. Pacino called an officer expletives, a gay slur and talked about calling his lawyer when police tried to read him his Miranda rights. The officer asked Pacino to submit to a breath test and he replied suck my (expletive). I considered his words and actions to be a refusal to provide a breath sample, the officer wrote in the court document. Police also found a loaded handgun in Pacinos car. APD said its traffic division partnered with New Mexico State Police to target street racing, speeding and careless and reckless driving. Officers handed out 176 traffic citations, eight tickets for modified exhaust, made four DWI arrests and towed nine vehicles during the five-hour operation. SHANKSVILLE, Pa. Across the vast field where the plane fell out of the sky so many years ago, all is quiet. The hills around Shanksville seem to swallow sound. The plateau that Americans by the millions ascend to visit the Flight 93 National Memorial, to think of those who died in this southwestern Pennsylvania expanse, sits just above much of the landscape, creating a pocket of quiet precisely where quiet needs to be. It is a place that encourages the act of remembering. Twenty years have passed since United Flight 93 made its final descent, chaos unfolding aboard as buildings burned 300 miles to the east. Nearly one-fifth of the country is too young to remember firsthand the day that changed everything. At the edge of the memorials overlook, a burly man in a leather Harley Davidson vest talks to two companions. He points toward the patch where the plane hit. It is an intimate conversation, and it is hard to hear what hes saying. But his first two words are clear: I remember ___ Remembering is not merely a state of mind. As those who beseech us to never forget the Holocaust have long insisted, it is an act. And when loss and trauma are visited upon human beings, the act of remembering takes many forms. Remembering is political. Those who disagree about the fate of Confederate statues across the American South demonstrate that, as do those who dispute how much the war on terror and its toll should be part of discussions about 9/11 memories. Remembering wears many coats. It arrives in ground zero ceremonies and moments of silence and prayers upon prayers, both public and private. It shows itself in folk memorials like those erected at the sides of lonely roads to mark the sites of traffic deaths. It is embedded in the names of places, like the road that leads to the Flight 93 memorial the Lincoln Highway. It surfaces in the retrieval of flashbulb memories those where-were-you-when-this-happened moments that stick with us, sometimes accurately, sometimes not. There are personal memories and cultural memories and political memories, and the line between them often blurs. And for generations, remembering has been presented to us in monuments and memorials like Shanksvilles, negotiated and constructed and fine-tuned to evoke and provoke the memories and emotions of people and moments in certain ways. Monuments are history made visible. They are shrines that celebrate the ideals, achievements and heroes that existed in one moment in time, architectural historian Judith Dupre writes in her 2007 book about them a book she first pitched to her publisher on, of all dates, Sept. 10, 2001. Yet while monuments stand, remembering itself evolves. How 9/11 is remembered depends on when 9/11 is remembered. Remembering it on Sept. 15, 2001, or on Sept. 11, 2004 is different from remembering it on Sept 11, 2011 or, for that matter, different from what it will be next weekend. What, then, does remembering come to mean on a 20th anniversary, or at any juncture when an event like 9/11 starts to recede into the past starts to become history even as its echoes are still shaking the foundations of everything? Our present influences how we remember the past sometimes in ways that are known and sometimes in ways that we dont realize, says Jennifer Talarico, a psychology professor at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania who studies how people form personal memories of public events. Evidence of that is obvious in the events of the past five weeks in Afghanistan, where a 20-year war waged in direct response to 9/11 ended pretty much where it began: with the repressive and violent Taliban in charge once more. If we were still in Afghanistan and things were stable, we would be remembering 9/11 in probably a very different way than how we will remember it this year, says Richard Cooper, a vice president at the nonprofit Space Foundation who worked for the Department of Homeland Security for several years after the attacks and has watched many remembrances over the years. That heartbreak and pain we felt on the morning of Sept. 12, 2001, is resurrecting itself, Cooper says, and that impacts how we remember it today. ___ Even within more static forms of memory, such as the Flight 93 National Memorial, the question of how remembering changes and evolves hangs over so much. In the visitors center, visceral, painful artifacts of the moment still bring back the past with astonishing efficiency; twisted, scarred cutlery from in-flight meals is a particularly breathtaking sight. But the variety of remembering that is presented yards away at the quiet overlook and its thoughtful memorial feels more permanent, more eternal and now, 20 years on, more befitting of something that happened a generation ago. Paul Murdoch of Los Angeles, the lead architect on the memorial, says it was carefully calibrated to resonate across multiple stages of memory about the event and its implications. You can imagine a memorial approach that sort of freezes anger in time, or freezes fear. And that can be a very expressionistic piece of art. But I feel like for something to endure over a long period of time, I think it has to operate a different way, says Murdoch, who co-designed the memorial with his wife, Milena. Now we have a generation of people who werent even alive on 9/11, Murdoch says. So how do you talk to people of this new generation or of future generations? That question is particularly potent on this 20th anniversary. Society tends to mark generations in two-decade packages, so theres an entire one that has been born and come of age since the attacks. That hardly means they havent been paying attention, though; they remember too, even if they werent around. Krystine Batcho, a psychology professor at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York, studies how nostalgia works. She found something interesting a couple years ago when she was researching how young people encountered stories that resonated with them both personally and through the news. Even those who lacked living memories of 9/11, Batcho says, responded with stories about the event. It was remembering as shared experience. And no wonder. So many first encounters with 9/11 on the day it happened were, in the tradition of an information age, both separate and communal. People in different parts of the country and world, under vastly different circumstances, watched the same live camera angles on the same few feeds and saw the same, now-indelible views of the destruction in the same way. They experienced it apart, but together. That formed a communal memory of sorts, even if sometimes people who saw the same things didnt remember them the same way a specific camera angle or vantage point, a key figures comments, the exact sequence of events. Remembering can be like that, experts like Talarico say, particularly with intense flashbulb memories like 9/11 that carve deep grooves but arent necessarily accurate in the details. We reconstruct the event through our own lens, and part of that lens is very social, Batcho says. You would think that the memories would be more cohesive and homogeneous. It turns out that its much more complicated than that. ___ May 31, 2002, less than a year afterward. Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani tells high school students in Shanksville at their commencement: A hundred years from now, people are going to come and want to see it. And they are going to want to know what happened. Sept. 11, 2016, the 15th anniversary. President Barack Obama says: Fifteen years may seem like a long time. But for the families who lost a piece of their heart that day, I imagine it can seem like just yesterday. That fundamental tension it feels like yesterday, yes, but it is also becoming part of history for the long haul is what confronts us in the coming days as many revisit and consider 9/11 and commit their own acts of remembering. For those who were not at the nucleus of 9/11s horror and its pain but experienced it as part of the culture in which they live, it can somehow manage to feel like both yesterday and a long time ago all at once. And as with so many acts of remembering, it is still being debated and contested and will be for a long time to come. Sober ceremonies should not mislead us into thinking the public remembrance of this horrific event is a settled matter, 9/11 historian John Bodnar wrote in a Washington Post opinion piece in May. At a hinge point like a major anniversary, particularly with something as seismic as 9/11, its easy to fall back on an aphorism like this one from William Faulkner: The past is never dead. Its not even past. But the saying has endured for a reason. Memory becomes history. And history shared history is held onto tightly, sometimes rabidly. Its why so many people grasp tightly to comforting, nostalgic historical narratives even when theyre shown to have been as destructive as they were productive. The act of remembering something like 9/11 involves exactly that delicate balance. When memory does become history, it can become more remote, like a Revolutionary War memorial for people whose passions and sacrifices have been sanded down by time. With distance, it can calcify. Thats not going to happen with 9/11 for a long time, of course. Its politics are still roiling. The arguments that it produced and the ways they sent society hurtling in a different direction are just as intense as in those early days. And when a nation pauses to remember the morning 20 years ago when it was attacked, it is not only looking over its shoulder. It is also looking around and wondering: What does this mean to us now? What is important in making a memorial, in what you remember and in how you remember it? J. William Thompson wondered in his elegant 2017 book, From Memory to Memorial: Shanksville, America and Flight 93. Any answers to that are, understandably, complex. But behind all the formal words and ways to commemorate a day that upended the world, something more fundamental lurks: a simple imperative to hold onto a sense of what changed things, and how. On the cover of Thompsons book, a man stands looking at the Shanksville crash site, his right arm raised. In his left he holds a hand-painted sign etched with four words, one declarative sentence: I did not forget. ___ Ted Anthony, director of new storytelling and newsroom innovation for The Associated Press, was APs director of Asia-Pacific news from 2014 to 2018 and covered the aftermath of 9/11 in Afghanistan and Pakistan from 2001 to 2003. Follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/anthonyted HONG KONG The group behind the annual Tiananmen Square memorial vigil in Hong Kong said Sunday it will not cooperate with police conducting a national security investigation into the groups activities, calling it an abuse of power. Police notified the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China last month that it was under investigation for working for foreign interests, an accusation the group denied. This is a really bad precedent of the national security (police) abusing the power by arbitrarily labeling any civil organization as a foreign agent, Chow Han Tung, vice chairwoman of the alliance, said at a news conference called to address the police investigation. The alliance strongly denies that we are any foreign agents, Chow said. We are an organization that was founded during the 1989 democratic movement, it was founded by the Hong Kong people. The investigation is part of a broad crackdown on Hong Kong civil society following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Authorities have tightened control over the city with a sweeping national security law imposed by Chinas ruling Communist Party that effectively criminalized opposition to the government. The law and other changes have forced several civil organizations to disband or seen their leaders arrested. The annual candlelight vigil honors the students who died when Chinas military violently suppressed massive pro-democracy protests in Beijings Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989. Authorities responded in the afternoon to the groups announcement with a warning and reiterated they needed information about certain foreign agents although they did not name anyone specifically. Endangering national security is a very serious crime. The damage is serious, said the citys Security Bureau in a statement. They added that not handing over information could lead to fines or imprisonment. Hong Kong had been the only place in China allowed to hold such a commemoration, and in past years, tens of thousands of people gathered in Victoria Park to honor the dead. Smaller crowds gathered this year and in 2020 despite police banning the vigil, citing coronavirus restrictions on public gatherings. Police had asked the alliance to hand over any information about groups they had worked with overseas or in Taiwan, as well as contact information. They did not mention what specific incidents prompted the investigation. Chow said the alliance has not been able to reach a consensus on whether to disband. It plans to hold a general meeting on Sept. 25 to discuss the matter again. In August, the prominent Hong Kong Civil Human Rights Front, made up of a slew of member organizations, said it could no longer operate and chose to disband. The group organized large protests in 2019. More than 100 pro-democracy activists have been arrested under Hong Kongs national security law, which outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion to interfere in the citys affairs. Many other activists have gone into exile abroad. Critics say the law restricts freedoms Hong Kong was promised it could maintain for 50 years following the territorys 1997 handover to China from colonial Britain. ___ Wu reported from Taipei, Taiwan. WASHINGTON Top U.S. national security officials will see how the failed war in Afghanistan may be reshaping Americas relationships in the Middle East as they meet with key allies in the Persian Gulf and Europe this week. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin are traveling to the Gulf separately, leaving Sunday. They will talk with leaders who are central to U.S. efforts to prevent a resurgence of extremist threats in Afghanistan, some of whom were partners in the 20-year fight against the Taliban. Together, the Austin and Blinken trips are meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Bidens decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of U.S. partners in the Middle East. The U.S. military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navys 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but he like the Trump administration before him has called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia. Theres nothing China or Russia would rather have, would want more, in this competition than the United States to be bogged down another decade in Afghanistan, Biden said in the hours after the last U.S. troops left. In announcing his Gulf trip, Austin told a Pentagon news conference that staying focused on terrorist threats means relentless efforts against any threat to the American people from any place, even as the United States places a new focus on strategic challenges from China. Blinken travels to Qatar and will also stop in Germany to see Afghan evacuees at Ramstein air base who are awaiting clearance to travel to the United States. While there he will join a virtual meeting with counterparts from 20 nations on the way ahead in Afghanistan. The secretary will convey the United States gratitude to the German government for being an invaluable partner in Afghanistan for the past 20 years and for German cooperation on transit operations moving people out of Afghanistan, spokesman Ned Price said Friday. Austin plans to start his trip by thanking the leaders of Qatar for their cooperation during the Kabul airlift that helped clear an initially clogged pipeline of desperate evacuees. In addition to permitting the use of al-Udeid air base for U.S. processing of evacuees, Qatar agreed to host the American diplomatic mission that withdrew from Kabul at wars end. The Qataris also have offered a hand to help reopen the Kabul airport in cooperation with the Taliban. During a stop in Bahrain, Austin plans to speak with Marines who spent weeks at Kabul airport executing a frantic and dangerous evacuation of Afghans, Americans and others. Eleven Marines were killed and 15 were wounded in a suicide bombing at the airport on Aug. 26. That attack killed a total of 13 U.S. service members and scores of Afghan civilians. The Pentagon chief also planned to visit Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and to meet with senior leaders in a region he knows well as a retired Army general and former head of U.S. Central Command with responsibility for all military operations there. Saudi Arabia was notably absent from the group of Gulf states who helped facilitate the U.S.-led evacuation from Kabul airport. Riyadhs relations with Washington are strained over Bidens efforts to revive a nuclear deal with Iran, among other issues. Just days before the U.S. left Afghanistan, the Saudis signed a military cooperation agreement with Russia. Biden said his decision to get out of Afghanistan after 20 years was part of a plan to turn the page on an approach to foreign policy since 2001 that he believes kept the U.S. military in Afghanistan far too long. Allies in the Gulf, where extremist threats are at the doorstep, want to know what the next U.S. policy page looks like. In Europe, too, allies are assessing what the lost war in Afghanistan and its immediate aftermath mean for their collective interests, including the years-old question of whether Europe should become less reliant on the United States. We need to increase our capacity to act autonomously when and where necessary, Josep Borrell Fontelles, the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy, wrote on Twitter on Thursday. Americas European allies in NATO had more troops in Afghanistan than did the United States when Biden announced in April that he would withdraw by September. The Europeans had almost no choice but to join the exit, given the limits of their combat power so far from home, and they were largely dependent on U.S. air transport to get out, although they did fly some of the evacuation sorties. Some NATO allies doubted the wisdom of Bidens withdrawal decision, but its uncertain that the Afghanistan crisis will weaken the ties that bind the United States and Europe. In an essay, two of the Center for Strategic and International Securitys Europe experts Rachel Ellehuus and Pierre Morcos wrote that the crisis does reveal inconvenient truths about the trans-Atlantic relationship. For Europeans, it has exposed both their inability to change the decision calculus of the United States and powerlessness to defend their own interests (for example, evacuate their own citizens and allies) without the support of Washington, they wrote. Germany, Spain, Italy and other European nations are allowing the U.S. to use their military bases to temporarily house Afghans who were airlifted out of Kabul but have not been approved for resettlement in the United States or elsewhere. Bahrain and Qatar made similar accommodations. Together, these arrangements relieved strain on the evacuation operation from Kabul that initially was so acute that the airlift had to be suspended for several hours because there was no place to take the evacuees. MARRERO, La. Amid the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida, there was at least one bright light Sunday: Parishioners found that electricity had been restored to their church outside of New Orleans, a small improvement as residents of Louisiana struggle to regain some aspects of normal life. In Jefferson Parish, the Rev. G. Amaldoss expected to celebrate Mass at St. Joachim Catholic Church in the parking lot, which was dotted with downed limbs. But when he swung open the doors of the church early Sunday, the sanctuary was bathed in light. That made an indoor service possible. Divine intervention, Amaldoss said, pressing his hands together and looking toward the sky. A week after Hurricane Ida struck, many in Louisiana continue to face food, water and gas shortages as well as power outages while battling heat and humidity. The storm was blamed for at least 16 deaths in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. In the Northeast, Idas remnants dumped record-breaking rain and killed at least 50 people from Virginia to Connecticut. As Mass began Sunday, Amaldoss walked down the aisle of the church in his green robe, with just eight people spread among the pews. Instead, the seats brimmed with boxes of donated toothpaste, shampoo and canned vegetables. For all the people whose lives are saved and all the people whose lives are lost, we pray for them, he said. Remember the brothers and sisters driven by the wind and the water. Through the wall of windows behind the altar, beyond the swamp abutting the church, the floodgates that saved the building could be seen. The Gospel was the story of Jesus bringing sight to a blind man, and throughout the tiny church, stories of miracles were repeated. Wynonia Lazaro gave thanks for newly restored power in her home, where the only casualties of Ida were some downed trees and loosened shingles. We are extremely blessed, she said. Some parishioners suffered total losses of their homes, or devastating damage. Gina Caulfield, a 64-year-old retired teacher, has been hopping from relative to relative after her cousins trailer, where shed been living, was left uninhabitable. Still, she was grateful to have survived the storm. Its a comfort to know we have people praying for us, she said. Some parishes outside New Orleans were battered for hours by winds of 100 mph (160 kph) or more, and Ida damaged or destroyed more than 22,000 power poles, more than hurricanes Katrina, Zeta and Delta combined. More than 630,000 homes and businesses remained without power Sunday across southeast Louisiana, according to the state Public Service Commission. At the peak, 902,000 customers had lost power. Fully restoring electricity to some places in the states southeast could take until the end of the month, according Phillip May, president and CEO of Entergy, which provides power to New Orleans and other areas in the storms path. Entergy is in the process of acquiring air boats and other equipment needed to get power crews into swampy and marshy regions. May said many grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses are a high priority. We will continue to work until every last light is on, he said during a briefing Sunday. In Jean Lafitte, a small town of about 2,000 people, pools of water along the roadway were receding and some of the thick mud left behind was beginning to dry. At St. Anthony Church, the 4 feet (about 1.2 meters) of water once inside had seeped away, but a slippery layer of muck remained. Outside, the faithful sat on folding metal chairs under a blue tent to celebrate Mass. Next door, at the Piggly Wiggly, military police in fatigues stood guard. In times such like these, we come together and we help one another, the Rev. Luke Nguyen, the churchs pastor, told a few dozen congregants. Ronny Dufrene, a 39-year-old oil field worker from Lafayette, returned to his hometown to help. People are taking pictures of where their houses used to be, he said. But this is a chance to get together and praise God for what we do have, and thats each other. In New Orleans, many churches remained closed due to lingering power outages. But First Grace United Methodist Church opened its doors and held service without power. Sunlight from large windows brightened the sanctuary, where about 10 people sat. Whatever situation youre in, you get to choose how you see it, said Pastor Shawn Anglim, whose first time pastoring the congregation was after the church recovered from Hurricane Katrina 16 years ago. You can see it from a place of faith, a place of hope and a place of love, and a place of possibility. Jennifer Moss, who attended service with her husband, Tom, said power had been restored to their home on Saturday. Weve been blessed throughout this entire ordeal, she said. That storm could have been a little closer to the east, and we wouldnt have a place to come and worship. In Lafitte, about 28 miles (45 kilometers) south of New Orleans, animal control officer Koby Bellanger experienced his own little blessing after he heard the sounds of an animal crying as he rode through the flooded streets with a sheriffs deputy. Bellanger waded through the water and found a tiny, green-eyed black kitten clinging to the engine of a car outside a devastated house. He hoisted the animal up, to the delight of Lafayette Parish Deputy Rebecca Bobzin. Bring him! Bobzin screamed in delight. Louisianas 12 storm-related deaths included five nursing home residents evacuated ahead of the hurricane along with hundreds of other seniors to a warehouse in Louisiana, where health officials said conditions became unsafe. On Saturday, State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter ordered the immediate closure of the seven nursing facilities that sent residents to the warehouse. As recovery efforts continued, state officials were monitoring a developing storm in Mexicos Bay of Campeche, which appeared set to move into the central Gulf of Mexico closer to Louisiana. Predictions so far dont show it strengthening into a hurricane, but the governor warned that even a smaller storm would be hard for the state to handle. ___ Morrison reported from New Orleans. Associated Press writer Denise Lavoie in Richmond, Virginia, contributed. CETINJE, Montenegro Arriving in a military helicopter, the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro was inaugurated in the states old capital on Sunday amid clashes between police and protesters who oppose continued Serb influence in the tiny Balkan nation. Hospital officials in the city of Cetinje said at least 60 people were injured, including 30 police officers, in clashes that saw police launch tear gas against the demonstrators, who hurled rocks and bottles at them and fired gunshots into the air. At least 15 people were arrested. Sundays inauguration ceremony angered opponents of the Serbian church in Montenegro, which declared independence from neighboring Serbia in 2006. Since Montenegro split from Serbia, pro-independence Montenegrins have advocated for a recognized Orthodox Christian church that is separate from the Serbian one. Evading road blockades set up by the demonstrators, the new head of the Serbian church in Montenegro, Metropolitan Joanikije, arrived in Cetinje by a helicopter along with the Serbian Patriarch Porfirije. TV footage showed the priests being led into the Cetinje monastery by heavily armed riot police holding a bulletproof blanket to shield their bodies. Patriarch Porfirije later wrote on Instagram that he was happy that the inauguration was held, but added that he was horrified by the fact that someone near the monastery wanted to prevent the ceremony with a sniper rifle. The claim could not be immediately independently verified. The demonstrators set up barriers with trash bins, tires and large rocks to try to prevent church and state dignitaries from coming to the inauguration. Chanting This is Not Serbia! and This is Montenegro!, many of the protesters spent the night at the barriers amid reports that police were sending reinforcements to break through the blockade. Tires at one blockade were set on fire. Montenegrins remain deeply divided over their countrys ties with neighboring Serbia and the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is the nations dominant religious institution. Around 30% of Montenegros 620,000 people consider themselves Serb. Metropolitan Joanikije said after the ceremony that the divisions have been artificially created and we have done all in our power to help remove them, but that will take a lot of time. In a clear demonstration of the sharp political divide in Montenegro, President Milo Djukanovic, the architect of the states independence from Serbia, visited Cetinje while the current pro-Serb Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic went to Podgorica to welcome the Serbian patriarch. While Krivokapic branded the protests as an attempted terrorist act, Djukanovic said the protesters in Cetinje were guarding national interests against the alleged bid by the much larger Serbia to impose its influence in Montenegro through the church. Djukanovic accused the current Montenegrin government of ruthlessly serving imperial interests of (Serbia) and the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is a striking fist of Serbian nationalism, all against Montenegro. Montenegros previous authorities led the country to independence from Serbia and defied Russia to join NATO in 2017. Montenegro also is seeking to become a European Union member. In Serbia, President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been accused by the opposition in Montenegro of meddling in its internal affairs in conjunction with Russia, congratulated Joanikije on his inauguration and praised the government for going ahead with the ceremony despite the clashes. Cetinje is a town where some 90% of the people are against the Serbian Orthodox Church, where there is hate towards everyone who is not Montenegrin, Vucic said in Belgrade. This is not a real hate, its hate that is induced by certain politicians in Montenegro, so it was quite logical to expect what happened there. The U.S. government urged all sides to urgently de-escalate the situation. Religious freedom and the freedom of expression, including to peacefully assemble, must be respected, the U.S. Embassy said. Joanikijes predecessor as church leader in Montenegro, Amfilohije, died in October after contracting COVID-19. ___ Dusan Stojanovic and Jovana Gec contributed from Belgrade, Serbia. CONAKRY, Guinea Mutinous soldiers in the West African nation of Guinea detained President Alpha Conde on Sunday after hours of heavy gunfire rang out near the presidential palace in the capital, then announced on state television that the government had been dissolved in an apparent coup detat. The countrys borders were closed and its constitution was declared invalid in the announcement read aloud on state television by army Col. Mamadi Doumbouya, who told Guineans: The duty of a soldier is to save the country. We will no longer entrust politics to one man. We will entrust it to the people, said Doumbouya, draped in a Guinean flag with about a half dozen other soldiers flanked at his side. It was not immediately known, though, how much support Doumbouya had within the military or whether other soldiers loyal to the president of more than a decade might attempt to wrest back control. The junta later announced plans to replace Guineas governors with regional commanders at an event Monday and warned: Any refusal to appear will be considered rebellion against the countrys new military leaders. The West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS quickly condemned the developments, threatening sanctions if Conde was not immediately released. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tweeted that he strongly condemned any takeover of the government by force of the gun. The U.S. State Department warned against violence and urged authorities in Guinea to avoid extra-constitutional actions that will only erode Guineas prospects for peace, stability, and prosperity. Spokesman Ned Price added in a statement that the juntas actions could limit the ability of the United States and Guineas other international partners to support the country. Condes whereabouts had been unknown for hours after the intense fighting Sunday in downtown Conakry until a video emerged showing the 83-year-old leader tired and disheveled in military custody. The junta later released a statement saying Conde was in contact with his doctors. But they gave no timeline for releasing him other than to do say: Everything will be fine. When the time comes, we will issue a statement. Conde, in power for more than a decade, had seen his popularity plummet since he sought a third term last year, saying that term limits did not apply to him. Sundays dramatic developments underscored how dissent had mounted within the military as well. Doumbouya, who had been the commander of the armys special forces unit, called on other soldiers to put themselves on the side of the people and stay in their barracks. The army colonel said he was acting in the best interests of the nation, citing a lack of economic progress by leaders since the country gained independence from France in 1958. If you see the state of our roads, if you see the state of our hospitals, you realize that after 72 years, its time to wake up, he said. We have to wake up. Observers, though say the tensions between Guineas president and the army colonel stemmed from a recent proposal to cut some military salaries. On Sunday morning, heavy gunfire broke out near the presidential palace and went on for hours, sparking fears in a nation that already has seen multiple coups and presidential assassination attempts. The Defense Ministry initially claimed that the attack had been repelled by security forces, but uncertainty grew when there was no subsequent sign of Conde on state television or radio. The developments that followed closely mirrored other military coup detats in West Africa: The army colonel and his colleagues seized control of the airwaves, professing their commitment to democratic values and announcing their name: The National Committee for Rally and Development. It was a dramatic setback for Guinea, where many had hoped the country had turned the page on military power grabs. Condes 2010 election victory the countrys first democratic vote ever was supposed to be a fresh start for a country that had been mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule and political turmoil. In the years since, though, opponents said Conde too failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the countrys vast mineral riches of bauxite and gold. The year after his first election he narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed. Violent street demonstrations broke out last year after Conde organized a referendum to modify the constitution. The unrest intensified after he won the October election, and the opposition said dozens were killed during the crisis. In neighboring Senegal, which has a large diaspora of Guineans who opposed Conde, news of his political demise was met with relief. President Alpha Conde deserves to be deposed. He stubbornly tried to run for a third term when he had no right to do so, said Malick Diallo, a young Guinean shopkeeper in the suburbs of Dakar. We know that a coup detat is not good, said Mamadou Saliou Diallo, another Guinean living in Senegal. A president must be elected by democratic vote. But we have no choice. We have a president who is too old, who no longer makes Guineans dream and who does not want to leave power. Guinea has had a long history of political instability. In 1984, Lansana Conte took control of the country after the first post-independence leader died. He remained in power for a quarter century until his death in 2008, accused of siphoning off state coffers to enrich his family and friends. The countrys second coup soon followed, putting army Capt. Moussa Dadis Camara in charge. During his rule, security forces opened fire on demonstrators at a stadium in Conakry who were protesting his plans to run for president. Human rights groups have said more than 150 people were killed and at least 100 women were raped. Camara later went into exile after surviving an assassination attempt, and a transitional government organized the landmark 2010 election won by Conde. ___ Larson reported from Dakar, Senegal. Associated Press writers Babacar Dione in Dakar, Senegal, and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report. WENN Celebrity The disgraced Hollywood producer vehemently denies any wrongdoing, labeling the assault accusations made by the 'Maleficent' actress as a PR stunt to promote her book. Sep 6, 2021 AceShowbiz - Angelina Jolie has claimed she and Brad Pitt "fought" when he worked with Harvey Weinstein after she had told her ex about an assault attempt by the now jailed producer. Jolie told The Guardian on Saturday (04Sep21) she had a "bad experience" with Weinstein - who was sentenced to 23 years behind bars in New York, for rape, among other sexual offences, last year (Mar20), after being accused of sexual misconduct by dozens of women - when he was an executive producer on her 1998 movie "Playing by Heart". Asked about the "first time she felt sufficiently disrespected in the industry to tell somebody to f**k off," Jolie answered, "Well, no surprise, Harvey Weinstein. I worked with him when I was young." The "Maleficent" star - who shares six children with Brad - described her encounter with Harvey as "beyond a pass" that she "had to escape." "If you get yourself out of the room, you think he attempted but didn't (assault you), right? The truth is that the attempt and the experience of the attempt is an assault." Angelina refused to work with or be associated with Weinstein again, but told the outlet she was upset when Brad starred in Quentin Tarantino's 2009 film "Inglourious Basterds" and 2012's "Killing Them Softly", both of which were distributed by The Weinstein Company. "We fought about it. Of course it hurt," she said of Brad, who has previously stated he warned Weinstein to stay away from his then-fiancee Gwyneth Paltrow, when she too shared details of inappropriate conduct by the Oscar winner. Jolie also applauded her first husband, "Elementary" star Jonny Lee Miller, for warning others about the predatory producer. "I stayed away and warned people about him (Weinstein)," she revealed. "I remember telling Jonny, my first husband, who was great about it, to spread the word to other guys - don't let girls go alone with him." "I was asked to do The Aviator, but I said no because he was involved. I never associated or worked with him again. It was hard for me when Brad did." Jolie and Pitt, who divorced in 2019, are currently battling in court over custody of their children. Weinstein, through his assistant, released a statement to TMZ on Saturday, denying Jolie's claim and accusing her of trying to create "clickbait" to promote her new children's book. "It's very clear to me that this is for more sales on Angie's BOOK. THERE WAS NEVER an assault, and NEVER an attempt to assault." he raged. "It is brazenly untrue and clickbait publicity. You're Angelina Jolie, every male and female in the world, I'm sure, shows interest in you. Is the whole world assaulting you?" Sources close to Pitt also responded via the outlet, insisting he never "teamed up" with Harvey for "Inglorious Basterds" but signed on for the job with writer/director Tarantino, whose film was subsequently distributed by Weinstein's company. Weinstein is now in custody in Los Angeles, where he will stand trial for 11 counts of rape, sexual battery, and other counts relating to claims made by five women from incidents which reportedly occurred in California over a decade ago. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges but a trial date has not yet been set. QUINCY, Calif. - The Plumas County Sheriff's Office has canceled some evacuation orders and has lowered two others to warning status. On Saturday in the early afternoon mandatory evacuation orders for Canyon Dam and for Harkness and Warner Valley, and Kelly Mountain were all lowered to evacuation warnings. At the same time, the Sheriff's Office lifted other evacuation orders completely. Those orders include: The south portion of Highway 147 north of Canyon Dam, including Dyer Mountain Indian Falls, northwest of Round Valley Lake to Long Valley Mine and north to Highway 89 North and eastern parts of Indian Valley, from upper Williams Valley and upper Pecks Valley east to include North Valley Road south to Nelson St. and all of Diamond Mountain area, south to Lone Rock This area is deemed safe from active fire but officials from the Sheriff's Office said people need to stay alert to changing conditions. They said the fire is still active within the burned area and you may see spots of smoke. They are reminding residents that fire personnel will still be actively working the interior and edges of the fire. Hotspots may be seen from time to time. The Sheriff's Office said not to call 911 unless there is an immediate threat to life or property. Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Bern, 05.09.2021 - Switzerland is currently carrying out its largest ever aid operation to eastern Ukraine. Yesterday, a first convoy of a total of 144 lorries carrying Swiss relief supplies crossed the line of contact bound for Donetsk, accompanied by six members of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA). Swiss Humanitarian Aid is providing local communities in need in the conflict zone with water treatment chemicals, hospital equipment and medical material to combat the pandemic. In total, the aid delivered amounts to around CHF 12 million. On 4 September, the first convoy of relief supplies crossed the line of contact and reached the city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine. Swiss Humanitarian Aid, which is a division of the FDFA, is bringing supplies to both sides of the line of contact, in the Donetsk and Lugansk regions. The supplies include chemicals and equipment for water treatment, medical equipment for hospitals and antigen tests for pandemic control. The first convoy left from Mariupol on the Black Sea. A total of 144 lorries in five convoys will transport among other things some 2,300 tonnes of chemicals and laboratory equipment to the conflict zone by mid-September. The chemicals are to be used to produce clean drinking water for around 4m people on both sides of the line of contact. Since 2015, the Voda Donbasa waterworks has been supported by Switzerland, covering just under 50% of its annual productive resources. In addition, Switzerland is continuing to supply medical equipment to support hospitals along the line of contact that are providing basic healthcare for the local population. Based on the requirements issued, a list was drawn up in close cooperation with the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS) and the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA) of supplies that Switzerland is able to provide to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The relief shipment includes 30 ventilators provided by the Swiss Armed Forces Pharmacy. In addition, the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is providing 1.5 million antigen tests. Before assembling the medical supplies worth CHF 9 million in total it was clarified that they would not be needed for the Swiss population. The timing of the relief shipment coincides with signs of a renewed wave of the pandemic taking hold in eastern Ukraine. A team of six specialists from the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit (SHA) was also part of the convoy, in order to ensure on arrival a fair distribution of aid according to humanitarian principles for the benefit of the civilian population on both sides of the line of contact. This is Switzerland's 13th shipment of aid to eastern Ukraine since 2015 and its largest to date. Apart from Switzerland, only the International Committee of the Red Cross and the UN are delivering humanitarian relief to the disputed territories in eastern Ukraine. Address for enquiries FDFA Communication Federal Palace West Wing CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland Tel. Communication service: +41 58 462 31 53 Tel. Press service: +41 58 460 55 55 E-mail: kommunikation@eda.admin.ch Twitter: @SwissMFA Publisher Federal Department of Foreign Affairs https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports DDPS http://www.vbs.admin.ch Federal Office of Public Health http://www.bag.admin.ch Defence http://www.vtg.admin.ch Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Alton, IL (62002) Today Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%.. Tonight Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Ordered to do so, a soldier charges through a hail of bullets toward his objective. Instinctively a soldier falls on a live grenade and his life is snuffed out. Folks at home honor these soldiers, as they should. Why? What is going on here? The answer is found in one word: trust. The soldier trusts that the order is meant to prevent a greater harm. He trusts the system. He is willing to bet his life on this trust. The hero who sacrifices his life to save his buddies has infinite trust that this is necessary. Those who honor this bravery and self-sacrifice do so in gratitude for the trust those soldiers have given them when they sent them into battle. All societies are based on trust. It doesnt matter how the society is organized. It could be a democracy, king and country, or even a totalitarian dictatorship. What matters is that the people of that society have trust in their system and in their leadership. Without that trust there is chaos. The imbecilic way we withdrew from Afghanistan has created a monumental crisis, not just domestically, but for the entire world. Everywhere now, within and without, trust in United States has been irretrievably lost. We are now at a pivot in time around which all of history is in rotation. As a result of the stupendous incompetence of the Biden administration the world will never be the same. The American order following the Second World War has been permanently demolished. What will replace it we dont know. Will the world be more dangerous? Again, we dont know. Perhaps it may even become safer. What we do know is that it will be very different. The chaos the world now faces is the consequence of a philosophical disease that has long been gnawing at our constitutional democracy, as well as at the foundations of other nations. In America we call this disease progressivism. This disease has taken many forms. Here it is technocracy governance by experts, by the elite. Other lands have tried even more pathological varieties of progressivism. Communism, fascism and Nazism are all mutations of the same Marxist progressive disease. In all cases, whether technocracy or otherwise, the few boss (i.e. enslave) the many. Progressivism is rooted in social reform. Progressives everywhere always have good intentions they are optimistic. Unfortunately, these people fervently believe they have all the answers. They dont, of course. They may not have any workable answers. It doesnt matter to them. Because of their indomitable certainty, progressives claim the privilege of telling everyone what to do. But then they make a mess of everything. What we are dealing with is hubris. And Hubris summons Nemesis. Progressivism is the kiss of death. It destroys all it touches. Why is this so? Progressives ignore the human reality that we are all fallible creatures including themselves. And, some people are real monsters. We are subject to what theologians call Original Sin. Our founders recognized this which is why they constructed our Constitution in such a way as to dampen the occasional enthusiasms of Utopian ideologies such as progressivism. Our founders realized that it is better for each individual to work out his own salvation than to be forced to conform to someone elses notions of good and evil. I will leave it to historians to figure out how progressive ideology successfully infiltrated and captured so many of our institutions both public and private. Historians also need to explain the recent peculiar perversion of progressivism into the enthusiastic insanities of wokeness, sexual dysphoria, and Critical Race Theory. However we got here the result of progressive dominance is the breakdown of trust in too many of our institutions: In our political leadership, in our system of justice, in our educational institutions, in Big Science, in our mainstream media, and in our business sector, particularly Big Tech. Most importantly, we have lost trust in the vote. There is plenty of evidence that the result of the last presidential election may not be valid. Liberals covertly admit this when they adamantly oppose any audit of the vote. Fortunately, a corrective process is underway as voting rules are being tightened. Integrity of the vote is vital. It is only when we can again trust the democratic process that we can begin to clean up the mess in our institutions. It may take many years for our democracy to heal itself and when it does our political environment is likely to be very different from what has prevailed over the last few decades. Unfortunately, what started as a domestic problem has now engulfed the entire world. America can no longer be relied upon as steadfast. America is no longer a reliable shelter. Trust is busted. What all now recognize is that occasionally the democratic process will throw an idiot into the Oval Office. That is the fallibility of democracy. If it happens once it can happen again. All international commitments are subject to being nullified on a whim. Now, each nation must look to its own future, to its own security. For the next three years all our friends and allies will be wondering if. Will our treaty commitments and protective promises still hold? Probably they will. Domestic politics will likely keep Bidens feet to the fire. Still, without trust, there is that if. Three years from now we are almost certain to elect a strong, honorable, president. For the duration of his term of office our foreign commitments will be assured. But still, other nations will forever be wondering if. Just how fickle is the American electorate and how secure is the vote? Nations will take measures accordingly. For many years to come the Pacific region will be the center of attention. China has already greatly expanded its nuclear missile arsenal and is undergoing further expansion. Why are they doing it and what will be the local response? Taiwan, reacting to Chinas conventional military buildup has just announced a dramatic expansion of its forces. The substantial increase in their military budget will be devoted not to conventional arms, as one might expect, but to missile defense and long range ballistic missiles. Is Taiwan sending a message? What use are long range ballistic missiles without nuclear warheads? What use is missile defense except against nuclear weapons? Both Japan and South Korea have long had the capacity to quickly produce nuclear weapons. Japan is believed to be able to produce nuclear weapons in less than a year. It is constrained by an easily changed law. South Korea is only inhibited from going nuclear by its current leadership. The people there are overwhelmingly in favor of having nuclear weapons. Australia lags behind because it has not developed a nuclear power industry. So it would probably take some years to develop nuclear weapons capability. But remember, the U.S. did it from scratch in three years. Without the sure guarantee of the American nuclear umbrella, the West Pacific Region will likely become nuclear armed to the teeth. Then there is the Middle East. As a result of Bidens blunder, Iran no longer is inhibited from producing nuclear weapons. They will come soon enough. Saudi Arabia and other Arab nations in the area will likely purchase such weapons in response pending developing their own production capability. All it takes is money. Nuclear weapons are expensive to make or purchase, and the Arabs are rich. Joe Biden, and his people, are great fools. By destroying trust they have smashed nearly a century of stability with the consequent possibility that the entire world will now go nuclear. Will this be a better world? After all nuclear weapons are expensive as well as dangerous. And being costly is itself a deterrent to their use. The expense and deterrent value of nuclear weapons have kept the greater peace for the best part of a century. Let us hope that Bidens blunder may actually increase stability as a result of nuclear proliferation. Otherwise, hold on to your hat! Image: Screen shot from video by CNBS via YouTube To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. As the pollsters across the board show President Bidens support tanking rapidly (even among those whose polls regularly overweight Democrat support), the major media are having a hard time burying the story of administrative incoherence and stupidity and the consequences here and abroad. The man who as a candidate promised to repair our international alliances has dealt NATO a significant if not fatal blow. The rush to bug out of Afghanistan left hundreds, probably thousands of persons who were citizens, green card holders, and allies behind. And our NATO allies have not been able to extract all their people either. Worse, for reasons that seem impossible to justify, we gave the Taliban the names of the people we wanted to extract and turned down their offer to guard the airport ourselves instead of turning that task over to them. Credible reports and videos at the site show how the Taliban refused entry to those entitled to leave. Among others, busloads of American women and schoolchildren who made it to the airport gate were denied entry by our own troops and officials at the Department of State refused to intervene. Afghans on those flights were not well vetted and it turns out a significant number of them are on terrorist watch lists and will have to be turned down. Others are being flown to military bases for processing and then will be relocated to locations where local communities will have to bear the burden of providing for them as most of the noncitizens and permanent residents do not have Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) status which entitles them to obtain work permits. That means most were not confirmed allies of ours in Afghanistan. A letter to President Biden signed by 26 GOP senators Thursday estimated that more than 57,000 Afghans were evacuated who are not US citizens, green card holders or eligible for so-called Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). The lawmakers said they were concerned by reports that ineligible individuals, including Afghans with ties to terrorist organizations or serious, violent criminals, were evacuated alongside innocent refugee families. The Biden administration has not provided an estimate of the number of legal permanent residents or SIV applicants and holders who remain in Afghanistan, though The Wall Street Journal reported this week that the State Department believes the majority of the latter category were left behind. We are also finding child brides in the mass of those seeking asylum and its a dilemma to know how to deal with this. Countries on Afghanistans border are refusing or severely limiting the number of refugees they will permit to enter. We left behind on estimated $63 billion worth of military equipment, some of which the Taliban is reportedly selling off to Iran to use against us and Israel and to undo the peace in the Middle East which President Trump so adroitly brought about in the Abraham Accords. China is the likely real victor, having worked out agreements with the Taliban allowing them to mine valuable mineral resources there. If any of the abandoned military equipment is state of the art, expect it to fall into Chinese hands one way or another to be reverse engineered for their own use. In the Panjshir District, the Massoud forces, aided by Uzbekistan and others, are heroically preventing a Taliban takeover. With the Taliban forces gathered there in passes on the outskirts of the district, we might be able to aid the Massoud forces with airstrikes, but I should think our hands are tied against any defensive measures because we gave the Taliban the names of the very people they would hold hostage to torture and murder if we did. It doesnt take a genius in the face of all this to see why more sensible people who foolishly voted for Biden are having second thoughts. If you had any doubts, consider the last conversation Biden had with the Afghan Prime Minister Ashraf Ghani in which he urged him not to be honest about the situation on the ground to control perception -- the perception Biden hoped to create was that thered be no adverse consequences for a rapid bug out. Clearly, he was setting up Ghani to take the blame when the Taliban quickly advanced, an alibi for his own refusal to acknowledge reality and lack of intelligent planning. Biden clearly wanted to create the perception on the anniversary of 9/11 that he, the wonderworker, had extracted us from an endless war effortlessly and without dire consequences to us, the Afghans and the world. Ghani got the message and fled in advance of the expected Taliban surge into Kabul. Mark Ellis at PJ Media reports how Trump would have handled the withdrawal from Afghanistan. To analyze how things would have been different under Mr. Trump, a good starting point is the phone call then-President Trump made to Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. (Note: This analysis assumes that Trump intended to break clean, and not leave any residual force in the war-torn country.) On the call, Trump made clear that should the Taliban launch any aggressions during what was to be a carefully planned and militarily sound pullout, Baradars village, his family, and Baradar himself, would be the initial target of any U.S. response. Think of it, as Trump might say. This Taliban leader, licking his chops in anticipation of Americas withdrawal, must have paused to consider the high potential of his family being atomized by a drone or fighter jet strike before the ink had dried on the news of any pre-pullout Taliban incursions. If the hated Western invaders were soon leaving, why waste himself? He knew Trump would pull the trigger, and perhaps was not that eager to die for his cause. From there we extrapolate what an actual military withdrawal under Commander-in-Chief Trump would have looked like. First off, the word would have been disseminated far and wide many months before any spurious deadline: We are going, and now is the time, if you want to leave, to make arrangements for departure while we still have the military wherewithal to cover your backs. Imagine Hamid Karzai International Airport under the protection of a fully operational U.S. fighting force both in the air and on the ground. Yes, there would have been an exodus, of U.S. citizens and of Afghans who worked in concert with our mission. True, lives might still have been lost in the neighborhoods and on the way to the airport. But once people were in proximity to the salvation of an airlift, theoretically the situation would have been orderly under the umbrella of U.S. armed forces. Its not only Biden Democrat voters are having second thoughts about. It appears that Californians are having second thoughts about Governor Newsom. Both Biden and Vice President Harris cancelled appearances there to support him against a recall effort that looks to be growing. It would have only added to voter disgust to have them campaigning for the unpopular governor as the Afghan disaster was unfolding. The latest potential tragedy there, the Caldor fire, escaped being the largest fire in Californian history only by a providential shift of winds. These fires are but another result of poor California forest management by Newsom. Mickey Kaus argues that perhaps if Newsom is recalled and Larry Elder wins the new election, we will see the kind of shift away from the lefts bloated infrastructure attempt that we saw when Dave Brat surprisingly defeated Eric Cantor and the amnesty bill died. Today, California is the new Virginia. Governor Gavin Newsom is the new Cantor. Conservative talk-show personality Larry Elder is the new Brat. The parallel isn't exact -- Cantor's loss was a bolt from the blue, while Newsom's possible loss has been widely bruited about for weeks. Also, Republicans of 2014 worried about getting primaried. Today, Dems worry about losing swing districts in November. But the two cases are close enough. A Newsom loss -- let alone an Elder win -- would be shock treatment for vulnerable Democrats in Congress, indicating that.. well, voters, even in a superblue state, are really pissed off. This time they wouldnt be pissed off just about immigration: The recall largely reflects anger at liberal policies on crime, homelessness, political correctness, and COVID restrictions. What Democratic pol wants to make himself one of the Newsoms of 2022 by passing Biden's budget-busting agglomeration of even more liberal policy dreams (including, at the moment, another amnesty)? That's why Elder's run is significant -- not because it will dramatically change California (which is only one state) or kill Newsom's career (which it probably would) or kill Biden's presidency (that's a stretch). It's significant because it's a missile aimed at the Biden New Deal. It would certainly damage Newsoms chances if it were more widely known that under Newsom the states pension fund Calpers was significantly aiding China. Its former head, who had previously been a Chinese official, directed more than $3 billion of funds from Calpers into Chinese companies including 14 state-controlled enterprises blacklisted by the Trump administration... Many of these companies are funding the Belt and Road initiative, a massive infrastructure project Beijing is using to expand its geopolitical and military influence. This initiative is now extended to Afghanistan. The investments were criticized some time ago as risky and funding our most serious foe and yet Newsom spoke not a word against them. He concentrated instead on using the bully pulpit to urge Calpers to invest in green energy and to divest from Turkey because of its refusal to acknowledge the Armenian atrocities in 1915. Like Biden, Newsom is not an intelligent or serious leader. Most polls to the contrary, I think, as does Michael Barone, that Newsom stands a chance of being recalled. Polls last spring showed just 36-40% favoring recall, much like the 2018 result. But the most recent three polls this summer show 46-51% favoring recall. Given that some Republican voters refuse to be polled, as the American Association for Public Opinion Research report on 2020 polling errors concluded, Newsom seems to be in the same kind of trouble as Davis was. Why the switch? SurveyUSA polls showed Latinos, one-quarter of the electorate, moving from opposing to backing recall. Berkeley polls show a similar trend among Latinos and Asians. The most recent Emerson poll shows Latinos favoring recall by a 54-41% margin. On contrast, the exit poll showed 64% for Newsom in 2018. Subgroup analysis is risky because of high margins of error. But as Auric Goldfinger told James Bond, "Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. The third time is enemy action." Similar trends in three different polls looks like something real. This movement against liberal policies makes sense once you realize that even low-income voters are less interested in economic redistribution than in the maintenance of order. Newsom, in a testy interview with McClatchy newspapers, boasts of the state's large earned income tax credit, but his lockdown policies have kept California's unemployment rate at 7.7%, higher than all but three other states. (Texas is at 6.6%, Florida at 5.0%). He deserves to be recalled. If he is, I expect to see Kauss predicted pullback on the Biden reset. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. For nearly a decade now, Ive been keeping track of what I call K-12 Whoppers -- examples of egregious and embarrassing educator antics -- in order to understand and document the problem of growing teacher bias and general lack of professionalism in our schools. I do this because, like many Americans, Im a captive observer of our declining cultural standards and also because Ive personally experienced unacceptably substandard teaching, both as a student and parent. Im not talking about momentary, understandable lapses of judgement coupled with a sincere apology when warranted; we all understand that teaching is a difficult, ongoing, live, semi-impromptu performance with correspondingly high stress levels, and we can be very forgiving of teachers who earnestly do their best and strive to improve on their practice. No, Im talking about brazen, unrepentant operators who deliberately and intentionally misuse their access to other citizens children to enact their partisan, personal aims, viewing the impressionable young students assigned to their classrooms (and compelled by law to attend) merely as means to their cherished political ends. Collecting these K-12 disaster anecdotes is a horrible hobby that I dont recommend, except that it comes with this occasional silver lining: watching the worst operators get their comeuppances. I have to confess that the last week has been pretty satisfying on a schadenfreudian level, watching well-earned consequences accrue to three very deserving parties -- all caught on camera boasting of their exploits in indoctrination and demonstrating less maturity and poorer judgment than the adolescents in their classrooms. So much for the idea of teachers as exemplary role models for American youth! First, we have the Tik Tok Teacher who giggled about removing the American flag from her classroom because it made her uncomfortable. When students then asked where they should face when saying the pledge, she suggested towards the gay pride flag that she had hung on the wall instead. No word on how she felt about the students who felt uncomfortable with her suggestion, but they dont seem to be on her list of concerns. She has, thankfully, been removed from the classroom. Next we have the chemistry teacher who defiantly dared her students to report her, after she went on a tangential rant about the former president, the unvaccinated, and climate change while informing her class that they dont have to do what their parents say because most of yall parents are dumber than you. She also took care to warn students who disagree with her opinions to keep it quiet or risk open ridicule. Students accepted her challenge to tattle on her, and she was duly relieved of her teaching duties. And then theres the high school history teacher caught on tape calmly explaining how he uses his access to children to radicalize them: I have 180 days to turn them into revolutionaries, he said, directing attention to the Antifa flag on his classroom wall. (What is it with these activist teachers and their flags?) He also used a portrait of Mao to decorate his room -- until he was fired, that is. As unsurprised as I am by these shenanigans, given my familiarity with such incidents, what does continually surprise me is how these operators ever found their way into classrooms in the first place. How many layers of supervisory oversight had to fail for these partisan operators to have been standing in front of a group of students at all? What on earth made these educators think they could get away with this? How deficient were their teacher certification programs? Why wasnt this problem uncovered or addressed during their student teaching? Were these teachers never taught the ethics that govern their chosen profession? Where was the department head? The principal? The district curriculum personnel? What sort of failure of supervision and neglect of duty allowed all this to happen? How many district personnel had to casually look the other way for them to display such hubristic overconfidence that they would never be held to account? What sort of deficient professional development enabled this problem to fester and persist this long and failed to rein in the bad actors? There is a reason why educators in a public school are licensed by the state -- the same as doctors, dentists, and even cosmetologists. Its precisely because theyre in a position to do real harm to vulnerable citizens, and in this case, those vulnerable parties are minors. The same agencies that issue professional licenses can, and must, revoke them when malfeasance like this is uncovered. Thankfully, these situations are being routinely exposed now, and formerly hesitant, reticent parents are finally standing up at school board meetings across the country and collectively saying: enough. This is exactly how our democratically-run public schools are designed to operate: the citizens hold the taxpayer-funded public servants to account. The days of shoddy, unprofessional, unacceptably substandard teaching and covert manipulation of American youth are over. This situation has gone on far too long already, and it must come to an end now. Bonnie Kerrigan Snyder, D.Ed. is the Director of High School Outreach at the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education and the author of Undoctrinate: How Politicized Classrooms Harm Kids and Ruin Our Schools -- And What We Can Do About. The opinions expressed here are her own. You can follow her at @bonniekerrigan. Image: National Archives To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. No person has a natural or a divine right to rule over another person unless the latter person gives intelligent consent. This is a fundamental axiom of our American government. The axiom takes root in the ideas expressed by Thomas Jefferson in the Declaration of Independence: "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; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed[.]" The president of the United States, however, ignores these principles and continues to push public- and private-sector employers to force vaccine mandates on their employees. Many companies have acquiesced. More companies will follow. Let's look to an action taken by Delta Airlines as one example. Chief financial officer Ed Bastian recently grafted a $200 surcharge onto Delta's company-sponsored health care plan. Delta requires new employees to be vaccinated. The surcharge affects only current Delta employees who remain unvaccinated. Bastian's decision to surcharge Delta's unvaccinated employees exemplifies a coercive initiative instituted by the federal government, leading Delta to an abuse of its employees. Herein lies the danger. When our national government co-opts cooperation from corporate entities to actualize the goals of the federal government for COVID-19, our individual right to private property and the property we have in our rights are placed in jeopardy. Let's look at three of these jeopardized rights with the assistance of another Founding Father. On March 27, 1792, the National Gazette published James Madison's letter titled "On Property." Madison begins the letter by defining both the particular and the broader understanding of the word property. This term in its particular application means "that dominion which one man claims and exercises over the external things of the world, in exclusion of every other individual." In its larger and juster meaning, it embraces every thing to which a man may attach a value and have a right; and which leaves to every one else the like advantage. In the former sense, a man's land, or merchandize, or money is called his property. In the latter sense, a man has a property in his opinions and the free communication of them. Madison also names other species of property: He has a property of peculiar value in his religious opinions, and in the profession and practice dictated by them. He has a property very dear to him in the safety and liberty of his person. He has an equal property in the free use of his faculties and free choice of the objects on which to employ them. Madison then makes this point: In a word, as a man is said to have a right to his property, he may be equally said to have a property in his rights. Below are three human rights that I believe are being trodden upon by government and corporate officials through vaccine mandates. First, vaccine mandates violate the property we have as individual persons in the free exercise of our private conscience. Government or corporate vaccine mandates supplant the informed conscience of individual persons for the coercive and self-righteous virtue-signaling of a few elites. In his letter, Madison is clear: "Conscience is the most sacred of all property," as a natural and inalienable right, independent of positive law. C.S. Lewis also proclaims the importance of conscience when conscience is "the pressure a man feels upon his will to do what he thinks is right." Here, says Lewis, conscience "is not to be argued with, but obeyed, and even to question it is to incur guilt."1 Thus, to compel any person to obey a vaccine mandate is to place that same person at war with his conscience, without his consent, and against his better judgement. Second, vaccine mandates induce people to violate their personal liberty and safety. Madison understood that a man "has a property very dear to him in the safety and liberty of his person." No one is truly at liberty to choose for oneself whether to accept a COVID vaccine, or not, when either the state or one's employer offers a manipulative choice: get the vaccine or be subject to masking and weekly COVID tests. These unsatisfactory options breach the state's duty to safeguard our individual rights. And corporate mandates to vaccinate fall outside the purview of our employers. Moreover, every person shares an equal dignity with each person calling for a vaccine mandate. Equal dignity stands as part of our Judeo-Christian tradition, which sees each person as someone created in God's image. Therefore, our shared human dignity demands that no person force some other person to receive an unwanted or unnecessary or potentially harmful vaccine without the recipient's informed consent. Third, Delta's $200-a-month "surcharge" is an act of thievery. The money distributed by an employer to an employee through a paycheck is the exclusive property of that employee for the service that employee has rendered to the company. Except in cases of legal garnishment, to discriminately withhold part of the wage owed to an employee denies said employee the full-fruit that, in Madison's view, results from "the free use of their faculties ... which not only constitute their property in the general sense of the word; but are the means of acquiring property strictly so called." And Delta's punitive partial-wage withholding will likely prove to be a violation of the working agreement between Delta and its employees. It will be argued that masks and vaccine mandates are in the best interest of the common good, which is superior to individual rights. While the common good is sometimes superior to individual rights, this isn't always the case. For example, Bastian claims that Delta's surcharge is necessary to address the $50,000 cost associated with each hospitalized employee stricken with COVID-19. There's certainly some truth in that claim. However, Bastian neither claims nor demonstrates that only unvaccinated Delta employees are hospitalized with COVID. In all likelihood, Delta's employees, both vaccinated and unvaccinated, sometimes require hospitalization. It's therefore unjust to oblige only Delta's unvaccinated employees to pay the surcharge. Individual persons possess rights, not collective groups. And while no person should be placed into a one-size-fits-all COVID response box, we must balance our assertion to individual rights with our collective duties measured to particular circumstances. As Madison knew: Where an excess of power prevails, property of no sort is duly respected. No man is safe in his opinions, his person, his faculties, or his possessions. Where there is an excess of liberty, the effect is the same, tho' from an opposite cause. Madison call us to the prudent use and courageous defense of those rights we have in our property and the property we have in our rights. In exercising and defending our rights, we must think as shrewdly as the serpent and carry ourselves as innocently as the dove. 1 C.S. Lewis, "Why I Am Not A Pacifist," in The Weight of Glory (New York: Harper One, 1980), p. 64. Image: torstensimon via Pixabay, Pixabay License. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. There is only one way for senior military leaders and political appointees to object publicly to the president's decisions: submit their resignation. Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice specifically prohibits commissioned officers from using contemptuous words against the president and certain other public officials, and, for civilian political appointees, showing public disagreement with the president would certainly result in dismissal. Yet, despite the strategic blunder created by the president in precipitously abandoning Afghanistan, neither Gen. Lloyd Austin, the secretary of defense, nor Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has submitted his resignation. Rather, both have acquiesced to the president's assertion that there was a "unanimous recommendation" from the U.S. national security team that shuttering Bagram Air Base and conducting a chaotic retreat from Afghanistan through Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) was the right course of action. As we saw unfolding through the clear lens of hundreds of smartphones, media cameras, and eyewitness reports, the unscripted retreat from Afghanistan was an abysmal tactical and strategic mistake, which led to the unnecessary deaths of thirteen U.S. servicemen, an angry and questioning multi-national coalition, and thousands of disgusted military veterans and servicemembers. The case for resignation is strong, and resignations are necessary to restore not only the personal credibility of those resigning, but also the pre-eminence of the U.S. military among the world's global competitors. Let's review: The secretary and chairman both agreed with the president's decision to close Bagram Air Base following the president's decision to reduce force presence in Afghanistan while maintaining a functioning embassy during the withdrawal. Even a novice military strategist would know that compared to Bagram, HKIA is an indefensible location, which exponentially increases risk to force for conducting a large-scale non-combatant evacuation operation (NEO). If the secretary and chairman gave advice not to close Bagram merely for "getting the troops down to a 600, 700 number," but were ignored, they should have resigned at that moment to demonstrate that the risk was unacceptable and unnecessary. If they failed to provide that advice, they should resign for cause. The chairman stated, and the secretary concurred, that "there was nothing that I or anyone else saw that indicated a collapse of this Army or this government within 11 days." Why not? He and the secretary both claim to be avid students of history, yet they failed to understand that a central government to include an army and national police force is anathema to a traditionally tribal Afghan society. Most of us have long understood that a desire for a democratic government is not in an Afghan's DNA, so we were not surprised at the army's quick capitulation. The secretary and chairman should have learned that lesson from their years of experience in the Middle East as most of us have without such experience. Perhaps Secretary Austin remained optimistic the Afghan Army would endure and fight, as he did while spending $500 million to train a total of "four or five" Syrian resistance fighters while he was CENTCOM commander. Both leaders failed to ensure that DOD retrograded thousands of pieces of high-grade, militarily useful unit equipment including aircraft, surface vehicles, weapons, and ammunition, now available to the Taliban for their own combatant operations or for exploitation and sale to U.S. competitors. The secretary's and chairman's failure to plan for the return of this equipment and failure to ascertain the severity of leaving it in Afghanistan in their advice to the president is cause for resignation. Rendering some equipment at HKIA and Bagram nonmission capable does not account for the huge volume of military equipment across the country that remains in the Taliban's hands. In their decision to retreat to HKIA as an operating location for the NEO, they relied on the Taliban to provide exterior perimeter security. They apparently received assurances from the Taliban sworn enemies of U.S. presence in Afghanistan that only legitimate evacuees would be permitted to approach U.S. forces. In the delusional comments of the CENTCOM commander, Gen. Kenneth McKenzie, the Taliban and the U.S. have a "common interest" in the U.S. departure from Afghanistan. How quaint. And how dangerous. The rapid, unplanned, uncoordinated departure from Afghanistan has weakened U.S. legitimacy around the globe, the effects of which will become apparent in the next need for coalition action or active U.S. presence abroad. Who will rely on the U.S. to stand by him when he is pressured, or worse, attacked, by the Chinese or the Russians? Should Taiwan or Hong Kong be reassured by our Afghan exit? Should Israel depend on the U.S. for support against, at times, overwhelming opposition? Should South Korea be concerned that U.S. presence to maintain the ceasefire with the North be maintained? These strategic concerns should have been part of the overall decision process in exiting Afghanistan and certainly the most critical advice given to the president by the secretary and chairman of the Joint Chiefs, yet it appears that both these leaders merely attempted to execute a disastrously flawed decision by the president. History has not been kind to military leaders who executed abhorrent policy decisions; failed to speak the truth about risks to force or national security; or blamed others for bad strategic, operational, or tactical decisions. As such, Sec. Austin and Chairman Milley are duty- and honor-bound to render their resignations not only to be accountable for the shameful exit, but to restore their personal credibility and to return the U.S. military to a credible fighting force in the eyes of the world. Remaining in their positions only continues the false narrative that the Afghanistan withdrawal was an "extraordinary success" according to President Biden. It is noteworthy that Chairman Milley was quick to apologize when he accompanied President Trump to St. John's Chapel after liberal criticism in last year's protests, but he has yet to apologize for flawed decisions and advice for the Afghan exit. He should do no less in his resignation. Mr. LaFrance is a retired USAF officer and former government civilian, having served eight years in the Pentagon and ten years as a DoD liaison to Congress. Image: PBS NewsHour via YouTube. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. With increasing numbers of businesses forcing employees to take an injection that is almost entirely ineffective against the predominant strain of COVID in the U.S. today and that may have negative effects on those with natural immunity, the only way out for some people is to point to their faith as a basis for their objection. American businesses are now conducting minute inquiries into peoples faithand one Ohio hospital, after engaging in this type of inquisition, then told one employee that it wasnt interested in what she had to say. Its explicit message was that she must get the shot or face discriminatory treatment at work. One of the primary reasons many early Europeans came to America was to escape religious oppression in their own countries. Most famously, the Pilgrims came to America to worship freely at a time when their faith was severely oppressed in England, which then granted full rights only to Members of the Church of England. (Even today, the Queen of England is the titular head of the Anglican Church.) Catholics founded the Colony of Maryland for the same reason. This religious discrimination continued into the 18th century. The Founders wanted to keep the government from interfering in peoples faith or discriminating against them. So, the first clause in the First Amendment explicitly orders the government to stay out of religion: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.... This prohibition has since been extended to the states and to individuals. Thus, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals because of their faith (or lack of faith). However, thanks to COVID, employers are doing exactly that. One of our readers is employed at Nationwide Childrens Hospital (NCH), a pediatric acute care facility in Columbus, Ohio. The hospital has mandated that all its employees must take the COVID vaccination. It is doing so even though Israels experience shows that the vaccination is almost entirely ineffective against Delta, which is now the predominant strain in America. The vaccine is less effective than having COVID antibodies. Some of the vaccines use fetal cells as part of their development and manufacturing, which is a serious moral issue for many people of faith. And of course, theres that problem with serious side effects. Ostensibly, the only out that NCH allows is for those employees who have sincerely held religious beliefs that conflict with the Hospitals mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. Employees making this claim must fill out a form requiring them to describe not only their beliefs, but the length of time for which theyve held them, the reason they believe the vaccine conflicts with those beliefs, and whether theyve taken past vaccines. It is a religious values inquisition that, under Title VII, has no place in the American workplace. Our reader nevertheless carefully filled out the questionnaire, explaining that her faith demands that its followers act in accordance with their conscience. Her conscience says it is sinful for her to be forced to inject a potentially harmful, minimally tested substance into her body. NCHs inquisitors, having demanded that she spell out her beliefs for them, then announced that they didnt care. Exempting her from the requirement would impose an undue hardship on NCH as well as directly threatening others. In evaluating your request, we have not reached a determination as to whether your request is based upon a sincerely held religious belief or whether there exists an actual conflict between your religious beliefs and NCHs vaccine policy. This is because we have determined that regardless of the basis, exempting you from this requirement imposes an undue hardship on NCH and poses a direct threat to others. Having unvaccinated employees jeopardizes the health and safety of our patients, families, and visitors, and of the thousands of people who work here. Requiring that all of our employees, volunteers, vendors, and students receive the COVID-19 vaccine is critical to our efforts to help keep everyone safe during a pandemic. NCH further informed her that failing to take the vaccine would mean that she must wear a mask all the time, get regular, invasive testing, and forfeit merit-based pay increases. In other words, NCH conducted a religious colonoscopy on one of its employees for what was a pretext and a sham. Americas employers are not allowed to make windows into mens souls. And despite Joe Bidens insistence that employers do what the government cannot (force people to inject still experimental substances into their bodies), the fact is that the Civil Rights Act establishes that employers cannot do what the government itself cannot donamely, condition peoples employment or otherwise discriminate against them based upon their religious beliefs. Image: Galileo facing the Roman Inquisition by Cristiano Banti. Public domain. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. Democrats already are organizing and fundraising over the Supreme Courts procedural ruling allowing implementation of Texass new law outlawing abortions when a fetal heartbeat is detectable, usually at 6 weeks. In the process, they are implying that Armageddon is at hand for those who want to kill their babies before they are born. Roe v Wade will be overturned! Thats nonsense, according to most of the people who have studied the matter. The Supreme Court is likely to throw out the law once it considers the substantive issues, based on existing precedent. And now, a Democrat state judge in Travis County (Austin), has issued a temporary restraining order blocking implementation of the law, meaning that no babies will be saved. In the end, Democrats will mobilize money and votes over the nonexistent threat of a law that is very likely to have no effect at all, when it comes to saving lives. Nick Gilbertson reports at Breitbart: Planned Parenthood has secured a rare emergency temporary restraining order (TRO) in a suit against Texas Right to Life, fresh off the heels of the 5-4 Supreme Court decision not to block the new bill prohibiting abortion after six weeks. Judge Maya Guerra Gamble of the District Court in Travis County, Texas, approved Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas Surgical Healths application for a TRO in the wake of the Supreme Court decision this week. Judge Gamble insists in the document that the plaintiffs, including doctors and staff, would face imminent lawsuits without the protection of the TRO while waiting to file a preliminary injunction: Judge Maya Guerra Gamble (photo via Ballotpedia) The Court finds that S.B. 8 creates a probable, irreparable, and imminent injury in the interim for which Plaintiffs and their physicians, staff, and patients throughout Texas have no adequate remedy at law if Plaintiffs, their physicians, and staff are subjected to private enforcement lawsuits against them under S.B. 8. Money damages are insufficient to undo the injury to Plaintiffs, their physicians, and staff if the Defendants are not enjoined from instituting private enforcement lawsuits against Plaintiff under SB8. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. "No one ever washes a rented car." This old cliche explains much of what is happening in both politics and society today. The entire CRT/BLM/wokist sentiment in the country epitomized by what is happening in a sizable majority of high school and college classrooms highlights what is arguably the most dangerous issue currently facing America: we are raising encouraging, even! an entire generation of people who feel no ownership of, loyalty to, or obligation to the country in which they live. The woke movement is the predominant force driving the social and political narrative these days. To begin with, the crazy, out-of-control wokist revisionist curriculum and history that both students and their parents have to deal with today would have been unimaginable just a short generation ago. Never in our collective history has such a sizable segment of the population espoused such self-loathing, anti-American thoughts as today's misguided woke Progressives. The irony of their unrecognized privilege that allows them the freedom to criticize the society they live in from a safe and comfortable vantage point is too obvious to bother pointing out. The conflicted nature of education is illustrated perfectly by the experience a friend of mine just had with his college-age daughter. She attends a prestigious college in New England. Last week, on her first day of class, an all too familiar scene played out once again: The professor announced to the students, "I will not accept anything on your papers from news sources that I consider biased, unreliable, or based on opinion instead of verifiable fact. Nothing citing Fox News, Newsmax or the N.Y. Post is acceptable. For current news sources, only the N.Y. Times, Washington Post, MSNBC, and CNN will be considered as trustworthy and credible." These are sources that are solidly in favor of CRT, the 1619 Project, and BLM. Following the new woke thinking, traditional (otherwise known as "accurate") American history is now deemed racist, discriminatory, jingoistic, even solipsistic. The Founding Fathers are being painted with a harshly critical revisionist brush, their motives questioned, their wisdom challenged, their contributions minimized. The wokists dismiss America's historical achievements as unworthy: to them, the Civil War was fought not to end slavery, but instead to preserve the intact nature of the larger national economy, thus assuring the continued prosperity of white Northern businesspeople. Likewise, according to the new woke doctrine, World War One and World War Two were fought mainly by white people for the benefit of other white people, but non-white people remained persecuted and exploited, their lot in life unimproved by these so-called "victories." The approved sexual and ethnic demographic sub-categories of today's Progressives did not share in the rewards of any of America's early successes; therefore, amends have to be made now to correct for those past transgressions. Over and over, this is the wokists' message: "This is not your country. You didn't get your share. You were excluded. It's your turn now; you're owed." That is what is being taught by Progressives to Progressives. They're "owed." They are owed primarily by older working white conservatives, who they feel are privileged and undeserving, who have unfairly denied and oppressed younger minorities out of what is rightfully theirs. Older financially and professionally successful Progressives are fine with this train of thought, for two reasons: 1) Those successful Progressives already have "theirs," and they don't think they'll be negatively impacted by any new laws or rulings that are enacted, and 2) virtually all of the resentment and animus from the woke contingent is directed at conservatives. So when, for example, Boston district attorney Rachael Rollins announced that her office will no longer prosecute "low-level" crimes like shoplifting, Progressives were all for it. Younger CRT/BLM/wokists like it because they feel they're "owed," and older professionally established Progressives like it because it affords them a significant degree of smug do-goodism satisfaction (from a safe, unaffected distance, of course); assuages whatever vestiges of conflicted guilt they may still have; and makes them feel good, knowing they're angering conservatives, who abide by the traditional rules of law and order. It all adds up to an overwhelming feeling of non-belonging and non-ownership by radical woke Progressives. No amount of factual recitation regarding the progress of Civil Rights legislation in the last several decades, the number of blacks and women in high corporate executive or ownership positions, the recent record-low unemployment figures, or anything else positive matters to them at all. Whether it's excusing inner-city crime and drug use, making totally fallacious statements like "women earn 77 cents for each dollar earned by a white man," or spouting falsehoods like "America is a fundamentally racist country," these thoughts are intentionally perpetuated by the Woke Progressives to very specific voting blocs with the explicit goal of shaping the prevailing public narrative for their Woke electoral advantage. Convincing their most easily influenced loyalists that they have no ownership or stake in this country's fortunes indeed, that this country doesn't care about them in the slightest and that white conservatives are primarily responsible for the hardships in their lives is part and parcel of the electoral strategy of woke Progressives. Conservatives need to wake up and implement some effective communications countermeasures hopefully before the rental car has to be returned. Image: JMacPherson via Flickr, CC BY 2.0. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. What's with the bizarre campaign against ivermectin? It's not just that the FDA has put out a quackish tweet (shown here by AT contributor Dr. Brian Joondeph, M.D.) scolding viewers that they are not horses or cows. That's in reference to the fact that in some high-dose forms, ivermectin is used as a horse dewormer, begging the question about its effectiveness when it is dosed and formulated properly as a human medical treatment for COVID, prescribed off-label. The news reports repeatedly call ivermectin a dangerous drug, implying that all uses of the drug are dangerous, even when taken properly. It's now a lot of nonsense about mass injuries from people who take the horse dewormer form of the drug on their own to beat COVID, as if there is anyone out there advocating such an improper use of the medicine. Here are a few of the screaming headlines from multiple news outlets: One problem: The story is fake. The hospital in Oklahoma that was said to be at the epicenter of all those many gunshot victims (got questions about that, too) left waiting for their emergency care, is explicitly denying that it's overwhelmed by horse-ivermectin overdose cases and the lone doctor making the claim, Dr. Jason McElyea, is not an employee of the hospital at all, he's a contractor, and hasn't worked at the hospital for months. In fact, it hasn't treated any horse-ivermectin cases at all. Here's the statement, as reported by Rolling Stone: UPDATE: Northeastern Hospital System Sequoyah issued a statement: Although Dr. Jason McElyea is not an employee of NHS Sequoyah, he is affiliated with a medical staffing group that provides coverage for our emergency room. With that said, Dr. McElyea has not worked at our Sallisaw location in over 2 months. NHS Sequoyah has not treated any patients due to complications related to taking ivermectin. This includes not treating any patients for ivermectin overdose. All patients who have visited our emergency room have received medical attention as appropriate. Our hospital has not had to turn away any patients seeking emergency care. We want to reassure our community that our staff is working hard to provide quality healthcare to all patients. We appreciate the opportunity to clarify this issue and as always, we value our communitys support. Which pretty well discredits the whole hysterical narrative being spread around by multiple news outlets. It's fake news, based on shoddy reporting, from a claim of one source with zero firsthand knowledge, yet a whole host of news outlets picked up the fake story and spread it around to scare people. Now, obviously, the hospital would have an interest in seeing patients coming in for treatment and a report like that probably would have kept a lot of them away. But at the same time, a detailed denial like that is pretty firm and the hospital would be in trouble if it were not true. They said they're treated no one for taking horse dewormer, no one at all. So the news outlets have made huge errors in judgment and trashed their own credibility based on that now-denied report they could have gotten the answer to, and it was one after another running themselves off the cliff, none of them really checking, all of them taking the word of one doctor, who could have had any agenda. I suspect CNN might have run a version on the story based on multiple claims on Twitter and the fact that a Google search with CNN, Oklahoma, and hospital keywords turns up with CNN's name in news pickups from others such as Yahoo!, but all clicks to the story come up empty. If so, it's got to be bad. It follows from another claim that multiple news agencies manipulated a photo of famous podcaster Joe Rogan, who had COVID and took a people-version of ivermectin, prescribed off-label by a doctor, and was cured quickly of his illness. The news photos showed a picture of his face with a yellow filter and slight blurring in a bid to make him look kind of green and sick. The original photos showed him looking perfectly healthy. Joe Rogan gets Covid, takes several meds including #Ivermectin, Media flips out and doubles down on their lies, and they even stoop so low as to alter photos of him to make him look sicker. pic.twitter.com/WTowFOnh6U Stone Crier (@CrierStone) September 2, 2021 There's some kind of campaign ramping up against ivermectin, a drug whose inventor won the Nobel prize in 2015 for the first version of, and which has been endorsed by the Japan Medical Association, as well as in many studies which have found it to be an effective early treatment for COVID. There's no President Trump involved, so it's something very funny going on. Could it be the work of Big Pharma which has far more expensive medications for COVID to sell? It's terrible if true, given that there's a lot of evidence out there that ivermectin does indeed cure the illness. But that's no issue to the press it seems, and other than Rolling Stone, none have published the denial. What's going on here? Why this ramped up campaign of lies and manipulations? Image: Screen shot from Fox59 video from shareable story. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. General Mark Milley agreed to an interview by Jennifer Griffin of Fox News (video here), apparently with the intent of calming fears of the wave of military age males coming out of that country and heading for Western nations. Oddly, the subject of the scores of billions of dollars worth of military equipment abandoned to the Taliban (and Iranians, Russians and Chinese) never came up. Griffifn is one of the most respected reporters in the business, so I don t imagine she forgot to ask the questions. I speculate that the subject was placed off limits by the general, who knew there was only so far he could bamboozle the public in one interview. Fox News screengrab From a transcript provided by Fox News, we learn that theres nothing to worry about with the refugees. The same geniuses that managed the evacuation so effectively have got it covered: JENNIFER GRIFFIN, FOX NEWS NATIONAL SECURITY CORRESPONDENT : You saw some of the security measures being taken today. Are you comfortable that enough vetting is being done here before these evacuees are brought to the U.S.? GEN. MARK MILLEY, JOINT CHIEFS CHAIRMAN: I am. I talked to the Customs and Border Patrol. I talked to the FBI that was here, the DHS folks that were here, along with all the other interagency a lot of interagency here. The State Department, USAID, and a lot of people have different roles. So I talked to the security folks. You saw it. So what they're doing as people come in, they're getting their names registered. They're doing the biometrics. They check their irises. They do their fingerprints. They take a full facial photo. They run that against the 20 years of databases that we have in the interagency. They run it against the NCTC checks and the FBI checks. If the individual, if the evacuee has some sort of derogatory information or something suspect at all, it'll pop up as red or yellow. They've popped about 30,000 or so people through here. The process, about 30,000 people through here. And they've had I think, I think they said a couple of hundred or something like that have popped red. Once the individual comes out as red, something is up. Then they go into an individual room and they interview- start interviewing with FBI, CID, NCIS, those sorts of folks. And then they work through whatever the issues were. In many of the cases, they end up getting cleared and others we have to take further measures. But I'm very comfortable that, you know, these folks are being properly cleared through the FBI. JENNIFER GRIFFIN: And they're being checked about three times before with their biometrics, before they even get to the U.S.? GEN. MARK MILLEY: That's right. Yeah. Here is how he explained abandoning Bagram, blaming the cap om the number of troops imposed by President Biden, all the while defending his planning: The whole idea of Bagram, for example, and securing Bagram and whether its Bagram or KIA, that kind of thing, people should go back and take a look at the type force we had. The 2,500 troops, those are advisers. Those arent infantry battalions, those are advisers. And in order to secure Bagram, you need roughly speaking about a brigade. So you need about a battalion to secure the 72 towers that are at Bagram. Youve got entrances, youve got QRFs, you have an outer perimeter security that you have to do patrols. Its about another battalion. So right off the bat, thats three battalions. Then if youre going to be north of Kabul by whatever it is, 60 kilometers or so, youve got a battalion thats going to secure that quarter. Youre looking at, roughly speaking, about 5,000 or 6,000 additional troops on top of what it would take to secure KIA. And when the president made his decision in April, we had a change of mission. And that mission was very clear. It was to take the force down to zero by the end of the summer, by 31 August, and to provide military forces to protect the embassy as a bridging solution until a contract solution was in, because the presidents intent was to keep the embassy going and to help the Turks secure KIA. To secure the embassy, to secure KIA about a 750 person, maybe a little bit less than a thousand military mission. And that was the basically troop cap. So you could not with the with the conditions that existed and the constraints and restraints of the mission, you couldnt secure Bagram. And and then the question is for what? Why would you secure Bagram? And the issue was, of course, to do the NEO, right? We got 124,000 people out of KIA. So the flow, the volume was never an issue. And in fact, you got more people out of KIA than you would have ever got out of Bagram because they would have had to go from Kabul, north 60 miles, 60 kilometers. So the planning was extensive. Those were actually thought out options. There were various branches and sequels to all of these things. And what you the other thing was a permissive environment. We had a government. You had an army. When the government and the army fell apart, then youre into a different contingency, which was the NEO. And that was called and we brought in the forces to do it. Here is the downside he sees of retaking Bagram, though obfuscating the cost of never relinquishing it: JENNIFER GRIFFIN: How many troops would you have needed to retake Bagram as some people have suggested? How many troops would have been needed and what would the Taliban have taken that to mean? GEN. MARK MILLEY: Well, if we went in and retook Bagram, if that were to happen, if that decision were ever made, we had contingencies to do that, by the way. And those were briefed. But that's a significant troop commitment. Number one, you're looking 18th Airborne Corps. You're probably looking at 10,000 or more additional forces. And then you're going have to secure Bagram. Youre going to have to clear Kabul and you going to have to secure KIA. So your total - you're looking somewhere in the range of 15 to 20,000 additional forces. And most importantly, you would reinitiate a war with the Taliban, which, of course, we could do. But that's what would have happened. So you would be fighting ISIS and the Taliban and with all the casualties, et cetera. I know a lot of people are talking about it, but I wonder if the support would have been there if had that been done, had that decision been made. I personally think the military conditions did not warrant that. I think the military conditions warranted what we did. Youi can watch the complete video here. Hat tip: Peter Chowka To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. Now that Joe Biden has transported some 100,000 unvetted Afghani "refugees" to the U.S., the Central American migrant caravans are back, too. According to Reuters: TAPACHULA, Mexico (Reuters) - A migrant caravan of around 400 people, including many children, set off from the southern Mexican city of Tapachula for the United States on Saturday, just a couple of days after security and migration officials dispersed another large group. As in the past, the photo shows the migrants waving the flags of the countries they are desperate not to be sent back to. And according to other reports, the migrants are coming as a group to protest the slow U.S. asylum process. They see themselves as entitled to faster customer service from the U.S., despite the fact that they don't add much value to the U.S. economy, few speak English, and most will assimilate into the U.S. underclass. The fact that migration officials are now inundated with Afghani "refugees" to process isn't going to bring any results, which may mean the protest isn't all that serious and what they really want is for Joe Biden to just let them in with no vetting at all. In any case, they are making no bones about coming here for a better life. That isn't exactly what asylum is for but never mind. Even if they get rejected for the asylum they are asking for as their loophole entry to skirt conventional immigration law, (and virtually all will), they know they will get many free years to work in the U.S. before their claims are rejected. Most know that too, and won't show up for their court dates. After they are ordered deported, they won't necessarily leave, given that the Biden administration has made it clear they won't come looking for them. It comes at a funny time, actually, what with all the court cases that have ruled against open immigration in recent weeks, including one court ruling that President Trump's "remain in Mexico" agreement for asylum-seekers still stands. It also comes as Mexican troops in Mexico are moving to send these caravans back. Apparently, none of this is a deterrent and smugglers are having a successful time persuading migrants that getting into the U.S. illegally is a sure thing with little likelihood of being sent back. Perhaps the recent news that Biden has moved to an asylum officer system instead of an immigration court system, the former of which is conducting a soft amnesty of letting all comers through, is having an effect. In any case, it represents a flare-up, a recrudescence of Biden's open borders to all comers (except Cubans fleeing communism.) That's pretty wretched as blowback for the nightmarish Afghanistan withdrawal and botched evacuation. The migrants of the world are getting a message somehow that the open border is open again for business. What they want is to use sheer numbers to flood the system, taking advantage of the current situation of Afghani refugees being imported in, using it to their benefit. That may not be the sentiment of all the individual asylum seekers, but it's a sure thing it's the calculation of the leftist organizers. Image: Boitchy, via Flickr // public domain To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. Chicago may be the worst example of an American city that allows the deranged and the criminally inclined to roam the streets and prey on law-abiding citizens, but the problem is national in scope, particularly in major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and St. Louis, where Soros-funded prosecutors are in charge. Two items from CWBChicago demonstrate the extent of the depravity. First: Prosecutors on Saturday accused a man with a long history of violent attacks in Streeterville and the Near North Side of stabbing a 24-year-old woman to death as she worked at Chase Bank, 600 North Dearborn, this week. Jawaun Westbrooks, 35, was ordered held without bail by Cook County Judge John Lyke after Assistant States Attorney Ashley Romito laid out the states allegations and Westbrooks history. Jessica Vilaythong was helping a customer in her cubicle at the bank when Westbrooks walked in around 11:12 a.m. Wednesday, Romito said. When Vilaythong got up to him, he turned around, walked toward her quickly, pulled a knife from his waist, and stabbed her in the left side of her neck one time, according to Romito. Ms. Vilaythong later died of her wounds. Westbrooks was apprehended, but he should never have been on the streets in the first place. Incidentally, Ms. Vilaythong appears to be of Asian descent, and I dont think Westbrooks is a white supremacist or Trump voter enraged at his calling Covid a Chinese virus. Chicago PD via CWBChicago Westbrooks has an extensive violent criminal history that courts have linked to severe psychiatric problems. Romito detailed several violent incidents from his past, all of which unfolded in the downtown area. On July 8, 2014, he struck two women in their heads with a hammer as they walked past him on the 400 block of North Lower Lake Shore Drive near Navy Pier, she said. The women were both hospitalized with head injuries from the attack. Police arrested Westbrooks nearby. During a bench trial, a judge found him not guilty of attempted murder and not guilty of aggravated battery by reason of insanity. Westbrooks was involuntarily committed to a psychiatric facility. Involuntarily committed, but years later out on the street and on parole, but still dangerous: The Chicago Tribune reported in 2014 that Westbrooks had the word kill tattooed to his left hand. His mother also spoke to the paper (snip) When he attacked the women, Westbrooks was on parole for a 2012 attempted robbery in Streeterville, Romito said. In that case, he asked a woman for her phone in the 200 block f East Chicago and then knocked her to the ground when she ignored him. The woman struck her head on the pavement and looked up to see Westbrooks smile before he walked away, Romito said. Police arrested Westbrooks two blocks away and he later pleaded guilty in exchange for a two-year sentence. At the time of the attempted robbery, he was on probation for aggravated battery of two police officers at 10 East Chicago, according to Romito. In that case, he punched one cop directly in the face and pushed another. He originally received probation, but he was re-sentenced to serve two years concurrent to the attempted robbery case. In 2009, he was charged with punching an officer in the eye and spitting in the face of another cop on the 400 block of East Ohio, Romito said. A judge found him not guilty by reason of insanity and involuntarily committed him in 2011. Westbrooks is not an isolated case. Consider this from the same city, same day and same website: A Chicago police detective commander on Friday took the unusual step of overriding prosecutors decision not to pursue murder charges against a man suspected of killing a 7-year-old girl and injuring her young sister on the Northwest Side, according to a police source. But the commander was himself overruled when CPD leaders decided to avoid a public confrontation with the Cook County States Attorneys Office. Its at least the second time in three weeks that prosecutors have refused to approve charges in a high-profile murder case for Area Five investigators. The prosecutors work for Kim Foxx, elected with Soros money. And they want people who want to hurt you and me out on the streets. hat tip: Peter von Buol To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. Corrupt. Incompetent. Pathological. Criminal. Treasonous. Those are just a few of the (printable) adjectives that aptly describe the illegitimate gang of idiots currently running our country. Joe Biden, the so-called president, is nothing more than a marionette controlled by a gaggle of career bureaucrats and academics, none of whom has ever contributed anything substantial to our once vibrant society. Indeed, they are nothing more than destroyers, power-mad ideologues who use a demented old grifter as a mouthpiece while they dismantle, piece by piece, our once great Republic. Globalism is their ultimate goal, and the nightmare we're experiencing brings us ever closer to that frightening reality. Biden is a figurehead for the Marxist madness that's corrupting our schools, destroying small business, and slowly but surely eliminating our nation's sovereignty. The current push to force Americans to "register" their firearms under a United Nations gun-grabbing scheme is just one example of the ongoing attack on our cherished freedoms. Another glaring example is the fascist collaboration between the ruling elites and Big Tech to silence dissent, a clear violation of the First Amendment. If the Marxist drive continues, it will go on and on until the Bill of Rights is little more than a footnote in a long forgotten history. After all, it's hard to teach real history when tyrants control the schools and certain "undesirable" books are banned. Don't scoff. On our present course, it's not only possible, but likely. And don't think the internet can save any documented evidence of real history, because the algorithms Big Tech uses and the Thought Police (i.e., "fact-checkers") they employ can control virtually everything online...including Cloud, or whatever files you use to store data. Privacy is virtually nonexistent nowadays, and that includes your bank accounts, business sites, photo files, and email accounts, just to name a few. (Ask Tucker Carlson.) But as smart as they think they are, progressives are actually pretty dumb. And arrogant. The hubris in our ruling elite sometimes opens a door where their stupidity, ineptitude, deceit, and downright hatred of our founding principles are on full display...for anyone who cares to look, anyway. The ongoing disaster created by their surrender to the Taliban laughingly referred to by certain talking heads as a "successful withdrawal" is a prime example. Even the compliant media, which normally spin or ignore the administration's boatload of disastrous mistakes, had to scratch their respective heads over this one. It's truly one of the worst military debacles in our nation's history, costing innocent lives, abandoning American citizens, and handing over almost a hundred billion dollars in high-tech equipment and weapons to a murderous gang of cave-dwelling lunatics. But fear not! The Asterisk administration has assured us that the Taliban can be trusted and may soon be recognized as a legitimate government! Kind of makes you wonder how they can say this about a terrorist organization filled with religious zealots that our soldiers have been fighting for twenty years. If nothing else, it confirms my earlier comment that progressives are "pretty dumb." But sooner or later probably sooner the media will forget about this massive, world-shaking blunder and primarily focus, once again, on climate change, identity politics, and the pandemic. Fear is the best tool the Marxists and their media allies have to keep the lemmings compliant. Expect to hear even more flagrant lies about how 1) hurricanes and weather-related deaths are on the increase, 2) the country is systemically racist, and 3) we're all going to die from the China Virus. So what does someone who loves this country or at least what this country used to be do to fight back against this blatantly corrupt federal government? Relentlessly calling out the truth is a good place to start. David Horowitz and Daniel Greenfield on frontpagemag.com offer some good suggestions. They have collaborated on a great synopsis of the constant blunders, some of them treasonous, made from day one by Biden and his handlers. (Click on the link to read the entire piece. It's well worth the effort.) "Every Republican should be shouting Impeach Biden! Impeach Harris! Impeach Blinken, Pelosi, and Schumer!" they wrote. Also: Court-martial the Joint Chiefs of Staff! who were busy imposing Critical Race Theory on the troops and witch-hunting conservatives in the ranks, when they should have been planning the Afghanistan retreat. Horowitz and Greenfield are pragmatists, and they know that impeachment will never happen. But that's not the point. The point is to attack the Democrats using their own ruthless tactics. In this case, as opposed to what the Democrats did to Trump for over four years, the Republicans have the truth on their side. "Nancy Pelosi spent four years attempting to impeach Trump on transparently bogus charges," they continued. "Did this hurt Democrat polling despite its embarrassments, or did it help Democrat efforts to tar and feather Republicans and increase Democrat support? Nancy Pelosi is not going to impeach Biden or anyone else. But the American people need to hear what these Democrats are guilty of and calling for their impeachment is the way to do it." If the Republic is going to be saved, repeating the truth ad nauseam is one of the many things patriots need to do to excise this malignant Marxist tumor and get the country into remission. As with any cancer, it can reappear at any time and ultimately destroy the host. The Marxists have been at it for well over a century, and there's no reason to believe that they'll stop anytime soon. History teaches us that opposing totalitarianism is, essentially, a never-ending battle. So we must continue to fight this disease before it kills our country. Then our progeny, sometime in the future, will have to do the same thing all over again. Image: Marc Nozell via Flickr, CC BY 2.0. To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here. This page contains all of The Anchorage Press coverage of the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the illness it causes, called COVID-19. Because this outbreak impacts public health, our coverage of the coronavirus is available to all readers. Our journalists are working hard to bring you the verified information below. Please consider supporting important local journalism with a subscription. (Click Here) Are you an Anchorage resident whos been affected by the illness? Send us an email: matt.hickman@anchoragepress.com. Have any questions? Please give us a call at 907-561-7737 For thousands of Afghans rescued from their homeland, the terror of life under the Taliban is over. But many more refugees are still stuck in the UK, a country they say does not recognise their fear of persecution, and they risk being sent back to a homeland they feel is unsafe. Wrya Dara, 30, is one, an Iraqi Kurd whose plight is largely ignored by society. Wrya Dara is a Kurdish asylum seeker (Pat Hurst/PA) Three years ago he handed over one thousand US dollars (about 720) to smugglers at Kurdistans border with Turkey and climbed into a refrigerated lorry container not knowing where he was or where he was going. Three thousand miles later a police officer eventually opened the doors and told the dozen migrants inside: This is England. UK. Blinking in the first light he had seen for days, Mr Dara , a university graduate, had never asked to come to the UK and has since been denied leave to remain. Many Kurds say the West does not know how bad the situation is in Kurdistan, where the government control much of the media and journalists are sometimes jailed. Mr Dara has campaigned for human rights in Kurdistan since coming to the UK in January 2018, activism he says is enough to ensure he would be a target if he returned. If they send me back that will be like murdering me or something, he said. He fled after the terrorist group calling itself Islamic State invaded northern Iraq, who were then defeated by Iraqi government-backed Shia militias in October 2017, in the oil-rich city of Kirkuk. Since then he has not heard from his father, mother, two brothers or sister and the Red Cross have been unable to locate them. Mr Dara, whose first language is Kurdish, said: I dont know what happened to them. There is no authority there, the situation is getting really, really bad, killing people is a normal thing, daily happenings. Detained near London, he was held in Croydon, then stayed in an immigration hostel in Liverpool and is now living in Salford. The Home Office told him if he cannot go back to Kurdistan he could go to Baghdad, Iraq, instead, which is not Kurdish and where he knows no-one. Banned from working, claiming benefits or education he relies on the charity of other Kurds in the UK as he tries to find out what happened to his family and raise awareness of what is going on at home. Home Secretary Priti Patel has put forward sweeping reforms of the asylum system but campaigners have criticised the plans, which include making it a criminal offence to arrive in the UK without permission, with tougher sentences for people smugglers. Akam Ali, 25, crossed from Turkey to Greece crammed into a small boat and was imprisoned once he arrived. He said: I stayed in jail for two months because they say, You are coming to this country illegally. I say, Im running from war. You want me to get a passport? A jacket? Im running from war. Id never been abroad. Sometimes its not in your hands. If you pay a smuggler they are going to put you in a truck and you dont know where you go, youve never been here, youve never been in Europe. You dont know where you are going because it is not legal. His plea for asylum has not been accepted. He lived alone in Stockton-on-Tees for two years, feeling lonely and ashamed at his lack of English, desperate just for someone to talk to. Mr Ali, who now lives in Rochdale, said: Being an immigrant is not easy, some people, not only English, German people, all the other countries that have got immigrants, they think, you sitting and taking benefits and you just want to use the country. Its not like this. Believe me, its really tough. Not easy at all. I never ever wished to be an immigrant but when you have nothing, you have to leave your country, your parents, you leave everything, friends, it is not easy. Mr Ali values the religious and political freedom in the UK; he wants a job and family but is allowed neither as he waits in immigration limbo. He added: Im just a human being like everyone else. Even listening, that means so much. I really appreciate listening to us. As of March 2021, the total work in progress asylum caseload consisted of 109,000 cases, according to House of Commons Library statistics. Of these, 52,000 cases were awaiting an initial decision at the end of 2020, 5,200 were awaiting the outcome of an appeal, and approximately 41,600 cases were subject to removal action. A Home Office spokeswoman said: The UK has a proud record of providing protection to the most vulnerable people in need of our protection. If an individual is found to have a well-founded fear of persecution they will normally be granted protection in the UK, and no-one at real risk of persecution or serious harm in their country will be expected to return there. Alesha Dixon, Davina McCall and Geri Horner have led tributes to shining star Sarah Harding following her death at the age of 39. Famous names from the worlds of music and television shared their condolences and memories of working with the Girls Aloud star, after her death was announced on Sunday. Singer and talent show judge Dixon said on Twitter: A sad day! Such a shining star! Rest in peace beautiful Sarah. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. Former Big Brother host McCall described Harding as a star from the get go and hugely fun and outgoing yet also somehow fragile. Spice Girls star Horner paid tribute on Twitter, writing: Rest in peace, Sarah Harding. Youll be remembered for the light and joy you brought to the world. JLS star Oritse Williams, whose band emerged four years after Girls Aloud, shared a lengthy tribute online. He tweeted: Heartbreaking to hear that Sarah Harding from Girls Aloud has just passed away after a long battle with cancer. The times we met she was always so bubbly, such a big beautiful personality. My sincerest sympathies and heart goes out to Sarahs friends, family & band members. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. A tweet from the official account of Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly said: Such sad news. RIP Sarah xx. Others paying tribute included former Spandau Ballet member Martin Kemp who sent his condolences to Hardings family and friends. Sarah Harding so sad, my heart goes out to all your friends and family and all your fans, he tweeted. Rest in peace! Presenter Fearne Cotton wrote: Oh my gosh Im so sorry to hear this. Im sending your family so much love and strength. She was always kind and so much fun to be around. Im very sorry for your loss. Prayers and love to you. Steps star Ian H Watkins wrote on Instagram: Fly high beautiful Sarah xx I will miss you xx. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. Reality TV star Calum Best, who was in a relationship with Harding between 2005 and 2006, spoke of the crazy fun times and adventures he had with her. He said on Twitter: Jesus this one hits home, so damn sad, so young. I hope u rest In peace Sarah we had some crazy fun times and adventures. U will be so very missed. Sending so much love to ur mom. His post was accompanied by three pictures of him with Harding. TV presenter Vernon Kay described Harding as the driving energy in the room. Very sad news, he tweeted. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. From the moment Pop Idol finished GA were regularly on T4 and Radio1. Sarah was always the driving energy in the room RIP. TV star Denise Van Outen commented on the Instagram post from Hardings mother, Marie, announcing her death. Van Outen wrote: This is so heartbreaking. Rest in peace beautiful Sarah. Thinking of you all. Family and friends. Kym Marsh, whose band HearSay emerged from ITV show Popstars a year before Girls Aloud, also paid tribute. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. She wrote on Twitter: Im so very sorry to hear of the passing of Sarah Harding. What a beautiful girl and person she really was. I dont claim to have known her very well but what I did know was how fun and kind she really was. My thoughts are with her family and friends at this time. Sleep tight. Harding disclosed last August that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, which had spread to other parts of her body. Her mother Marie announced the death on Instagram on Sunday and described her beautiful daughter as a bright shining star. Boris Johnson is under growing pressure from within his own party not to impose a manifesto-breaking national insurance hike to pay for social care. Former prime minister Sir John Major on Saturday joined the Conservatives warning against the widely-expected move targeting workers and employers by arguing it is regressive. Instead he called for the Prime Minister to take the straightforward and honest approach of increasing general taxation. Sir John Major (Dominic Lipinski/PA) The Government is preparing to announce its long-awaited plan on how to reform and fund social care this week, and will also include measures to finance the NHSs efforts to tackle the huge backlog caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Mr Johnson, Health Secretary Sajid Javid and Chancellor Rishi Sunak have been thrashing out the details of the reforms. The Sunday Times reported that lifetime contributions on care will be capped at about 80,000 and national insurance will be increased by 1.25% to raise between 10-11 billion per year. But No 10 insisted on Sunday the details of the social care plans were still being worked out. Sir John, speaking at the FT Weekend Festival, said: The Government are going to have to take action to deal with social care and that is going to mean an increase in taxation. I dont think they should use national insurance contributions, I think thats a regressive way of doing it. I would rather do it in a straightforward and honest fashion and put it on taxation. Any increase in taxation would be a breach of the 2019 Tory manifesto, with it containing a personal guarantee from Mr Johnson not to raise income tax, VAT or national insurance. A significant number of Tories accept some sort of tax rise is necessary but, like former health secretary Jeremy Hunt, are calling for it to not take the form of a national insurance hike. Critics argue it would disproportionately affect younger and lower income workers, while pensioners would not pay extra. Tory MP Marcus Fysh said he was alarmed at the apparent direction of travel of the Government, warning against a socialist approach to social care. I do not believe it is Conservative to penalise individuals of working age and their employers with higher taxes on their employment when our manifesto promised not to, he wrote in the Sunday Telegraph. Health Secretary Sajid Javid (Steve Parsons/PA) A source close to Health Secretary Sajid Javid this week strongly denied he had pushed for an increase to national insurance as high as 2%. But they did not dispute that he had argued for a rise of more than 1%, which Chancellor Rishi Sunak is said to have opposed. Labour has voiced its opposition of an increase to national insurance, but Sir Keir Starmer will come under pressure to set out how he would fund social care reforms. A second electoral promise is expected to be broken in swift succession, with ministers reportedly preparing to announce that the state pensions triple lock will be temporarily replaced with a double lock. This is because distortions to wages during the coronavirus crisis could mean pensioners would get a payment rise of as much as 8%, while workers face tighter times. Britains youngest MP will return to Parliament after a three-month absence as she makes a good recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Labours Nadia Whittome said she is excited about heading back to the Commons on Monday when the House returns from the summer recess. Ms Whittome, 25, announced in May that she would take a leave of absence after months of trying to manage her condition alongside full-time work. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. Im making a good recovery, I feel well, Im excited to be back representing the people of Nottingham East in Parliament, she said in a video message. I want to thank everyone for your understanding over the last three months. MPs welcomed Ms Whittomes return with messages of support. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: Were all delighted to have you back, Nadia. Ms Whittome has been praised for her openness in discussing her diagnosis. To view this content, you'll need to update your privacy settings. Please click here to do so. She was elected in December 2019 at the age of 23. As the youngest MP, Ms Whittome is referred to as the Baby of the House. About $40 million in wages were garnished from certain student loan borrowers' paychecks in May and June 2021 despite the Education Department (ED) prohibiting wage garnishment amid the ongoing pandemic student loan payment pause, according to newly published federal data. The data, obtained through a freedom of information request by D.C.-based advocacy group Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC), revealed that guaranty agencies state or private non-profit agencies that help administer the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) had seized $27.2 million in May 2021 and $12.9 million in June 2021. "The results of our FOIA request make clear that despite EDs orders, the most vulnerable student loan borrowers continued to have money taken out of their paychecks during an ongoing pandemic," the SBPC stated in a blog post. "These findings are only the latest unfortunate reminder that Americas student debt collection machine has grown beyond anyones ability to control it, including the Department of Educations." Guaranty agencies insured FFELP loans made by banks and other private creditors. When a FFELP borrower defaults, a guaranty agency repays the loan and then pursues debt collection. In late March, ED halted interest and debt collection on about 1.14 million defaulted FFELP loans. Furthermore, the ED's order was retroactive to March 13, 2020, meaning that borrowers who had had their wages garnished, tax refunds seized, or have made payments since then would be able to get a refund. Cal State Los Angeles graduates prepare for their commencement ceremony which was held outdoors beneath a tent on campus on July 27, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) "SBPC analysis of these documents indicates that Guaranty Agencies did not comply with EDs clear orders to stop preying on defaulted student loan borrowers and to affirmatively make them whole for wages seized during the pandemic," the SBPC stated. It's unclear how many borrowers were affected or how much has been refunded. (One guaranty agency told MarketWatch that garnished wages were refunded to borrowers.) ED did not respond to a request for comment from Yahoo Finance. "The fact that any borrowers were subject to wage garnishment during the pandemic is morally unjustifiable," Persis Yu, director of the student loan borrower assistance project at the National Consumer Law Center, told Yahoo Finance. "This is just another reminder of how broken our student loan collection system is and how we continue to fail borrowers with Family Federal Education Loans. These companies need to be held accountable and these borrowers need immediate relief." A similar issue arose earlier in the pandemic: Consumer advocates sued then-Education Secretary Betsy DeVos in May 2020 for ED's failure to stop wage garnishment of borrowers for their federally-backed student loan despite an ED order. And while most of that money has since been returned, the Washington Post recently reported that nearly 11,000 borrowers are currently waiting on refunds of their garnished wages. Yu asserted that "we need to ensure that all [FFELP] borrowers are able to get the same protections as their [federally-backed] Direct Loan peers." This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. FFELP is a student loan relic FFELP loans are one of the most complicated types of student loans. Created in 1965 as part of the Higher Education Act, the FFELP was created to help Americans pursue higher education. Banks and private entities administered the loans, which were guaranteed by the federal government. Banks would then securitize those loans as Student Loan Asset Backed Securities (SLABS) to sell to other investors. Just like the mortgages that were repackaged, SLABS were based on debt repaid by borrowers. In October 2011, in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis, President Obama signed an executive order ending FFELP and moved most student lending to the government. Borrowers with FFELP loans were encouraged to convert their commercially-held loans into federal ones so that the federal Direct Loan program would replace FFELP as the backer. U.S. President Barack Obama at the White House on October 31, 2011 in Washington DC. (Photo by Kristoffer Tripplaar-Pool/Getty Images) Millions of the FFEL borrowers stayed in private lenders' hands, however. The SBPC estimates that six million borrowers owe more than $154 billion in "commercial FFELP loans." Out of this pool, only defaulted FFEL borrowers have been able to benefit from the pandemic payment pause. Amid the complexity, the SBPC's data shows, the U.S. government machinery was unable to properly oversee the guaranty agencies who service the remaining FFELP loans. "Since Congress transferred sole authority to originate federal student loans to the Department of Education in 2010, Guaranty Agencies have effectively been little more than legacy relics of a past system," the SBPC stated, later adding: "But that was more than half a decade agoand these massive companies still have a bewilderingly large presence in the student loan landscape." Aarthi is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. She can be reached at aarthi@yahoofinance.com. Follow her on Twitter @aarthiswami. Read more: Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, SmartNews, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit. Amid widespread vaccine rollout and the recent full FDA authorization of the Pfizer (PFE) COVID-19 vaccine, many employers are now debating whether to mandate vaccinations among their employees and whether to financially deter unvaccinated individuals. Delta Air Lines (DAL), for example, recently announced that it will begin implementing a $200 monthly surcharge for all unvaccinated employees beginning Nov. 1. "The average hospital stay for COVID-19 has cost Delta $50,000 per person," CEO Ed Bastian wrote in a memo. "This surcharge will be necessary to address the financial risk the decision to not vaccinate is creating for our company. In recent weeks since the rise of the B.1.617.2 variant, all Delta employees who have been hospitalized with COVID were not fully vaccinated." Elizabeth Mitchell, CEO of Purchaser Business Group on Health, told Yahoo Finance (video above) that surcharges for unvaccinated employees are "very much like smoking surcharges, and it is not unreasonable. People can choose to smoke. They can choose to be unvaccinated. But that comes with additional costs for health care, and companies are paying those costs. Families are paying those costs because they hit everybodys premiums. So its not unreasonable to expect those who are incurring greater costs to actually contribute more. A man wears an 'UNVACCINATED' t-shirt ahead of Donald Trump's "Save America" rally at York Family Farms on August 21, 2021 in Cullman, Ala. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Mitchell, whose company is a non-profit coalition that represents nearly 40 private employers and public entities across the U.S. in navigating the purchasing of health care plans, explained that a major part of it is employers wanting to attract and retain talent by keeping their workforce healthy. Though vaccinations have picked up in the U.S. recently amid the spread of the Delta variant, the rate is still nowhere near herd immunity, which experts predicted to be approximately 75% before the highly contagious variant became dominant in the U.S. In the meantime, those who remain unvaccinated continue to pose a threat to the health of vulnerable populations and the containment of the virus at large. People want to know that they are working in a company where they will be safe, she said. And it is an expectation of a growing number of employers that you will be vaccinated to come to work. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Unvaccinated Americans costing billions of dollars Aside from wanting to attract and retain talent, another major reason for a surcharge like this is because of the cost of hospitalizations for unvaccinated individuals. Unvaccinated individuals account for an overwhelming majority of COVID-related hospitalizations: A recent study by the CDC found that between May 1 and July 25, 2021, unvaccinated residents of Los Angeles County in California the country's most populated county were 29.2 times more likely to be hospitalized by COVID-19. And the average cost of a COVID-related hospitalization is roughly $20,000, a recent analysis by the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker found. Based on these estimates, according to the study, these largely avoidable hospitalizations (meaning that most could have been prevented by being vaccinated) have already cost the U.S. health care system $2.3 billion since the beginning of June 2021. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. And because of federal guidelines, most of these costs are paid for by insurance providers. In the case of Delta Airlines, employee health insurance claims are covered by the company since it's self-insured. And the company's surcharge of $200 a month for unvaccinated employees is more of an attempted deterrent than a way to pay those potential bills since it would take more than eight years to reimburse for the hospital bills based on the Peterson-KFF analysis. That [cost of paying for COVID-19 hospitalizations] comes out of wages, Mitchell said. It comes out of job growth. It comes out of families. So its something that employers have to address. Consequently, she added, more and more companies are looking to either encourage or require vaccination. The average COVID-related hospitalization costs $20,000. (Chart: Peterson-KFF) Though a company can generally require its employees to be vaccinated, there are some caveats: The company must meet standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and there must be reasonable accommodations for those who cannot get vaccinated due to some type of disability such as a medical condition or sincerely held religious belief. Additionally, the requirement cant be applied in a way that treats employees differently. A health insurance loophole After Deltas announcement, many speculated that the move could be a violation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which protects insurance providers from charging people more for pre-existing conditions. In this case, being unvaccinated would be considered a pre-existing condition. But there is a loophole that is likely the exception with Delta: Wellness programs. Under the ACA, insurers are allowed to vary premiums based on a persons age, location, family size, and smoking status, Cynthia Cox, vice president at the Kaiser Family Foundation, told Yahoo Finance. That means they cant vary premiums based on health or vaccination status. However, she added, employers have a lot of flexibility to design wellness programs with financial incentives so long as they arent coercive. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Wellness programs are typically used to incentivize recipients to reach certain health care goals. (The premiums cannot exceed more than 30% of the total cost of the health care plan.) Still, these surcharges might be able to make some kind of impact a new survey of 1,000 participants by Breeze, an insurance technology company, found that 31% of unvaccinated Americans would get the vaccine if they learned their health insurer would raise their premiums because of their status. The survey also found a stark divide, with respondents equally split on whether or not health insurers should even be imposing these charges. There are going to be implementation barriers and challenges, but I do believe employers will find ways to incentivize and encourage and ultimately require vaccination, Mitchell said. Like smoking cessation, there were ways to identify additional costs and folks who are incurring them. And again, they want to attract and retain talent. Thats why they offer these very rich benefits. They want employees to be healthy. Adriana Belmonte is a reporter and editor covering politics and health care policy for Yahoo Finance. You can follow her on Twitter @adrianambells and reach her at adriana@yahoofinance.com. READ MORE: Follow Yahoo Finance on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Flipboard, LinkedIn, YouTube, and reddit Feature Your News Online $25.00 / for 30 days Highlight your business' news for just $25! We'll feature your content on our News From Local Business section & our Marketplace front page to give it maximum exposure for the next 30 days. On August 25, 2021, German company Rheinmetall and CSM Industry from Slovakia signed a Memorandum of Understanding and cooperation in the field of military vehicle production at the IDEB exhibition in Bratislava. Due to the planned purchase of new tracked vehicles for the Slovak army, it is primarily the production of the main components and parts of the Lynx KF41 combat vehicle. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link The Rheinmetall Lynx KF41 was displayed during IDEB, defense exhibition in Slovakia. (Picture source Rheinmetall) " Rheinmetall is very interested in partnering with the Slovak defense industry and we have extensive experience in integrating local companies into the global supply chain, " said Oliver Mittelsdorf, Rheinmetall's vice president of sales. "The recently concluded contracts for the supply of Boxer CRV combat reconnaissance vehicles to Australia and Lynx armored vehicles to Hungary clearly show the benefits that the partnership with Rheinmetall brings to local businesses. By integrating into the global supply chain Rheinmetall, our Slovak industrial partners can use a wide range of export opportunities arising from mutual cooperation, adds Oliver Mittelsdorf. " I am very pleased that we have the opportunity to participate is the significant modernization program such as the supply of fighting vehicles for infantry in Slovakia, " said Tomas Maros, CEO of CSM Industry. " Rheinmetall is a key player in the defense industry. Mutual cooperation will enable us to transfer know-how and will become a great opportunity for future economic development. It will support and strengthen the Slovak economy, the domestic defense industry, national sovereignty and will also lead to the localization of production. At the same time, thanks to this cooperation, we will be able to use all our production capacities efficiently and in the long term. " Through a partnership between the two companies, Rheinmetall clearly demonstrates its commitment to including local businesses in its programs. CSM Industry will contribute to project combat vehicles Lynx its technological background and extensive experience with cooperative production of welded parts, steel structures, and components. The cooperation opens up more possibilities for a possible integration of products and services of CSM Industry in global supply chain management company Rheinmetall for combat and support vehicles such as Lynx, Boxer, Kodiak, and other models. Lynx KF41 from Rheinmetall is a major bidder in the tender of the Slovak Armed Forces for new infantry fighting vehicles. Last year, Hungary became the first country to order a new generation of armor. Lynx is also one of the two selected combat vehicles that forward and do the final testing phase in the third stage of the modernization program of the Australian Land 400. This includes extensive testing in the field or testing ability survival and mobility. The KF41 Lynx is one of the latest generations of tracked armored IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle available in the current military market. (Picture source Army Recognition) The KF41 Lynx is an IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle) in the Lynx family of a tracked armored vehicle designed, developed and manufactured by the German Company Rheinmetall Defence. This vehicle is a longer version than the KF31 IFV unveiled in September 2016, 7.22 m for the KF31 and 7.7m for the KF41. The KF41 Lynx can be fitted with the LANCE turret also available as a remotely operated weapon station under the name of LANCE RC also designed and developed by Rheinmetall. The main weapon of the LANCE turret is the MK30-2 / ABM automatic cannon, developed and built by Rheinmetall. The use of this cannon brings a host of advantages for the vehicle crew. The turret has a reserve of 200 rounds of two different ammunition types for the main weapon. The LANCE is equipped with a state-of-the-art, fully digital fire control system. Two electro-optical sights each equipped with a high-resolution camera, a thermal imaging camera and a laser rangefinder are also provided. One of the sights enables 360-degree visibility, irrespective of the movement of the turret. Of particular benefit is the fact that each system can be operated both by the commanding officer and by the gunner. With LANCE RC, the modular design also allows the turret system to be remotely controlled. The Lynx KF41 combat vehicle is based on modular open systems architecture, which allows for configuration into various roles through the integration of new mission systems. It can be configured as IFV (Infantry Fighting Vehicle), Command Post, APC (Armored Personnel Carrier), and more in less than eight hours. The Lynx KF41 with Lance 2.0 has been designed not only for passive and reactive systems but also for an active protection system to defeat rocket-propelled grenades and antitank guided missiles. The Lance turret of the KF 41 Lynx is designed with an internal ballistic protection cell for the crew. Mr Bidens Budget proposals seek to increase public investment across the board Friends and foes, allies and adversaries, just about everyone is criticising the US President either for his decision to pull American troops out of Afghanistan or for the way in which it was done. (AFP) It is not fashionable these days to say anything favourable about Americas President Joseph Biden. Friends and foes, allies and adversaries, just about everyone is criticising the US President either for his decision to pull American troops out of Afghanistan or for the way in which it was done. The countries directly impacted by the decision, such as India, feel that their security concerns ought to have been factored in and better addressed. The countries directly dependent on Americas security protection, such as Taiwan, worry about future the US commitment to their national security. Most others, however, merely taunt and ridicule Mr Biden for not being a Trump-like macho. The future course of events, especially across Eurasia, will determine Mr Bidens place in history. As for future developments in Afghanistan itself, there are three likely scenarios, and each one of them can end up showing President Biden in a good light. First, the Taliban could turn a new leaf, focus on stabilising their nation, provide an inclusive government and get involved with the countrys development; second, the Taliban may get bogged down in internecine quarrels among various ethnic and sectarian groups dragging Afghanistan into a civil war; and, third, the Taliban and other radical Islamic groups could consolidate their hold over Afghanistan and use it as a launch pad to create trouble all around in Iran, Pakistan, Russia, China and India. If the first scenario works out, Mr Biden will be hailed a hero. If, on the other hand, the second scenario comes about, many would regard Mr Biden as wise and prescient, getting US troops out and getting the Taliban bogged down in their own backyard. Many in the United States would happily welcome the third scenario playing out, while apologising to India for any collateral damage. History is likely to be kinder to Mr Biden than the contemporary media. While we in India have to clean up our own house and get our act together to be able to deal with the challenge of cross-border terrorism and religious radicalisation, Mr Biden would be busy renewing his own home countrys capacity to deal with the extant challenges of the twenty-first century. Mr Bidens August 31 address to the nation deserves closer reading. Mr Bidens six key propositions, in his own words, were as follows: (1) While making sure that Afghanistan can never be used again to launch an attack on our homeland The fight against terrorism, wherever in the world, does not require the occupation of territory. The US has over-the-horizon capabilities and can strike terrorists and targets without American boots on the ground. (2) The US will henceforth prioritise serious competition with China; challenges on multiple fronts with Russia; and the challenges posed by cyberattacks and nuclear proliferation. (3) The US has to shore up Americas competitiveness to meet these new challenges in the competition for the 21st century. (4) The US can do both, fight terrorism and take on new threats that are here now and will continue to be here in the future. (5) While staying clearly focused on the fundamental national security interests of the United States of America, Mr Biden assured the American people, the decision about Afghanistan is not just about Afghanistan. Its about ending an era of major military operations to remake other countries. (6) Finally, Mr Biden signed off letting his support base know that during his presidency, human rights will be the centre of our foreign policy. But the way to do that is not through endless military deployments, but through diplomacy, economic tools, and rallying the rest of the world for support. In its essence, what these propositions suggest is that even as the United States retains the capacity and will to deal with the challenge of terrorism, it will not place its soldiers in harms way since it has other means to achieve its ends. More importantly, Mr Biden has declared that not only would the US not engage in forever wars and military deployment to deal with terrorism but that that the real challenge to US power globally comes from a relative loss of competitiveness vis-a-vis its peer group of major powers, especially China. This worldview has been in the making. Slogans like President Donald Trumps America First and Mr Bidens Build Back Better and the focus on modernising soft and hard infrastructure are all part of an agenda of renewal aimed at ensuring that the US remains ahead of all challengers. Mr Bidens Budget proposals seek to increase public investment across the board, especially in Americas educational and social base and its technological capability. Any objective assessment of US capability, capacity and competence would suggest that America has the ability to bounce back and remain ahead of the competition well into the present century. America has done it before, recovering from defeat and renewing itself. It would, therefore, be premature to declare the end of Pax Americana or the arrival of a new Post-American Era. Mr Bidens Afghanistan decision has raised questions about trust among friends and allies, but these can potentially be addressed to the latters satisfaction. The questions about competence raised by the Kabul exit will fade away if Mr Biden pursues a new game, dealing with friends and foes. The bottom line is that the world still needs the United States. Even countries that maintain good relations with China want the US around, including Russia and Iran. The US can easily improve relations with both and with most neighbours of China to ensure its global relevance. The only joker in the pack would be if China too seeks better relations with the US. That would throw up new challenges for India. There are many signals coming out of China that suggest that its political leadership is now more concerned about domestic economic growth and political stability than wanting to challenge the US in the foreseeable future. If all major powers remain preoccupied with domestic challenges and regional stability, and if no major terrorist attacks emanate out of Afghanistan-Pakistan-Iran, the new Biden doctrine has the potential to renew American power and make the world feel safer. Whatever the future may hold, for now President Biden can make a credible case for aspiring to a Nobel Peace Prize. The party planned to send five crore postcards from BJP booths across India to the Prime Minister congratulating him for his efforts As part of the birthday celebration, hoardings thanking Mr Modi "for free food grains and vaccination for the poor" will also be put up and party leaders will distribute food grains under PM Garib Kalyan Ann scheme. PTI New Delhi: The BJP plans to hold a 20-day long nationwide event -- "Seva aur Samarpan Abhiyan" -- to celebrate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 71st birthday on September 17. The event, which includes blood donation camps, exhibitions on Mr Modi's life, donation of artificial limbs to Divyangs, will begin on September 17 and culminate on October 7, the day Mr Modi first took oath as the chief minister of Gujarat, thus completing "20 years in public service." The party has also planned to send five crore postcards from BJP booths across India to the Prime Minister congratulating him for his efforts. A letter in this regard has been issued by BJP president J.P. Nadda to the state units. The party will also hold events on party ideologue Deendayal Upadhyaya anniversary on September 25 and Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on October 2 when promotional events for khadi will be held by party workers. As part of the birthday celebration, hoardings thanking Mr Modi "for free food grains and vaccination for the poor" will also be put up and party leaders will distribute food grains under PM Garib Kalyan Ann scheme. In a letter, party members have been told to hold special exhibitions dedicated to the life of the Prime Minister. Virtual events can be attended on the NaMo App. In Uttar Pradesh, where Assembly elections are scheduled early next year, BJP workers will hold a campaign to clean river Ganga at 71 sites. The party will also hold special programmes for orphans as part of the campaign. When a user will use a personal photo for wallpaper, the Android 12 feature will automatically choose a matching theme colour for the phone Android 12 will make you able to automatically fit your phone's colour palette to that of your wallpaper. (Photo: ANI/Representational Image) Washington: Google's upcoming 12th major release and 19th version of Android- 'Android 12'will have one more interesting feature that will make you able to automatically fit your phone's colour palette to that of your wallpaper. If you are into styling and colours, this feature of Android 12 is a must-try! The Verge listed the steps below to let users know How Android 12 lets you customize your phone's colour palette: 1. Long press on an empty part of your home screen until you see the pop-up menu. 2. Select "Wallpaper & style." 3. Select "Change wallpaper." 4. Tap on one of the categories presented on the Wallpaper screen, and then select a specific image. Or tap on the top button called "My photos" to select one of your own photos. 5. Once you select your image, you'll be shown a preview of what it will look like on your home screen and lock screen. (Two buttons below the preview image let you toggle between the two.) If you're satisfied, tap the checkmark in the bottom right corner. 6. A pop-up menu will give you the choice of using the wallpaper on the home screen, your lock screen, or both. And you're done! You'll find yourself back on your home page -- with your new wallpaper. If you want to try the themed icons, or use a dark theme, go back to the "Wallpaper and style" page, scroll down a bit and toggle on either or both. Interestingly, when a user will use a personal photo for the wallpaper, the Android 12 feature will automatically choose a matching theme colour for the phone. As per The Verge, if you don't feel satisfied, you can also choose a different colour combination for your theme, depending on your wallpaper photo. Here's how: 1. On the "Wallpaper and style" page, select "Wallpaper colours" and choose one of the colour combinations shown. You can also tap on "Basic colours" if you want something, well, basic. Reportedly, these style combinations would not affect a user's phone efficiency or performance. For the unversed, Android 12 is the upcoming twelfth major release and 19th version of Android, the mobile operating system developed by the Open Handset Alliance led by Google. The first beta was released on May 18, 2021. In the case of Android Auto, however, many users think that installing updates is some kind of digital Russian roulette, as all these new versions could eventually cause problems they didnt have before, all without getting any other substantial improvements.An early-August Android Auto update, for example, is being blamed for major connectivity issues currently hitting a number of devices, with posts on Googles forums indicating that generic workarounds like changing cables and reinstalling the app dont make any difference.According to these users, it all started in early August when they installed a new version of Android Auto While some havent provided any version specifics, Google rolled out Android Auto 6.7 in the first days of August, so most likely, this is the one thats causing all the connectivity problems for these users. An update to version 6.8 has been shipped later the same month, but its not yet clear if any fixes for these connection errors are included or not.The impacted users claim that after installing the update, their phones are no longer detected when plugging in the cable, so Android Auto no longer starts. In some cases, the mobile devices do begin charging, which means the cable connection is detected, but Android Auto still fails to launch.Others say that both the wired and the wireless modes are broken down in their cars, all after installing the same Android Auto update. The phone model doesnt seem to be making any difference, as similar problems are also encountered with Googles very own Pixel phones.At this point, its not known if Google is investigating these reports or not, so downgrading to an earlier version of Android Auto seems to be the only option for now. While the company keeps focusing on software and services, its also experimenting with various ideas that could at one point make their way to vehicles out there, and earlier this year, it patented a technology essentially giving birth to a digital assistant for vehicle-related activities.Digital assistants have been around for several years already, and they can do all sorts of things, both on the mobile device and in the car.Most often, assistants help us interact with various systems integrated into the car, such as navigation , but Microsofts new patent describes a deeper integration.More specifically, Microsoft says the assistant could monitor vehicle information and provide so-called tips that can be related to maintenance operations. And whats more, the assistant could even book a service appointment on its own, create a new entry in your calendar based on the available slots, and then notify the driver when the car needs to be driven to the service center.The tips provided by the digital assistant are directed to helping the user with tasks associated with vehicles such as knowing when to obtain service such as oil changes, tire inflation, light replacement, brake replacement, fluid level check/fill, or other service. The digital assistant can utilize user information to automatically book service appointments, recommend times for service or other vehicle actions, route changes and so forth. Tips can also include links to a marketplace where recommended services can be obtained, Microsoft explains in the patent Furthermore, Microsoft says such a digital assistant can provide notifications to the driver, either on the phone or right in the car, both visually and with audio prompts. This way, the owner of the vehicle is always up-to-date with maintenance information, no matter if theyre driving the car or not.Of course, its important to keep in mind this is just a patent for now, but given cars are getting smarter and smarter, such technology would feel like home in new-generation vehicles. There are many ways our civilization could end, or at least be drastically changed, and they range from human-made perils to natural ones, born here on Earth or up there in space. Sadly, even with our current level of technology, were probably unable to defend against many of them.Were not yet at a stage when we can defend the planet against dangerous asteroids (granted, work on this will begin soon). Were not at a stage when we can somehow upload our consciousness in a cloud somewhere, so we can be brought back whenever the danger has passed. But we are at a stage when we can do something that could ensure the survival of a lucky few in a post-apocalyptic world.Most of you probably remember the biblical story of Noah, and how he helped save the animal and plant species of the world from a massive flood, by means of a wooden ark and incredible determination. That, we can do, and weve already started.Back in 2008, the so-called Svalbard Global Seed Vault opened on the Norwegian island of Spitsbergen. Its the place where much of the world's crop diversity is currently being stored, in the event a disaster, small or great, somehow endangers the worlds food supply.There are no animals there, of course, only plant seeds, meaning the food people would need to restart agriculture after a cataclysmic event, or after the disappearance of a certain plant species for one reason or another.The vault has a capacity of over 4.5 million seed samples, and in June of this year the count of stored seeds was up to over 1 million. And theyre all in danger, should the cataclysm theyre meant to survive is global in nature, and violent enough to pretty much destroy all we've built on the planet, including the vault.This is why we should probably start thinking of creating such a doomsday vault on another world. And thats exactly what a team from the University of Arizona is proposing.Weve known for a while now our planets natural satellite has underground lava tubes, created billions of years ago by the then-active lava moving through the rock. These tubes at times created underground caves, some of them 100 meters (328 feet) in diameter, that could form the perfect location for storing seeds off-world, sheltering Earths life samples against solar radiation, meteorites and temperature changes.The team of undergraduate and graduate students led by University of Arizonas Jekan Thanga proposed this solution during the IEEE Aerospace Conference back in March a "modern global insurance policy" needed to ensure the survival of the human species in the face of a global cataclysm.The paper calls for these lava tubes and caverns to be used as storage locations for seeds, and even cells, not only because they're located on another world, but because that world has the perfect conditions (cold, lack of air, and so on) to ensure the survival of the samples for hundreds of years.The team calls for these places to be at first surveyed using flying and hopping robots called SphereX - Spherical Rocket Propelled Robots for Extreme Environment Exploration. These are round machines that can be deployed from a lander or a rover to study underground environments using stereo cameras and laser rangefinders.Once a suitable location is found, these off-world doomsday vaults can be created, and they will require quite a bit of tech to function, including solar panels on the surface for power needs and elevators to provide access to and from the surface.Inside the vaults, the seeds would be stored inside cryogenic preservation modules that can provide storage at minus 180 degrees Celsius (minus 292 Fahrenheit) for seeds, and at minus 196 degrees Celsius for stem cells (minus 320 Fahrenheit).These modules will not be placed on the cavern floor, but on shelves that would float thanks to quantum levitation. There would be robots milling around on magnetic tracks.Getting the seeds on location would not be such a big problem, according to the team. Calculations have shown it would take 250 rocket launches to move 50 examples of samples from each of the 6.7 million species of plants and animals on our world.Sure, some could argue there is no need for us to save seeds in the face of an extinction-level event on Earth, given how there will be no humans to restart life. But its that kind of thinking that even now, after more than half a century of space exploration and a lot more years of us being in the loop when it comes to the dangers of asteroids, we have no protection in place against such events.So maybe this Thanga ark, if it can be called that, could ensure human history does not end as that of other species in our past.Full details on the idea can be found in the videos attached below. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. The Talibans total victory has major implications for Afghanistan's neighbors and the broader region, with countries vying for influence while preparing for potential instability, refugee flows and the threat of a terrorist safe haven. The big picture: Its largely a strategic victory for Pakistan, which has assisted the Taliban and harbored its leaders, and a defeat for India, which invested heavily in an Afghan state that has now collapsed. For China, its both a source of concern and of opportunity, and the Taliban has already made clear that it is depending on close relations with Beijing. On the one hand, it is a strategic victory for Pakistan to have a pro-Islamabad government in Afghanistan for the first time in more than 20 years, and thats no small matter, says Michael Kugelman of the Wilson Center. But the Talibans capture of Kabul also raises security concerns for Islamabad and has sent tens of thousands of Afghans fleeing to the border. Pakistan will clearly have influence with the Taliban, but it could also now have less leverage, Kugelman notes: Now that the Taliban is completely in control and no longer fighting this war, it doesnt need to depend on Pakistan as much. India, meanwhile, had been the Afghan governments closest friend in the region, investing in aid projects, close diplomatic ties, and even building the parliament building in Kabul. Now New Delhi has been forced to deal with the Taliban. The first known meeting between the sides took place just last week. "India was late to come to the realization that engaging with the Taliban is a necessary evil, so to speak," says Kugelman. He says New Delhi will be in no rush to recognize a Taliban government, and could continue to support groups that are still resisting the militants. Iran and the Taliban were bitter foes in the 1990s, but they have built ties gradually since, and the Taliban's insistence that it will protect Afghanistan's Shia minority is at least partially designed for Tehran's consumption. Like Pakistan, Iran already hosts upwards of one million Afghan refugees and is attempting to avoid another influx. The land borders on all sides of Afghanistan have been closed to refugees since Kabul fell. Americas humbling exit from Afghanistan provided a propaganda coup for China. A Foreign Ministry spokesperson chided that another U.S. military intervention, justified on the grounds of "democracy" and "human rights," had ended in turmoil, division, and destruction. Beijing will have few qualms with the Talibans record on human rights, and a Taliban spokesman said Thursday that, with western assistance drying up, the new government would rely on China to invest and rebuild our country. China has kept its embassy open in a signal that its ready to deal with the incoming government, but is unlikely to make such large-scale investments any time soon. Its main concern in Afghanistan is security, and in particular that Islamist groups with roots in China could take inspiration from the Taliban. The threat of Afghanistan again becoming a hub for international terrorism is much more acute for countries in the region than for the United States, at least in the near term. ISIS looms particularly large. New Zealand officials tried "for years" to deport the terrorist who stabbed shoppers in an Auckland supermarket Friday before being fatally shot by police who were surveilling him, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. Driving the news: Ardern vowed Saturday to tighten NZ's security laws by the month's end following the attack by the "ISIS-inspired" Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, 32 who was fighting to stay in NZ as a refugee when he injured seven shoppers, three critically. Why it matters: Among the changes the Counter Terror Legislation Bill would implement would be the criminalizing of the planning and preparation of a potential terrorist attack, addressing a loophole critics said allowed suspects to remain free including the LynnMall supermarket attacker. Ardern said he was being constantly monitored because he couldn't legally be imprisoned and, consequently, nearby police responded quickly when the attack happened. The big picture: The attacker came to security services' attention in 2016. Prosecutors wanted to charge him under terrorism laws for planning an attack last year, but a judge ruled this wasn't covered by existing legislation. His name, the fact he was a refugee and that officials were trying to have this status revoked could not be previously reported due to a court suppression order, which was lifted Saturday night. He spent three years in prison after being charged with offenses including possessing hunting knives and objectionable publications. He was released from prison two months ago. What they're saying: Officials had been trying since 2018 to deport him back to Sri Lanka after learning that his refugee status "was fraudulently obtained," and sought to detain him ahead of a hearing later this year, Ardern said in a statement Sunday. Why it matters: It's an age-old question is life as we know it on Earth unique, or is the universe actually teeming with life? New probes to study nearby worlds, advanced telescopes to peer at far away planets, and expanding ideas about the signs of life are fueling a renaissance in the search for life beyond Earth. New probes to study nearby worlds, advanced telescopes to peer at far away planets, and expanding ideas about the signs of life are fueling a renaissance in the search for life beyond Earth. Why it matters: It's an age-old question is life as we know it on Earth unique, or is the universe actually teeming with life? The big picture: The boom in the search for life isn't just about more funding and better telescopes, says Andrew Siemion of Breakthrough Listen, a project combing space for radio signatures of life. "We're also seeing a Copernican revolution take place within astronomy, where the ubiquity of extrasolar planets is being viscerally felt and understood. That has really shaped the question of whether we are alone and the search for life." More than 4,000 exoplanets have been discovered, almost entirely in the last three decades, but as far as scientists know, Earth's life still remains unique. What's happening: Upcoming missions will search for signs of life and conditions for it on worlds near and far from Earth. NASA is slated to send two new missions to Venus in hopes of better understanding how a planet's geology is tied to its ability to harbor life and determining whether phosphine a possible signature of life is present in Venus' cloudy atmosphere. Japan plans to send a robot to Mars' moon Phobos in 2024 to collect and return samples from the satellite, which some scientists think may actually be the best place to search for signs of life on the Red Planet. Other missions to gather samples from Mars itself are also underway. "We're not in recon mode anymore, at least in the inner solar system," says Bethany Ehlmann, a professor of planetary science at Caltech. Jupiter's moon Europa will be studied for signs of life in a NASA mission planned for the next decade. Researchers are pitching a similar study of Saturn's small, icy satellite Enceladus, a potentially habitable harbor in our solar system. "Although these worlds don't exist in the classical habitable zone, conditions could be favorable for life in the vast oceans that exist beneath their ice shells," says Lynnae Quick, a planetary scientist at NASA who studies ocean worlds and is a member of the science team for the Europa Clipper mission. Beyond the boundaries of our solar system, scientists are continuing the search for signs of life that aren't molecules from microbes but radio signals that would indicate other technologically advanced life is out there. But today's sophisticated technology may still not be sensitive enough to detect signals from other worlds so new radio telescopes are being developed, like the Next Generation Very Large Array and the Square Kilometer Array observatory, with larger collecting areas and therefore more sensitivity than today's radio telescopes. "It will be the first time [we can be] truly sensitive to an Earth-like civilization in any snapshot observation," Siemion says. What to watch: As modeling of planetary atmospheres improves and scientists' understanding of the diversity of worlds widens, they're starting to look for even more fundamental signs of life. There appear to be patterns in the chemical reactions of living systems that differ from not-living systems, says Tessa Fisher, a graduate student at Arizona State University who is studying these reactions. And more complex molecules typically take more steps to create, she says. The molecules created in each reaction could be measured with an instrument on a space probe. This work is "demonstrating a shift toward looking for a smoking gun for evidence of life oxygen or amino acids to thinking about life from a systems level point of view and looking at how life interacts with its environment." Far out: "By 2051, I expect there will be some astronomy being done from the Moon," Siemion says. The big picture: Over the short term, space will likely become a place to manufacture high-precision, high-value products that benefit from a microgravity environment. But in the future, as Jeff Bezos noted in July after returning from his space trip, there could be a push to move heavy, polluting industries to operate in space . A drastic reduction in launch costs is helping fuel a vision of space not just as a realm of exploration or science, but real industry. A drastic reduction in launch costs is helping fuel a vision of space not just as a realm of exploration or science, but real industry. The big picture: Over the short term, space will likely become a place to manufacture high-precision, high-value products that benefit from a microgravity environment. But in the future, as Jeff Bezos noted in July after returning from his space trip, there could be a push to move heavy, polluting industries to operate in space. By the numbers: Space startups brought in a record $7.6 billion in investment last year, and a July report from Space Capital found $9.9 billion was invested in all space companies in the second quarter of 2021 alone. "We're in the second golden age of space, and it's going to be a sustained golden age, because it's not just driven by government activity but commercial activity," says Andrew Rush, the COO and president of the aerospace company Redwire. Background: Space enthusiasts have long dreamed of not just exploring but building in space. But the sheer cost of moving material and people into orbit kept those dreams in the realm of science fiction. Thanks largely to the efforts of private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, the cost of launching payloads into orbit has fallen drastically over the past decade, opening up space to smaller players that were previously locked out of the industry. "As it's getting cheaper and cheaper per kilogram to launch into space, it makes logical sense for super high value, very expensive things per kilogram to be made in space and brought back down to Earth," says Josh Wolfe, co-founder of the VC firm Lux Capital, which has invested in multiple space startups. Years of work on the International Space Station have shown microgravity can hugely benefit the manufacturing of high-value materials including fiber optics, drugs, semiconductors and even bioprinted human organs. "It's akin to Amazon Prime, but your stuff is not manufactured in China," Wolfe says. "It is manufactured above China in space." Varda Space Industries in July closed on a $42 million Series A round to fund its efforts to build a manufacturing platform in space for products made most efficiently in microgravity. What to watch: Improvements in 3D printing would allow more of the work needed to build out commercial infrastructure to be done in orbit, rather than lugged back and forth with rockets from Earth. Made in Space, which is owned by Redwire, put the first 3D printer in space in 2014, and is working on developing an orbital platform for NASA that could assemble structures in space. Such advances can help space industry untether as much as possible from Earth, notes Joe Landon, VP for advanced programs development at Lockheed Martin. "Eventually the only thing we'll launch from space is going to be people, because everything else we're going to build and find resources for outside Earth's gravity," he says. The catch: Space, as the saying goes, is hard, and as the rate of commercial launches ramps up, so does the chance that something will go wrong. On Thursday, the FAA grounded Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic after reporting in the New Yorker showed the billionaire's sub-orbital flight on July 11 apparently drifted off course. The space industry faces the "challenge of scaling up quickly and growing quickly," says Joe Schloesser, senior director at ISN, which helps manage contractor safety. "Anyone who has seen that in other industries knows there can be repercussions." The bottom line: Business has thrived on exploiting frontiers, and space is the grandest one of all. Bakersfield, CA (93308) Today Mostly clear. Low 69F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly clear. Low 69F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Robert Price is a journalist for KGET-TV. His column appears here on Sundays; the views expressed are his own. Reach him at robertprice@kget.com or via Twitter: @stubblebuzz. Even for a company with customers and employees spread across 15 countries, it felt a little clunky shuttling between greenhouses in Edison, l Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services Sept. 8 Kern Behavioral Health & Recovery Services will host a Recovery, Hope & Resilience Virtual Forum to hear a candid conversation about treatment options available locally, signs you should look for and how to get yourself or a loved one connected to services and resources. The forum will take place from 3 to 4 p.m. on Facebook. Sept. 10 This date marks World Suicide Prevention Day, a time of reflection and awareness for those affected by suicide. KernBHRS will mark the date with the unveiling and ribbon-cutting of the first in its everGREEN mural series at its administrative office, 2001 28th St., at 5:30 p.m. A candlelight vigil will immediately follow to honor the memory of those who have died by suicide. Both events will be live streamed on KernBHRS social media platforms. Sept. 11 Dont miss the seventh annual SALT Stomp Out Suicide Walk. The event begins at 9 a.m. at The Park at River Walk, 11298 Stockdale Highway. Sign up to be a single walker or make a team at https://secure.ministrysync.com/ministrysync/event/?e=21750 Sept. 17 KernBHRS will unveil their second mural in everGREEN series at Bakersfield City School Districts Education Center at 10:30 a.m. The event will be live streamed on KernBHRS social media platforms Sept. 18 Hope & Recovery Celebration drive-thru event from 4 to 7 p.m. at KernBHRS' administration building, 2001 28th St. The first 250 people will receive a free admission ticket to the 2021 Kern County Fair. Sept. 23 Unveiling of the third mural in the everGREEN series at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital at 3 p.m. The event will be live streamed on KernBHRS social media platforms. Sept. 30 Unveiling the fourth and final mural in the everGREEN series at the California Living Museum at 4:30 p.m. The event will be live streamed on KernBHRS social media platforms. Bluefield, WV (24701) Today Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 78F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Rain showers early with overcast skies late. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%. Astoria History Timeline: 200 of Years At the Top of Oregon Coast Published 08/24/21 at 5:38 AM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Astoria, Oregon) One place on the Oregon coast is singular in its truly dichotomous existence, a kind of aesthetic plurality where it manages to straddle the quirky and downhome while still going upscale. Astoria is a unique place with likely the richest history on the coastline as well, and it surrounds you at every turn. Yet you often don't know what you're really looking at around here, so in that spirit comes this timeline of Astoria's history. Winter of 1805-06. Lewis & Clark and the Corps of Discovery settle in the area for the winter, laying out Fort Clatsop in a spot that is very likely where the replica and national park are now. 1811. A small group of Americans sent by John Jacob Astor established Astoria and claimed the land for the U.S. as well as made their stamp on the area for fur trading. A mere two months later, a group of British came by to do the same thing but were thwarted by the Americans' presence. They named it after their employer who never set foot in the place. However, some of his descendants did. This was the first permanent settlement west of the Rockies. 1812. As the War of 1812 broke out, the Astorians sold everything to a British fur trading company. Then in 1813, the Brits invaded the north Oregon coast and Washington area and took over Astoria, renaming it Fort George. You can see that very spot next to Fort George Brewery in Astoria now. 1818. Fort George was finally turned back over the U.S. after a treaty was signed. 1846. In this year, the Canadian U.S. border was established, giving the U.S. the northwest territories that would soon become Idaho, Washington, Oregon and more. It wasn't until about now that the area was resettled. At this point, just a few remnants of Fort George remained, but at least they had definitive proof of where it was. Throughout the next decade, the town began to explode in population and activity with fishing and logging. Astoria in the 1840s 1847. First post office was established in the north Oregon coast town. 1866. The first fish cannery sprouted along the lower Columbia, with Astoria getting its first in 1874. Within a decade, dozens populated the region, employing many Finnish and Chinese. The latter were shut out of the work force with the Chinese Exclusion Act later on. 1876. Astoria was officially incorporated. By the 1870s, locals began fearing the fish population might be coming to a breaking point in this part of Oregon coast. It did by the end of the century. St. Mary's Hospital in the 1890s (courtesy Oregon State Archives) 1883. The first of two devastating fires in Astoria history hits, likely started by two kids smoking in a sawdust pile. 1911. Astoria celebrated its centennial, and then in 1914 the city bought the area now known as Coxcomb Hill. This was the beginning in earnest of the Astoria Column. 1922. Planning progress was made on the Astoria Column, but a massive fire destroyed just about all of downtown Astoria. It was especially destructive because so much of the town was actually built on wooden piers. Sidewalks were wooden beneath as well, all of which caused a conflagration considered one of the worst in Oregon history. 1925 26. The basic concept of the Astoria Column was dreamed up, and then finalized just before building began in spring of 26. It opened to the public on July 1 (see history of Astoria Column). 1930s. Albacore tune appears off the Oregon coast and a new canning industry is born, taking over salmon. Most pilings you see in Astoria are where canneries once thrived World War II Years. The Column was shut down and used by the military, and the port becomes a naval hub to some degree. Fort Stevens is fired upon by a Japanese sub early in the war, but never shoots back. Where a Japanese Sub Fired on Oregon: Battery Russell and Fort Stevens Astoria in the '40s (Oregon State Archives) 1961. Canneries in Astoria unite under one name: Bumble Bee Tuna. 1966. The Astoria-Megler Bridge opens, uniting the Washington coast with the Oregon coast via cars. The region soars in tourism interest. 1980. The last of the tuna canneries close and Astoria's economic focus becomes logging and tourism. In the early 80s, a string of highly successful movies get filmed here (see Filming Goonies in Astoria), later including Kindergarten Cop, Short Circuit, and later on Free Willy and The Ring, among others. Some of the stately Victorian homes here still fixer-uppers go for as little as 10 grand during this decade. Hotels in Astoria/Seaside - Where to eat - Astoria Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Quirky Oregon Coast Finds: Great White Video, Chunk of Mystery on Beach Published 08/28/21 at 6:35 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Oregon Coast) Two parts of the Oregon coast saw some different kind of action in recent days, as a large object washed up around Cannon Beach and the U.S. Coast Guard filmed a Great White shark meandering off Bandon. (Video stills from U.S. Coast Guard Coos Bay Station) It all started Wednesday with the Coos Bay contingent of the Coast Guard, as one of their vessels was en route to Bandon, about two miles offshore. There, a 10 12-foot Great White shark appeared to visit the boat, seemingly as curious about them as they were about it. According to the Coast Guard's Kaylee Salo, this was the first time the crew had encountered a Great White and found it unforgettable. Salo said the shark wandered next to the boat for about ten minutes. Out of all the sharks normally found on the Oregon coast, Great Whites are about the only ones known for biting humans. This one was, however, not in a bitey mood but rather a curious one. Two other kinds of sharks known to this region have similar fins: the basking shark and the salmon shark. In fact, the salmon shark is related to the Great White and even looks like it, but a smaller version. Other sharks common to the Oregon coast: the Thresher shark, Pacific Sleeper, Blue shark, Short Fin Mako and the Soupfin. REMAINDER OF ARTICLE BELOW VIDEO Yesterday, during a transit to Bandon, the crew was lucky enough to be visited by a 10-12 Great White Shark about 2 miles off the coast. This was the first time any of our crew members had witnessed something this spectacular in real life, and certainly something they will never forget! : MK2 Kaylee Salo Posted by U.S. Coast Guard Station Coos Bay on Thursday, August 26, 2021 Up on the north Oregon coast, Friday morning beach walkers discovered a 20-foot-long chunk of something slightly mysterious laying in the surf, according to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The agency later identified it as part of a dock. The dock or section of a pier was removed later in the day. It was made of concrete and flotation foam, OPRD said, and it likely hadn't come from too far away. However, its origin is still unknown at the moment. OPRD said there was not much organism growth on the dock, which indicates it wasn't in the ocean for very long. KPTV is reporting it would likely be taken to a landfill. Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW Great White near Newport from 2019 More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees nearly 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Florence Gets Into High Gear With Rods 'N Rhodies in Sept. | Central Oregon Coast Published 08/26/21 at 4:48 PM PDT By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Florence, Oregon) One of the yearly highlights of the central Oregon coast is revving up to return, as Florence's Rods N Rhodies Invitational Car Show and Benefit and the Community-wide Garage Sale are coming on September 10, 11 and 12. This year, just about everything takes place around Historic Old Town Florence, with the car show on the 10 and 11, and the garage sale on September 12. At Rods N Rhodies you know you'll see some of the West Coast's most gorgeous, amazing, awe-inspiring hot rods all around town, said organizer Gary Cargill of the local charitable nonprofit Rods N Rhodies, Inc. Up to 125 of the west coast's best high-end hot rods, rat rods, and custom cruisers from 1976 and earlier will be in town. Some are worth up to a quarter-million dollars. Florence Area Chamber of Commerce president/CEO Bettina Hannigan called it a high-octane weekend in what is generally the best time of year on the Oregon coast. September and October are referred to as the Second Summer, where weather is usually at its absolute nicest. We can't know for sure right now what the Covid-19 regulations are going to be, but we expect all visitors and locals to abide by the Oregon Health Authority's guidelines in effect at the time, and to bring their patience and good manners when attending, dining, or shopping, she said. Though known primarily for the annual September event, Rods N Rhodies became its own local volunteer-led nonprofit in 2018 with a renewed vision to provide automotive assistance to locals in need. This year's event will be a benefit for their mission and goals. Friday starts with an all-comers Kool Car Stand-Around show-and-shine at the Port of Siuslaw parking lot at the east end of Bay St. There will be food, music, and up to 100--plus cars on display including the 2019 event winners. Owners of any classic car are welcome to exhibit along with the invited vehicles. Rods N Rhodies' main event takes place Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Bay Street. The event also includes a classic Saturday night cruise in and around Old Town, a poker walk and raffles with lots of prizes, and awards for the exhibitors. Music from the '50s to the '70s will be provided all weekend by Russ Strohmeyer, a popular DJ on the car show circuit. He's a master, a car enthusiast, and his DJ equipment is to die for, said Cargill. Bargain hunters can pick up a guide to the Community-wide Garage Sale at the Siuslaw News office, 148 Maple St., at TheSiuslawNews.com, or FlorenceChamber.com and cruise the bargain trail all weekend to see dozens of commercial and private sales all over town. On Saturday, Bay St. will be blocked to regular traffic beginning at 7:00 a.m. for exhibitors to enter at the west end at Kingwood. From 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. cars will be on display along both sides of the street, there will be themed music, and raffle tickets for sale with a different winner's name drawn every half hour. The awards presentation begins at 4:00 p.m. with exhibitors vying for the Merchant Award, Children's Choice Award, Peoples' Choice Award, and Best of Show Award. Visitors are invited to vote for the Peoples' Choice by obtaining a ballot in Old Town and returning it by 3:00 p.m. At 4:15, immediately following the presentation, cruisers will begin the annual classic car cruise in and around Historic Old Town. The cruise is one of the public's and exhibitors' favorite events during the weekend, said Cargill. Low and slow is the goal. Rod and Rhody, retired teachers in blue and pink overalls like mechanics wore back in the day, will help kids with a special ballot for the Children's Choice Award. Kids who vote receive a small goodie bag. The couple will also inform the public about our Transportation Solutions Project which assists local families in need with transportation solutions, Cargill added. About the benefit aspect of the event, Cargill says, Most of us go through day-to-day activities without even thinking about how we will get to where we want to go. We have the means of transportation that is reliable and comfortable. However, within our community, there are those who struggle to make ends meet and don't have that luxury. Many families who do own transportation may not have the means to properly maintain the vehicle for safety and reliability. Sometimes it comes down to a choice between the car or food, clothing, or housing. An unexpected flat tire has been known to cost a person a job for making them late. A burned-out headlight or taillight yields an expensive citation. Worn out windshield wipers can impair vision leading to an accident. We want to change that for as many as possible, he added. There are multiple levels of opportunity for businesses and individuals to sponsor various aspects of Rods N Rhodies during this year's event or support their year-around charitable work. Contact Rods N Rhodies president Gary Cargill at 541-999-6513 or florencerodsnrhodies@gmail.com -- MORE FLORENCE BELOW Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted WASHINGTON The top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says some Americans who have been trying to get out of Afghanistan since the U.S. military left are sitting in airplanes at an airport ready to leave but the Taliban are not letting them take off. Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas says there are six airplanes at the Mazar-e-Sharif airport with American citizens on board, along with their Afghan interpreters, and the Taliban are holding them hostage right now. A worker at the Mazar-e-Sharif airport confirmed several aircraft he believes were chartered by the U.S. are parked at the airport. Taliban have prevented them from leaving, saying they wanted to check the documents of those on board, many of whom do not have passports or visas. The airport official did not want to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject. McCaul, speaking on Fox News Sunday, says the Taliban have made demands. He gave no specifics but said hes worried Theyre going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan. He said the aircraft have been at the airport for the last couple days. ___ MORE ON AFGHANISTAN: Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace US: Afghan evacuees who fail initial screening Kosovo-bound Rescue groups: US tally misses hundreds left in Afghanistan US expects to admit more than 50,000 evacuated Afghans Afghan women demand rights as Taliban seek recognition ___ Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: BERLIN Germanys chancellor says the country must engage with the Taliban in order to help evacuate Afghans who had worked for them. Angela Merkel told reporters on Sunday that we simply have to talk to the Taliban about how we can get the people who used to work for Germany out of the country and to safety. She added: They are the ones one needs to talk to now. She said it was also in Germanys interest to support international aid organizations who are helping improve the humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan. She called it a good signal that the airport in Kabul was re-opened, allowing medical aid into the country again. Some western countries have been reluctant about talking with the Taliban. Merkels remarks came after a spokesman for the Taliban told a German newspaper that his group was ready for full diplomatic relations with the Germans, and had forgiven them their past cooperation with the Americans in the country. Merkel did not refer to his remarks, nor did she talk about establishing any kind of official diplomatic relations. ___ DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Qatar has sent a plane carrying food and medical goods to Kabul, part of an effort to provide badly needed supplies to Afghanistan as the country faces a halt in most Western aid. Qatars Foreign Ministry said the plane had landed at Kabul airport on Sunday with 26 tons of medical and food aid, the second such shipment in as many days. The tiny Gulf state of Qatar has taken an outsized role in evacuation efforts as U.S. forces completed their withdrawal from the country last week. Its also expected to play an important political role in what comes next for Afghanistan. ___ BERLIN The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, or ICRC, has arrived for a three-day visit in Afghanistan. Peter Maurer arrived Sunday and plans to visit medical facilities, rehabilitation centers for victims of violence and disease as well as ICRC staffers. The relief group said in a statement that Maurer also plans to meet with local Afghan authorities. Maurer said: Afghans have suffered from 40 years of conflict and they now face years of work to heal and recover. The International Committee of the Red Cross is dedicated to staying here to help that recovery. The ICRC president also stressed that the future of Afghans relies on the continued investment from the outside world. ___ VATICAN CITY Pope Francis is encouraging countries to welcome Afghan refugees who are seeking a new life. During his appearance to the public in St. Peters Square on Sunday, Francis also prayed that displaced persons inside Afghanistan receive assistance and protection. In these tumultuous moments, in which Afghans are seeking refuge, I pray for the most vulnerable among them, I pray so that many countries welcome and protect all those seeking a new life, Francis said. The pope didnt cite the Taliban or their policies, but added: may young Afghans receive an education, which is essential for human development. He concluded by expressing hope that all Afghans, whether in their homeland, in transit, or in countries taking them in, may be able to live with dignity, in peace, in brotherhood with their neighbors. ___ BERLIN Angelina Jolie has expressed concern about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan. The actress, who is also a special envoy to the U.N.s high commissioner for refugees, told a German newspaper Sunday she doesnt think the incoming government in Afghanistan could simply turn back the clock so that everything would be like 20 years ago. But she still has big worries about the situation for women there. Jolie told the weekly Welt am Sonntag: Im thinking of all the women and girls who dont know now if they can go back to work or school. And Im thinking of the young Afghans who are worried that they will lose their freedom. Taliban fighters captured most of Afghanistan last month and celebrated the departure of the last U.S. forces after 20 years of war. The insurgent group must now govern a war-ravaged country that is heavily reliant on international aid. ___ BERLIN A Taliban spokesperson has told a German newspaper that his group wants to establish diplomatic relations with Germany. Zabihullah Mujahid tells the weekly Welt am Sonntag that we want strong and official diplomatic relations to Germany. The newspaper reported Sunday that the Taliban also hope for financial support from Germany as well as humanitarian aid and cooperation regarding Afghanistans health care system, education and agriculture. The German government has been reserved about establishing official ties with the Taliban. Officials say talks are needed to get the remaining former Afghan staffers who worked for the Germans out of the country. According to the newspaper, Mujahid said it was unfortunate Germany had cooperated with the Americans during the war but that has now been forgiven. ___ KABUL, Afghanistan Some domestic flights have resumed at Afghanistans international airport in Kabul, with the state-run Ariana Afghan Airline operating flights to three provinces. Shershah Stor, the airlines station manager at the airport, told The Associated Press on Sunday that the flights took place Saturday to western Herat, southern Kandahar and northern Balkh provinces. He said the flights were conducted without a functioning radar system at the airport. Stor said three more flights are scheduled Sunday to the same provinces. A team of Qatari and Turkish technicians arrived in Kabul last week to help restart operations at the airport, which the U.N. says is crucial to providing the country with humanitarian assistance. It remains to be seen, however, whether any commercial airlines will be willing to offer service. ___ WASHINGTON The top U.S. military general has thanked members of the 10th Mountain Division for their service in Afghanistan during the evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others over the past several weeks. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, met with military police soldiers at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Germany on Saturday. Standing outside talking to a group, he asked them, You were there for the bombing? Heads nodded and a chorus of voices answered, yes, sir. A suicide bombing by the Islamic State group near a gate at the Kabul airport more than a week ago killed 13 U.S. service members as well as 169 Afghans who were crowded around the entry, desperate to get on flights out of Afghanistan. You guys did an incredible job, all of you Army, Navy, Marines, the Air Force flying out 124,000 people. Thats what you saved, Milley told the soldiers. He said they showed enormous courage discipline and capability, working together. Its something you should always be proud of... This will be a moment that youll always remember. Air travelers need to do more than just remember to bring a mask - they need to bring the right kind. A handful of airlines, mostly in Europe, have banned cloth face coverings in favor of higher-standard versions including surgical masks or respirators. Last month, Finnair joined a list that includes Air France, Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines and Croatia Airlines. "The health and safety of our customers and crew is our first priority, and fabric masks are slightly less efficient at protecting people from infection than surgical masks," Finnair spokeswoman Heidi Lemmetyinen said in an email. The airline allows surgical masks and filtering respirators such as FFP2 or FFP3, as well as others that are equivalent to the N95 standard. While U.S. airlines do have some restrictions on masks - none with valves are allowed, for example - they do not prohibit travelers from wearing cloth or fabric versions. The federal mask mandate for planes, trains and buses has been extended until mid-January. "Some studies show a modest improvement of efficacy of surgical masks compared with cloth masks," said Perry Flint, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Association. "But any face covering has shown to significantly reduce spread of aerosols, and at this point we have not taken a position on what types of face masks should be required." Experts say it's a smart idea for more airlines to get specific about the types of face coverings they allow and to only allow those that meet high standards. "It is very important because different masks have different filtration capabilities," said Purvi Parikh, an immunologist at NYU Langone Health, in an email. "A plane is a place that is indoors and many people in a close space and very difficult to social distance - so masks can make a big difference especially with the delta variant." Parikh said she has seen people wear bandannas or neck gaiters on planes, which are not highly protective. She prefers double-masking with a surgical mask or using an N95 or KN95. "At least with medical grade masks there is a uniform standard even if you do not double mask like I chose to," she said in an email. "Compliance is key as well and airlines should have a no tolerance policy to remove people from planes and/or punish in accordance with federal laws." The Transportation Security Administration says a mask can be homemade or manufactured, and it "should be a solid piece of material without slits, exhalation valves, or punctures." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidance says coverings should have two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric; completely cover the nose and mouth; fit snugly against the side of the face without gaps; and include a nose wire to keep air from leaking out the top. U.S.-based carriers are not putting the stricter requirements in place that airlines in other parts of the world have. Most airlines that replied to the Washington Post's questions provided their own policies and did not comment on whether they would follow the example of the European carriers that have forbidden cloth masks. Delta Air Lines spokesman Morgan Durrant said there are no changes planned for the airline's mask rules at this point. Delta, like other carries, does not allow any mask with an exhaust valve or opening. The airline also prohibits bandannas, scarves, ski masks and balaclavas. Gaiters with two layers are permitted, and Delta says cloth masks should be made with tightly woven fabric, preferably two- or three-ply. American Airlines says gaiters, balaclavas, bandannas, masks made of mesh or lace, scarves and ski masks are not allowed. It specifies that a face covering must be a mask or two-layered, secured cloth that completely covers the nose and mouth and fits snugly under the chin and to the sides of the face. Southwest says that masks made from a single layer or thin fabric that does not block light are not acceptable. Also not allowed: anything with slits or valves, bandannas, scarves, ski masks, balaclavas, the collars of shirts or sweaters, or masks that don't fit properly. United also does not allow bandannas, but it lays out fewer restrictions than competitors. Richard Flagan, a professor of chemical engineering and environmental science and engineering at the California Institute of Technology, has tested multiple kinds of masks during the pandemic. He said he would like to see airlines require at least KN95 masks for everyone. "If you're in a closed environment, you're forced to sit next to people without any kind of social distancing," he said. "They should be requiring everyone to wear masks to protect not just themselves, but the people around them." Click here to read the full article. Willard Scott, the longtime weatherman for the Today show and the original Ronald McDonald, died on Saturday morning. He was 87. Todays Al Roker confirmed Scotts passing on Today and in a heartfelt Instagram post. We lost a beloved member of our @todayshow family this morning, Roker wrote. Willard Scott passed peacefully at the age of 87 surrounded by family, including his daughters Sally and Mary and his lovely wife, Paris. He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit. Willard was a man of his times, the ultimate broadcaster. There will never be anyone quite like him. Scott got his start in broadcasting on WRCs Joy Boys radio program alongside Ed Walker after graduating from American University. The show ran from 1955 to 1972, which was interrupted from 1956 to 1958 when Scott served in the U.S. Navy. During the 60s, Scott also hosted several childrens television programs, playing characters like Bozo the Clown. Scott also originated the role of Ronald McDonald for McDonalds in their TV spots, appearing as the character regular from 1963 to 1966. In 1970, Scott began a stint at WRC-TV as a weatherman. He was then hired in 1980 by Today, replacing Bob Ryan. As the Today weatherman, Scott was known for wishing centenarians happy birthday and interviewing local characters during festivals and events. In 1996, Scott was succeeded by Roker, but continued to appear on the morning show several times a week to say happy birthday to centenarians. Scott fully retired from television in 2015, and the plaza outside of Rockefeller Center was renamed Willard Scott Way in his honor. Katie Couric tweeted in remembrance of Scott on Saturday, writing: I am heartbroken that the much loved Willard Scott has passed away. He played such an outsized role in my life & was as warm & loving & generous off camera as he was on. Willard, you didnt make it to the front of the Smuckers jar, but you changed so many lives for the better. I am heartbroken that the much loved Willard Scott has passed away. He played such an outsized role in my life & was as warm & loving & generous off camera as he was on. Willard, you didnt make it to the front of the Smuckers jar, but you changed so many lives for the better. pic.twitter.com/aePQnZxf5O Katie Couric (@katiecouric) September 4, 2021 Scott is survived by his wife, Paris Keena, and two daughters. He is predeceased by his first wife, Mary Dwyer Scott, who died in 2002. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (AP) The South Florida house that gangster Al Capone owned for nearly two decades, and died in, is facing demolition plans. The Miami Herald reported Thursday that the new owners of the nine-bedroom, Miami Beach house plan to demolish it after buying it for $10.75 million this summer. One of the owners, developer Todd Glaser, told the Herald the home, which is about 3 feet (1 meter) below sea level, has flood damage and standing water underneath it. The new owners plan to build a two-story modern spec home with 8 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, a Jacuzzi, spa and sauna. The house is a piece of crap, Glaser said. Its a disgrace to Miami Beach. The other owner is Glaser's business partner, Nelson Gonzalez, an investor and senior vice president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM. The house has been placed on the September agenda for possible historic designation by the city of Miami Beach, but Glaser said that is not going to stop the new owners' plans. Capone bought the house for $40,000 in 1928 and returned to it often. The gangster nicknamed Scarface" died at the home in 1947 from a heart attack. The home is believed to be where Capone and his associates plotted the notorious St. Valentine's Day massacre in which seven members of an opposing gang were gunned down in a Chicago parking garage in 1929. The Miami Beach house isnt the only one of Capones possessions changing hands. In California, his three granddaughters are planning an auction of some of his personal items, including diamond-encrusted jewelry with his initials, family photographs and his favorite handgun. Diane Capone and her two surviving sisters will sell 174 items at the Oct. 8 auction titled A Century of Notoriety: The Estate of Al Capone hosted by Witherells Auction House in Sacramento. A crew member from a fishing vessel was airlifted to a hospital after he was bit by a shark off the coast of Louisiana, the U.S. Coast Guard said. According to the Coast Guard, the shark attack was reported to watchstanders just before 1 a.m. Friday and happened about 35 miles southeast of Grand Isle. Editors Note: This story contains a brief description of family violence. When Tropical Storm Harvey hit the Golden Triangle, Family Services of Southeast Texas shelter was flooded. They had to rebuild, relying on the generosity of several donors. Then came Tropical Depression Imelda. After Imelda, we only rebuilt the transitional housing side of the building, not the shelter, said Family Services executive director Debra Tomov. They split the transitional housing into seven apartments to be used as a shelter and nine units as transitional housing. All the other women and children who came to Family Services for assistance were sent elsewhere in Texas. But it was clear Family Services needed a new shelter on higher ground that wouldnt flood. This was how things stood at the end of 2019. When the COVID-19 made its way to Southeast Texas, things got even worse. When youre stuck in a home with financial issues and you mix it with alcohol and drugs, and on top of that, people are scared to go into the shelter because of COVID, its the perfect storm, said community relations direction Bonnie Spotts. And our beds got cut into almost half because of the social distancing. Now Family Services needs a new shelter more than ever. The nonprofit is a haven for families in crisis, and their safe house is a refuge specifically for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Residents can stay for up to 90 days free of charge while they prepare to start a new life apart from their alleged abusers. But with the shelter in disrepair, there is only so much good the organization can do. In the United States, a woman is abused every nine seconds, according to the American Medical Association. One in four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime, according to SafeHorizon, and the sons who witness this abuse are two times as likely to commit violent acts against women in the future, according to the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence. The situations the staff at Family Services see are harrowing. More Information If you or somebody you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the 24-hour Domestic Violence Crisis Intervention Hotline at (409) 832-7575 or call (800) 621-8882. All safehouse protection, counseling, legal adocacy, case management, and other support services are free of charge. See More Collapse Some of them are coming to us with a torn bloody nightgown on from the night before, and they have nothing, Spotts said. If youre going, Dads fixing to kill us. Get your things and leave, you grab your teddy bear or maybe your pillow or blankie. You have nothing. We supply all of that. The shelter has diapers, baby bottles, underwear and outfits that can be picked out in a boutique the staff has set up. They have beds for adults and babies, strollers, plenty of food and partner with medical professionals to provide healthcare. They have counseling, case management and legal advocacy, among other services. They say they do all of this because having a safe place for women and children in the community to recover is essential to stopping the cycles of violence. Tomov and her team have identified a location for a new shelter out of the flood zone, and they are fundraising to purchase the building. So far, they have received $5 million from the Jefferson County Commissioners Court. We approved it maybe two weeks ago, said Patrick Swain, county auditor. They're going to pursue buying that and relocating the shelter and enhancing their capability to serve victims of domestic violence. The nonprofit could not express its gratitude enough. The commissioners took their time and really, really listened to us, Tomov said. They wanted to help and be here for the community to bridge that gap. But even with the help of the Commissioners Court, Family Services is only halfway there. They need to raise a total of $10 million, and they are actively looking for donors. They have asked the city of Beaumont for $2 million, but they havent finalized anything yet, according to Tomov. The organization has been in operation since 1931, when the community banded together to provide welfare to those suffering from The Great Depression. Since then, they have evolved and narrowed their focus, but they remain trustworthy and can be relied upon to help the people who need it most. The people we mostly serve are poor. They're the people that don't have anywhere to go, Spotts said. These people are maybe unemployed, (with) low educational attainment, maybe living several families in a house or in low income housing already. Where are you gonna go? Who can take you and your five children? They can come to us. At the end of the day, this work is about ministry, Tomov said. And I think there are a lot of people in our area that need ministry. rachel.kersey@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/ontheREKord Like other Southeast Texas counties, cases of COVID-19 in Hardin County are on the rise closing schools and overwhelming medical centers. But lower-than-average vaccination rates and dwindling testing resources could be complicating the situation. While Lumberton ISD students prepare to return to school Monday after a weeks-long closure, West Hardin CISD is preparing its own closure through the week after recommendations from public health authorities. The break is supposed to give schools a chance to clean, and hopefully recuperate from a shortage of subs and a mass of faculty sick leaves, but cases have continued to creep up through the county, leaving elected leaders to give familiar warnings. Hardin County Judge Wayne McDaniel reported 798 new cases in the Aug. 31 edition of his weekly COVID-19 report. Of those case, 296 of were school-aged children continuing a streak of infections rivaling the last wave in January of this year. More than 730 of those cases came from unvaccinated residents, and only 39 were fully vaccinated. Forty-one people from the county were in regional hospitals, four of which required ventilators. More than 430 cases were reported in the previous week, 108 of which were children. McDaniel said it has been easy to be discouraged after appearing so close to a light at the end of the tunnel just months before, but there are still easy solutions at hand. It seems kind of hopeless, but I ask people not to give in, McDaniel said. Live life the best that we can, because everyone should know by now its very simple. I know social distance, wearing masks and not gathering in large groups can work, but it is controversial to some people. While most Southeast Texas counties have vaccination rates below the average of other counties in the state, some counties like Jefferson County have seen an uptick in shots as regional hospitalizations rpse, finally reaching 44.5% fully vaccinated. But surrounding counties like Hardin havent enjoyed similar boosts in vaccination, with the county still sitting at 33.45% a barely 1% gain in a week. Dr. Jana Winberg, Hardin County health authority, said that alone wouldnt necessarily mean bad news for the county, as she understands that individuals have to make their own decision about whether the vaccine is right for them. But most people are choosing not to seek any other protection for themselves from the virus. A year ago, the majority of people wore masks and we did more social distancing, Winberg said. We didnt do quite as much stuff together, either. Now, patients tell me they usually know exactly where they got it from, and their whole household has it. Fewer precautions and a more infectious virus variant has created a much larger wave of cases that is stressing the ability to even keep track of the number of people exposed. This time last year, Winberg said, typically two-and-a-half people would become infected after one person caught the virus about one more person than the typical flu season. Within four cycles of the virus being spread to another person, an average of 11 people would be infected. Now, between five to eight people typically become infected from one case, growing to a median of 36 by the time its passed through four cycles. When patients arent cooperative with public health authorities about who they have been around, Winberg said there isnt much public health authorities can do to contain the number of potential cases. She said it is hard to say whether cases and hospitalizations will continue to rise at similar rates until the data and reports are compiled, but there doesnt appear to be any anecdotal reason to believe things are improving. What happens really depends on what people do, Winberg said. Peoples behavior controls how far this virus will go. There doesnt seem to be much concern for your neighbor. While infection rates may continue to plague Hardin County and the area, there appears to be some hope for improvement from regional cooperation. After some residents started facing problems finding affordable testing options and local pharmacies and clinics starting started facing overwhelming demands, Hardin County and a Southeast Texas coalition have been opening public sites for drive-thru testing. Testing sites are available in Kountze at the former Hardin County Hospital and Annex today. Testing sites are still available at sites in Jefferson County until Sept. 9. Registration and more information is available at each local health departments website. McDaniel said the regional infusion center in Beaumont, which has been treating non-critical patients with monoclonal antibody treatments since Aug. 23, has been able to partially stabilize hospitalization numbers. In a weekly strategy call with state health officials last week, McDaniel said officials were informed that the center seemed to be preventing some infected patients heading toward severe symptoms from needing hospitalization and intensive care. Their thinking is within the next two weeks, with use of the infusion center, we could continue to see relief for our emergency centers and emergency services, he said. Its not ideal right now, but it is starting to ease up. The only issue at this point is getting people to show up for their appointments, McDaniel said. The infusion center staff has aimed to treat around 150 people a day, which McDaniel said it has been easily reaching on most days, but it is predicted it could likely treat more if it could avoid missed appointments. I would ask people that are scheduled for an infusion to either reschedule if they cant come, or cancel so someone else can take it, he said. jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/jd_journalism An inmate has died at the United States Penitentiary in Beaumont with just one-quarter of his sentence remaining. Michael Fossler, 33, was found unresponsive around 9:15 p.m. Wednesday, according to a news release from the U. S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons. Responding staff arrived and initiated life-saving measures, the release stated. Staff requested emergency medical services and life-saving efforts continued. Fossler was taken by EMS to a local hospital for life-threatening injuries and was subsequently pronounced dead on Thursday by hospital staff, the release said. The Federal Bureau of Investigation was notified, the release said. No staff or other inmates were injured, and at no time was the public in danger. Fossler was sentenced in the Western District of Texas to 41-months for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm. He had been in custody at USP Beaumont for a month. USP Beaumont is a high-security facility that currently houses 1,359 male offenders, the release said. He already had served 30 of his 41 months, according to defense attorney Jon Evans. According to indictment documents provided by the U.S. Attorneys Texas Western District Office, Fossler in February 2019 was convicted of illegally possessing a Ruger, model Speed Six, .357 caliber revolver, that was in and affecting commerce. Top hits: Get Beaumont Enterprise stories sent directly to your inbox While the family declined to comment at this time, Evans said Fossler had initially been assigned to a prison in El Rino, Oklahoma for the firearms conviction. He had been there for at least 2 years before he was transferred to Beaumont in mid-July. Fossler had prior convictions for possession of a controlled substance in 2017 in Williamson County and in 2014 in Travis County, Evans said. He was always a very pleasant young man to deal with and I am beset with sadness for this tragic event, Evans said. Its a shame. It really is a shame. At this time, officials will not say what type of injuries Fossler had, how he was injured, and if the incident is under investigation. Additional information about the Bureau of Prisons can be found at www.bop.gov. meagan.ellsworth@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/megzmagpie As COVID-19 cases surge across Texas, several area school districts have announced closures lasting up to two weeks. On Thursday, there were 17,099 new cases in Texas, according to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services. Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Newton and Orange counties alone were reporting more than 7,500 active cases, according to state data. At least six local school districts were closed heading into the long weekend. Deweyville ISD interim Superintendent LaJuan Addison announced Aug. 31 that the district would close Wednesday and reopen today after the Labor Day holiday. The districts high number of COVID cases prompted the decision, according to a news release. In addition to campuses being closed, all extracurricular activities, including games and practices, were canceled. This closure will allow infected individuals the proper time to self-quarantine and recover, while allowing our custodial and maintenance staff an opportunity to deep clean our facilities, Addison wrote in the news release. During the closure, the district didnt offer virtual learning. There currently no plans to amend the districts school calendar to make up for the closure. Hardin ISD closed their campuses Friday and did not give a specific date of return on either their website or social media pages. However, the school previously closed Aug. 27 and returned the following Monday after all facilities has been deep cleaned. Hardin ISD also canceled all homecoming activities and other games. The district is looking into rescheduling the activities for a later date, per an announcement on the districts website. Jasper ISD Superintendent John Seybold said in a Thursday news release that all JISD classes would be canceled through Sept. 12. Classes will resume on Sept. 13. The campus closures include the cancellation of all games, practices and other extracurricular activities. The closure period will allow for a deep cleaning of all district facilities. In the meantime, there will not be any virtual learning. Kirbyville CISD Superintendent Georgia Sayers announced Aug. 30 that all district campuses would close Aug. 31 and reopen today after the Labor Day holiday. All extracurricular activities are canceled as well. The districts facilities will undergo deep cleaning during the closure. Make up days will be announced at a later date, per the districts announcement on its Facebook page. Lumberton ISD Superintendent Tony Tipton announced that all LISD campuses would close Aug. 30 and reopen today. According to a news release, the closure was put in place partly by an increased number of COVID cases but also a staffing shortage caused by illness. Extracurricular activities for Lumberton High School are allowed to continue with modifications as needed, according to the release. All other campus extracurricular activities, however, are canceled. The district is not offering virtual learning during the closure. There were four make up days built into the districts school calendar this year, which will be used to make up for four missed instruction days. The remaining day will be made up Oct. 12, which was originally scheduled to be a professional development day. Newton ISD announced on its website and Facebook page that the district would be closed from Aug. 30 through today and would cancel all extracurricular activities. Currently, districts are not able to receive state funding for virtual learning after Gov. Greg Abbott chose not to renew the order that allowed it last year. On Wednesday, the state legislature approved a bill to expand virtual learning for students through 2023. The bill is headed to the governors desk for signature. For more information about the districts, visit the district websites and/or social media pages. Edward McKinley contributed to this report. oliviasmalick@gmail.com twitter.com/oliviamalick Bennington, VT (05201) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning becoming more widespread in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 80F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Showers and thundershowers in the evening, then mainly cloudy overnight with light rain possible. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. In a presentation to the Lenox Board of Health, retired University of New Hampshire professor details the findings of a state commission on the health and environmental impacts of 5G wireless technology. Unpaid citizen experts on a state commission concluded that wireless radiation poses a significant risk to health and the environment." PITTSFIELD First came testimony from people who say their lives were upended when a cell tower began transmitting in September. A Mississippi man who was freed from prison after serving nearly 23 years has reportedly filed a lawsuit Friday (September 3) against the district attorney who prosecuted him six times in the killings of four people at a furniture store. KTAR reports that Curtis Flowers was released in December 2019, six months after the U.S. Supreme Court tossed out his conviction and death sentence from his sixth trial that happened in 2010. Justices said prosecutors demonstrated an unconstitutional pattern of excluding Black jurors from Flowers trials. The lawsuit also names three investigators who worked with Montgomery County District Attorney Doug Evans as defendants. It claims Evans and the investigators engaged in misconduct, including pressuring witnesses to fabricate claims about seeing Mr. Flowers in particular locations on the day of the murders and ignoring other possible suspects. RELATED: Black Man Freed After Spending Nearly 10 Years In Prison For Selling Marijuana It isnt clear what kind of financial compensation Flowers is seeking. Curtis Flowers never should have been charged, attorney Rob McDuff said in a news release Friday, according to KTAR. McDuff said the killings were clearly the work of professional criminals. Flowers, who was 26 at the time of the crime, had no criminal record. The prosecution was tainted throughout by racial discrimination and repeated misconduct, McDuff said. This lawsuit seeks accountability for that misconduct. Three former Minneapolis police officers charged in George Floyds death are asking a judge to reconsider allowing cameras in the courtroom. On Thursday (September 2), attorneys for Thomas Lane, J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao argued against permitting cameras during the trial, claiming witnesses say they wont testify if the trial is televised or live-streamed. WCCO reports the defendants also believe the cameras will prevent a fair trial. Derek Chauvins trial was the first time in Minnesota state history that cameras were allowed to show gavel-to-gavel coverage. RELATED: Ex-Minnesota Police Officer Faces Additional Charge in Shooting of Daunte Wright What we learned is transparency. Cameras in the courtroom are extremely important so that everyone can see what happens at a trial, said Joe Tamburino, a defense attorney WCCO spoke with who is not involved in the trials surrounding George Floyds death. He added that Judge Peter Cahills ruling that cameras are permitted should stand in the trial of Lane, Kueng, and Thao. The proof is in the pudding. We have a case in history now, the Chauvin case, where cameras were in the courtroom and it worked extremely well, Tamburino added. Judge Cahill may take his time making a decision over whether cameras will be permitted, saying hell make a ruling in due course, WCCO reports. Lane, Kueng, and Thaos state trial is set to begin in March 2022. Call ahead to confirm events. Due to COVID-19, many events have been canceled but hosting organizations might not have updated their entries. Email Blast Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request. Daily News Headlines & Events Email Blast Would you like to receive a digest of each day's headlines & events from The Daily News by email? Signup today! The Amplifier Headlines & Events Email Blast Would you like to receive a weekly digest of headlines & events from The Amplifier by email? Signup today! Daily News Hosted Events The Daily News is a proud host of community enrichment events. Join our Daily News Events mailing list to learn about the next event we are planning. Sign up now. Manage your lists CONCERNS ARE BEING RAISED by experts about whether the Taliban may have access to the biometric data of millions of Afghans including those collected by the United States in its 20-year-long military campaign in Afghanistan. In an attempt to avoid recriminations by the Taliban, Afghans who worked for the United States and other Western powers, have been reportedly destroying evidence of their past association with these foreign powers. Evidence includes identification papers, payment stubs and other such documentation. But in a recent article that rests on original research data, Pennsylvania State University Professor Margaret Hu warns that biometric data stored on Afghan government servers may provide the Taliban with all the evidence they need to identify former state workers, including those who worked for the United States. The data, says Hu, could be transformed into death warrants in the hands of the Taliban. What is more, much of the data has been collected by American troops in the past two decades. The American military began collecting biometric data on the Afghan population as early as 2001. By 2007, US forces regularly collected biometric data across the country, using laptops and other portable electronic devices equipped with biometric data collection sensors. The resulting databases featured the names of several million Afghans by 2011. Hu says that the goal of the US Department of Defense was to build a massive biometric database that would encompass at least 80 percent of Afghanistans population or approximately 32 million people. In recent years, the US militarys system of biometrics collection had been adopted by the Afghan government, which used it to prevent election fraud, as well as to screen government employees. Now the Afghan government is no more, and the Taliban are in control of every government department, including the departments of defense, labor and the interior. The question is, do the militants have access to the biometrics databases of former government workers? Hu says it is too soon to tell for sure. Some reports indicate that the Taliban most of whom are rural peasants lack the necessary technological know-how to access, search and ultimately utilize these databases. But other reports, says Hu, suggest that units of heavily armed Taliban fighters have already begun to employ biometrics machines to locate the homes of government workers and inspect them in early-morning and late-night raids. Time will tell, says Hu, if biometrics warfare is now a reality in Afghanistan. The government of South Australia, one of the country's six states, has implemented a new policy requiring Australians to use an app with facial recognition software and geolocation to prove that they are abiding by a 14-day quarantine for travel within the country. While a conservative expert described the policy as "Orwellian," he told Fox News that it represents an improvement over the current COVID-19 policy. Australians voluntarily choose the quarantine app over alternative quarantine measures. Australia has banned international travel, unless residents have a permit to leave the country. The country has also severely restricted domestic travel. Residents must spend 14 days in quarantine upon return. Steven Marshall, premier of the state of South Australia, launched the quarantine app policy in late August. Residents returning from New South Wales and Victoria, two other Australian states, may spend their 14 days in post-travel quarantine at home, rather than in a hotel, so long as they download and use the "Orwellian" app, developed by the South Australian government, ABC News Australia reported. The app uses geolocation and facial recognition software to track those in quarantine. The app will contact people at random, asking them to provide proof of their location within 15 minutes. The timing of News Corps campaign, which is expected to include a 16-page spread, coincides with the United Nations Climate Change Conference in November, where British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has encouraged wealthy nations to increase their emissions reduction ambitions. The switch in editorial position will likely attract global attention, particularly in America, where Murdochs media outlets, such as Fox News, have also been accused by Republican politicians of undermining global efforts on climate change. Mr Murdoch, now 90, also remains an influential figure in British politics, mainly through his newspapers, The Sun and The Times. But his eldest son, Lachlan Murdoch, who is the co-executive chairman of News Corp, is more involved in the newspaper business than his father. Sky News host Andrew Bolt is one of several News Corp employees to express climate change scepticism in recent years. Credit:Justin McManus Both the British government and United States President Joe Bidens administration have made direct pleas to Prime Minister Scott Morrison in recent weeks to commit to a net zero target by 2050 and consider increasing its 2030 target of reducing emissions by 26-28 per cent on 2005 levels. Senior government sources with knowledge of internal negotiations between Mr Morrison and Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, whose ascension as Nationals leader in June threatened to derail plans, are yet to reach an outcome, but both parties remain hopeful they will get what they want. Sources say increasing the 2030 target also remains an option. Mr Morrison has subtly shifted his rhetoric on emissions reductions since his shock May 2019 victory, with the government now on the verge of adopting the once highly contentious target. Mr Joyce has been clear that he will not commit to greater targets of the 2050 deadline unless there is some form of protection or compensation for industries based in regional Australia, primarily agriculture. Loading The Morrison government has been privately briefed on News Corp plans by management, but both parties say there has been no collusion on the campaign. A government source not authorised to speak on the record said it was a welcome development, but simply a corporate decision by the company. Newspapers within the News Corp stable have for years taken aim at policies that reduce carbon emissions and have been widely viewed in political circles as contributors in the downfall of prime ministers Julia Gillard, Kevin Rudd and Malcolm Turnbull. Leading up to the 2019 election, The Daily Telegraph described Labors climate change policy under then leader of the opposition Bill Shorten as Carbon Bills Green Whack and the lunchbox tax. However, sources within the organisation say the business is also feeling pressure from its major advertisers and its efforts to attract a greater subscriber base for some of its premium content. Increasingly, leading corporations such as Woolworths, Macquarie Group and Telstra are pushing their green credentials. Even some mining companies have backed in net zero by 2050 as a growing number of banks, insurers and institutional investors accelerate moves to divest coal assets and pledged not to make new investments in the industry, over concerns about fossil fuels contribution to global warming. News Corporations own global environmental targets now include reducing its fuel and electricity emissions 60 per cent by 2030 on a 2016 base year, reduced supply chain carbon emissions 20 per cent by 2030 and hit net zero by 2050. Emily Townsend said the News Corp bushfires coverage was "dangerous and damaging to our communities". Credit:Nick Moir People familiar with the companys inner workings deny any editorial shift was designed to support or give cover to a particular political leader or to convince the public to change their mind. They say News Corp executives and editors have changed based on what the readers believe and want. Data shows climate change policy is increasingly important to Australians. An exclusive survey, conducted for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age by research company Resolve Strategic in June, found the majority of Australians want the federal government to cut greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. The organisations climate coverage has also been a sensitive topic within its ranks, with former commercial finance manager Emily Townsend, firing off an all-staff email following her resignation last year, accusing the organisation of a misinformation campaign filled with irresponsible and dangerous coverage of the national bushfire crisis. News Corp Australias executive chairman, Michael Miller said at the time he understood Townsends concerns, but did not agree with them. Loading News Corp does not deny climate change or the gravity of its threat, Miller said. However, we as is the traditional role of a publisher do report a variety of views and opinions on this issue. However, the editorial position of the papers has slowly shifted since. After James Murdochs criticism, the NT News ran a front page with the headline: Now is the time to discuss climate change. Editorials in The Daily Telegraph and The Australian were more moderate, advocating for the climate change debate to be taken forward. On the night of May 8, 2021, Myanmar poet and pro-democracy activist Khet Thi and his wife, Chaw Su, were taken from their home in the city of Shwebo by armed soldiers and police and detained at a local police station. Khet Thi was separated from his wife and taken to a military facility where he was tortured to death. The next day his wife was contacted to collect his body from hospital. Nareen Rahman reads from the work of Myanmar poet Khet Thi at a PEN Melbourne event in La Mama Courthouse theatre on May 22, a fortnight after his murder by authorities in Myanmar. The empty chair with a photo of Khet Thi can be seen on the left. Credit:Arnold Zable On May 22, members of the Melbourne Centre of PEN International joined members of the Myanmar community for an afternoon of readings at the La Mama Courthouse theatre in Carlton. Readers recited the works of Myanmar poets, and speakers condemned the deadly force the military had used against pro-democracy protesters following the coup which overthrew the countrys elected government on February 1. On stage, there stood a chair with a photo of Khet Thi, accompanied by words from one of his final poems: They shoot you in the head, but they dont know the revolution is in the heart. The empty chair, as it is called, is a regular feature at PEN events. It represents a writer who could not be present due to their persecution, imprisonment or murder for the peaceful pursuit of their craft. PEN International turns 100 years old in October. The global association of writers was founded in London by poet, playwright and peace activist Catherine Amy Dawson Scott to unite authors across cultures after the devastation of World War I. British writer John Galsworthy, the first president of PEN, envisaged a League of Nations for men and women of letters. These ideals are now enshrined in the first line of the PEN charter as: Literature knows no frontiers. Ironically, PEN International has long outlived the troubled League of Nations. A rivetingly tense movie that screws tight like a Patricia Highsmith thriller without forsaking its Western splendour, said Indiewire. A work as boldly idiosyncratic, unpredictable and alive with psychological complexity as anything in the revered directors output, said Hollywood Reporter. Set in Montana in 1925 but shot in New Zealand, it is the story of two brothers living on a wealthy but isolated ranch whose relationship fractures when the quieter, kinder and more respectable of the two brings home a wife. Jane Campion has made her long-awaited return to the cinema with The Power of the Dog, a sombre but visually magnificent western starring Benedict Cumberbatch screening in competition at the Venice Film Festival. Its the directors first feature since 2009s Bright Star, the Guardian reminded its readers. And (it) is so confident and well-textured it reminds us what weve been missing. The landscape without her has looked a little arid and flyblown. Put too many men in charge of the business and sooner or later the entire system breaks down. Campion was asked at a festival press conference what more she felt could be done to get more women in charge of the film business. Until this year, she was the only woman to have won the Palme DOr in Cannes with The Piano in 1993 and was only the second woman to be nominated for an Oscar as best director. I think the girls are doing very well, she said. As she pointed out, Chloe Zhaos Nomadland won the Oscar for Best Picture earlier this year and the Golden Lion in Venice last September; in July, Julia Ducournau became the second woman to win a Palme DOr with the scandalous body-horror film Titane. I think once you give them a chance, theres not going to be much stopping them. #MeToo was a change in the weather, she felt. It was absolutely substantial, like the fall of the Berlin Wall or the end of apartheid for us women. A scene from Jane Campions The Power of the Dog. Credit:Netflix But only five of the 19 films in competition in Venice were directed by women, compared with eight last year. I still know the statistics still arent in womens favour, she said. I think the great loss for everyone is that there arent feminine voices in narrative describing our world and who we are. Women do think differently and thats what is beautiful and interesting. The survival in the wild of the worlds biggest lizard, the Komodo dragon, is looking less certain as its suitable habitat shrinks because of climate change and human pressures outside its protected areas in Indonesia. Thats the conclusion of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a global authority that this weekend released its latest so-called Red List of threatened species. The list, which included the evaluation of more than 138,000 species, shifted the status of the Komodo dragon from vulnerable to endangered. The world-famous Komodo dragon is among the species singled out by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as likely to face increased threats as the planet warms. Credit:IUCN Rising sea levels caused by hotter temperatures melting ice and expanding oceans will reduce the dragons habitat on Komodo and neighbouring remote islands by at least 30 per cent in the next 45 years, the IUCN said at its World Conservation Congress gathering in the French city of Marseille. The lizards, which can grow to three metres long, were only recorded by Western scientists in 1910, more than three centuries after Dutch colonists reached south-east Asia. As female dragons can reproduce without the presence of males they have both male and female sex chromosomes the process only results in male offspring and can lead to inbreeding. NSW has reported 1485 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday and another three deaths, Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced. She said 40 per cent of the eligible population had now been fully vaccinated. The deaths were a woman in her 50s from western Sydney who died at Blacktown Hospital; a woman in her 70s from south-western Sydney who died at Campbelltown Hospital; and a man in his 70s from south-western Sydney who died at Liverpool Hospital. Premier Gladys Berejiklian at Sundays COVID-19 briefing. Credit:Edwina Pickles There have been 126 COVID-19 related deaths in NSW since the outbreak began on June 16, among 182 since the start of the pandemic. There have been 27,984 locally acquired cases reported since June 16. Police have called on the community to face up to difficult conversations about the growing danger of online child exploitation, warning that offenders are being charged almost every second day and do not conform to a stereotype of a creepy man in a hat and trench coat. Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Lesa Gale said child exploitation is more common in Australia than many appreciate and is becoming more violent and more sadistic as predators take advantage of young peoples online habits. Parents are being urged to talk to children about their online habits. Credit:Alamy To mark National Child Protection Week, the AFP is highlighting the growing phenomenon of offenders grooming children and soliciting sexual images from them on a range of social media, messaging and gaming platforms. There can be as few as three sentences exchanged between a predator and child online before sexual content is provided, an AFP officer said, and victims often end up being blackmailed into providing more material. A New South Wales truck driver who tested positive to COVID-19 has triggered an additional contact-tracing location in Queensland after being infectious in the community for two days. The driver, who was bringing in a load of cars, was infectious in Queensland on Thursday and Friday before returning home to New South Wales. Queensland police stop trucks at the Queensland border. Credit:Chris Hyde/Getty Images The new contact-tracing site was the BP Service Station on the corner of Randolph Street and Boundary Road at Archerfield on Thursday from 1am to 1.30am, then from 6.10pm to 6.45pm. The latest infected truck driver was the third to have spent time in the Queensland community, after a Logan driver was infectious from August 28 to September 1 and a NSW driver was infectious on August 26. A teenager has been killed in a crash at Cedar Vale, south of Brisbane, and three others were rushed to hospital on Fathers Day. The 19-year-old was driving his white Mitsubishi Triton on Mount Lindesay Highway just before 11am on Sunday when it crashed with a Toyota Landcruiser travelling in the opposite direction. The crash on the Mount Lindesay Highway at Cedar Vale left two people in a critical condition and two in a serious condition. Credit:Seven News The Landcruisers 56-year-old driver was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries, while his 53-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured and taken to hospital. An off-duty paramedic rendered assistance to the 19-year-old Calamvale man, however he died at the scene. When 17-year-old Anna Papadonikolakis touched down at Melbourne Airport in 1971, her fiance, Manoli Vourvahakis, was there to meet her with a big bunch of flowers. The pair had never met. Manoli and Anna Vourvahakis in their Yarraville home of 40 years. Credit:Penny Stephens But for many months, Manoli in Melbourne and Anna in her village on the Greek island of Crete, had fallen in love through the exchange of letters and photos. In a new book about Yarravilles Greek community by writer Olympia Koziaris, nee Zahopoulos, Mrs Vourvahakis, now 67, says she fell for Manolis kindness, and agreed to an engagement. That quickly saw her dubbed the CHO-sen one. Vella, who was in Tokyo covering the Olympics at the time, was amazed. Ive never had an informal conversation with Brett Sutton, apart from asking him questions at a press conference, she says. But it exploded when he tweeted that. And then people started calling me the CHO-sen one, which is how it exploded from there. Twitter has always been a bin fire. There was a time last year where I turned all my notifications off because it was just so hard to digest, to do my job and to see the terrible things people were saying. I couldnt cope with that mental space. Then this year, Twitters just being so nice to me. Its been amazing. Vella, 33, was among the group of reporters who became familiar to Australians through the doom-watching of Premier Dan Andrews press conferences during the 112-day lockdown. Some reporters copped nasty abuse online. Vella copped some, though not the worst of it, and is philosophical about what inspired the vitriol. We didnt consider the fact that the public had never seen the inner workings of a press conference, she says. We hadnt factored into those press conferences, which became a beast on their own, that the public were seeing how we operate and it didnt make any sense to them. We definitely made mistakes. I think we lost our way a little bit about what the public actually cared about. For Demaio, 36 and the CEO of Victorias health promotion body, wielding influence in a public health debate seems a natural fit. But the pandemic has elevated public health issues to a daily debate affecting every inch of our lives. With a PhD in epidemiology, he realised early on what a dramatic impact was in store. It became very clear this was going to have a major impact on our lives, on the way we work, on our physical health and on every aspect of modern life, he says of Australias corona-coaster. VicHealth CEO Sandro Demaio has used his social media profile to tend gently to his followers. Credit:Luis Ascui Through his VicHealth role he had access to real-time research into how Victorians were coping, and it gave him a different take on things like 2020s sourdough phenomenon the cliched lockdown cooking goal of choice for some. The research found people were indeed heading into the kitchen in droves. But most people were doing it to save money. We saw a big increase in food insecurity. Demaio has used his social media profile to tend gently to his addled flock of followers. A typical morning missive offers wise counsel, as with this on Friday, when Victorias caseload topped 200. Before we get pulled into a doom-scroll try to get outside if you can, he wrote. Get a walk, some air, a moment with your household members or just yourself. Not easy, but important. Simple enough, but to his 36,000 followers his advice cuts through. On more complex questions, he brings an expert voice and an accessible manner. I understand the decisions that have been made, I understand how tough they are so I feel that I have a unique responsibility to try to translate that for the public, to give people a bit of hope and perspective. And to acknowledge that some people are doing it really tough, much tougher than me. Toby Rozarios comedic COVID videos have earned him attention on TikTok. Credit:Jason South In his apartment in Wyndham Vale, Toby Rozario who bills himself as the COVID guy on TikTok brings no medical expertise to the table, but he does have a wry and winning sense of humour. Since he started posting snappy daily updates - a combination of news and his reactions to it - his videos have racked up 5.4 million views. One of his early COVID clips attracted 1.5 million pairs of eyeballs. Thats when I realised I had something, he says. I just had fun. I just wanted to laugh at myself and help make people laugh as well. I think people want to escape because everything is doom and gloom, whereas if people hop on TikTok they can have a laugh and a giggle. At the other end of the spectrum are the medical experts like Dr Vyom Sharma, who had a pre-pandemic profile on 3RRR. But it was when he started sounding the alarm about COVID that he became a go-to voice on traditional and social media. Sounding the alarm: Melbourne GP Vyom Sharma. Credit:Eddie Jim There seemed to be enormous lethargy here that for some reason we thought we were a bit special, that it wouldnt happen here, he says, describing how he started posing questions on any platform he could find. How many people is it affecting? How many people are dying? How is it spreading? Why cant we test more? Why cant we test faster? I was seen as someone who people trust [and] it just went from zero to 100. Medically speaking, I didnt really have any public profile. To go from zero to that in just a couple of months was a bit of shock. Its still something Im adjusting to. Professor Nancy Baxter had just moved to Australia from Canada to head Melbourne Universitys School of Population and Global Health when COVID hit. For Nancy Baxter, an epidemiologist and surgeon from Canada who moved to Melbourne early last year to head Melbourne Universitys School of Population and Global Health, a new home in a new country came with a shocking adjustment. Soon after she arrived, the country went into lockdown. As a public health expert, she was horrified by the inadequate attention to protective gear in hospitals. Her previously routine social media profile I was mainly talking about surgery and women in medicine was transformed as she raised the alarm. I started tweeting about this when I saw those people in Milan. And what got me tweeting more was the PPE situation for the doctors here. Thats what got me active and got me talking to journalists, frankly. The approach on PPE was completely unbelievable. Journalists loved her straightforward manner. Even in Canada, Im known for being quite frank, she laughs. And on social media the public appreciated her expertise and down-to-earth honesty. One grim day last week, she tweeted: I really feel like crying right now and I dont think I am alone. Please send cute pictures of pets, kids, or anything else you think could cheer us up. Many obliged, a sign of the chord she has struck. I did have an internal debate about whether I should continue to do this, Baxter says of her public commentary. But I think what I do very well is take the scientific stuff and make it digestible. I think thats what people need. The pandemic has highlighted many such needs unique to the times. As Demaio has learned, a simple urge to take a walk in the sun can do wonders. And a shared lockdown burden - even if shared through apps and phones and laptops - is one that can seem easier to carry. At almost $1.3 million, Lee Lits was expecting a lot more from the luxury apartment into which she poured her life savings. But in April, just months after moving into her new Caulfield home, the single mother of three discovered that water was regularly streaming down the insides of her windows and pooling in the carpet when it rained. It got worse: in July, she discovered that black mould was growing on the ceilings, curtains and carpets in every room. Its terrible living like this, she said. Im worried about our health. Lee Lits has placed strips of plastic throughout her apartment to protect it from mould after discovering a defect with the waterproofing Credit:Justin McManus A large, industrial fan has been whirring in her home all day and night in an effort to dry it out, but the problems persist. Australia must see off a growing strategic threat from China by defending its values while diversifying its economy, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will declare on Monday in a major speech urging business to prepare for new tensions with the rising superpower. Mr Frydenberg will warn of the danger of Chinese government measures that seek to target the Australian economy while insisting the country cannot give in to coercion such as restrictions on exports of barley, coal and wine. But he will argue that Australian industry has proven it can replace many of the lost sales, citing trade figures showing that a $5.4 billion fall in exports to China has been offset by $4.4 billion in new exports to other markets in the three months to June. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg: Australia will always choose partnerships ahead of conflict, wherever we can. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Australia will always choose partnerships ahead of conflict, wherever we can, Mr Frydenberg says, in an extract of the speech he is due to deliver at the Australian National University. Is this what women marched for? Is this what the countless expert advocates, womens organisations and victims imagined, when they spent weeks preparing all those submissions and attending all those consultations for the Respect@Work inquiry into sexual harassment? Surely not. Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins made 55 recommendations after that inquiry to make workplaces safer for women. But last week, the Morrison government ensured that only six of those recommendations made their way into law and scuppered attempts by Labor and the Greens to implement the centrepiece of Jenkins report a positive duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment from happening in the first place. Protesters at the Womens March 4 Justice at Treasury Gardens in Melbourne on March 15. Credit:Eddie Jim Make no mistake: history will remember this moment as a key milestone in Australias #MeToo journey and Prime Minister Scott Morrison and his newly minted taskforce for women will prove to be on the wrong side of that history. The government also joined with One Nation to block other amendments to the Sex Discrimination and Fair Work (Respect at Work) Amendment Bill. These would have changed workplace laws to ban sexual harassment, protected victims of sexual harassment from massive legal bills, and reviewed the Fair Work system to ensure that sexual harassment using the definition in the Sex Discrimination Act was expressly prohibited. head Herbert Diess on Sunday said autonomous cars, not electric vehicles, were the "real gamechanger" for the auto industry, which is facing the end of combustion engines in Europe by 2035. Diess' comments signal the pace at which the 62-year old tries to transform Europe's largest carmaker by basically saying that the shift towards battery-powered (EV), which still needs to be backed up by actual sales, was sealed. "Autonomous driving is really going to change our industry like nothing else before," Diess said in Munich ahead of the official opening of the IAA car show, adding the shift towards electrified cars was "kind of easy" in comparison. "The real gamechanger is software and autonomous driving." Diess spoke as environmental pressure on the auto sector is ramping up, with the European Commission in July proposing an effective ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035. On Friday, Greenpeace and German environmental NGO Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) said they would take legal action against German carmakers, including Volkswagen, if they failed to step up their policies to tackle climate change. Diess, who was confronted by Greenpeace activists before entering the venue on Sunday, is therefore not only aiming to overtake Tesla and turn into the world's largest seller of by 2025. He also wants to make software services for autonomous cars a key pillar of the group's future business, which is why has bought into self-driving software startup Argo AI, a competitor to Alphabet Inc's Waymo. Traditional carmakers and tech firms have poured billions of dollars over the past decade to realise the vision of driverless cars, but robotaxis remain elusive due to technical and regulatory hurdles that require continued human presence. Volkswagen expects 1.2 trillion euros ($1.43 trillion) of software enabled sales in the car sector by 2030, accounting for about a quarter of the global mobility market, which is expected to more than double to 5 trillion euros as a result. "By 2030 ... about 85% of our business is cars, private cars, privately owned, shared rental cars. And about 15% of mobility should be shuttles, mobility as a service," Diess said. This ties into the group's recent move to lead a consortium in an acquisition of car rental firm Europcar, a bet on potentially lucrative mobility services that still need to become reality. ($1 = 0.8416 euros) (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 Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Sunday distanced itself from an article published in Panchajanya, a journal championing Hindu cause, that attacked over glitches in the income tax portal. The clarification by Sunil Ambekar, All India Prachaar Pramukh (communications chief) of the RSS, activists said, may have come after somebody in the government flagged the matter. In its September 5 edition, Panchjanya had a four-page cover story on -- Saakh Aur Aghaat (Reputation and Damage), with its founder Narayana Murthy''s picture on the cover page. The article in the publication -- which supports the cause taken up by the RSS, and sometimes goes beyond them -- said there were accusations that the management was deliberately trying to destabilise Indias economy. It dubbed the Bengaluru-based company unchi dukaan, phika pakwaan (great cry and little wool). It also questioned Infosys political linkages (its co-founder Nandan Nilekani had a Cabinet ministers rank as UIDAI chairperson in the Manmohan Singh government) and charged that the company may have been part of an anti-national conspiracy to hurt Indias economic interests and give the Narendra Modi government a bad name. That Panchajanya carried the report suggested the had endorsed it. However, the organisation that describes itself as a socio-cultural body in which at one time Prime Minister Modi was an activist (pracharak), on Sunday said it had nothing to do with the article. To set the record straight, the came out with a reproof to Panchajanya. As an Indian company, Infosys has a significant contribution in the progress of India. There may be some issues regarding the portal operated by Infosys but the articles published in this context in Panchjanya are the personal views of the author. Panchajanya is not a mouthpiece of the and the said article or opinions expressed in it should not be linked with the Sangh," Ambekar said. Insiders in the Sangh said the attack on Infosys may have been motivated by Sangh workers and activists who see themselves as more Hindu than some members of the government. After Ambekars clarification, there was no response from Panchajanya or others on the board of Bharat Prakashan, the company that is the printer and publisher of Panchajanya, despite several messages. On Saturday, PTI reported Panchjanya editor Hitesh Shankar as saying that Infosys is a big firm and very crucial works were given to it by the government based on its credibility. With glitches continuing on the I-T Departments new e-filing portal, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had given project vendor Infosys time until September 15 to resolve issues being faced by taxpayers. A ginger group that has dedicated itself to purging the system of persons who have had linkages with past Congress and Left-influenced regimes is likely responsible for the attack on Infosys, insiders said. In the past there have been several instances of this group simply posting past comments of people who have been appointed to important positions. Some of these campaigns have resulted in appointees resigning within days. Itne wicket gir gaye to unhe laga, chalo, koi bada wicket giraayen (After they managed to get many wickets, they may have thought, lets try for a big one), said an activist. Earlier this year, Mumbai-based poll and communication strategist Tushar Panchal, who was named officer on special duty (OSD) to Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivaraj Singh Chouhan, resigned within 24 hours of accepting the offer, after members of this group circulated his old tweets which were dubbed by BJP and RSS cadres as anti-Hindu and critical of Narendra Modi. On being appointed, Panchal had tweeted: "Today, my destiny has placed me inside the office of MP Chief Minister @ChouhanShivraj as his communication advisor. Please wish me luck. More details later." This was hours after the MP government issued an order appointing Tushar OSD in the CMs Office. However, less than 24 hours later, Panchal again took to Twitter, saying: "I have decided to not accept the responsibility offered to me by @chouhanshivraj ji and have communicated my inability to the CM." This was after Delhi BJP spokesperson Tajindar Bagga and RSS Delhi State Executive member Rajiv Tuli shared screenshots of Tushar's old anti-Hindu and anti-Modi tweets and asked the MP CM about the need to appoint a person of Panchals credentials. Panchal had managed the Madhya Pradesh CMs social media war-room in 2018. The media advisor to former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Tirath Singh Rawat, Dinesh Mansera, met with a similar fate. Earlier a TV journalist, Manseras appointment was cancelled within days as activists dug out old tweets that had been critical of the Modi government. The fact that the BJP lauds and grants lucrative government posts to those spewing venom against it 24x7 should speak volumes about how little the party cares about its followers and workers. Any other party of Left-liberal institutions will never even give the courtesy of hearing those from the opposite end of the spectrum, forget about giving out a high-paying job said one tweet from the group. It is not clear at what level the government complained to the Sangh, eliciting a response on the Infosys matter. It might have been B L Santhoshji (organising secretary who is from Karnataka), or someone at an even higher level. It is also possible that someone spoke to Mohanji (Mohan Bhagwat, RSS chief). We dont know. The motivation behind the Panchajanya article was misuse of public money but also an assertion, said an activist. The (RSS) directly targeted Indias IT pioneer and major through its in-house Hindi mouthpiece, Panchajanya, demanding accountability for the glitches that cropped up in the new income tax filing portal developed by Infosys, days after the companys CEO, Salil Parekh was summoned by the finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and given a deadline until September 15 to reset the software. However, Panchajanyas diatribe against acquired an ideological dimension after the magazine in its cover story Saakh aur Aaghaat (Reputation and Harm) accused the company of destabilising the Indian economy and operating in cahoots with the tukde, tukde gang, a phrase used to defame Naxals, Leftists and Jammu and Kashmir separatists in the past. The basis for the allegations rested, not on any evidence, but on two queries and circumstances that the article flagged: would have provided such shoddy service to its overseas clients? Second, the company helped the tukde, tukde gang, a term overarching enough to insinuate Infosyss support to establishment-unfriendly portals and its co-founder, Nandan Nilekani having contested the 2014 elections from Bengaluru South as a candidate. However, Nilekani is hardly persona non grata with the Narendra Modi regime. Not only did the Modi government embrace his Aadhar concept and programme after initial reservations and a few amendments, in July this year, Nilekani was made a member of an official panel to advice the Centre on measures needed to design and accelerate the adoption of Open Network for Digital Commerce, although the notion of digital commerce is red rag to the RSSs economic front, the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM). The singling out of Infosys by name without evidence typifies the hit-and-run tactics used by the RSS and its affiliates in the past but those principally claimed prominent political victims. This is the first time that a corporate major has become a likely sufferer of the manoeuvre. The attack on Infosys came days after Piyush Goyal, the commerce minister, assailed industry for seeking out foreigners as business cohorts and for partnering falana, dhimkana (anyone and everyone). Goyal, who is a Mumbai boy, was the BJPs treasurer for years like his late father, Ved Prakash Goyal and no stranger to the Bombay and Bangalore Clubs, hit out against the Tatas for allegedly opposing some clauses of the proposed Consumer Protection (e-commerce) rules, 2020 which he wanted to enforce. However, his remarks were made at a closed door function hosted by the CII, that surfaced in a leaked audio tape and not stated publicly like Panchajanya did. While Modis first term saw little pro-active interventions by the Sanghs economic and labour fronts, notably the SJM and the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, and the Sangh-patronised Confederation of All India Traders or CAIT, barring an agitation that ended up putting the amendments in the Land Acquisition Act, in deep freeze, in his second tenure, these outfits are claiming credit for stalling policies and decisions. For instance, the CAIT campaigned against Amazon and Flipkart for imperilling the survival of Indias small and medium traders by colluding with multinational giants to plunder our retail market and lauded Goyal for showing the Tatas their place. The Centre and the did not react to Goyals outburst or the tirade against Infosys except for Sangh sources maintaining that national interest was supreme in both cases and non-negotiable. The Centres decision to not join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership or RCEP was welcomed by the SJM as another example of upholding national interest despite pressure. While on August 12 PM Modi implored the corporate sector to take advantage of a raft of reforms his government introduced, notably discarding the 2012 retrospective tax amendments and correctives to decriminalise economic offences and scale up investments, it remains to be seen if the recent interventions from within the and the Sangh will impede his attempts to pull off a balancing act. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the BJPs other PM, managed to keep the swadeshi lobbyists at bay, except in 2000 when his government was forced to shelve the Sankhya Vahini project that would have set up a high speed data network. The RSS, then headed by the swadeshi-wedded KS Sudarshan and backed by Dattopant Thenagdi, the BMS founder whose name still inspired reverence in the RSS and cadre, raised the issue of security threats once it was known that Raj Reddy, a US-based computer scientist, was the brain behind Sankhya Vahini. Thengadi dissed the endeavour as a fraud on the nation and nothing was heard of Reddy or his brain-child again. Vajpayee paid a price for being confrontational with the RSS and its economic fronts on other occasions. His finance minister Yashwant Sinha was abused publicly while Vajpayee was lampooned in an SJM in-house magazine. However, the BJP rose to defend its PM in a signed statement against Thengadi. That statement was signed by Narendra Modi, then a general secretary. After a 12-year-old boy from nearby Mavoor died of in the wee hours on Sunday, local authorities have geared up to check any further spread of the dreaded virus in Kozhikode and surrounding areas. The Kozhikode Medical college hospital sources told PTI that they have since opened an exclusive ward to cater to any possible outbreak of the virus. It said that after a proposed meeting with ministers and health experts, further plans would be decided. The hospital where the boy was being treated since September 1 is on alert and the situation there was being closely monitored, sources said. Giving details of the case, the minister told reporters, "Unfortunately, the boy passed away at 5 in the morning. The condition of the child was critical on Saturday night. We formed various teams and have started the tracing. Steps have been taken to isolate those who were the primary contacts of the boy". The minister said the infection was confirmed by the Pune NIV on Saturday night. "Three samples-- plasma, CSF and serum-- were found infected. He was admitted to the hospital with a heavy fever four days ago. But on Saturday, his condition became worse. We had sent his samples for testing the day before yesterday," the minister said. George said none of the close contacts of the boy are showing any symptoms as of now and that the health department has already traced out the contacts of the child. "There is nothing to worry about. The health department is closely following up the situation. Special officers have been posted and special teams were formed. The patient was first taken to a private hospital, then to the medical college and from there again shifted to a private hospital. So we have traced all his contacts. The friends he played with in his locality, his cousins and others, the health department had completed the identification and tracing of all these contacts," George said. The minister also asked the neighbouring Kannur and Malappuram districts to remain cautious. Hospital sources said the boy will be cremated today itself following the health protocol. Police have cordoned off an area of three km radius around the house of the boy. "The death of a 12-year-old boy has been confirmed due to virus. We have already started contact tracing, and assessing the situation. The team from NCDC is also coordinating with us," said Health Minister Veena George in Kozhikode. The staff of the local hospital in Omaserry near Mavoor, where the child was first taken for consultation after he developed severe fever late in August, has also been alerted. The Central Government has rushed a team of Centre for Disease Control to the state, which will be reaching on Sunday. The team will provide technical support to the state, the ministry said. Pazhoor (ward 9) of Chathamangalam panchayat has been fully closed and nearby wards of Nayarkuzhy, Koolimad, Puthiyadam wards were partially closed, the sources said, adding that police have been deployed to restrict vehicle and people movement in or out from these places. The health authorities have alerted the people in the area to immediately report any instances of fever, vomiting and other health disorders. The health authorities in Malappuram and Kannur have also been alerted to closely monitor the situation. Local residents said police personnel reached there around 4 AM and closed all pocket roads leading to the child's house. They also said that the roads there are deserted now and police have informed them that the main road in Pulpara and Kulimadu would also be closed after some time. (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.) A total of 1.3 lakh COVID-19 vaccines doses were administered in the district on Saturday, said (BMC) Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal. According to BMC Commissioner, at least 80 per cent of eligible citizens of the Municipal Corporation of Greater (MCGM) have taken at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. " administered 1.3 lakh vaccines today. The good news is that 80 per cent of eligible citizens of MCGM have taken at least one dose of the vaccine. We are number one in percentage terms amongst major cities of India," said BMC Commissioner. Chahal added that around 30 per cent of eligible citizens in Mumbai has received both doses of the vaccine. "I salute private hospitals of Mumbai for their great help and participation in drive. Proper along with the habit of wearing masks can save us from the probable third wave of the pandemic," he added. According to CoWin website, a total of 1,02,41,073 doses of Covid-19 vaccines have been administered in Mumbai so far. (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.) Crime Investigation Department (CID) has summoned Leader of Opposition in the state assembly on Monday in connection with the unnatural death case of his bodyguard, Subhabrata Chakraborty. Earlier in July a four-member CID delegation visited Purba Medinipur to probe Chakraborty's death. The case is related to Chakraborty, who had died under suspicious circumstances three years ago. CID had taken the case from Kanthi Police Station in Purba Medinipur on July 14. The case was filed by Chakraborty's wife Suparna Kanjilal Chakraborty. (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.) Aviation watchdog Director General of Civil Aviation's (DGCA) directive to Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to reduce the height of buildings and structures in four apartments -- Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada and Saraswati -- in D-6 society of Vasant Kunj has left the residents worried. On August 26, the gave an order to submit identified obstruction around Indira Gandhi International Airport here after a detailed survey by the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL). "DIAL forwarded the list of buildings and structure determined as forming Obstacles Limitations Surfaces (OLS) of IGI airport based on a survey conducted in the year of 2016 to this office including of buildings and structures at Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada and Saraswati apartments as obstacle penetrating the Inner Horizontal Surface (IHS) against their permissible top elevation," DGCA's final order read. Based on the final order of DGCA, DDA has issued notice to the concerned department regarding a reduction in the height of the top four apartments of the building. "Final order issued by to reduce the height of the said 15 numbers of towers to permissible limits within 60 days of issue of the notice or file appeal to within 60 days. This is for your kind information and further necessary action please," DDA's notice read. The residents of the said four apartments are worried after the final order of DGCA and DDA. And for this Resident Welfare Association (RWA) are aggressively opposing the order and preparing an appeal to DGCA and DDA. The RWA has shown dissatisfaction against the order as to how a final order can be passed without consulting residents. "We have bought the house with hard-earned money. How can the authority pass the order unanimously? We will appeal before the authority and if they do not listen to us, then we will approach the Supreme Court," Abhay More, President of RWA, Yamuna told ANI. Retired and serving IAS-IPS-IFS officers, pilots, literary personalities and other intellectuals residing in these towers. After the order, all the residents are upset. "These towers were constructed after DDA got No Objection Certificate (NOC) and now other authority of same government said that there is a need to reduce the height of the building. What is the fault of the people living here who have filled crores of rupees in a flat? Reducing the height is also compromising the safety of the building as there are water tanks, fire tanks and elevators attached to the top of the building," Ashok Pai a retired IFS said. A meeting of large federation made up of residents living in Vasant Kunj has been convened today to take up the issue and look at legal recourse. Delhi: DGCA's order to DDA for reducing height of 4 towers in Vasant Kunj's D-6 society leaves residents worried "We were not consulted during meetings. DDA is guilty in this matter. We'll file an appeal. There are many loopholes in order,"says Abhay, RWA President, Yamuna tower pic.twitter.com/44GuQKu41q ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 (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 judicial commission that probed all aspects of slain gangster Vikas Dubey's rise and fall, has endorsed the findings of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) which had found that as many as 26 officials of the district administration and revenue department had helped Dubey and his associates in getting arms licences and fair price shop permits. Vikas Dubey, who was killed in an encounter on July 10 2020, has massacred eight policemen in the Bikru village on July 3 when the police team came to arrest him in a murder case. The Supreme Court had mandated a three-member inquiry commission headed by Justice (retd) B.S. Chauhan to probe into the encounter of Dubey and five of his alleged associates. The panel also probed the circumstances which led to the rise and fall of the gangster. The state government had formed an SIT under the chairmanship of senior IAS officer Sanjay Bhoosreddy just after the encounter of Dubey. According to the SIT report, the officers in collusion with the gangster included six sub-divisional magistrates (SDMs), an additional city magistrate (ACM), seven block development officers (BDOs), two tehsildars and two sub-tehsildars, along with a revenue inspector and two supply inspectors. The list also included two village development officers and three lekhpals. The commission, which submitted its report recently, has recommended action against all of them. The report also states that the block development officer posted in Chaubeypur was in constant touch with Dubey and, in one year from December 2019 to March 2020 they had spoken 22 times. Similarly, the then revenue inspector, village development officer, supply inspector were all in constant touch with Dubey. This report was prepared by the SIT on the basis of call detail records of the last one year. While endorsing these findings of the SIT, the commission states that it shows that revenue officials had friendly relations with Dubey. It further states that all these officials were so friendly with that if any common man complained against him then he would know in advance and used to thrash the complainants. The commission also endorsed the view of SIT that departmental inquiry should be conducted against four SDMs, and an ACM, while administrative action must be taken against four SDMs and eight tehsildars, and other revenue officials. --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.) Vice President M on Sunday said that serving in rural areas should be made mandatory before granting the first promotion to in the government sector. Speaking at the 11th annual Medical Teachers' Day Awards function here, the Vice President said three to five years service in rural areas for young was essential while pointing out that 60 per cent of the country's population lives in the villages, an official release said. "It (serving in rural area) must be made mandatory. I know that it will not be liked by many. But, I feel that is the need," Naidu said. The Vice President stressed the need to increase the number of medical colleges while referring to the government's efforts to bridge the gap in doctor-patient ratio in the country. He said the doctor-patient ratio was 1:1,456 as against the WHO norm of 1:1000. Expressing his appreciation at the government's plan to establish at least one medical college in each district, he also pointed out that the urban-rural ratio of was also highly skewed with more medical professionals opting to work in urban areas. Describing the medical profession as a noble mission, he advised doctors not to give any remission or commit omission, but to serve the nation with passion. Asking the doctors to remember the core value of compassion for humanity in all their actions, he said "let that be your moral compass when in dilemma and always adhere to the highest level of ethics. If you can serve with a spirit of selfless dedication, you derive boundless and real happiness." Calling for creating state-of-the-art health infrastructure across the country, particularly in rural areas, the Vice President said the COVID-19 pandemic has accentuated the need for better health infrastructure and advised the state governments to bestow special attention on this aspect. Naidu further emphasised that both medical education and treatment should be affordable and within the reach of the common man. He said that top priority should be accorded to education and health sectors with a greater allocation of budget. Referring to the fast-changing technological world, the Vice President urged medical colleges to ensure that those passing out of their portals stay abreast of the latest diagnostic and treatment systems. "This has become all the more imperative in the wake of the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 as everything about the novel coronavirus is new learning to allfrom scientists to doctors," he said. Naidu also expressed his appreciation to the Association of National Board Accredited Institutions (ANBAI), an apex organisation of many leading hospitals and medical institutions in India for partnering with the Government in providing post-graduate medical education, the release said. The Vice President also paid his homage to the former President and statesman-philosopher, the late Shri Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary on Sunday. He also paid his respects to all his teachers, who mould and shaped his career. Earlier, he presented the Life-Time Achievement Award to well-known cardiologist and President of Public Health Foundation of India, Dr K Srinath Reddy and others including Dr Devi Shetty, the release 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.) Already troubled by the second wave of Covid-19, the health system in Kerala got yet another jolt on Sunday morning when a 12-year-old boy from Kozhikode passed away after testing positive for virus infection and two others developing symptoms It was in May 2018 that Kerala first reported infection that claimed around 17 lives at that time. Following the current outbreak, the Centre has rushed a team of Center for Disease Control (NCDC) to provide technical aid to the state health department. According to sources in the state health department, things are likely to be under control this time, as the state authorities are familiar with the protocols to follow. Health minister Veena George said that the two people identified now were part of the 20 high-risk contacts of the deceased 12-year-old child, out of the total 188 that was on the contact list. "There is nothing to worry about. The health department is closely following up on the situation," George said. The team of NCDC experts includes health experts and former health ministry officials Dr P Ravindran, Dr K Reghu, Additional Director, Centre for Disease Control, and Dr. Ruchi Jain, Public Health Specialist. The Centre has also asked the Kerala authorities to take immediate steps like case search in the family, village, and areas with similar topography like Malappuram. According to a government statement, the boy showed features of encephalitis, and myocarditis was reported on September 3. However, a cause of concern for the authorities is the fact that the two fresh cases identified are both health workers. Both are health workers. One works with a private hospital, while the other is a staff member of Kozhikode Medical College hospital," George told the media after a meeting with top health officials. The state government has already formed separate teams for contact tracing and has also taken steps to isolate primary contacts. Police have also cordoned off around a 3-kilo meter radius of the boys house and have declared a health alert in the district. The boy was first taken to a private hospital and later shifted to medical college. All three samples -- plasma, CSF, and serum-- were found infected. In June 2019 also, a case of the virus was reported in Kochi. Nipah, a zoonotic virus, is believed to be spread through the saliva of fruit bats. The disease has a high fatality rate and there is no known treatment available for this. This comes at a time when the state is contributing to over 70 per cent of the Covid cases in India. On Sunday, India reported 42,766 new Covid-19 cases reporting around 308 deaths. Out of this, Kerala reported 29,682 cases in the last 24 hours. A Central team has been rushed to after a 12-year-old boy died due to infection in the state's Kozhikode district, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The samples of the boy, which were sent to the Pune Institute of Virology, confirmed the presence of The Central Government has rushed a team of Centre for Disease Control to the state, which will be reaching on Sunday. The team will provide technical support to the state, the ministry said. Some immediate public health measures have been advised by the Centre which include active case search in the family, families, village and areas with similar topography especially in Malappuram. The measures also include active contact tracing for any contacts in the past 12 days, strict quarantine of the contacts and isolation of any suspects and collection and transportation of samples for lab testing, the ministry said. Nipal virus is spread by saliva of the fruit bats. In 2018 also, there was a Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts of (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.) Thousands of farmers from and neighbouring states on Sunday gathered at Muzaffarnagar for a Kisan mahapanchayat' aimed at "saving the country", just months ahead of the crucial UP assembly polls. The event was organised by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) at the Government Inter College ground in Muzaffarnagar in protest against the Centre's controversial farm laws. "These meetings will be held across the country. We have to stop the country from getting sold. Farmers should be saved, the country should be saved; business, employees and youth should be saved--this is the aim of the rally, Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) national spokesperson Rakesh Tikait said. Popular names like Medha Patkar and Yogendra Yadav were seen on the dais. Yadav was given a yellow robe by Tikait, while the BKU leader was presented a mace at the event. Meanwhile, BJP MP Varun Gandhi on Sunday described the protesting farmers as "our own flesh and blood" and suggested that the government should re-engage with them in reaching common ground. BKU media in-charge Dharmendra Malik said farmers belonging to 300 organisations spread across different states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, among others, have gathered for the event. He said over 5,000 'langars' (food stalls), including some mobile stalls, have been set up for the participants. The farmers, including women carrying flags of different organisations and wearing different coloured caps, were seen arriving at the venue in buses, cars and tractors. A woman farmer leader from Karnataka addressed the gathering in Kannada language. One of the participants blew a ransingha' (trumpet), the photograph of which was posted by the Kisan Ekta Morcha on Twitter. "In old times, when the fight was for honour and respect, this instrument (ransingha) was used. Today, a call has been given for war by all 'kisan majdoor' unions against the BJP's corporate raj', it tweeted in Hindi. Meanwhile, the Muzaffarnagar administration denied Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhry's request to sprinkle flowers from a helicopter on the venue and participants of the mahapanchayat. City magistrate Abhishek Singh rejected the request, saying it cannot be allowed due to security reasons. The district authorities have posted police personnel at the residences of Union minister Sanjiv Balyan and BJP MLA Umesh Malik here, as a precautionary measure. The SKM on Saturday claimed that thousands of farmers from 15 states had reached Muzaffarnagar to participate in the mahapanchayat. The umbrella body of 40 farmer unions spearheading the farmers' agitation against the Centre's three farm laws said the event would prove that the agitation had the support of all castes, religions, states, classes, small traders and other sections of society. "The mahapanchayat of September 5 will make the Yogi-Modi governments realise the power of farmers, farm labourers and supporters of the farm movement. The Muzaffarnagar mahapanchayat will be the biggest ever in the last nine months," the SKM had said in a statement. It also said that 100 medical camps had been set up for the farmers attending the mahapanchayat. The farmers' protest against the three contentious laws has completed over nine months since they first arrived at Delhi borders. They have been demanding the repeal of the laws, which they are afraid will do away with the MSP system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. (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.) Thousands of farmers gathered on Sunday at a mahapanchayat in Muzaffarnagar, where BKU leader Rakesh Tikait called Prime Minister and other leaders "rioters" and said the party should be given a drubbing in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls. He also targeted the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh over sugarcane prices. "This (Muzaffarnagar) is the sugarcane belt. There was a government which had raised the sugarcane price by Rs 80, while another government had increased it by Rs 50. Is the Adityanath government weaker than these two dispensations? It did not increase the price even by one rupee. "This government should be given 'vote ki chhott' (electoral defeat). The slogan of 'fasalon ke daam nahi, to vote nahi' (no fair price for crops, no votes) will have to be raised," Tikait said at the mega rally attended by farmers from UP and neighbouring states. The mahapanchayat was organised by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) at the Government Inter College ground in Muzaffarnagar in protest against the Centre's controversial farm laws. Lashing out at the Centre over its National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP), the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) national spokesperson said "India for sale" boards have been put up. Referring to Modi, Adityanath and Union Home Minister as "outsiders", the farmer leader said he has no objection if they become prime ministers after winning polls from Uttarakhand or Gujarat. "But on the soil of Uttar Pradesh, these rioters will not be tolerated," he said. Tikait said SKM's aim is to "save the country and its mission is not confined to Uttar Pradesh or Uttarakhand". He further claimed the country's railways, airlines and airports are being sold along with "privatisation of electricity" and "sale of roads". "The banks are being sold like FCI land is being given to Adani. The Sale of India' boards have been put up and the purchasers are Ambani and Adani, he alleged referring to the top industrialists. He also claimed that state-run energy giant Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and fuel retailer Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) are in danger. Popular names like Medha Patkar and Yogendra Yadav were also seen on the dais. Yadav was given a yellow robe by Tikait, while the BKU leader was presented a mace at the event. MP Varun Gandhi on Sunday described the protesting farmers as "our own flesh and blood" and suggested that the government should re-engage with them in reaching common ground. BKU media in-charge Dharmendra Malik said farmers belonging to 300 organisations spread across different states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, among others, have gathered for the event. He said over 5,000 ''langars'' (food stalls), including some mobile stalls, have been set up for the participants. The farmers, including women carrying flags of different organisations and wearing different coloured caps, were seen arriving at the venue in buses, cars and tractors. A woman farmer leader from Karnataka addressed the gathering in Kannada language. One of the participants blew a 'ransingha' (trumpet), the photograph of which was posted by the Kisan Ekta Morcha on Twitter. "In old times, when the fight was for honour and respect, this instrument (ransingha) was used. Today, a call has been given for war by all ''kisan majdoor'' unions against the BJP's 'corporate raj'," it tweeted in Hindi. Meanwhile, the Muzaffarnagar administration denied Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chief Jayant Chaudhary's request to sprinkle flowers from a helicopter on the venue and participants of the mahapanchayat. City magistrate Abhishek Singh rejected the request, saying it cannot be allowed due to security reasons. The district authorities have posted police personnel at the residences of Union minister Sanjiv Balyan and MLA Umesh Malik here, as a precautionary measure. The SKM on Saturday claimed that thousands of farmers from 15 states had reached Muzaffarnagar to participate in the mahapanchayat. The umbrella body of 40 farmer unions spearheading the farmers' agitation against the Centre's three farm laws said the event would prove that the agitation had the support of "all castes, religions, states, classes, small traders and other sections of society". "The mahapanchayat of September 5 will make the Yogi-Modi governments realise the power of farmers, farm labourers and supporters of the farm movement. The Muzaffarnagar mahapanchayat will be the biggest ever in the last nine months," the SKM had said in a statement. It also said that 100 medical camps had been set up for the farmers attending the mahapanchayat. The farmers' protest against the three contentious laws has completed over nine months since they first arrived at Delhi borders. They have been demanding the repeal of the laws, which they are afraid will do away with the MSP system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. (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.) FILE PHOTO: Farmers during 'Kisan Mahapanchayat' against the new farm laws, in Muzaffarnagar The Yogi Adityanath government has geared up for the Kisan Mahapanchayat, scheduled to be held in Muzaffarnagar on Sunday. "We expect a 70,000-strong gathering. To manage such crowds, deployment of forces is a standard operating procedure," Muzaffarnagar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Abhishek Yadav said. The forces include six companies of Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and two of Rapid Action Force, and 1,200 policemen. Ten companies of paramilitary forces and 4,000 police personnel are also being deployed, sources said. The SSP said that, "Drone cameras will be used for aerial surveillance and 200 CCTV cameras have been installed." For the Muzaffarnagar Mahapanchayat that will reportedly decide the future course of the ongoing farmers' agitation, 2,500 volunteers will work to keep things running and 'ensure peace'. The Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Lok Dal have announced support to the event. The various Khaps will also be present at the Mahapanchayat which will be held at the GIC ground. across the country will come together under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) for the Mahapanchayat. Yudhvir Singh, general secretary of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU), said, " from across the country, including Punjab, Haryana, Maharashtra and the southern states, will be arriving. Thousands of from across have started moving towards Muzaffarnagar since Friday. We have planned arrangements for 5 lakh people but the number may exceed since a large number of women are also joining in." "The Samyukt Kisan Morcha will officially declare its 'Mission UP and Uttarakhand' at the Mahapanchayat. We will appeal to farmers and other voters to defeat those who are supporting the three 'black' farm laws. The event is also an attempt to unite farmers across castes and religions, and show our strength. The farmers' protest will intensify after Sunday," SKM leader Gurnam Singh Charuni said. Meanwhile, over 20 LED screens and microphones have been set up in a 4-kilometre radius from the venue, Government Inter College Ground. Over 500 langars are already operating in Muzaffarnagar and surrounding areas. Another 500 mobile langars, tractors carrying food and drinking water, will ply routes leading up to Muzaffarnagar. Those coming in for the Mahapanchayat from outside Muzaffarnagar can put up at one of over 20 banquet halls booked by the farmers' body. Nearly 100 medical camps, 50 ambulances and a temporary hospital have also been set up to address any medical emergency. The district administrations of Shamli, Muzaffarnagar and Baghpat have shut down all liquor shops from Saturday night. The closure will continue till Sunday night. The farmers' protest that began on Delhi borders in November 202, still continues. Several FIRs have been registered against protesting farmers by the government during the agitation in the recent past. --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 World Health Organisation (WHO) on August 30 listed the Mu Covid-19 variant as a 'variant of interest'. The on Aug 30 added the Mu variant-- known by scientists as B1621-- to the list of "variants of interest" because of preliminary evidence that it can evade antibodies, reported The Straits Times. The Mu variant has a "constellation of mutations that indicate potential properties of immune escape," noted a weekly update published on August 31. All viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19, mutate over time and most changes have little or no effect on the properties of the virus. But certain mutations can alter how easily a virus spreads, the severity of the disease it causes, or its resistance to vaccines and drugs. The WHO's variant of interest (VOI) designation suggests that the strain has genetic changes that may affect virus characteristics, such as increased transmissibility, disease severity, immune escape, diagnostic or therapeutic escape, reported The Straits Times. VOIs have also been identified to cause significant community transmission or multiple Covid-19 clusters in multiple countries. Other VOIs named by the include Eta, Iota, Kappa and Lambda. The WHO also lists four variants of concern (VOCs): Delta, Alpha, Beta and Gamma. Mu was first identified in Colombia in January. About 4,500 cases of the Mu variant have been reported across the globe, with more than half of them discovered in the United States. It has also been reported in other South American countries, Europe, Japan and Hong Kong, reported The Straits Times. The variant was responsible for Colombia's deadly third infection wave between April and June. During this period, with about 700 deaths per day, nearly two-thirds of tests from people who died came back positive for the Mu variant, said Colombian health official Marcela Mercado on September 2. The Mu variant, already in more than 43 countries and areas, has shown high contagiousness. Preliminary data shows that Mu may more easily evade vaccine protection, similar to that seen for the Beta variant, first discovered in South Africa, reported The Straits Times. (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.) Asserting that the farmers' agitation against the three new farm laws shall continue until the Central government fulfills their demands, Bharatiya Kisan Union (Arajnaitik) leader Rakesh Tikait on Sunday said that the will not leave the Delhi borders till "they emerge victorious". Addressing a Kisan Mahapanchayat here today organized by the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha, Tikait said, "We take a pledge that we will not leave the protest site there (at Delhi's borders) even if our graveyard is made there. We will lay down our lives if needed, but will not leave the protest site until we emerge victorious." "When the Government of India will invite us for talks, we will go. But, the farmers' agitation will continue until the Government fulfill our demands. The struggle for Independence continued for 90 years. This agitation, it seems, will also go on for long," said the BKU (Arajnaitik) leader. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar stated that 25 companies of PSC and 20 officers under the Meerut zone were deployed in view of the mahapanchayat. "We've assured all arrangements. 25 companies of PSC and 20 officers under the Meerut zone have been deployed. We issued traffic alerts for the smooth movement of traffic. We are monitoring the situation," said ADG Kumar. "Appropriate arrangements have been made in view of the Kisan Mahapanchayat in Muzaffarnagar on Sunday to ensure that no law and order problem arises. There is a possibility of from neighbouring states Haryana, Punjab, and Uttarakhand also attending the gathering," Director General of Police Mukul Goel told reporters. While speaking to ANI, a farmer from Haryana who had come to participate in the mahapanchayat, said, "Our Prime Minister has no respect for the What type of king is Modi Ji if he is making the farmers sit in the winter? " A woman farmer present at the mahapanchayat said, "We have gathered here demanding repeal of the three farm laws. We request the PM to take back the three laws." The Sanyukt Kisan Morcha's 'Kishan Mahapanchayat' was held at the Government Inter College grounds in Muzaffarnagar. A woman farmer from the Jind district of Haryana said, "We have gathered here demanding repeal of the three farm laws. We request the PM to take back the three laws." The farmers have been demanding the repeal of the laws which they are afraid will do away with the MSP system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. Farmers have been protesting on the different borders of the capital since November 26 last year against the three newly enacted farm laws: Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020; the Farmers Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and farm Services Act 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020. Farmer leaders and the Centre have held several rounds of talks but the impasse remains. (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.) Veteran actor Saira Banu, who is currently admitted to a hospital here, has been shifted out of the Intensive Care Unit and is doing "fine", a hospital official said on Sunday. The 77-year-old "Padosan" actor, who lost her husband Dilip Kumar in July, was admitted to the Hinduja Hospital, a non-COVID-19 facility, in Khar on August 28 following breathlessness, high blood pressure and high sugar. "She was shifted out of the ICU. ?She has been mobilised and is fine. May probably get discharged in a day or two, if there are no further issues," an official at the Hinduja Hospital told PTI. On Thursday, a hospital doctor had said that Saira Banu has been diagnosed with a heart problem -- acute coronary syndrome. Doctors suggested a CAG (coronary angiogram), but the veteran actor refused to undergo the medical procedure, the doctor added. Saira Banu's husband and screen icon Dilip Kumar died on July 7 at the age of 98 after a long ailment. The couple, who acted together in several films, including "Sagina" and "Gopi", got married in 1966. Saira Banu made her acting debut opposite Shammi Kapoor in the 1961 film Junglee and went on to appear in movies such as Bluff Master, Jhuk Gaya Aasman, Aayi Milan Ki Bela, Pyar Mohabbat, Victoria No. 203, Aadmi Aur Insaan, Resham Ki Dori, Shagird and Diwana. (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.) As reeled under a daily increase of nearly 30,000 cases of COVID-19, the deadly virus has come as another thorn in its side, prompting the state to further heighten the alertness of its health machinery to prevent an outbreak of a different infection. The southern state, which already saw a localised outbreak of 63 cases of Zika virus in July that were mostly confined to Thiruvananthapuram, however, need not be concerned about the spread of infection as preventive measures like use of masks and PPE kits -- are already in place due to COVID-19 and intensive contact tracing was going on, state health minister Veena George said on Sunday. Meanwhile, the central government has rushed a team from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to provide support to the state, where a 12 year-old boy died due to on Sunday and two others displayed symptoms of the virus infection. However, experts, like Dr Amar Fettle, Dr T S Anish and Dr T N Suresh, told PTI that there was less cause for concern at present as the state has already dealt with the twice in the past -- when it reared its head in 2018 and 2019 -- and the risk of transmission would be less this time round as protective measures, like wearing of masks and PPE kits, are already in place. They also said that Nipah infections are usually confined to small clusters or areas. The experts said that "intensive contact tracing" and quarantine of all primary contacts were the two main steps to be taken to ensure effective control over spread of the infection. Dr Fettle, the nodal officer for H1N1, said that the Nipah infection is very pathogenic, but it is more likely to spread once the patient's condition becomes severe -- when he/she is hospitalised. He said that risk of the infection spreading would, therefore, be higher in the hospital than at community level. Hence, while doing contact tracing, people who may have come into contact with the patient at the hospitals should be "meticulously traced", he said. He further said that steps taken by the state to tackle COVID-19, like preparing a time stamped route map of patients, would come in handy here also as it would help public health authorities inform people about the places visited by the infected person and at what times. This will let people know as to who all need to quarantine themselves or come forward for testing if they exhibit symptoms and would avoid widespread panic in the district or state, he said. Dr Anish, a specialist in Community medicine, and Dr Suresh, general secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association, were also of a similar view that contact tracing and quarantine of primary contacts were the two most important steps presently. Dr Anish said that Nipah usually remains confined to smaller areas or clusters and its numbers remain very few and hardly ever crosses even 50. Dr Suresh said that the state has already dealt with the virus twice in the past and therefore, it already has a model in place to "effectively" tackle it. Moreover, due to the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, people are already taking preventive steps like wearing masks and kits, and therefore, the spread of Nipah may be less. Also, due to COVID-19, the victim's list of contacts would be limited, he said and added that local containment activities are already in motion. He said the primary contacts would be kept in quarantine and if they display symptoms, they would be tested. Subsequently, based on the results, supportive medical care would be provided. All of the experts said that supportive care was the only mode of treatment as there is no cure or vaccine for Nipah. They also said that the likelihood of both Nipah and COVID-19 infecting patients was less. The state health minister, earlier in the day, told the media that information regarding the infection status of the boy was received late, but as soon as they got to know about it, the department swung into action and held an emergency meeting Saturday night itself to formulate an action plan. She said that a special team was formed on that night to carry out contact tracing and identify primary contacts and it was effectively carrying out that work. Preparations have been made to isolate or quarantine those in the primary contacts list and subsequently, after another meeting at Kozhikode Medical College, a treatment protocol would be decided, the minister said. Later in the day, she told reporters that two more people have displayed symptoms of Nipah infection and were being monitored. The two, both health workers in the hospitals where the victim was taken, are among the 20 high risk contacts of the deceased 12-year-old child, she said. The nearby districts of Kannur and Malappuram have also been directed to be on the alert for any cases of Nipah, she had said earlier. The Minister had also said that it was being examined why the case was again reported in Kozhikode as had happened in 2018 when the first infection was recorded in the same district. The first disease outbreak in South India was reported from Kozhikode district in on May 19, 2018. There have been 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases as of June 1, 2018. The outbreak was contained and declared over by June 10, 2018. Thereafter, in June 2019, a new case of Nipah was reported from Kochi and the sole patient was a 23-year-old student, who later recovered. With this year's reporting of a case, it is the fifth time the virus has been detected in India and the third in Kerala. (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.) has stepped up fever surveillance at the borders after a 12-year-old boy from died due to Nipah on Sunday early morning. State health minister, Ma Subramanian told IANS, "After we received the information about the boy who had passed away due to Nipah, we informed the senior health officials of nine districts sharing a border with to step up the fever surveillance." The Minister also said that the state health department has shared information about to health officials across the state. He also said that the government has directed health officials to conduct fever clinics and camps on the borders. The state health department has also stepped up fever checking of all those who are reaching from by road. Ma Subramanian said, "When Zika virus was reported in Kerala, we had held fever camps at the border areas to screen people coming from Kerala and will repeat the same this time around." The minister also said that the Chennai International Airport has installed thermal scanning facilities and has put in place RT-PCR testing facility that can provide results in 13 minutes to check on the Covid-19 infection among international passengers. There were reports of a new Covid-19 variant that was detected in South Africa and hence the Chennai international airport has stepped up thermal scanning and RT-PCR facilities. State health Secretary J. Radhakrishnan has sent a message to all the district collectors and district health officials to be vigilant for preventing Nipah and Zika virus after Kerala reported a Nipah case with a 12-year-old boy succumbing to it due to the Nipah attack. --IANS aal/skp/ (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.) Gunmen opened fire at a federal police checkpoint in rural northern Iraq, sparking clashes that killed 13 police, a security official said Sunday. He blamed the attack on The attack late Saturday on the checkpoint in Satiha village in Kirkuk province also wounded five police. The security official said the clashes with the militants lasted for nearly an hour. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to reporters. The militant group did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack. But northern has been a hotspot for IS activity since its territorial defeat in 2017 by Iraqi security forces with assistance from the US-led coalition. Iraqi forces routinely carry out anti-IS operations in the rugged mountainous northern region and the deserts of western where they are known to be holed up. IS attacks have abated in recent years but continue in these areas where security forces are often the target of ambushes, raids and roadside bombs.Thirteen were killed and three wounded among the security forces, the officer added. A medical source based in Kirkuk confirmed the toll. ISIS seized swathes of in a lightning offensive in 2014, before being beaten back by a counter-insurgency campaign supported by a US-led military coalition. The Iraqi government declared the Sunni extremists defeated in late 2017, but they retain sleeper cells which continue to hit security forces with asymmetric attacks. Jihadist cells regularly target the Iraqi army and police in northern Iraq, but this attack was one of the most deadly this year. A July 19 bombing claimed by ISIS officially killed 30 people in the Al-Woheilat market in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb of Baghdad. coalition troops in Iraq currently number around 3,500, of which 2,500 are US troops. But Washington has been drawing down its military presence amid attacks on facilities it uses by Iran-aligned armed groups and has said that from next year the role of US troops will be limited to training and advising their Iraqi counterparts. Last Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Iraqi Kurdistan and expressed concern about an ISIS resurgence in both Iraq and Syria. He also said that French soldiers deployed in Iraq as part of the coalition will remain in the country no matter what choices the Americans make. Nearly 600 fighters were killed in Afghanistan's northeastern province of Panjshir, the last Afghan province holding out against the hardline Islamist group, the Afghan resistance forces have claimed. About 600 terrorists have been liquidated in various districts of Panjshir since morning. More than 1,000 militants have been captured or surrendered themselves, the resistance forces' spokesperson Fahim Dashti tweeted, according to Sputnik News, adding that the Taliban had problems with getting supplies from other Afghan provinces. Both sides claimed to have the upper hand in Panjshir but neither could produce conclusive evidence to prove it. The Taliban, which swept through the country ahead of the final withdrawal of US-led forces this week, were unable to control the valley when they ruled from 1996 to 2001. Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi said the districts of Khinj and Unabah had been taken, giving Taliban forces control of four of the province's seven districts. The Mujahideen (Taliban fighters) are advancing toward the centre (of the province), he said on Twitter. But the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, grouping forces loyal to local leader Ahmad Massoud, said it surrounded thousands of terrorists in Khawak pass and the Taliban had abandoned vehicles and equipment in the Dashte Rewak area. Front spokesman Fahim Dashti added heavy clashes were going on. In a Facebook post, Massoud insisted Panjshir continues to stand strongly. Praising our honourable sisters, he said demonstrations by women in the western city of Herat calling for their rights showed Afghans had not given up demands for justice and they fear no threats. US General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, underscored the tenuous situation. My military estimate is, is that the conditions are likely to develop of a civil war. I don't know if the Taliban is going to be able to consolidate power and establish governance, Milley said. Speaking to Fox News from Ramstein Air Base in Germany, Milley said if they cannot that will in turn lead to a reconstitution of Al Qaeda or a growth of ISIS or other myriad of terrorist groups over the next three years. We have received a small number of wounded people at the Anabah Surgical Centre, Emergency said in a statement, adding that many people fled in recent days. It was not immediately possible to get further independent confirmation of events in Panjshir, which is walled off by mountains except for a narrow entrance. Celebratory gunfire resounded in Kabul on Friday as reports spread of the Taliban's takeover of Panjshir. News agencies said at least 17 people were killed and 41 hurt. Pakistan's spy chief Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed flew into Kabul on Saturday. It was not clear what his agenda was, but a senior official in Pakistan said earlier in the week that Hameed, who heads the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, could help the Taliban reorganise the Afghan military. Washington has accused Pakistan and the ISI of backing the Taliban in the group's two-decade fight against the US-backed government in Kabul, although Islamabad has denied the charges. seeks common stand A wary is seeking to strike a common position with Afghanistan's key neighbour Iran to firm up its growing role in the war-torn country as it waits for the Taliban to form an open and inclusive government that makes a "clean break" from all terrorist groups. is already coordinating its evolving policy on with its all-weather ally Pakistan and Russia which also share borders with Beijing, which has kept its Embassy open in Kabul along with Pakistan and Russia, is awaiting the formation of a government by the Taliban to decide on recognising it amidst firm indications by the US, the UK and other western countries that they will not be in a hurry to endorse the new government. In Kabul, Taliban fighters broke up a demonstration by about a dozen women urging the group to respect women's rights to education and jobs, according to private broadcaster Tolo news. Footage showed women confronted by armed militants covering their mouths and coughing, and one demonstrator said the fighters had used tear gas and tasers against the participants, who had been carrying banners and a bouquet of flowers. They also hit women on the head with a gun magazine, and the women became bloody, said a demonstrator who gave her name as Soraya. The Taliban imposed violent punishments and barred women and older girls from school and work when previously in power, but have sought to present a more moderate face this time. Government next week A Taliban source said the announcement of a new government would be pushed back to next week. Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, reported by some Taliban sources to be in line to lead the new government, said in remarks on Qatar's Al Jazeera channel that the new administration will include all factions of Afghans. We are doing our utmost efforts to improve their living conditions. The government will provide security, because it is necessary for economic development, he said. Some signs of normality returned to Kabul. Qatar's ambassador to Afghanistan said a technical team was able to reopen Kabul airport to receive aid, according to Al Jazeera, which also cited its correspondent as saying domestic flights had restarted. The airport has been closed since the United States on Aug. 30 completed U.S-led evacuations of more than 120,000 U.S. citizens, other foreigners and Afghans deemed at risk from the Taliban, and withdrew the last of its troops. The Taliban's main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, also said one of the main foreign exchange dealers in Kabul had reopened. Afghanistan's economy has been thrown into disarray by the Taliban's takeover. Many banks are closed and cash is scarce. The United Nations said it will convene an aid conference on Sept. 13 to help avert what U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres called a looming humanitarian catastrophe. Western powers say they are prepared to engage with the Taliban and send humanitarian aid, but that formal recognition of the government and broader economic assistance will depend on action - not just promises - to safeguard human rights. A Guinean army colonel seized control of state television airwaves Sunday and announced that President Alpha Conde's government had been dissolved hours after heavy gunfire erupted near the presidential palace. Conde's whereabouts were not immediately known, and Col. Mamadi Doumbouya made no mention of the 83-year-old president whose popularity has plummeted since he sought a third term last year. The personalization of political life is over. We will no longer entrust politics to one man, we will entrust it to the people, Doumbouya said, adding that the constitution was also dissolved and land borders now closed. A wary is seeking to strike a common position with Afghanistan's key neighbour Iran to firm up its growing role in the war-torn country as it waits for the to form an open and inclusive government that makes a "clean break" from all terrorist groups. is already coordinating its evolving policy on with its all-weather ally Pakistan and Russia which also share borders with Beijing, which has kept its Embassy open in Kabul along with Pakistan and Russia, is awaiting the formation of a government by the to decide on recognising it amidst firm indications by the US, the UK and other western countries that they will not be in a hurry to endorse the new government. is also keeping a close watch on the Panjshir Valley fighting between the and the militias of Ahmad Massoud-led National Resistance Front (NRF) which has reportedly delayed the formation of the new government in On Saturday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. Iran, which is struggling under the US sanctions over its nuclear policy, has warmed up to China in recent years with Beijing steadily expanding its investments in the oil-rich nation which shares its borders with Pakistan. In his talks with Amir-Abdollahian, Wang said China has noted that the Taliban might announce the formation of a new government in the coming days. He hoped that the the new government will be open and inclusive, make a clean break with terrorist organisations, and establish and develop good relations with other countries, especially neighbouring countries, according to a press release issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. As common neighbours of Afghanistan, China and Iran need to strengthen communication and coordination to play a constructive role in achieving a smooth transition and peaceful reconstruction of Afghanistan, he said. Wang has also lashed out at the US, saying that the claim of the United States that the withdrawal from Afghanistan allows it to shift its focus to China and Russia not only serves as an excuse for its own failure, but also reveals the nature of its pushing for power in the world. If the US is unable to learn due lessons, it is bound to make mistakes more serious than those in Afghanistan, Wang warned. Amir-Abdollahian said that the root cause of the chaos in Afghanistan is the irresponsibility of the US. Iran also holds that Afghanistan should establish a broad and inclusive government reflecting the interests of all ethnic groups in the country, the press release quoted him as saying. The Iranian side calls on the community to spare no effort to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and prevent any turmoil in Afghanistan from triggering a wave of refugees, he said, adding that Iran is ready to strengthen coordination with China to help Afghanistan get out of difficulties at an early date. Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan, China has been vocal in expressing its concern over the Uygur militants of the East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) fighting for the independence of Xinjiang, regrouping in Afghanistan under the rule of the Afghan militant group as the volatile province shares a narrow border with the war-ravaged country. Beijing has already extracted a firm commitment from a Taliban delegation headed by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar during a visit to China in July that they will not permit the ETIM to operate from its soil. China, at the same time, is eyeing the extension of its USD 60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan besides exploiting the mineral-rich mines there. The Taliban has already said that China has a big role to play in Afghanistan in the reconstruction of the war-raved country. China is a big country with a huge economy and capacity. They can play a big role in rebuilding, reconstruction of Afghanistan, Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told China's state-run China Global Television Network in an interview recently. We have relationship with China and Russia during the past years. We have told them they should not have any concern from Afghanistan, he 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.) Germany's chancellor says the country must engage with the in order to help evacuate Afghans who had worked for them. told reporters on Sunday that we simply have to talk to the about how we can get the people who used to work for Germany out of the country and to safety." She added: "They are the ones one needs to talk to now. She said it was also in Germany's interest to support aid organizations who are helping improve the humanitarian conditions in She called it a good signal that the airport in Kabul was re-opened, allowing medical aid into the country again. Some western countries have been reluctant about talking with the Merkel's remarks came after a spokesman for the Taliban told a German newspaper that his group was ready for full diplomatic relations with the Germans, and had forgiven them their past cooperation with the Americans in the country. Merkel did not refer to his remarks, nor did she talk about establishing any kind of official diplomatic relations. (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.) Kansas City Southern said it will take a new look at Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd.s $27 billion acquisition offer and hold talks with the company after a recent regulatory ruling jeopardized a rival bid that the U.S. railroad had already accepted. The board determined that the proposal from CP could reasonably be expected to lead to a superior offer, Kansas City Southern said in a Saturday statement. The company intends to open its books to its potential acquirer. The move opens the door for Kansas City Southern to abandon a $30 billion deal to be acquired by Canadian National Railway Co. That proposal was imperiled by the U.S. Surface Transportation Boards Aug. 31 decision to not allow a voting trust, a mechanism by which Kansas City Southern shareholders would be paid even before the full merger is approved. We look forward to re-engaging with the KCS board of directors, said CPs Chief Executive Officer Keith Creel in a Saturday statement. CP has placed a deadline of Sept. 12 on its offer. The two Canadian have been battling for months for the rare opportunity to acquire a U.S. railroad. The winner would be the first railroad to operate in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, where Kansas City Southern gets about half of its revenue. Bids and Counters The pursuit of Kansas City Southern, the smallest of the seven large U.S. and Canadian railroads, initially started a year ago with a $20 billion takeover offer by Blackstone Group Inc. and Global Infrastructure Partners that was rejected. In March of this year, Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern reached a $25 billion merger agreement. Canadian National countered with its $30 billion offer in April and Kansas City Southern broke its deal with Canadian Pacific and took the higher one. Canadian Pacific made one last attempt in August to win Kansas City Southern shareholders by improving its bid to $27 billion, which although still lower offered more certainty of regulatory approval, Chief Executive Officer Keith Creel said at the time. Kansas City Southern rejected the bid, but postponed a shareholder vote on the Canadian National agreement until after the STBs ruling on the voting trust. The STBs forceful opinion, which questioned the overlapping operations of Canadian National and Kansas City Southern and nodded to possible follow-on mergers, signaled that the deal isnt likely to gain approval. That opened the door for Creel to press for his offer again, and he gave Kansas City Southern until Sept. 12 to accept it. Canadian Pacifics renewed push also has an advantage because the STB in May already approved its voting trust and decided to judge the proposal under less-stringent merger rules. In the ruling against Canadian Nationals voting trust, the STB said the two proposals are substantially distinct, with Canadian Pacifics being an end-to-end merger with no overlapping operations. Canadian National CEO Jean-Jacques Ruest could still increase his offer to sway shareholders. But without a voting trust, investors would have to wait to be compensated until the end of the approval process, which can take more than a year. The risk that the regulator will reject the deal has increased considerably after the STBs ruling. Ruest also has come under pressure from shareholders, including TCI Fund Management, to walk away from the acquisition. The on Sunday said that the new government is expected to be announced soon and it will be "an inclusive government." "Now we live in a completely independent The new government will be announced very soon," said Anaamullah Samangani, a member of the Taliban's cultural commission, reported Tolo News. Although Samangani did not give details about the structure and features of the future government, he said "it will be an inclusive government and all the people will see themselves in it." Samangani's remarks come amid a visit by Pakistan's ISI chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, who arrived in Kabul on Saturday with a delegation of senior Pakistani officials. Pakistani media reported that Hamid arrived in Kabul at the invitation of the Pakistan intelligence chief Faiz Hameed has taken an "emergency" trip to Kabul to resolve an evolving internal crisis in the after reports emerged about a clash between factions in which the group co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar suffered injuries. The Taliban, which captured Kabul on August 15, has been delaying the announcement of the government formation in over the past few days. While the group has not issued a statement over it yet, reports have emerged claiming that the government formation has been delayed due to differences between the Taliban and the Haqqani network over power-sharing. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the top Taliban leader who is set to head the new Afghan regime, was injured during the clash and is currently getting treated in Pakistan. (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.) Pakistans military spy chief visited to meet leaders and discuss security and border issues. The director general of Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence agency, Faiz Hameed, led a delegation and participated in talks about the recent changes, ranging from the takeover to their efforts to form a new government in Afghanistan, said spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. There were also discussions on rebuilding activities at Kabuls airport, he said. Hameed will also meet with Pakistans ambassador in Kabul to discuss the issue of foreign and Afghan nationals seeking transit through Pakistan, the Express Tribune newspaper reported, citing people it didnt identify. A day after Hameeds visit, a suicide bombing in the restive province of Balochistan on Sunday killed four people and left 20 wounded, Liaqat Ali Shahwani, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government, said in a text message. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan group claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted a checkpoint of paramilitary forces in the provincial capital of Quetta. In a post on Twitter, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the TTP attack and paid tribute to security forces for thwarting foreign-backed terrorist designs. Pakistan wants the Taliban to form an inclusive government in Afghanistan, with the group holding talks with different political stakeholders and carrying out a military crackdown on Panjshir, a stronghold against it. cut oil prices for sales to next month by more than twice the expected amount in a sign the worlds largest crude exporter wants to entice buyers to take more of its barrels. State producer Saudi Aramco is rolling back pricing on all of its grades to its biggest market in Three successive months of increases in the companys official selling prices had left refiners smarting as the coronavirus pandemic plays havoc with the recovery in energy demand. But with Brent crude up 40% this year, OPEC+ sees enough demand -- and a potential shortage by the end of the year -- to allow it to raise production. That increase means more barrels competing for cautious buyers. Saudi Arabia, which sells all of its oil on long-term contracts to refiners, risks alienating customers if its sets monthly prices too high. Because of the high Saudi OSPs in previous months, traders have diverted to the spot market instead of using long term contracts, said Giovanni Staunovo, a commodities analyst at UBS Group AG. Now Aramco wants buyers to take more Saudi crude, he said. With domestic demand likely leveling off in autumn, they have more barrels to be exported, so thats another reason to offer more attractive OSPs. Aramco is lowering pricing for Arab Light crude, its main oil grade, by $1.30 a barrel to a premium of $1.70 more than the regional benchmark, according to a statement. Aramco had been expected to reduce the oil selling price of the grade by around 60 cents a barrel, according to a survey of six traders and refiners in last week. Refiners in Asia, who are Aramcos biggest customers were surprised by the scale of the cuts. The reductions signal the Saudis are trying to compete on price with other producers and to grab market share from rivals, according to the buyers. Those refiners have suffered as swings in demand crimp profits from turning crude into fuels like gasoline and diesel. sends more than 60% of its crude exports to Asia, with China, South Korea, Japan and India the biggest buyers. Aramco is keeping pricing to the U.S. and to Northwest Europe unchanged for October. For buyers in the Mediterranean region, Aramco is trimming pricing on all grades by 10 cents a barrel. Aramco isnt looking to increase sales in the U.S. as that country draws on strategic reserves, Staunovo said. Refinery capacity on the U.S. Gulf coast is shut in after Hurricane Ida ravaged the area. OPEC+ this month decided to continue rolling back supply cuts implemented last year to support prices as the coronavirus slashed demand. Led by and Russia, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and partners are moving cautiously to get oil back onto the market amid continued flare-ups of the virus that are slowing economic recovery. The group agreed in July to raise production by 400,000 barrels a day each month from August to unwind production cuts over the next year. Demand has improved from the depths of last year and the OPEC+ cuts have helped support markets with Brent trading at about $73 a barrel last week. A suicide bomber of the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban blew himself up in the country's restive province on Sunday, killing at least three security personnel and injuring 20 people, according to officials. The attack targeted a Frontier Corps (FC) checkpost on the Mastung road in Quetta, the provincial capital, Deputy Inspector General of Quetta police Azhar Akram said. The three personnel who were killed in the blast and majority of the injured belong to the FC, which is in forefront of the efforts to tackle militancy in the province, Akram told reporters. Eighteen of the injured were security officials while two were bystanders, the officer said, adding that the number of casualties could rise. According to the Counter-Terrorism Department of Balochistan, the blast was a "suicide attack" and was carried out near the Sona Khan checkpost. The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack, sending a grim signal that the change of government in Kabul might not end the woes of as the country looks towards the Taliban to rein in the TTP rebels who are hiding in Afghanistan. According to security forces, the vehicle targeted in the attack was providing security to vegetable sellers belonging to the Hazara community of the province. Condemning the attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan took to Twitter to offer condolences to the families of those killed. Condemn the TTP suicide attack on FC checkpost, Mastung road, Quetta. My condolences go to the families of the martyrs & prayers for the recovery of the injured. Salute our security forces & their sacrifices to keep us safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorists' designs, he said in a tweet. Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove also condemned the attack and sought a report. "Security forces have given countless sacrifices in the war against terrorism. The whole nation is indebted to the martyrs. We are fighting the terrorists with our full strength and will continue to do so. These violent attacks will not lower the morale of the forces," he said, adding that the war would continue until total peace was achieved. Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari said: Condemnable TTP attack today on FC checkpost in Quetta today. Condolences and prayers go to the families of the martyrs. President of the Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack and said that the deterioration of law and order was a cause of concern. has been facing low-level violence by the TTP rebels and Baloch nationalists. The suicide attack took place less than two weeks after three Levies police personnel were killed and as many injured when their vehicle hit a landmine in the province's Ziarat district. (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.) A year after the Bikru massacre in which eight police personnel were allegedly shot dead by gangster and his men in July 2020, the incident is now turning into fodder for Brahmin in According to sources, some political parties are reaching out to Richa Dubey, wife of slain Vikas Dubey, to contest the upcoming assembly elections. A member of the Dubey family who spoke on condition of anonymity, admitted that leaders from at least two parties had approached Richa with the offer. "The leaders said that this was the only way in which she could avenge the suffering of the family and ensure a safe future for her two children. These parties have assured her that their workers will take care of her campaign," the family member said. He said that Richa had still not made up her mind about entering "The family is being pushed to the wall and this seems to be the only option," he added. Incidentally, Richa had contested the zila panchayat elections as a Samajwadi Party candidate in 2015. However, after the Bikru massacre, the Samajwadi Party denied that Richa was their member. Richa had told reporters two months ago that her family was being harassed continuously and now they do not wish to live any longer. "We request the chief minister to grant us permission for euthanasia. No one is paying heed to our grievances. We are running short of money and now I am even unable to deposit my children's school fees. I have to run my house by selling jewellery," she had said. Richa added that not only this, the death certificate of her husband Vikas Dubey, who was killed in a police encounter, has not been given to her even after a year. BSP MP Satish Chandra Mishra has repeatedly stated in his 'Prabuddha Varg Sammelans' (read Brahmin Sammelans) that 'innocent Brahmins' were targeted in the Bikru case. Though Mishra did not comment on Vikas Dubey, he used the example of Bikru minor widow Khushi Dubey to underline his message. He said that the BSP would provide legal aid to Khushi who has been languishing in jail since the past one year. Khushi was 16 when she married another Bikru accused Amar Dubey. Three days after her marriage, the Bikru massacre took place and Amar Dubey was killed in a police encounter thereafter. Khushi was also booked for conspiracy and is behind the bars since then. The Aam Aadmi Party was the first political party to fight for Khushi. AAP MP Sanjay Singh said that the treatment meted out to Khushi was unjustified. "The police have not listed the charges against her but she is being denied bail even though she had been married to Amar Dubey just three days before the incident," he said. Though other opposition parties are cautious while talking about the incident, most leaders, albeit on condition of anonymity, claim that the six accused in the incident were shot dead in 'cold blood' because they were Brahmins. "The police had the same script for all six encounters. We do not support the accused but they should have been arrested and tried in court instead of being shot dead in cold blood. There are several non-Brahmin mafias who are roaming free and no action is being taken against them," said a Congress leader. --IANS amita/bg (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.) leader Rahul Gandhi will visit for a two-day tour starting from September 9. This will be Gandhi's second visit to and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. Earlier, he visited the union territory on August 9. The leader is likely to visit Mata Vaishno Devi Temple on September 10, sources said. During his last visit, Rahul Gandhi inaugurated the new party office in Srinagar. He also visited Kheer Bhawani temple and Hazrat Dargah Sharif. In August 2019, the Centre had abrogated Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of and Kashmir and bifurcated the region into two territories-- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. (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.) External Affairs Minister met Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen here on Sunday and discussed issues related to the Indo-Pacific, and European Union's global role. Jaishankar, who is here on the last leg of his visit to three European nations - Slovenia, Croatia and Denmark - to boost bilateral ties and further strengthen India's cooperation with the (EU), also conveyed greetings and good wishes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Frederiksen. "Thank PM Mette Frederiksen of Denmark for receiving me today. Appreciate her leadership in taking forward our Green Strategic Partnership. Conveyed greetings and good wishes of PM @narendramodi. Valued her insights and assessments on the key issues of our day," he tweeted. Jaishankar said he discussed the Indo-Pacific, and EU's global role during his meeting with Prime Minister Frederiksen. It was Jaishankar's first visit to Denmark and the first by an Indian foreign minister in 20 years, according to the Ministry of External Affairs' press release issued in New Delhi. During his stay here, Jaishankar virtually met the members of the Indian community in Denmark and appreciated the image they have built of India. "Pleasure to meet the Indian community in Denmark, even if virtually. Appreciate the image they have built of India. Confident they will remain an effective bridge between our two countries. Our deepening relations (are) also a reflection of their contributions, he tweeted. On Saturday, Jaishankar co-chaired the fourth round of the Indo-Danish Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) along with his Danish counterpart Jeppe Kofod. In a statement issued after the JCM meeting, the External Affairs Minister said what is unique about India's relationship with Denmark is that Denmark is the only country with which India has a green strategic partnership. Everybody says build back better, but we also want to grow back greener. And in growing back greener, we think Denmark is a very, very unique partner, because you have strengths and experiences and best practices which are enormously helpful for a country like India at this stage of its development, Jaishankar said. The two countries went through the Joint Commission which had devised a joint action plan for the next five years, he said. "We looked at how the joint action plan has delivered even in the middle of Covid, Jaishankar said as he complimented officials on both sides for their work in the last one-and-a-half year to ease all the travel problems. (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 announced on Sunday a major plan to stimulate its and liberalise stringent residency rules for foreigners, as the country seeks to overhaul its finances and attract visitors and investment. The nation's plan to lure foreign talent over the next decades reflects an emerging contrast with the other sheikhdoms of the Persian Gulf that are growing increasingly protectionist as they try to diversify their oil-bound economies. Now marking its 50th anniversary, the UAE is seeking to accelerate its economic and social reforms to rebrand for a post-pandemic future. Portraying the country as a liberal, bustling trade and finance hub, the government promised to pour USD 13.6 billion into the in the next year and USD 150 billion by 2030. Specific projects have yet to be announced, but USD 1.36 billion has been earmarked for Emirates Development Bank to support the industrial sector. We are building the new 50 years' economy, Thani al-Zeyoudi, the minister of state for foreign trade, said in an interview, adding that free trade and openness have long made UAE a major global entrepot. Anyone who is trying to be more conservative and trying to close their markets, the value is going to be only in the short term, but in the long term, they're harming their economies. Friction has grown between the UAE and its heavyweight neighbour Saudi Arabia, which has taken a different strategy under the young and brash Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In a push to prepare for a post-oil future, the Saudi government has announced billions of dollars of investments in far-flung tourist projects and tried to diminish the role of expats to get more Saudis working in the private sector. Buried within the raft of the UAE's flashy economic development initiatives on Sunday was a far more practical and drastic change to the country's visa system that governs the legions of foreign workers from Africa, the Middle East and elsewhere who power the country's Since the UAE's independence, the state has tied employment to residency status, lending employers outsized power and forcing people to immediately leave the country if they lose their jobs. We want to rebuild the whole system ... so that the residency system is attracting people and making sure they feel the UAE is home for them," al-Zeyoudi said. Openness is something which we're proud of. The new plans give residents an additional three months to seek other jobs after being fired, allow parents to sponsor their children's visas until the age of 25, and ease visa restrictions on freelancers, widows and divorced people, among other things. It's a subtle shift from the Gulf Arab state's traditional way of treating its vast foreign labor force as an expendable underclass. Ministers also said they sought to double the UAE's economy in the next decade through major trade agreements with countries including Turkey, the United Kingdom and India, as well as Israel after a recent breakthrough deal to normalize relations. The new projects come as the UAE reels from the economic shock of the pandemic, which triggered the collapse of oil prices and crucial tourism markets when lockdowns strangled business and authorities cut spending. The country's economy shrank over 6 per cent last year, according to government data, with credit agencies estimating that the tourist hub of Dubai saw an even sharper decline of 11 per cent. As the virus wrought havoc, with layoffs rippling across the economy and prompting an exodus of foreign workers, authorities last year introduced a series of reforms to draw more people and capital. The UAE offered wealthier expats the chance to retire in Dubai, rolled out a 10-year golden visa to professionals and their families, and passed a new law to allow 100 per cent foreign ownership of companies outside economic free zones. Although such dramatic announcements have become common in the federation of seven sheikhdoms, the government has offered few details about how and when it will deliver on its promises. UAE to expand Asia, Africa trade, seeks $150-bn investment The is deepening its trade ties in Asia and Africa as part of a broader plan to draw $150 billion in foreign investment and reposition itself as a global hub for business and finance. The UAE is seeking 550 billion dirhams ($150 billion) of inward foreign investment over the next nine years and aims to be among the 10 biggest global investment destinations by 2030, Minister Abdulla bin Touq said. It will focus on investments from countries including Russia, Australia, China, and the U.K. One of the most notable inward investments in recent years was Uber Technologies Incs acquisition of UAE-based ride-hailing company Careem in 2019 for $3.1 billion. That deal sparked interest from regional and venture capital firms, and appetite for backing Middle Eastern startups has picked up over the past few years, buoyed by the rapid adoption of mobile technologies in the region. (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.) Smartphone producers, including Apple, should be required to provide security patches and spare parts for and other devices for seven years, according to a proposal from the German government to the European Union (EU). According to AppleInsider, the German federal government has entered negotiations with the European Commission to alter proposals affecting smartphone and tablet repairs and servicing. While the European Commission is working to push device vendors into offering parts and support for five years, wants more to be done. The EU intends for the five years of updates to apply to smartphones and tablets, but while parts for smartphones could be offered for five years, tablets could have parts available from manufacturers for six. Heise.de reports the Federal Ministry of Economics wants the periods to stretch to seven years. On top of the extra lifespan, wants spare parts to be offered at "a reasonable price" by manufacturers. This includes requiring vendors to publish the prices of spare parts, and not to increase the cost over time. In terms of how long it should take for those parts to arrive at their destination, the Commission plans a maximum limit of 5 working days, though again wants faster deliveries, the report said. Germany also supports plans by the Commission to introduce an energy label and repairability index, to show how easily repaired devices can be to consumers, it added. --IANS vc/ksk/ (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.) Tech giant is working on a "Human Presence Sensor" (HPS) for upcoming Chromebooks, which could be used for face unlock or other long-awaited Chrome OS features. Earlier this year, in a blog post celebrating 10 years of Chromebooks, included a small teaser of what's next for Chrome OS. In it, there's a promise of using acesensor technologies for more personalized experiences," 9To5Google reported. While there has been significant work done over the last few months to make this human presence sensor work on a hardware level, there's only been one clue so far as to what Chrome OS will do with it. Specifically, if a Chromebook has an HPS, there will be an eye-shaped icon in the system tray, the report said. For now, while the feature is early in development, the icon is static, but it's plausible that Chrome OS will show a different icon, depending on whether or not it can detect your presence. The tech giant is developing the human presence sensor in collaboration with Antmicro, a "software-driven tech company developing open and modern industrial edge and cloud Al systems". Among other responsibilities, Antmicro appears to be working out how to work with the sensor hardware using open-source software where possible, the report said. This is not the first time that and Antmicro have worked together, as the two companies -- both Platinum Founding Members of the RISC-V Foundation -- collaborated to create the Coral AI developer board, along with some other projects. --IANS vc/ksk/ (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.) South Korean tech giant Samsung is expected to unveil a new budget 5G smartphone Galaxy Wide5 and that might launch as Galaxy F42 According to GizmoChina, ahead of its official unveiling, the smartphone has arrived on Geekbench certification, revealing its key specs. According to the Geekbench portal, the Wide5 a.k.a the Galaxy F42 5G runs on the latest Android 11 out of the box. It scores 558 single-core points and 1513 multi-core points. The listing reveals that the phone will come powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 SoC paired with 6GB RAM. The smartphone has an Infinity V display with an FHD+ resolution. The screen will have an exact resolution of 1080 x 2009 pixels. It is touted to feature a side-facing fingerprint scanner for added security. The smartphone might come in a Blue colour variant. The F42 5G was recently spotted on Google's Play Console listing. The identical model numbers suggested that the Wide5 and F42 5G could be the same phone arriving with different names in different markets, the report said. The Wide5 could be heading to South Korea, and the F42 5G is likely to release in India, it added. --IANS vc/rs (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.) Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. St. Johnsbury, VT (05819) Today Thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. High near 75F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Cloudy. Periods of rain early. Low 54F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. St. Johnsbury, VT (05819) Today Thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High near 75F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Cloudy with occasional rain...mainly in the evening. Low 54F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Photo: Contributed I dont know about you, but my heart is heavy. The pandemic has been bad enough in its own right, but the division thats been instigated by the vaccination debate is even more exhausting. It feels like were in a no-win situation. I had an appointment on Wednesday that meant I was in the vicinity of the hospital. I knew something was happening when I couldnt find anywhere to park and could hear car horns and cheers. It wasnt until I asked the receptionist what was happening, that I discovered there was a protest. Ive been trying to live in my own bubble by limiting my news intake and social media engagement. Of course, I couldnt resist taking the opportunity to see for myself what was happening. So, I drove past the hospital on my way home Ill be honest. I was a little confused by some of the signs I saw. There were the expected anti-vaccine and anti-vaccine passport ones, as well as some about personal freedom. I noticed one or two people holding signs that were protesting the protesters. The signs that caused me to look twice were the ones saying we should support the nurses and other health care workers. Im totally in favour of doing that. But in my mind, that would involve not protesting outside their place of business. Covid-19 is putting an incredible strain on nurses. In my head, getting vaccinated is an action of support for them. I wasnt thinking about the healthcare workers who are being asked to choose between their jobs and their principles. Those were the individuals these signs were supporting. It was a freedom of choice statement. I suspect the main reason I find the vaccination situation so distressing, is because there doesnt seem to be a win-win solution available. If you flip everything and say the public can do whatever they want, there will be protests about the government not protecting their people. So, what can we do? We can make the choice thats best for us, without outside influences making us feel that one decision is better than the other. We can stop arguing about why we are right and other people are wrong. Its very unlikely that anyone is going to change their mind, based on a debate with another person. As Ive written about in the past, believing youre right, is part of your survival mechanism. We can remember that decisions always come with consequences. As the old saying states, You pays your money and you takes your choice. I choose to view the world as a benevolent place. One of my most fundamental beliefs is that life is happening for me, not to me. As a result, I decided to trust the experts and the vaccine. If it turns out that Ive poisoned my body, Ill have to live with that in the future. For now, this feels like the best option for me and the community I live in. If you decide not to take that chance, or cant stand to have your perceived freedoms curtailed, dont get vaccinated. But accept that for now, this option may affect how you live. Were all being gifted with the opportunity to really go within ourselves to make a choice. What do you believe? Do you believe it enough to stop eating in a restaurant, or to look for a new line of work? Do you trust your choice enough to risk your future health? In a perfect world, you want to make a choice that doesnt restrict you, but life is often imperfect. You may feel none of this is fair, but thats nothing new either. Were each responsible for our own decisions and for taking responsibility for what happens as a result. If youre on the fence, listen to both sides and then take time to listen to your heart. Choose whats best for you, not what you think is right, based on what your friends and family say. Once you commit, try to be courteous towards people who dont agree with you. Choosing to be respectful and compassionate, may be the most life-changing decision any of us will make as we navigate these tumultuous times. Photo: VPD Ronald Campbell The Vancouver Police Department has announced the release of a potentially dangerous man believed to be involved in the Lower Mainland gang conflict. The VPD warns that anyone who associates with Ronald Campbell, 39, is at an increased risk of being exposed to violence. On Aug. 14, Metro Vancouver Transit Police spotted a stolen vehicle in Surrey. A traffic stop was initiated and through their investigation, MVTP located a loaded handgun in the vehicle which led to firearm-related charges against Campbell. As a result of some excellent police work, MVTP officers were able to recommend four firearm-related charges against Campbell to Crown counsel, says Constable Visintin, VPD. Campbell has been released today on strict court-imposed conditions. The MVTP operated under the VPD's operation Taskforce Threshold initiated by Vancouver Police in May of 2021 in response to the escalating gang violence in Metro Vancouver. It consolidates resources and expertise from the VPDs Investigation and Operations divisions to help prevent gang violence and proactively investigate persons involved in the gang conflict. Photo: The Canadian Press Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole speaks to supporters at a rally in Nanaimo, B.C. on Saturday, September 4, 2021. Canadians will vote in a federal election Sept. 20th. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn UPDATE: 12:45 p.m. After days of question about his party's gun policy, Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole said Sunday he would maintain a Liberal ban on 'assault-style' firearms if he forms government. "I want to make my position on firearms perfectly clear. First, the ban on assault weapons will remain in place. Second, the present ban on a number of other firearms that were reclassified in 2020 will remain in place," he told reporters in Vancouver. At a French-language debate on Thursday, O'Toole said he would maintain a ban on assault weapons. On Friday, a party spokeswoman pointed to the Conservative platform that confirmed O'Toole's promise to axe a 2020 ban on what the Liberal government called "assault-style" weapons while maintaining a prohibition of fully automatic weapons which has been in place since 1977. O'Toole, however, remained evasive about the party's position, repeating he would maintain the ban on assault weapons and telling reporters on Saturday that people who were confused on his position could look to the party's platform to "fill in the blanks." That document promises to repeal the Liberal measures, which were introduced through a May 2020 Order in Council and banned some 1,500 firearm models, including the popular AR-15 rifle and the Ruger Mini-14 used to kill 14 women at Montreals Ecole polytechnique in 1989. O'Toole's Sunday statements appeared to reverse course on that plan for the time being. "We're maintaining the status quo that's in place right now," he said, while also leaving the door open for future changes. O'Toole's comments also included a promise of a "public, transparent" review of Canada's gun classification system, a step he said will depoliticize gun regulation. "Our intention is to take the politics out of this, because Mr. Trudeau has divided rural versus urban, he has demonized, in some cases, farmers, hunters, sport shooters and actually ignored the real problem of rising smuggling and organized gang activity," he said. "Assault'' or "assault-style'' firearms are colloquial descriptions, and what falls into either category is debated among gun users. The Conservative platform also promises to scrap bill C-71, which expanded background checks for people seeking gun licenses as well as record-keeping requirements for gun sellers. Asked about whether repealing that bill remains a promise, O'Toole repeated that he would maintain the bans on assault and "assault-style" weapon. O'Toole made the comments at the end of a pier in downtown Vancouver, where he promised to hire 200 additional RCMP officers to fight gun smuggling, street gangs and illegal drug sales. Most of those officers would be deployed to the Greater Toronto Area and British Columbia's Lower Mainland, he said, and would work with American agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement to fight gun smuggling. "We have liberal and NDP candidates who are running in this election who think we need to defund the police. I couldn't disagree more. We need more police officers, not fewer," he said. ORIGINAL: 11:50 a.m. Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole says a Liberal ban on 'assault-style' firearms would stay in place if he forms government, appearing to break with his own election platform. In May last year, the Liberals banned some 1,500 firearm models of what it called assault-style weapons, including the popular AR-15 rifle and the Ruger Mini-14 used to kill 14 women at Montreals Ecole polytechnique in 1989. O'Toole has faced questions over his firearms policy after saying in a French-language debate last week that he would "maintain the ban on assault weapons." That caused some confusion as his party platform states he would repeal the order-in-council from May 2020 prohibiting 'assault-style' weapons. At the time a party spokeswoman pointed to the Conservative platform that confirmed O'Toole's promise to axe the 2020 ban, but not a prohibition of full-fledged assault weapons" which has been in place since 1977. O'Toole provided further clarity today while campaigning in Vancouver, saying "the present ban on a number of other firearms that were reclassified in 2020 will remain in place" but be subject to review. "We will conduct a transparent review of the firearms classification process to take the politics out of this process and engage the public in decisions with respect to public safety," he added. This report from The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. Explore some of the best wildlife photography of the year According to USAFACTS as of September 3rd only 42.25 percent or 2,885,303 of Tennessee's population is vaccinated, and 50.6 percent or 3,418,983 have received at least one dose. Ask yourself why the 533,680 or 15.6 percent didn't go back for a second shot. Some may be waiting on their second shot, but did the others forget where they the got the first shot. At this point in time everyone knows vaccines are available and where to get them. We were not waiting on FDA approval. We were not waiting on FDA approval. The federal government is attempting to disguise what really is their mandate for vaccinations by co-opting businesses to require vaccinations as a condition of employment. They knew some would have to take the injection because of the financial pressures they would face with the loss of a job. The U.S. Constitution, Tennessee State Constitution, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 guarantees our inherent right to religious freedom as our conscience dictates. In addition the mandate violates the Nuremberg Code of 1947 because the basic principle of voluntary consent is absent. Make no mistake this is an experiment. You cannot have voluntary consent when you are bribed, harassed, coerced, denied access to certain places and threatened with the loss of your livelihood for not complying with an experimental injection. The rollout of the FDA approved vaccine Comirnaty, which is not available under that name in the United States, was an orchestrated attempt to encourage the mandate from businesses. The current Pfizer injection may have been approved by the FDA but it is also still under the Emergency Authorization Act which provides liability protection for the drug makers. You cannot hold the drug maker responsible for injuries or death. If you are interested research the above listed documents. It is clear that an employer is obligated to allow religious exemptions when requested (Title 29 Section 1605 of the Code of Federal Regulations provides the guidelines for businesses) unless they can show an undue hardship on the business. Mike Lynn Cleveland, Tn. Mike Lynn When the Office of Naval Intelligence warns our military they must not speak out against our bumbling president or our suspect military decisions of late, it is almost a guarantee such nonsense in our critical national defense is fractured. One of my favorite conservative writers, Victor Davis Hanson, broached the subject earlier this week and to say our leadership is frightening is an understatement. Im a strong believer in the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which disallows derogatory statements of our chain-of-command, but how can we not question what has happened in Afghanistan as the new rule of the day? How can an average American citizen not decry $85 billion of Americas might left abandoned for the Taliban? Here is what Hanson offered this week and it is most definitely an area of concern for all of us * * * SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH AMERICAS TOP COMMANDERS By Victor Davis Hanson The fall of Kabul is not the end, as Joe Biden seems to think, of the Afghanistan nightmare. It is the beginning of a never-ending bad dream. Biden and the Pentagon have managed to birth a new terrorist haven, destroy much of U.S. strategic deterrence, and alienate our allies and much of the country. In the hours after the horrific deaths of 13 servicemen, we have been reassured by our military that our partnership with the Taliban to provide security for our flights was wise. We were told that the terrorist victors share similar goals to ours in a hasty American retreat from Kabul. We were reminded that Afghan refugees (unlike U.S. soldiers) will not be forced to be vaccinated on arrival. Such statements are either untrue or absurd. On the very day of the killing of Americans, the command sergeant major of the U.S. Army callously reminded us in a tweet that diversity is our strength in commemorating not the dead, but Womens Equality Day. If so, then is the opposite of diversityunityour weakness? Will such wokeness ensure that we do not abandon the Bagram airbase in the middle of the night without opposition? Recently the Office of Naval Intelligence, in reaction to the Kabul news, warned all its active duty and retired service members that they must not criticize their Commander-in-Chief Joe Biden. The office correctly cited prohibitions found in the Uniform Code of Military Justice barring any disrespect shown to senior government leadership. That is true. And indeed, the U.S. Marine Corps just relieved from active duty a lieutenant colonel who posted a video accurately blaming the military and civilian leadership for the Afghanistan nightmare. But until January 20, retired top brass had constantly smeared their elected commander-in-chief with impunity. Recently retired General Michael Hayden retweeted a horrific slur that unvaccinated Trump supporters should be put on planes back to Afghanistan where they presumably would be left to die. Hayden earlier had compared Trumps border facilities to the German death camps. Other generals and admirals in 2020 variously called their president an emulator of Nazi tactics, a veritable Mussolini, a liar, and deserving to be removed from office sooner than later. None of these retired politicized four-stars faced the sort of repercussions that the Office of Naval Intelligence just warned about. Fifty retired intelligence officials on the eve of the November balloting signed a letter preposterously suggesting that Hunter Bidens missing laptophis third to be lostand its incriminating contents might be Russian disinformation. They used their stature and positions for political purposes to convince the American people that a true story was a lie. Recently retired General Joseph Dunford and Admiral Mike Mullen have blasted retired top brass who had questioned Bidens cognitive ability. Again, OK. But they should have issued that warning earlier when the violations of fellow retired officers were even more egregious in the election year 2020. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Mark Milley apologized for doing a photo-op with President Trump, erroneously buying into the lie that Trump had ordered rioters cleared from Lafayette Square for the staged picture. Yet the politicized Milley never offered a correction of his first apology. Worse, Milley leaked to toady journalists that he was so angry with Trump that he considered resigning. Think of that irony. If Milley considered a politicized resignation to rebuke Trump over the false charge, then surely he could now consider a real resignation after overseeing the worst military disaster of the last half-century in Kabul. A busy Milley had promised to root out white supremacy from the ranks while recommending that his soldiers read Ibram X. Kendis racialist diatribes. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin likewise vowed an internal audit of military personnel to chase the phantoms of white supremacy. Does Austin also profile his targets by their being overrepresented in terms of the dead in Afghanistan and Iraq? Something is terribly wrong in the ranks of Americas top commanders that reflects something wrong with the country. The Pentagon needs to stop virtue signaling about diversity days, culturally sensitive food for Afghan refugees, and rooting out supposed white conspiracists. Instead, can it just explain why the Bagram Air Base was abandoned by night? Why suddenly are the terrorist Taliban our supposed partners in organizing our surrender and escape? Which general allowed over $85 billion in American weapons to fall to the Talibana sum equal to the price of seven new U.S. aircraft carriers? Who turned over to the Taliban the lists of Americans and allied Afghans to be evacuated? Who left behind 7,000 biometric scanners that the Taliban are now using to hunt down our former Afghan friends? Somehow our new woke Pentagon is hell-bent on losing the trust of the American peoplealong with the wars it fights abroad. NOTE: Victor Davis Hanson is a distinguished fellow of the Center for American Greatness and the Martin and Illie Anderson Senior Fellow at Stanford Universitys Hoover Institution. He is an American military historian, columnist, a former classics professor, and scholar of ancient warfare. He has been a visiting professor at Hillsdale College since 2004. Hanson was awarded the National Humanities Medal in 2007 by President George W. Bush. Hanson is also a farmer (growing raisin grapes on a family farm in Selma, California) and a critic of social trends related to farming and agrarianism. He is the author most recently of The Second World Wars: How the First Global Conflict Was Fought and Won and The Case for Trump. royexum@aol.com 90 Day Fiance couple Ellie and Victor have kicked off their season with immediate drama and betrayal Ellie Rose learned from Victor had been lying to her about a relationship he was having with another woman. Despite that, Ellie is still moving to Providencia to be with Victor, something her friends arent thrilled about. Now, a 90 Day Fiance fan has spotted Ellie Rose in Seattle, and that could have implications as to what happened between her and Victor on The Other Way. How did Ellie and Victor meet? Ellie and Victor on 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way | TLC 90 Day Fiance star Ellie Rose first met Victor while she was on a vacation in Providencia. She fondly remembers the first time she met him, when she was charmed by his smile and a mean pina colada. But then two years ago I was doing a solo trip in Colombia. I ended up meeting up with a friend and we traveled to the island of Providencia, Ellie explained. We were walking down the beach and this guy, like drove up on a motorcycle to like one of the little beach bars and he had like that big smile. There was definitely some immediate chemistry and tension. Ellie and Victor hit it off, and when it was time for her to leave Providencia he asked her to stay for two more weeks. They continued their relationship long-distance, and Ellie eventually decided she was prepared to move to Providencia to be with Victor. Unfortunately, she discovered that Victor has been lying to her. Ellie received a text from a woman claiming to be Victors girlfriend. Hey, May be you warry why Victor (Baba) dont chat you anymore. Easy. He is my boyfriend and he living in my house in Providencia. You chat a lot before how you miss him and how you can not wait to see him, she wrote. Enough. Im tired of it already. We are in Love and I dont want any one him ex girlfriend to disturb us. Quarantine all of the time we stay at home. Sex, love, cook and many more. Victor he is a good boy and he doesnt want to hurt your heart, so someone had to inform you! Its life. 90 Day Fiance fan spots Ellie in Seattle [Warning: Possible spoilers ahead for Ellie and Victors relationship.] Victor at first denied that he had a whole separate relationship aside from Ellie, before finally admitting he had been cheating. Despite what she learned about Victors cheating, Ellie Rose decided to carry out her 90 Day Fiance plans. I did break it off with him but he kept on trying and trying, and I mean he seems sincere, Ellie told her friend. She asked if thats really good enough for her. Well its enough like, I wanna give it a shot, she replied. While it remains to be seen what happens between Victor and Ellie on this season of The Other Way, an eagle-eyed Redditor spotted the reality star back in her pizza place in Seattle, working behind the counter. For some fans, this would suggest that Ellies move to Providencia and plans for marriage and a new life with Victor did not pan out the way she would have hoped. However, the chance remains that perhaps the two are still together and back on long-distance or maybe even working on bringing Victor to the U.S. Star organizes relief for Providencia Regardless of what happens between Ellie Rose and Victor on 90 Day Fiance, Ellie is trying to do good by Providencia. The island was ravaged by hurricane Iota in November 2020, and remains in need of assistance today. Ellie took to her social media to share a GoFundMe for Providencia. Almost a year after the hurricane Providencia is still in need of supplies, help with school supplies and basic needs. Please help if you can, she captioned her Instagram post. RELATED: 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way: Ellie Reveals Her First Husband Died a Shocking and Sudden Death Dexter Morgan has done a complete 180: He went from a cold-blooded murderer who felt he needed to kill to survive to a man trying to be better, choosing to go into hiding to protect others from him. Thats the backdrop of Dexter: New Blood, the revival of Showtimes hit serial killer drama. But as showrunner Clyde Phillips has explained, its only a matter of time before Dexter falls into old habits. Michael C. Hall | Kurt Iswarienko/Showtime Where the revival starts In the Dexter series finale, Dexter (Michael C. Hall) faked his death and fled Florida. It wasnt too far-fetched of an idea, as hed floated the idea earlier in the show. But no one expected to see him move to Oregon of all places and become a lumberjack. The negative reception to the finale apparently influenced the decision to bring back Dexter but the revival wont be erasing anything. Instead, it jumps forward 10 years to find Dexter in a small town in Northern New York, living under the alias Jim Lindsay. RELATED: Dexter Showrunner Explains How Revival Came Together After Michael C. Halls Past Refusals Dexter has not killed When we meet him [in the revival], he is living a very calm and abstinent monastic life in upstate New York in a fictional town called Iron Lake, Phillips explained to the website Drama Quarterly. He works at the fish and game store, surrounded by weapons of minor destruction and by the trophies of what other people have killed deer heads and stuffed trout on the wall, he added. We also learn hes got a new girlfriend who is the chief of police. He can use that accessibility to the police station to his advantage, because even though hes had a monastic, abstinent life, this is Dexter and Dexter is going to kill people. Part of the reason Dexter moved to Iron Lake is because of its small population, which means theres less temptation, Phillips said. Dexter came from one of the largest cities in the world, Miami, Florida, to fictional Iron Lake, population 2,760, so theres a lot less temptation there, he noted. But this is Dexter and people are going to tune in to watch him be his best self, and we deliver on that. The villain of Dexter: New Blood is Kurt Caldwell (Clancy Brown), a local truck stop owner. Powerful, generous, loved by everyone hes a true man of the people, his character description reads, per TVLine. If hes got your back, consider yourself blessed. But should you cross Kurt, or hurt anyone that he cares for, God help you. But its unclear if Dexter is hunting him or if they become enemies some other way. RELATED: Dexter Star Hints the Revival Is Inspired by Alternate Ending Idea Dexter returns in November Dexter: New Blood premieres on Showtime on Sunday, Nov. 7. Its unclear if the show will continue past the 10 episodes that have been promised but, whatever happens, Phillips has said the revival will deliver a satisfying ending to fans of the show. Fans of the Duggar family follow the Josh Duggar news closely. Federal agents arrested Josh in April 2021 on suspicion of downloading and obtaining child sexual abuse material. Now, the trial date draws near and fans and critics continue to learn more about whats happening behind the scenes. Sources now claim Joshs defense team is asking the judge to not use photos taken of Josh during his arrest. Josh Duggars trial is coming in November 2021 Josh Duggar | Kris Connor/Getty Images Duggar news continues to capture all of the details of Josh Duggars arrest. Back in November 2019, Homeland Security raided the car lot where Josh works and that raid seems to clearly connect with Joshs alleged crimes in 2021. An affidavit by Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Gerald Faulkner notes FBI officials visited Wholesale Motorcars to seize the computer that allegedly had child sexual abuse content downloaded onto it. They firmly believe Josh did the downloading. So far, Josh pleads not guilty. The judge originally set the trial for July 2021, but his defense team asked to push it back well into 2022. The judge decided they could delay the trial to November 2021. But some Duggar family followers think Jim Bob Duggar, Joshs father, will prevent Josh from heading to trial. Many suspect Jim Bob will encourage Josh to take a plea deal. Going to trial may further damage the familys name and reputation. Duggar news: Attorneys say unnecessary photos were taken during arrest WEIRD Josh Duggar's attorneys ask court to drop child porn charges and suppress photos of his hands taken after arrest https://t.co/d4ucPMliKB Raw Story (@RawStory) August 25, 2021 In more recent Josh Duggar news, his defense team now requests the photos of Josh taken during his arrest are not presented during the trial. According to Insider, Joshs team filed a motion asking the judge to remove the photos. The photos allegedly show Joshs hands and feet during his arrest. According to the defense team, authorities didnt have a warrant to take the photos. They then noted, Duggars body parts were manipulated and he was required to pose for the photographs after Josh self-surrendered as instructed. Additionally, Joshs defense team noted the photographs went against Joshs rights. This news comes after his defense team argued with prosecutors over a screenshot. Insider notes the screenshot allegedly showed how three police officers from three Arkansas police departments also downloaded the sexual abuse images from Joshs same car dealership IP address. But only the Little Rock Police Department contacted agents about their alleged findings. Did Josh Duggars wife know about his alleged crimes? Anna Duggar gets emotional in her first TV interview since Josh Duggar's sex scandals: https://t.co/tUYFbEveP8 pic.twitter.com/tWMRtBQKfG E! News (@enews) November 20, 2015 Josh Duggars wife, Anna Duggar, hasnt publicly reacted to the Duggar news regarding her husbands alleged crimes. While other Duggar family members have spoken out regarding Joshs arrest, Annas remained suspiciously quiet on social media. Current rumors suggest she continues to spend time with Josh at his host familys home. Additionally, rumors suggest her family takes care of the couples six children while she stays with Josh. Anna is spending most of her time with Josh at the Rebers, and her family has stepped in to help raise all their kids, a source alleged to The Sun. She takes them to visit him or they are looked after while shes there alone. Despite what hes been charged with, she refuses to believe hes guilty. How to get help: If you or someone you know has been sexually abused, text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 for free and confidential support. Check out Showbiz Cheat Sheet on Facebook! RELATED: Josh Duggar News: Court Documents Note Josh Duggars Alleged Lack of Proper Permits to Operate Car Lot Its easy to assume Machine Gun Kelly, who gets his nickname after a notorious mobster, was a rebellious child, since hes known for his in-your-face rap lyrics and, most recently, high-energy pop-punk ballads. The music artist admits this was certainly the case and that his overly strict upbringing had much to do with his boundary pushing. While Machine Gun Kelly has spoken publicly about the strained relationship this caused with his parents, losing his father still hit the superstar hard. Machine Gun Kellys parents were missionaries Machine Gun Kelly attends Nickelodeons 2019 Kids Choice Awards. | Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images During Kellys childhood, his family relocated frequently since his parents were traveling missionaries. He was born in Houston, Texas, but soon moved to Egypt where he learned Arabic before learning English. His family then went on to move to other places abroad, such as Germany. Kelly and his parents eventually came back stateside and settled in Denver, Colo., until his mother and father divorced. This is when Kelly and his dad moved in with Kellys aunt in Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland is the place Kelly considers his home and where his rapping career had its beginnings. Through the years, Kelly has been vocal about the fact that he was an unruly teenager and blatantly defied the rules. He has even said he missed a whole semester of high school to work on his rap career, while lying to his father about it. Kelly had a complicated relationship with his father i had plans for the one year anniversary of Hotel Diablo today. that album was everything i wanted to say and i know its close to my fans but my father took his last breath this morning, and ive never felt a pain this deep in my life. im setting my phone down. love you. blonde don (@machinegunkelly) July 6, 2020 Kelly and his father had a tumultuous relationship due to their differing views and Kellys bucking of the strict rules imposed by his father. This led to a period of distance between Kelly and his father, which the rapper now says he regrets. Id say sorry to my father, he explained, I dont know how he did it, and I get why it took us 25 years to finally get along. His father died in 2020, and Kelly explained to People Magazine that he took the loss extremely hard. He took to social media to express his grief and pay tribute to his father, tweeting, I had plans for the one year anniversary of Hotel Diablo today. That album was everything I wanted to say and I know its close to my fans, but my father took his last breath this morning, and Ive never felt a pain this deep in my life. Im setting my phone down. Love you. Thank you guys for everything. Heres how therapy is helping him take back control Kelly recently opened up to E! News about going to therapy, learning to work through issues, and recovering from addiction. He explained that some of his rebellion stemmed from his father being extremely strict on him as a child, saying, I came from a father who was extremely religious and extremely strict, and wouldnt even let me hold my pen the way I wanted to hold my pen. That made me rebel completely, and cut off communication completely, because I didnt want to have any common ground with him. The rapper also talked about how powerful therapy has been for him even though he had just started. It helped him see how to be able to see two sides of his life and have healthy boundaries for himself. Therapy also allowed him to understand that his use of prescription drugs was not what was allowing him to make incredible music, and was actually holding him back. Explaining his revelation, he said, Youre telling yourself you cant do this without that, when really its in you the whole time. If that pill did that for you, then everyone whos taken that would just be making albums and writing songs. And so that limited me. The rapper also told the news outlet his relationship with Megan Fox has been helping him to see more clearly and have a better understanding of himself. How to get help: In the U.S., contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration helpline at 1-800-662-4357. RELATED: How Machine Gun Kelly Got His Name and Why His Feud with Eminem Might Be His Greatest Career Move Yet Stranger Things creators Ross and Matt Duffer are well-versed in the pop culture touchstones of the 1980s. They made concentrated efforts to take inspiration from Steven Spielberg films like E.T. the Extraterrestrial and Close Encounters of the Third Kind. These have obvious parallels to the characters of Stranger Things. But what about Back to the Future? The Robert Zemeckis film from 1985 is about a teenager whose best friend (a mad scientist, no less) builds a time machine out of a DeLorean. With the numerous references to the flick in Stranger Things Season 3, is it possible the Duffer Brothers are giving viewers a hint at whats to come in season 4? Dacre Montgomery as Billy Hargroves in Stranger Things | Netflix Back to the Future gets multiple head nods in Stranger Things Season 3 From the music by Huey Lewis and the News to the movie playing in the theater where Erica (Priah Ferguson) and Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo) stash a drugged Robin (Maya Hawke) and Steve (Joe Keery), the Back to the Future references in season 3 are hard to miss. Mrs. Driscoll (Peggy Miley), one of the first victims of the Mind Flayer in Stranger Things, has a wall clock in the shape of a black cat identical to the one that Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) has in his home in Back to the Future. Plus, the primary setting of Stranger Things 3 is the Starcourt Mallvery similar to the Lone/Twin Pines Mall in Back to the Future. And if that werent enough, the first episode of Stranger Things 3 features a shot of Jonathan (Charlie Heaton) tripping over his pants as he gets dressedalmost identical to the same scene with Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) in Back to the Future. Knowing the Duffer Brothers history with planning out the overarching plotline of Stranger Things leaves little doubt that these hat tips to Back to the Future are intentional. What we dont know is what it exactly means for season 4. RELATED: Stranger Things Season 4: Does Elevens Haircut Hold a Clue? Chief Jim Hoppers sacrifice at the end of season 3 could set things in motion At the end of season 3, audiences were left not knowing the fate of Hopper (David Harbour). Eleven, Joyce, and the rest of the group involved in slaying the Mindflayer believe hes dead. We, as the viewers, know better. No one saw Hopper die, and there was no dead body to confirm his death. Any television viewer knows that leaves the door wide open for a comeback. Hopper disappeared when Joyce closed the gate to the Upside Down. We know from previous episodes that Eleven can travel via The Void (similar to an astral plane) to contact people in different times and spaces. Hopper is still alive and it could be because he somehow managed to go through the gate before it closed. RELATED: Stranger Things Writers Share List of Every Movie That Possibly Influenced Season 4 Could time travel be used to rescue Hopper? With the teaser released in Feb. 2020, fans breathed a sigh of relief seeing Hopper alive. Hes not in Hawkins anymore. Instead, hes stuck in Russia. Its not likely the Russians simply captured him to use him for manual labor and brought him there themselves. It would make sense if Hopper exited the Upside Down and somehow popped out in Russia. We know the Russians are behind the Upside Down. Its likely they have a gateway all of their own at their home base. Eleven lost her powers at the end of Stranger Things Season 3, and she couldnt locate him independently. If she manages to get them back, which most fans think she will, her first order of duty will be finding her adoptive father. Maybe Eleven needs a portal to time travel, and perhaps that portal is the grandfather clock we see in the trailer released on Aug. 6. All of those Back to the Future nods have tomean something. Whatever the case, fans dont have that much longer to wait. Stranger Things Season 4 will be arriving on Netflix sometime in 2022. Raymond Red Reddington (James Spader) is one of the worlds most elusive criminals. The Blacklists concierge of crime facilitates an underground network of secrecy and intrigue. Seeing as Reddington freely flies in his private jet whenever he chooses and stays wherever he wants whenever he wants how much is he worth? And how does it compare to another huge TV kingpin? How similar is The Blacklists Raymond Reddington compared to Breaking Bads Walter White? James Spader as Raymond Red Reddington | Virginia Sherwood/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images RELATED: The Blacklist Fans Think Writers Gave Elizabeth Keen the Poochie Treatment For Good Reason The Blacklists Raymond Reddington is a powerful man. Those that know him fear him, and rightfully so. The first couple of seasons showed a ruthless Reddington whose kill count was much higher than subsequent seasons. We can attribute the slow-down to his age and also his mysterious terminal illness. Were likely to find a few similarities if we compare Reddington to another antagonist such as Breaking Bads Walter White (Bryan Cranston). Both are terrifying to those whove crossed them, and both contend with terminal illness and mortality. By the way Breaking Bad was filmed, we know more about Walters life leading him into the drug business, whereas Reddingtons former life is still a central mystery. That said, lets break down how they compare when it comes to money. Walter Whites earnings are impressive At the start of Breaking Bad, Walt is celebrating his 50th birthday. The family does not have a lot of money. Walts wife Skyler works as a bookkeeper who, in the real world, only makes anywhere from $26,000 to $54,000. After selling Gray Matter, Walt worked as a chemistry teacher. Then, of course, Gray Matter gained success. Walts regrets over leaving Gray Matter are ultimately what led to building his methamphetamine empire. He made around $80 million in cash, according to Screen Rant. Its the same money he buried in the desert. They deduce Walt kept $10 million after Nazi leader Jack and his crew found the other seven barrels. During the fifth season, Walt went into hiding, where he had to purchase survival supplies. Still, he returned to Albuquerque, New Mexico, with $9 million to leave his family. It takes a lot to live like Raymond Reddington Reddingtons net worth is harder to pinpoint. Multiple Reddit threads and Quora posts have analyzed the data with approximations. As a man on the run for 20 years, he had to be good at investing and diversifying his portfolio to keep him comfortable, not to mention his expensive wardrobe and shoe collection. One fan mentioned that Reddington has $150 million in one of his accounts. Another noted that hes not so much cash-rich but is better able to leverage people to get what he wants. It seems like his entire being and network is built off this style of system. Its not always cash, though. It might be special access to a tailor or medical expert. Maybe its hard to find food. With Red, its about knowing the right information and using it at the right time. I think this is the crux of the show, a fan wrote. Others have guessed that he could be raking in around $10 million to $30 million per year. If the show has been on for eight years, hed be in the $80 million to $240 million range. Reddingtons debt might even things out Which character from #TheBlacklist would you call if you needed help? pic.twitter.com/XdrdM9pUDg The Blacklist (@NBCBlacklist) March 12, 2021 RELATED: Inside The Blacklist Star James Spaders Surprising Motivation for Staying With the Series All of that said, both Reddington and Walts net worth would be a lot different, based on their annual expenses. While Walt didnt live a life of luxury even once successful , Reddington has and still does. Not only does Red employ people like Dembe Zuma (Hisham Tawfiq), but the jet alone is a money pit. His actual cash value at the end of the day would probably fall pretty close to Walts. Both men are dangerous, and both know how to make a buck they prefer to do it in different ways, and thats why we love them. Were nearing the day when The Many Saints of Newark finally hits theaters. While Tony Soprano is a mythical figure with his own lore, someone in his life paved the way for part of his story. Always talked about but never seen, uncle Dickie Moltisanti had a heavy influence on young Tony. Alessandro Nivola plays the legendary Dickie, and landing the opportunity for the movie is something he wont soon forget. Alessandro Nivola | Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images Alessandro Nivola cried over snagging Many Saints of Newark Dickie role Nivola is not new to the acting game, but once The Many Saints of Newark finally arrives on the big screen, his name will ring bells. The actor recently spoke with Rolling Stone about his experience working on the film, auditioning for The Sopranos creator David Chase, and snagging the role. As someone whos seen his past work end up on the shelf, Nivola tempered his expectations about whether he got the part. When he received the call one month after his last contact with Chases team, he was at an airport. I went into the public bathroom down there, closed the stall, and just put my head in my hands and cried for a good 10 minutes, Nivola told Rolling Stone. I think they thought I was getting divorced or something terrible was happening. I just let it all hang out. It was such a relief. Nivola once recalled an interesting Sopranos coincidence Call it serendipity or good luck, but a string of factors possibly signified that Nivola was destined for the job. For one, hes neighbors with Tim Van Patten, one of The Sopranos directors. Van Patten gave him a little advice for his audition with Chase. Secondly, Nivola remembered how his grandfathers work showed up in an episode of the original show. During a chat with the Associated Press back in 2019, he said before receiving news that he got the Dickie Moltisanti role, his brother called him about a Sopranos episode where the gang traveled to Italy. In the scenes background, a sculpture happened to be the work of their grandfather, an artist in Sardinia. During that particular shoot, Nivolas grandfathers sculptures were in a real-life traveling art show. It was meant to be or something. I dont know, he said, smiling. Dickie Moltisanti is the central character in The Many Saints of Newark Nivola pointed out that the name Moltisanti means many saints in Italian, highlighting who the film is about. While many fans are excited to see James Gandolfinis son Michael take the reigns as a young Tony Soprano, hes not the main character. In fact, creator Chase explained that The Many Saints of Newark is a classic gangster tale, and it dives into Dickies life and death. Set in 1967 at the height of racial tension in Newark, the film pits two factions against each other. Tony looks up to Uncle Dickie, learns about the life from his father, Johnny Boy (Jon Bernthal), and they both mold him into the adult version fans know from The Sopranos. Catch The Many Saints of Newark in theaters and HBO Max on Oct. 1. RELATED: The Sopranos: Which Actors Had Real Mob Ties Outside the Show? The Namibian beauty Behati Prinsloo got her fame and fortune as a supermodel, making her debut on the runway in 2006 for Prada and Miu Miu. Since then, she and her husband Adam Levine have started a family and sold their Beverly Hills home. Lets take a look at Prinsloos net worth and see what they have planned for their new place. What is Behati Prinsloos net worth? Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo | Frazer Harrison/Getty Images According to Celebrity Net Worth, they put her current net worth at roughly $9 million. As a supermodel, Prinsloo has worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion industry. Just to give you an idea, here are a few of them Gap, Chanel, Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, Nine West, Adore, and many more. And Victoria Shes also been the face for Victorias Secret and even had her own causal link called Behati Loves Pink, which was pretty successful. They also made her an official Victorias Secret Angel back in 09. Aside from the runway, shes also been featured on the covers of various magazines such as Vogue Russia, GQ Mexico, and others. You can also see her in some of your favorite music videos like Maroon 5s Wait and Animals or Selena Gomezs Hands to Myself. In addition to the videos, you can also find guest appearances on shows like The Fashion Police, 2012s Hawaii Five-O, and The City. How she and Adam Levine met In an interview with Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Behati detailed how she and Levine first met. She said they initially spoke through email after Levine got her info from a mutual friend. He was looking for someone to appear in one of Maroon 5s music videos. The news was official in 2012, and after two years of dating, the couple had their wedding in San Cabo Lucas, Mexico. And none other than Jonah Hill officiated the ceremony. Since then, theyve welcomed two children into the world Dusty Rose and Gio Grace Levine. The couple recently sold their Beverly Hills home, furniture and all, in favor of moving closer to LA. The new place is quant by the standards normally seen in the homes of the super-rich. Speaking with Architectural Digest, Levine said: We didnt want a palatial McMansion. Thats just not who we are. We were attracted to this place because it felt homey. You could tell that kids had lived here before. This is the couples second house renovation in two years Levine, whose net worth is around $120 million, spoke with AD about leaving their newly renovated house in Beverly Hills. He said, Beverly Hills just started to feel hectic. Its strangely central, so we felt surrounded by the city. We wanted to live somewhere quieter, where you dont hear the traffic and feel the stress. The old place was designed by Kathleen and Tommy Clements, mother and son, of Clements Designs. They were hired to do the renovations for the place as well. But they mentioned Prinsloo and Levines hands-on approach saying, Adam is an obsessive design junkie. He and Behati like to live with beautiful things, but in a super-casual way. They also have an extensive art collection from some big names. Some of them include works from Richard Prince, Henry Taylor, Mary Corse, Albert Oehlen, Mary Weatherford, and most notably Rashid Johnson and Raymond Pettibon. They also have commissioned pieces from their friends Sage Vaughn and Andrew Zuckerman. When speaking about all of the different artwork, Levine says, When things are chaotic culturally, as they have been for the last half decade, it tends to foster great art. Behati and I have an emotional attachment to everything we collect. RELATED: Adam Levine Reveals if He Keeps in Touch With Blake Shelton After Quitting The Voice This is a revelatory moment for American Christianity. A continuous stream of stories of abusive ministry leaders and racial injustice is driving many Christians to question their identification with their churches. So are the old stories, showing that the oppression of women and ethnic minorities is more woven into the American Christian story than we were taught or ever wanted to admit. Not every recent assessment of this story is compelling or accurate. But whats clear is that our reckoning hasnt reached back far enough. The oppression of vulnerable women and ethnic minorities isnt central just to the American churchs story, or even to the Western churchs story, but to the earliest days of the church itself, when the number of disciples was increasing (Acts 6:17). There was a lot of good news for Greek-speaking (Hellenist) Jewish Christian widows in those early days. They followed a Messiah who not only rose from the dead and ascended to heaven but who in the temple itself specifically denounced the teachers of the law for devour[ing] widows houses. (Mark 12:40). They saw the Spirit of the Lord at work healing the sick, delivering the possessed, and redeeming the lost. But this new Christian community was also neglecting these minority women, overlooking them in the daily distribution of food. The same disciples famous for having shared everything they had (Acts 4:32) werent sharing with them. The old prejudices continued, with the Hebraic Jewish widows being fed and the Hellenists left hungry. The oppression that Jesus denounced in the temple was happening at the table. Both the widows and the broader community of God knew that ... 1 You have reached the end of this Article Preview You have reached the end of this Article Preview To continue reading, subscribe now. Subscribers have full digital access. Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. Christians in North Korea face torture, execution by firing squad: USCIRF report Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment North Koreas communist dictatorship has been deploying factions within the regime to carry out wrongful arrests, torture, executions and the denial of fundamental religious freedom rights as it seeks to exterminate all Christian adherents and institutions, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom says in a report. In its report, Organized Persecution Documenting Religious Freedom Violations in North Korea, USCIRF says the violations it documented as occurring as recently as 2020, are seemingly designed to remove all traces of Christianity. The campaign to exterminate all Christian adherents and institutions in North Korea has been brutally effective, and continues through the work of the Ministry of State Security, networks of informants that stretch into China, the presence of no-exit political prison camps, executions, and an educational and organizational system that deters adherence through schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods, says the report, which is based on interviews of survivors, witnesses and perpetrators of religious freedom violations in 2020 and 2021. The freedoms in North Korea are subordinate to and overruled by a document known as the Ten Principles for Establishing a Monolithic Leadership System, which has as its purpose to bring each North Korean individuals thoughts and acts in line with the teachings of Kim Il Sung, Kim Jong Il, and Kim Jong Un, it says. USCIRF also found that the Workers Party of Korea maintains church buildings in Pyongyang, and it instructs a small group of approved specialized cadres to perform Christian ceremonies in these buildings, while at the same time forbidding North Korean citizens including that group of specialized cadres to live as Christians. North Koreans experience the denial of the right to religious freedom from birth, the report reveals. [School] lessons feature missionaries, and there are also movies about the missionaries, a North Korean citizen is quoted as saying. There is actually a movie titled 'The Missionary.' The movie features an American missionary who came to Korea during the Japanese colonial occupation period and swindled children after pretending to care about them. After people watched the movie, they developed a negative impression of the missionaries on an intuitive level. People even use the word missionary as a curse word. Another citizen was quoted as saying, There was a separate subject that completely demonized the missionaries. The very purpose of that subject was to stress how horrible the missionaries are and how horrible religion and the practice of superstition is. USCIRF says it also documented credible accounts of the execution of Christian adherents. Kwon Eun Som and her grandchild were executed in July 2011 in Onsong County, North Hamgyong Province, with only a few security and law enforcement officials present to witness the event, the report adds. The execution was by firing squad and took place outside Hajong-ri in Onsong County. It was overseen by Onsong Ministry of State Security branch personnel, acting on the authority of the North Hamgyong Ministry of State Security in Chongjin. The report also identifies 68 cases of the state prosecuting individuals for their religion or belief or for their association with religious persons. For years, North Korea has ranked as the worst country globally when it comes to Christian persecution on Open Doors USA's World Watch List. Being discovered as a Christian is a death sentence in North Korea, says Open Doors USA, adding, If you arent killed instantly, you will be taken to a labor camp as a political criminal. The ministry says that North Koreas dictator Kim Jong Un is reported to have expanded the system of prison camps, in which an estimated 50,000-70,000 Christians are imprisoned. Parents sue California to stop chants to Aztec gods in ethnic studies curriculum Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Parents of students in the California public school system have filed a lawsuit against the state's Department of Education in an attempt to remove a chant to Aztec gods that's part of a new ethnic studies curriculum. The lawsuit was filed Friday by the conservative legal firm Thomas More Society on behalf of the Californians for Equal Rights Foundation, individual taxpayers and parents of current and former students after their Aug. 26 letter to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction demanding withdraw of the Aztec prayer from the curriculum went unanswered. The lawsuit says the Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum has been approved for the Golden States public schools, which serve approximately 6 million students in some 10,000 schools. Although the program is reportedly voluntary, many schools districts have decided to use the curriculum in their classrooms. The curriculum includes a section of Affirmation, Chants, and Energizers, including the In Lak Ech Affirmation, which invokes five Aztec deities, the lawsuit adds. Although labeled as an affirmation, it addresses the deities both by name and by their traditional titles, recognizes them as sources of power and knowledge, invokes their assistance, and gives thanks to them. In short, it's a prayer, the legal firm said in a statement shared with The Christian Post. Our clients have both a religious and civic objection to the Aztec prayer, and they do not want their children chanting it, being asked or pressured to do so, or risking ostracism if they refuse, said Paul Jonna, partner at LiMandri & Jonna LLP and Thomas More Society Special Counsel. The Aztecs regularly performed gruesome and horrific acts for the sole purpose of pacifying and appeasing the very beings that the prayers from the curriculum invoke, Jonna said. The human sacrifice, cutting out of human hearts, flaying of victims and wearing their skin, are a matter of historical record, along with sacrifices of war prisoners, and other repulsive acts and ceremonies the Aztecs conducted to honor their deities. Any form of prayer and glorification of these bloodthirsty beings in whose name horrible atrocities were performed is repulsive to any reasonably informed observer. The curriculum unequivocally promotes Aztec gods or deities through repetitive chanting and affirmation of their symbolic principles which constitutes an unlawful government preference toward a particular religious practice, said Frank Xu, president of Californians for Equal Rights Foundation. This public endorsement of the Aztec religion fundamentally erodes equal education rights and irresponsibly glorifies anthropomorphic, male deities whose religious rituals involved gruesome human sacrifice and human dismemberment, Xu added. Thomas More Society said the curriculum also includes the Ashe Prayer from the Yoruba religion an ancient philosophical concept that is the root of many pagan religions, including santeria and Haitian vodou or voodoo. The co-chair of the curriculum, R. Tolteka Cuauhtin, developed much of the material cited throughout the lessons, in which Christians, specifically those of European ancestry, are viewed as the source of evil to be resisted and overthrown. White Christians are guilty of theocide against indigenous tribes, the killing of their deities and replacing them with the Christian faith, Cuauhtin argues in a chart. The ultimate goal, according to Cuauhtin, is to engineer a countergenocide against whites, investigative journalist Christopher Rufo wrote about the issue in City-Journal in March. Dr. Richard Land, the executive editor for The Christian Post, previously noted in his weekly column: This is all so comprehensively evil and destructive it is hard to know where to begin criticism of this dangerous, divisive, retrograde cultural vandalism. The idea that a tax-supported public school system would, or could, be used to unleash this vicious cultural and spiritual poison into our young peoples consciousness is both extremely offensive and quite possibly illegal. Americans will die: Lawmaker who attempted Afghanistan rescue blames Biden for US citizens being left behind Evacuees forced to pay Taliban up to $4K to get past checkpoints Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Some Americans who remain trapped in Afghanistan are going to die because of the failure from President Biden, according to Republican Rep. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, who tried to rescue U.S. citizens from that country. In an exclusive interview with Fox News' Bret Baier on Friday, Mullin said the Taliban was charging between $500 to $4,000 as a "tax" to get past each checkpoint to reach the Kabul airport, which is one reason why the French and British special forces carried out rescue missions to extricate their citizens who were stranded or had been turned away at checkpoints. The Biden administration told Americans a boldface lie about evacuating all Americans who wanted to flee Afghanistan, Mullin asserted in the interview, adding that he knows of roughly 50 U.S. citizens who are stranded in the South Asian country. Other governments coordinated rescue missions to save their citizens because there were three Taliban checkpoints before you could get to [Hamid Karzai International Airport] HKIA. And all three of them would charge you a tax and the tax was anywhere between $500 to $4,000, Rep. Mullin said. He added that he spoke with the State Department on the phone for 12 hours, trying to get someone from the State Department to come out of the airport gate to get a young lady and her four children. I have it recorded, couldnt get anybody to come out. She had come through there; it cost her $2,000," he added. Five times she approached this guard with the Taliban. The last time they stuck a pistol to her head with her kids there, I have it recorded with her kids screaming and crying. She goes back and shes crying so hard that she begins to puke, the mother did, and the State Department sent her up there five times saying we got clearance for her. Biden is going to go to the mic and say that every American that wanted out got out? I have a list of 50 that want out, that they havent got out. I have a list of 50 that weve ran out of Kabul and put in safe houses around Afghanistan, that I promise you, they wanted out. Mullen said the U.S. might be able to extricate some Americans, but theres going to be some that are going to die because of the failure from President Biden. He continued, I promise you that. At some point, theyre going to lose patience and they arent going to keep letting us drive past these checkpoints and paying them off. Sorry, taxes. Thats what they call a tax. And when I say that blood is on his hands, that means President Bidens hands. I mean that with everything in my heart, its his fault. Mullin also shared details about his attempt to rescue Americans from Afghanistan. We got a humanitarian flight plan from FAA. And everything was good to go. We left the United States, we had a time of arrival at the airport there in Kabul. And we got there and were drawing an approach and they canceled our PPR. And so we circled the airport, probably for an hour, and we had five PPRs canceled. Every time theyd cancel, the agency that was trying to get us in would give us a new one. They actually went into the tower to say let them land. Watch the latest video at foxnews.com Following the drawing down of U.S. troops in Afghanistan, the Taliban quickly seized control of much of the country, eventually taking the capital Kabul last month and forcing the government to flee. In response to the unexpected speed at which the terrorist group retook the nation, tens of thousands of Americans, Afghan allies, and others desperately tried to leave the country. While the U.S. and its allies evacuated more than 123,000 people out of Afghanistan, it's believed that the majority of Afghan interpreters who are at risk of Taliban reprisal for helping the U.S. were left behind. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said that as many as 25,600 Afghans were being housed on U.S. military bases as of Friday. According to U.S. Air Force Gen. Glen VanHerck, about 1,000 Afghans have been resettled or relocated off military bases. When Afghans arrive in the U.S. at Dulles International Airport in Virginia or Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania, they are transported to one of eight military bases across the country, including Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, Fort Bliss in Texas, Fort Lee in Virginia, and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey. Among the thousands who've already arrived in the U.S., some 10,000 were flagged for additional security screening, and of those 100 were flagged for "possible ties to the Taliban or terror groups," sources with knowledge of the evacuation process told NBC News. Two of those 100 were sent out of the country to Kosovo for an additional security review. Its also been reported that the State Department has sought urgent guidance from other government agencies after intake staff at Fort McCoy reported multiple cases of Afghan men being accompanied by multiple wives, many of whom are underage child brides, which is illegal in the U.S., The Associated Press reported. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Friday that the U.S. expects to admit at least 50,000 Afghans, and likely thousands more. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Jesus said, I stand at the door and knock (Revelation 3:20, NKJV). Nowin the midst of Afghanistans theater of fearits the brutally abused, tortured, hungry, broken and bleeding who are literally standing at the door of our hearts and knocking. They are Jesus, asking for us to open our hearts to feel their pain and become the answer to their chaos, grief and pain (St. Matthew 25:35-40). Today in Afghanistan, males will be executed on the spot, women will be raped, and adolescent girls will be taken as sex slaves for Taliban fighters. Whats happening right now in Afghanistan sends shivers down my spine andIm sureyours, too. This could be my family, or yours. But I want to ask you: is the horrific suffering in Afghanistan affecting the way you live your life? Or is your life just carrying on as normal? Because none of us should be acting normal while our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan wait in dread for the Taliban to appear at our doorstep. You and I have a crucial role, one that should disrupt our normal lives: we need to be on our knees in prayer. Nowhere to Hide Weve all seen the shocking images of people clinging to an airplane as it took off from Kabul airport. Theres no flight to freedom for the suffering multitudes in Afghanistan, no place to hide. Innocents will soon be hunted like animals. I just heard from a contact there that many peopleand entire familieshave been wandering in the wilderness for over a week, desperate to escape the country. Everywhere, the Taliban lie in wait, preying. If the Taliban find any evidence on peoples phones that theyre a Christian, theyre killed instantly. Are we sympathetic? Of course! But does our sympathy actually drive us to our knees in prayer? Have we shed tears of real anguish for the people of Afghanistan? Have we fasted for a single day for the Christians of Afghanistan? Have you? This is a spiritual battle that can be won only in prayer and fasting. The question is: do you and I have the fire in our bones? Do we grasp our vital intercessory role in this theater of terror? Or is Afghanistan just another crisis in the news that we can skip over on our way to Starbucks? The other day, I was on a two-hour phone call listening to first hand reports of the utter devastation and suffering taking place in Afghanistan. After I got off the phone, I was sort of in shock. But not for the reason you think. I was realizing how little my emotions had been engaged as I listened to the reports. Was the report I heard horrible? It was! In all honesty, the picture in my mind was like something after a nuclear explosion wipes out an entire city. But where were the tears for my brothers and sisters? In the book of Lamentations, Jeremiah describes the distress of captive Jerusalem like this: When her people fell into the hand of the enemy, with no one to help her, the adversaries saw her and mocked at her downfall I called for my lovers, but they deceived me. My priests and my elders breathed their last in the city, while they sought food to restore their life (Lamentations 1:7, 19, NKJV). Dismayed by the lack of concern for others suffering, Jeremiahthe weeping prophetcried out: Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by? (Lamentations 1:12, NKJV). Brothers and sisters, lets not be among those who pass by while captive Afghanistan is destroyed, women and children are massacred, and the innocent are raped and slaughtered. Prayer: What Matters Most Having traveled around the globe for decades, my experience has been that Americans are the most caring, generous people in the world. But so often our wallets are our substitute for what matters mostdevoted time on our knees before God, the One who can move mountains. We read in our Bibles about the powerful prayers of Elijah, Abraham and others, yet we often dont seem to have the expectation that God will answer when we knock on His door. One preacher put it this way: On a scale of 1 to 10, too often our expectation of God doing something miraculous when we pray is about minus 5. Do you believe God is willing and able to work a miracleeven nowin Afghanistan? Even the Taliban are not beyond his reach. Acts 8 records that a man named Saul went door-to-door, terrorizing Christians, but God transformed him into the greatest missionary ever, the Apostle Paul! What about if you were to ask your pastor to take 15 minutes during the worship service this Sunday and set it aside to pray and intercede as a congregation for the suffering millions in Afghanistan? God moves when we choose to enter into the suffering of others. If we think for one moment that similar suffering is not coming to our doorstep, leaving us at the place of brokenness and needing intercession, were mistaken. Today is anything but normal. Its a day when many in Afghanistan genuinely fear they will not see tomorrow. A day when a simple knock on the door could be the last they hear. At this very moment, Jesus, bleeding and broken, is knocking at my door, and yours. Will you answer it? Will you choose to sacrifice through prayer, fasting and doing all you can for the innocent suffering in Afghanistan? Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment On September 22, the UN will host a conference marking the 20th anniversary of the 2001 World Conference on Racism in Durban. The original Durban conference was hijacked by people and a terrorist-supporting agenda rife with antisemitism. Clearly, the organizers this year missed the irony of hosting a conference 11 days after the 20th anniversary of the infamous terrorist attacks of September 11. Today, the Durban conference and everything that has come out of it, is synonymous with hate. Delegitimization of Israel is its sole target. It should be canceled, not celebrated. The good news is that, so far, a number of countries are boycotting the upcoming conference: Australia, Austria, Canada, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Israel, Hungary, Netherlands, UK, the US. The bad news is that the rest of the world seems to think that theres no problem with the UN hosting another conference whose sole purpose is to smear Israel. Thats not new, of course, for an institution that is rarely on the right side when it comes to Israel and the Middle East. Its worse, because a conference dedicated to fighting racism not only perpetuates a lie, but diminishes addressing (much less overcoming) actual rampant racism, or the suffering that people have endured. If only the UN would take racism seriously, without deflecting the issue to bash Israel. Durban gave birth to the canard that Israel is an apartheid state. It paved the way for the BDS movement: boycotting, divesting from, and sanctioning Israel. No countries that foster racism were sanctioned, or even mentioned. BDS may not be about flying planes into buildings, but its terrorist intent to destroy Israel is clear enough. The founder and brainchild of BDS, Omar Barghouti, said it plainly: It is not the occupation of the West Bank that is the problem, but the existence of Israel itself. The accusations of apartheid against Israel are likewise slanderous and dishonest. The racist laws that existed in South Africa encompassed every facet of black peoples lives, and intentionally kept them as second-class citizens. There are no such racial laws in Israel and never have been. Israels Declaration of Independence affirms equal rights for Arab and indeed all citizens. Arabs serve in the government, in parliament, as Supreme Court justices, and even in the military. There are many mixed Arab-Jewish cities, and Arabs exist in just about every context of Israeli society. Calling Israel apartheid exploits and diminishes the actual suffering of those who lived under real apartheid. Moreover, those who boycotted South Africa sought to change the system. Nobody ever sought to destroy the very existence of South Africa as a state. BDS neglects to reveal one salient fact: they are not about changing Israel for the better, but delegitimizing Israel, and ultimately advocating for its destruction. Yes, Israel has a challenge with what Barghouti and others call the West Bank. The fact is, there is a very real issue of Palestinian Arabs wanting their own state, although some dont. Israel does not want to absorb 2.5 million Palestinian Arabs as citizens of Israel specifically because Israel is a democracy and wants to remain a Jewish state. While Israel accepted a two-state solution in 1947 with one state for Jews and another for Arabs and the Arabs went to war to prevent Israel from becoming a state, the reality is that there never was a state called Palestine. When people refer to Israel as an apartheid state, they want you to believe that all the suffering of the Palestinian Arabs is because of Israel, and that their experience mirrors that of the lives of black South Africans under apartheid. Thats a lie. The weapons of those who seek to delegitimize and destroy Israel are not social justice, but terror and death. They try to oversimplify a decades-old conflict based on long-debunked propaganda. Few see the irony in the fact that what was born at a conference about overcoming racism has devolved into a racist movement itself, embracing a hatred that is as old as Biblical history, and delegitimizing Israel as the nation of the Jewish people. Ideally, the Durban IV conference should be canceled altogether, not just boycotted. Barring the possibility that the UN will come to this realization, many more should boycott the September 22 conference. If your country is not one of the ones already boycotting the conference, contact your UN Mission to express that it should be. Actual racism is indeed a global problem and should be addressed. Wasting resources on a conference that hijacks a conversation that needs to be had about the reality of racism with one that simply blames Israel for everything is not just wrong, it does a disservice to the world. But of course, when BDS leaders shout justice for Palestine they really dont care about the well being of Palestinian Arabs. They dont care if the victims of their economic boycott are in fact the Palestinian Arabs they claim to help. Their sole purpose is to delegitimize and destroy Israel, and no amount of scorched earth and harm to Jews and Arabs is too much to fuel their blind hatred. The Genesis 123 Foundation is hosting a webinar on September 13 to discuss these issues. Youre invited to join to hear the truth from the perspective of two South African natives. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The 55 delegates from various states that drew up our U.S. Constitution thereby replacing the Articles of Confederation were not perfect men. Their signed document was and remains imperfect. Furthermore, We the people were and are flawed and fallen creatures. However, a Civil War fought some eight decades later proved that many Americans were more than serious about our national struggle to live up to the principles and precepts of our great national document. J. David Hacker, a demographic historian from Binghamton University in New York, conducted research on newly digitized census data from the 19th century, recalculating the death toll of the Civil War. For over 100 years, the historic death tally has been approximately 620,000 men. Hackers new count reaches 750,000 men, and the staggering possibility of 850,000 soldiers. And let us not forget the blood spilled in our War of Independence with Great Britain. A river of blood A river of blood was spilled pursing a more perfect Union. Today in America, many negative voices with both grievance and grit call into question Americas founding aspirations. Viruses and their variants can happen within schools of thought. Marxs thinking on Conflict Theory mutated many times finally shifting from class to color. A multi-ethic and multi-racial culture like America can withstand class warfare. Yet, with critical race theory (CRT) escaping from the lab of academia into the mainstream of public education, government, business and military the resulting tribalism is endangering our great nation. Our president on tribalism On Aug. 26, while responding to a follow-up question from Peter Doocy, Fox News' White House correspondent, President Joe Biden included this comment about his decision to pull out of Afghanistan: I have never been of the view that we should be sacrificing American lives to try to establish a democratic government in Afghanistan, a country that has never once in its entire history been a united country and is made up and I dont mean this in a derogatory made up of different tribes who have never, ever, ever gotten along with one another, and so, as I said before, and this is the last comment Ill make. Again, the president on Aug. 31 in his End of War speech briefly alluded to the historic tribalism of the Afghan people where unity and cohesion has never been done over the many centuries of Afghanistans history. Tellingly, our president correctly diagnosed the hateful and historic consequences of tribalism in Afghanistan. Tribalism prevents different groups from seeing and working together in building a healthy and happy nation. Valuable time, energy, and resources are spent fighting, blaming, finger-pointing, seeking revenge and killing. With that understanding, why encourage it here at home? Yet on his first day in the White House, Biden rescinded the executive order of the previous administration that prohibited CRT training for federal agencies and federal contractors. The new 1619 variant The Left has new textbooks and materials for pushing the negative narrative that systemic racism and white supremacy fueled the creation of America and has sustained our country for all these years. Carol M. Swain, former tenured professor at Vanderbilt and Princeton universities, makes this very educated observation about the 1619 Project, The 1619 Project is a misguided effort to keep open historical wounds while telling only half of the story. It is flawed because it is connected to critical race theory and the diversity-inclusion grievance industry that focuses on identity politics and division. Blaming todays families for the mistakes of our ancestors is not a prescription for unifying the country or empowering racial and ethnic minorities. Walter Williams, writing before his death in 2020 as the esteemed professor of economics at George Mason University, pushes against Nikole Hannah-Jones of The New York Times Magazine and writer in the 1619 Project, saying she: fails to acknowledge that black Americans have made the greatest gains, over some of the highest hurdles, in the shortest span of time than any other racial group in mankinds history. The evidence: If black Americans were thought of as a nation with our own gross domestic product, wed rank among the 20 wealthiest nations. It was a black American, Gen. Colin Powell, who headed the worlds mightiest military. A few black Americans are among the worlds wealthiest. Black Americans are among the worlds most famous personalities. Williams drives the point home. The significance of this is that in 1865, neither a slave nor a slave owner would have believed that such progress would be possible in less than a century and a half, if ever. As such, it speaks to the intestinal fortitude of a people. The 1619 Project, written by journalists and protested by many top historians, has taken the worst part of our history (slavery), and propagandized it into a negative narrative to reframe Americas history and self-identity. They contend that the American Revolution was principally fought to preserve chattel slavery. 1776 unites is pushing back Robert L. Woodson Sr. is president of The Woodson Center and founder of the 1776 Unites project which seeks to build a positive movement in response to the overwhelming narratives of oppression, grievance, and ignorance to Americas history and its promise for the future. Woodson refers to the 1619 Project as junk history and he set about to enlist a group of black scholars, journalists and social activists who uphold the true origins of our nation and the principles through which its founding promise can be fulfilled. Woodson foresees that tribalism would not be good for any American, nor our national future. Mr. President, you clearly understand the terrible history of tribalism in Afghanistan, please see and correct the dangerous road our nation is now traveling. We do not want it! Originally Published at The Stream. Raised by 3 gay parents, man vowed to never become a Christian but his quest to disprove the Bible changed everything Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Author Caleb Kaltenbach once found himself saying, I never want to be a Christian, but a blatant attempt to try and disprove the Bible left him in the most surprising of circumstances: accepting Christianity and transforming his heart and mind in the process. Kaltenbachs faith journey and theological views are especially surprising considering he was raised by three gay parents in an activistic environment before his conversion. LISTEN: HEAR KALTENBACH SHARE HIS POWERFUL CONVERSION STORY My parents divorced when I was 2 and they both went into same-sex relationships, he told the Edifi With Billy Hallowell podcast. That journey led Kaltenbach and his family into years of pro-LGBT activism where he often encountered hate and anger from some who called themselves Christians people who left him feeling in his early years as though hed never want to be part of the faith. I learned real quick from things that I saw in pride parades, the way how I saw Christians treat people, the way how I saw families ignore their young sons dying of AIDS in the 1980s I saw real quick that Christians hated gay people, he said. And I thought to myself, Man, I never want to be a Christian. If Christians are this bad, I cant imagine how awful Jesus must be if Hes their leader. But something unexpected happened during his teen years. Kaltenbach joined a Bible study when he was 16 in an effort to try and disprove Christianity. Despite his best efforts, Kaltenbach shockingly found himself captivated by Scripture and everything changed. FREE: DOWNLOAD THE EDIFI PODCAST APP FOR THE BEST CHRISTIAN SHOWS I became a Christian, changed my view on sexuality to what I hold today that God designed sexual intimacy and affection to be expressed in a marriage between a man and a woman, he said. The journey from there wasnt easy, especially when Kaltenbachs family found out about his conversion. His parents kicked him out of the house, though they later reconciled. I think my parents realized eventually that I was not one of those Christians, he explained, referring to the angry people his family had encountered during his younger years. Kaltenbachs faith journey didnt stop there; he decided to go into ministry and became a pastor. As for his parents, they, too, became Christians in their later years. In addition to holding biblical views on marriage, Kaltenbach said he also embraces another contention: that theological beliefs should never be catalysts to devalue others. Hes tackling these beliefs in his new book, Messy Truth: How to Foster Community Without Sacrificing Conviction, as he continues to help Christians find a balance between truth and love and to create "a sense of belonging for all people." LISTEN: HEAR OTHER EPISODES OF EDIFI WITH BILLY HALLOWELL Kaltenbach told Edifi that he believes its important for Christians to show empathy for others, but differentiated between having compassion and abandoning values. We need to employ a lot of empathy I dont mean empathy as being a pushover, he said. To me, empathy is similar to humility empathy is acknowledging somebodys reality. It is from there that Kaltenbach believes people can be reached with the Gospel. As for cultures current swing away from traditional values, Kaltenbach admitted that it has been difficult to watch, but he continues on his journey to help Christians process societal changes in positive and uplifting ways. Listen to the full interview to hear more about Kaltenbachs views and his journey. Can an atheist chaplain glorify God? Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Recently, Harvard elected an atheist humanist to be the president of the Harvard chaplains, and many Christians have been understandably upset about this. After all, in the past, someone who held the title of a chaplain has been someone who worships God and supports and counsels others to make moral decisions in alignment with God's will. However, to call a humanist or an atheist a chaplain seems like a clear subversion of that. It feels like we are twisting the language of what a chaplain is. If you can be an atheist chaplain, can you also be the president of an atheist organization that believes that Christ is the son of God? That seems nonsensical, but nonsense isn't anything new at Harvard. Greg Epstein has been a humanist chaplain at Harvard since 2005, and he took over for another humanist chaplain that started the position in 1974. Most people can probably brush that off, but what is most troubling is the fact that Epstein was unanimously elected to the position of president of chaplains at Harvard. Ultimately it's not about the position but what this says about our understanding of what a chaplain is. It says that being a chaplain isn't about seeking God and leading others in that spiritual pursuit. It's simply about supporting other people to be better people Epstein's own words back this up. He told The New York Times, "There is a rising group of people who no longer identify with any religious tradition but still experience a real need for conversation and support around what it means to be a good human and live an ethical life." Essentially he is saying his job is to support others and counsel them in ethical ways to live. Which is pretty much the definition of a counselor, isn't it? Ultimately, there are many ways we could react to this story. We could be angry about it, as many are, but we could also look at this in another way. Does it actually matter if some school recognizes no difference between a religious chaplain and a humanist counselor? Does it matter that it unanimously elected an atheist as the president of chaplains? Yes, but not in the way you might think. There is a silver lining. Where? Well, we can look at it as another encroachment by secularists into the domain held by those who are traditionally religious or spiritual. We could see it as losing ground in a spiritual battle or fight, or we can see it as a foolish advance that leaves a flank open on the battlefield. Because really, that's precisely what is happening here. It's not about what this says about Christianity or religion or even God but what it says about atheism. For if we take God out of the equation and admit that a chaplain doesn't need to be religious or spiritual, then what is the only difference between a counselor and a chaplain? It's worship. It's all about worship. This is a fundamental admission that humanism and atheism are a form of worship at their core. For so long, atheists have tried to claim the rights of being a religion but denying they are one. This is just another blaring contradiction and one we need to shine a spotlight on. So instead of being angry about this story, let's be thankful for it because it highlights the truth that humanism and atheism are forms of worship. Greg Epstein wants to spark conversations, and in fact, he is. Hopefully, this will spark some deep and meaningful discussions about humanism and atheism. Dialogues that don't just focus on atheism and humanism, however, but also consider all the other things we worship in this world. False idols surround us. Let this be an opportunity to discuss them. Let us examine where we each put our faith and trust and the eternal implications of where that faith and trust are placed, for we all put our faith and trust somewhere. By talking about these things, we can help others discover a clear road to the truth. We can point to a higher eternal beauty than any graven image or false theology that we can ever construct with our own two hands. In this, more glory can be brought to God than we can ever imagine, and it's all thanks to an atheist chaplain at Harvard. This week in Christian history: German missionary arrives in India, Puritans lash Baptist preacher Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Throughout the extensive history of the Church, there have been numerous events of lasting significance. Each week brings anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births, notable deaths and everything in between. Some of the events drawn from over 2,000 years of history might be familiar, while other happenings might be previously unknown by most people. The following pages highlight events that happened this week in Christian history. They include the arrival of a notable German missionary to India, American Puritans punishing an influential Baptist preacher, and the first instance of the Catholic practice of Eucharistic adoration. 1 2 3 4 Next Pompeo urges prayer for those still in Afghanistan, calls on US to 'do the right thing' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Mike Pompeo said Americans must pray for our allies still trapped in Afghanistan. In an interview with John Wesley Reid of Liberty University's Standing for Freedom Center, the former Secretary of State was hopeful, but not entirely optimistic about the future of U.S. coalition forces still in Afghanistan. Over the last two weeks, veterans of the war in Afghanistan have expressed concern for their friends people who fought alongside them combating Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups and have even shared messages from those currently in Afghanistan who dont know how theyll be able to leave before the Taliban finds them. Reid: They fear for their lives. They have different terrorist groups, networks looking for them by name, and then we have U.S. service members who fought with them in Afghanistan. And now, theyre wondering whats going to happen to their friends. So Mr. Secretary, what is the hope for them? What can be done? Pompeo: Well we should all pray for them. We should all recognize that the United States made a real commitment to many of them that we have an obligation to honor. And when we dont, then the world watches. Im hopeful that theyll be able to find safe egress theyll be able to find a pathway out. I hope the U.S., even though were now, goodness, some 24 hours out the final withdraw, probably the final flight out of HJIA. I hope theyll be able to find a pathway either through the north through northern Asian countries, or some other way that they can find their way out even if it be through the airport after we depart. Hopefully, well do the right thing and honor the commitment that the United States made to each of those people. The challenging images seen and stories heard from the last two weeks have been disturbing. The world has seen direct illustrations of how poorly-implemented policy has tangible effects on vulnerable people, including U.S. citizens and our allies. Such a strategy has even prompted active-duty military leaders to examine the strategy and boldly speak out against senior leadership who, according to one Marine officer, put their careers before their duty to serve and protect. As the Taliban continues to take control over major cities in Afghanistan, fear grows that the rights and liberties that Afghans have enjoyed for nearly 20 years will fall. Though the Taliban has said that they are going to give women rights, such as education and work opportunities, Pompeo has said that they are not to be trusted and that they are not a different Taliban than we dealt with before. A version of this article was previously published by Liberty University's Standing for Freedom Center on Aug. 31. Email Whatsapp Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment From the beginning, proponents of the sexual revolution have wrapped themselves in the mantle of science, especially social science. For example, in the 1950s, the Kinsey Reports helped normalize a range of sexual behaviors. They were also the source of the still-often-quoted statistic that 10 percent of people are same-sex oriented. Both that figure and the methodology behind Kinseys research has long ago been discredited. Still, that 10 percent number has stuck in many peoples heads. A new wave of studies in recent years paints a rosy picture about the benefits of medical transitions for people with gender dysphoria. So much so that, as Paul Dirks recently wrote at Public Discourse, lifelong experimental medicalization, sterilization, and complete removal of healthy body parts . . . is no longer a rarity. It is the recommended treatment for gender dysphoria. But what if these studies are like the Kinsey Reports? What if they reflect the bias and agendas of the authors rather than reality? Given what is at stake, this is a vitally important question, especially since social science itself is in the midst of whats called a replication crisis. In other words, when other researchers try to replicate the findings of studies in the social sciences, they often cannot. This failure of replication even includes studies that are regarded as canonical in some fields. So how can we distinguish between solid research and what wont withstand further scrutiny when it comes to the so-called settled science of gender transitioning? Paul Dirks Public Discourse article, Transition as Treatment: The Best Studies Show the Worst Outcomes, sums up the results of his deep-dive into the research. Dirks defines best studies as those that have followed people who underwent medical transition for the longest period of time. It is well recognized in the literature, Dirks states, that the year after medical [gender] transition is a honeymoon period, which does not represent a realistic picture of long-term sexual and psychological status. Yet, most of the popular gender transition studies are limited to just a few years following medical transitioning. Other studies that support medical transitions fail to follow up with as much as half of the original participants. Thats well beyond the threshold of reliability. Many of the studies, Dirks states, are fraught with . . . design problems, such as small sample sizes, short study lengths, and enormously high drop-out rates, to name just three. The problem is so bad that one systematic review of the literature, rated only two out of twenty-nine studies as high-quality. In contrast, the best-designed and most rigorous studies, whose results are most likely to stand up over time, found that medical transition was not the solution to the patients problems, especially in the case of male-to-female transitions. They reveal much higher mortality rates due to increased rates of suicide, AIDS, drug abuse, and even cardiovascular disease. Another high-quality study found a 7-fold increase in suicide attempts and a 19-fold increase in completed suicides after transitions. Even when the findings are adjusted for pre-existing psychiatric problems, which are often treated as unrelated to gender dysphoria, there was still a three-fold increase in psychiatric hospital admissions. In other words, when it comes to medical gender transition, the best studies show the worst outcomes, and the current use of shoddy social science to support medical transitioning is not only misleading, but dangerous. In this case, as is common in the social sciences, especially throughout the history of the sexual revolution, ideology is overwhelming truth-finding. Too many researchers think they know what the data should tell us, so they, at times unconsciously and at times consciously, design their studies to make sure that it does. Sadly, the consequences of their failure are far worse than professional embarrassment or tarnished reputations. In this case, the consequences can be permanent and even deadly. Reportedly heard from as far as 20 miles away, a lightning bolt walloped a Willis familys home as the mom chatted with her kids about their return to school that day. Then the two-story brown brick houses roof began to catch fire. The households husband and father, Larry Hunter, was alerted by a cell phone call from a neighbor as he was driving. His heart racing as he rushed back, he arrived relieved to find his family saved from the flames that consumed what they referred to as their dream house. REMEMBERING 9/11: Cypress firefighters recount experiences at Ground Zero It wasnt really about the materials, Hunter said of the Aug. 11 fire. It was more about the journey of me and my wife, the sacrifices that me and my wife made to get our first home. Team Hunter, as the family calls itself, is ready to move forward. Larry, 36, his wife Deneeka, 39, and their son, Evan, 14, and daughter, Addisyn, 10, are getting a helping hand from their neighborhood and beyond. Sense of accomplishment Larry and Deneeka met at a church in Dallas. For me it was love at first sight. For her, it took a little time, he said laughing. The two married in 2008 and started a family. They relocated to Montgomery County in 2017, living with relatives. Larry, a business development manager, longed for a house for his family to call their own. Once I shared my vision with my wife, she was all on board and we started our dream, he said. The Woodlands Hills subdivision, stretching between south Willis and north Conroe, is surrounded by an abundance of tall pine trees. It is what drew the Hunters to the cul-de-sac property. While their future home was being built, he would drive to the property and pray over the land, the building materials and the construction workers. They moved into the house in 2019. It was a home that was filled with love and it was a place that every day, when we pulled up, there was pride and sense of accomplishment, he said. The new abode boasted a balcony for lounging and a spacious back yard with tall pine trees. Like a bomb went off It was on one of those trees where a lightning bolt ricocheted onto the roof above Larry and Deneekas bedroom. Deneeka, a lien processing representative, was seated in her home office space with the Evan and Addisyn. The three could see lightning from a window. Then they heard the lightning strike. SAFETY: Montgomery County ramps up patrols ahead of Labor Day It sounded like a bomb went off, Deneeka Hunter said. They initially thought maybe the electricity had gone out. Deneeka Hunter stood up and looked around. No one smelled anything and the smoke detectors did not go off. She felt the lightnings electrical surge on the house when she picked up the phone as if she took a blow from someone. Then they heard banging coming from the front door. It was their neighbor, Bryan Boyette. He told Larry Hunter about observing smoke on the roof. Boyette just happened to not be at work that day and managed to get Deneeka Hunter and the kids out of the house. Outside, Deneeka watched as the fire grew, stunned by its devastation. Its tough Multiple units from the Conroe Fire Department and the Montgomery County Emergency Services District 1 contained the fire from spreading to other homes, dousing the flames by using a ladder engine. The Hunters intended their home to be a meeting place for extended family and a refuge from area floods and future winter storms. Just that week, the parents and kids were discussing taking on a dog as a pet. They had positioned themselves to be the extended family historians, gathering photos, heirlooms, music records handed down from generations prior and funeral programs. Deneeka held onto the childrens baby teeth, their toys and clothes and their day care records. It was all lost in the blaze. Its tough, Larry Hunter said as he wept. He did, however, recover his fathers antique coin collection, which included items older than a century. Thinking it was gone, Larry found it on his final tour of the house before its upcoming demolition. I dont know if it was a service worker or if it was the Lord, he said of the discovery. MORE FROM THE AUTHOR: Montgomery County's 29 percent spike in overdose deaths spurs awareness event Their insurance claim remains open, Larry Hunter said. The family is staying at a motel, which he said has presented some safety concerns for them. But they may be temporarily moving into a leased property soon. Where we were supposed to be Though the last few weeks have been difficult for the Hunters, it has been eased, they said, by the outpouring of support from the surrounding community. Hundreds nearby and afar have come forward with donations and support, Larry Hunter said. . It has given us strength to push forward and push on, Larry Hunter said of the outreach. A The Woodland Hills resident, Justine Whichard, was walking her children from school a street over when she heard the lightning strike the Hunters home. Her house is the same model as theirs. This could have been any of us, Whichard said. It could have been me. Whichard is organizing a charity event to benefit the Hunters. Held 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 17 at The Woodlands Hills community center at 1460 N. Teralyn Hills Dr. in Willis, the event will feature a silent auction and raffle prizes. Entry tickets for adults are $25 and $15 for children with gift bags being handed out and free food and free drinks being served. There will also be a DJ performing, a bounce house and art and crafts stations for children and a beer tent, Whichard detailed. Margaritaville Lake Resort on Lake Conroe has donated two free nights in the raffle, she added. The goodwill has convinced the Hunters they should return to the property and rebuild. The neighbors have just reaffirmed that we were right where were supposed to be. The plan to move there was one of the best decisions that weve ever made in our entire lives, Larry Hunter said. People have been surprised at how Team Hunter has remained optimistic throughout, the parents and children bearing smiles. For Larry and Deneeka Hunter, the fire proved to them they were already whole before they had their dream home. The most important thing was we had each other and as long as we have each other, well never be homeless, Larry Hunter said. jose.gonzalez@chron.com twitter.com/jrgzztx SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) Shreveport centenarian Elvira Helaire-Davis, a 106-year-old family matriarch and mother of 14 children, realized a long-held dream when she was presented recently with an honorary State of Louisiana high school diploma. In a presentation ceremony held Aug. 27 at Mount Moriah Baptist Church, where her youngest son, Rev. Edward Davis is pastor, Helaire-Davis was surrounded by family members, close friends, and local dignitaries who showed up to show their love and support for her. Paying careful attention to every detail, the ceremony was organized by Helaire-Davis granddaughter Sandra Lister. It was yet another special and momentous occasion for her grandmother to shine while being recognized for her long and storied life. As the celebrated woman of the hour, Helaire-Davis wore a yellow cap and gown to receive her diploma from St. Paul School in Natchitoches Parish, a church school she attended on the Oakland Plantation. Back then, I believe they only went up to the eighth grade, said Yokota Strong, the grandson who shared his grandmothers historic legacy in a biographical account he wrote that traces her lineage back to her enslaved family members. Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana State Superintendent of Education, presented Helaire-Davis with her high school diploma. In addition to receiving an honorary diploma, Helaire-Davis received proclamations of honor from City of Natchitoches Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. and the Office of Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins. Shreveport City Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor was among the guests. Taylor, Helaire-Daviss family members said, is someone the family has known for a long time and looks upon fondly. In addition to the proclamations, Helaire-Davis received an official congratulation from Louisiana State Representatives. Strong said he could tell his grandmother enjoyed the moment. THE FAMILY LINEAGE Helaire-Davis celebrated her 106th birthday on July 21. I was inspired to write about my grandmother, aka Bigmama because she is the matriarch of our family. She once told me of the rich community she came from called Cane River, Bermuda, Louisiana, Strong writes. Strong describes the Cane River community as a place where relatives could sometimes be heard singing across the neighborhood where everyone knew one another. His grandmother, he continued, remembers working from sun-up to sun-down in the cotton fields and sugar cane crops. Helaire-Daviss heritage begins with her first enslaved ancestor from Mozambique, Africa, and continues through her familys 200-year survival on Oakland Plantation as enslaved people, sharecroppers. The Helaire family roots began during the late 1700s, according to Strong who did the research himself. Those roots were established in Natchitoches Parish, beginning with their first generation of identifiable ancestors: Hilario and Jeanne. Born July 21, 1915 to sharecropper parents Felix Helaire and Martha Hamilton-Helaire, Elvira ushered in the fifth-generation descendants of this family of formerly enslaved people. Elviras formerly enslaved grandparents, John Helaire and Ann Bobb, welcomed her arrival into the creole village. Elvira was the 3rd born of 8 siblings raised in one of the tenant cabins along the Cane River, on the same land her parents and grandparents were born and lived as enslaved people. THE FAMILY TODAY Elviras family is located across the United States and internationally. In addition to her 14 children, she has 30 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren and 36 great-great-grandchildren. She was married to Lawrence Davis. As of Aug. 3, she is the last surviving child of Felix Helaire and the oldest living descendant of Hilario and the Helaire family lineage, according to information from her biography. The ancestral home of the Helaire family is located on Oakland Bermuda Plantation, on part of the Red River that is now known as the Cane River, in rural Natchitoches Parish, on land that belonged to the Prudhomme family of Natchitoches. In 2020, the State of Louisiana, by the authority of Gov. John Bel Edwards, recognized Elvira for her 105th birthday along with Shreveports official Street Dedication to Elvira Helaire-Davis. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) Police in Charlotte, North Carolina say that two people were wounded and another was killed in an early-morning shooting. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said the shooting occurred shortly before 4 a.m. in a residential area northeast of the city center. Deadly flooding delivered to the Northeast by the torrential rains of what remained of Hurricane Ida has brought a new urgency and a fresh look to how roads, sewers, bridges and other infrastructure must be improved to prevent such a catastrophe from happening again. The world is changing and our whole mindset, the playbook that we use, must change too, New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said Thursday as he toured Mullica Hills, New Jersey, where a 150-mph (241 kph) tornado splintered homes. We have got to leap forward and get out ahead of this. The devastation exposed flaws in preparation plans even after New Jersey and New York spent billions of dollars to prevent a reoccurrence of Superstorm Sandys destruction in 2012, with much spent to protect coastal communities. Flash floods are now coming. Its not waves off the ocean or the sound, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said soon after last weeks storm swept through. Hochul and Murphy, both Democrats, agreed that the increasing frequency and intensity of storms demand a new approach that factors in flash floods. The storm dumped so much rain so fast that a record 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) fell in an hour in New York Wednesday, overwhelming drainage systems. Some lives were lost when water flooded basement apartments, subway stations and vehicles. At least 50 people died in five northeastern states. I dont think many people could have predicted the severity of the loss of life and damage done by the flash rains, said Dr. Irwin Redlener, founding director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University. People drowning in their basement apartments, in cars and so on is not something we typically would ever see in New York. Hochul promised new answers to pressing questions, like whether warnings were clear enough and communications with the weather service were flawed as well as if subways needed a faster shutdown. The effects of climate change are happening right now, Hochul said. It is not a future threat. Warnings of worsening storm damage are not new. In August 2011, the aftermath of Hurricane Irene killed six in Vermont, left thousands homeless, and damaged or destroyed over 200 bridges and 500 miles of highway. Of the states 251 towns, 225 had infrastructure damage. Thirteen communities were severed from the outside world after flooding washed out roads, electricity and telephone communication. National Guard helicopters ferried supplies to stranded residents for days. More than half a billion dollars was spent by the state and federal governments, and in donations by private individuals, to help Vermont recover. To weaken effects of future storms, New York and other areas can learn from other cities like Singapore, Copenhagen and Amsterdam, where solutions included turning asphalt parking lots and schoolyards into spaces that can retain water, said Amy Chester, managing director for the nonprofit Rebuild by Design. Climate change is expensive. Were going to have to spend money on it and every single dollar we spend in any type of infrastructure needs to take into consideration the future, she said. Redlener, the disaster preparedness expert, said New York City and other communities need to rethink warning systems and consider reengineering drainage, electrical and storm warning systems. He noted that the city's aging subway system has long been relied upon to absorb excess water from heavy rains, but that was before record rainfalls set off unprecedented flooding. That cant work because theres people in the subways and we have to think about their safety also, he said. And he said the future of New York City's basement apartments, which could number in the thousands, must be reconsidered. "What are we going to do for them now and what are we gonna do for people in the future? Are we going to even permit people legally to live in basement apartments, and if not, do we have the capacity and the resources to have other alternatives? I dont know that we do, he said. The system for warning people in areas threatened must be rethought and plans should be in place for what people should do and where they should go, he said. Linda Shi, an assistant professor in the department of city and regional planning at Cornell University, said there are limits to what infrastructure improvements such as larger storm pipes and road elevation can bring. She said most planners agree the strategies only buy time. If the worsening storm trends continue, she said, ultimately there will be increased conversations about managed retreat. "If you want to make space for water, that means making space for water by moving people out of those places, Shi said. ____ Associated Press reporters Larry Neumeister in New York City, Wayne Parry in Piscataway, New Jersey, and Michael Hill in Albany, New York, contributed to this story. WASHINGTON (AP) Top U.S. national security officials will see how the failed war in Afghanistan may be reshaping America's relationships in the Middle East as they meet with key allies in the Persian Gulf and Europe this week. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin are traveling to the Gulf separately, leaving Sunday. They will talk with leaders who are central to U.S. efforts to prevent a resurgence of extremist threats in Afghanistan, some of whom were partners in the 20-year fight against the Taliban. Together, the Austin and Blinken trips are meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Bidens decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of U.S. partners in the Middle East. The U.S. military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navys 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but he like the Trump administration before him has called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia. Theres nothing China or Russia would rather have, would want more, in this competition than the United States to be bogged down another decade in Afghanistan, Biden said in the hours after the last U.S. troops left. In announcing his Gulf trip, Austin told a Pentagon news conference that staying focused on terrorist threats means relentless efforts against any threat to the American people from any place, even as the United States places a new focus on strategic challenges from China. Blinken travels to Qatar and will also stop in Germany to see Afghan evacuees at Ramstein air base who are awaiting clearance to travel to the United States. While there he will join a virtual meeting with counterparts from 20 nations on the way ahead in Afghanistan. The secretary will convey the United States gratitude to the German government for being an invaluable partner in Afghanistan for the past 20 years and for German cooperation on transit operations moving people out of Afghanistan, spokesman Ned Price said Friday. Austin plans to start his trip by thanking the leaders of Qatar for their cooperation during the Kabul airlift that helped clear an initially clogged pipeline of desperate evacuees. In addition to permitting the use of al-Udeid air base for U.S. processing of evacuees, Qatar agreed to host the American diplomatic mission that withdrew from Kabul at war's end. The Qataris also have offered a hand to help reopen the Kabul airport in cooperation with the Taliban. During a stop in Bahrain, Austin plans to speak with Marines who spent weeks at Kabul airport executing a frantic and dangerous evacuation of Afghans, Americans and others. Eleven Marines were killed and 15 were wounded in a suicide bombing at the airport on Aug. 26. That attack killed a total of 13 U.S. service members and scores of Afghan civilians. The Pentagon chief also planned to visit Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and to meet with senior leaders in a region he knows well as a retired Army general and former head of U.S. Central Command with responsibility for all military operations there. Saudi Arabia was notably absent from the group of Gulf states who helped facilitate the U.S.-led evacuation from Kabul airport. Riyadh's relations with Washington are strained over Bidens efforts to revive a nuclear deal with Iran, among other issues. Just days before the U.S. left Afghanistan, the Saudis signed a military cooperation agreement with Russia. Biden said his decision to get out of Afghanistan after 20 years was part of a plan to "turn the page on an approach to foreign policy since 2001 that he believes kept the U.S. military in Afghanistan far too long. Allies in the Gulf, where extremist threats are at the doorstep, want to know what the next U.S. policy page looks like. In Europe, too, allies are assessing what the lost war in Afghanistan and its immediate aftermath mean for their collective interests, including the years-old question of whether Europe should become less reliant on the United States. We need to increase our capacity to act autonomously when and where necessary, Josep Borrell Fontelles, the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy, wrote on Twitter on Thursday. America's European allies in NATO had more troops in Afghanistan than did the United States when Biden announced in April that he would withdraw by September. The Europeans had almost no choice but to join the exit, given the limits of their combat power so far from home, and they were largely dependent on U.S. air transport to get out, although they did fly some of the evacuation sorties. Some NATO allies doubted the wisdom of Biden's withdrawal decision, but it's uncertain that the Afghanistan crisis will weaken the ties that bind the United States and Europe. In an essay, two of the Center for Strategic and International Security's Europe experts Rachel Ellehuus and Pierre Morcos wrote that the crisis does reveal inconvenient truths about the trans-Atlantic relationship. For Europeans, it has exposed both their inability to change the decision calculus of the United States and powerlessness to defend their own interests (for example, evacuate their own citizens and allies) without the support of Washington, they wrote. Germany, Spain, Italy and other European nations are allowing the U.S. to use their military bases to temporarily house Afghans who were airlifted out of Kabul but have not been approved for resettlement in the United States or elsewhere. Bahrain and Qatar made similar accommodations. Together, these arrangements relieved strain on the evacuation operation from Kabul that initially was so acute that the airlift had to be suspended for several hours because there was no place to take the evacuees. Four companies in the drug industry said Saturday that enough states had agreed to a settlement of lawsuits over the opioid crisis for them to move ahead with the $26 billion deal. An announcement from the three largest U.S. drug distribution companies and a confirmation from drugmaker Johnson & Johnson, which had previously announced that it would move ahead, came Saturday. That was the deadline for the companies to decide whether there was enough buy-in to continue the settlement plan. The distribution companies AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson said that 42 states had agreed to join. Johnson & Johnson did not immediately say how many states agreed to its part of the settlement. Together, the settlements are likely to represent the biggest piece of a string of settlements between companies in the drug industry and state and local governments over the addiction and overdose epidemic in the U.S. Prescription opioids such as OxyContin and Vicodin and illicit ones such as heroin and illegally made fentanyl have been linked to more than 500,000 deaths in the U.S. since 2000. Under the $26 billion settlement, which was initially announced in June, states were given a month to decide whether to join. Then it would be up to the companies to decide whether it was enough to keep going. The next step is trying to get local governments to sign on to the deal and agree not to continue their lawsuits. This phase is to last until Jan. 2. After that, the companies will again decide whether enough have joined to implement the deal. Saturday's milestone came days after a judge gave initial approval to a settlement worked out in bankruptcy court between OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma and some 3,000 plaintiffs. That deal could be worth $10 billion over time. In all the cases, governments have agreed to put most of their shares toward drug treatment and education programs and other measures to fight the epidemic. This year, there have been three trials on governments' claims over opioids, though none have reached a verdict. More similar trials are queued up for this year and next. ____ The day of the week has been corrected to Saturday in the opening paragraph. MILLERSVILLE, Md. (AP) Police in Maryland say that one person was hurt and another was killed in a hit-and-run crash involving pedestrians and a sedan. The Anne Arundel County Police Department said in a news release that the pedestrians were hit while walking along the shoulder of a highway around 9 p.m. Saturday. A man wearing full body armor fatally shot four people, including a mother and the 3-month-old baby she was cradling, and engaged in a massive gunfight with police and deputies before he was wounded and surrendered in Lakeland, Florida, a sheriff said Sunday. An 11-year-old girl who was shot seven times survived. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said during a press conference that even after 33-year-old Bryan Riley was arrested Sunday morning, he was so aggressive that he tried to wrestle a gun from police as he lay on his hospital gurney. Judd said Riley, a former Marine who served as a sharpshooter in both Iraq and Afghanistan, seemed to have targeted his victims at random and appeared to be suffering from mental health issues. Judd said Riley's girlfriend told authorities Riley had been slowly unraveling for weeks and repeatedly told her that he could communicate directly with God. They begged for their lives and I killed them anyway, Judd said Riley told them during an interrogation. Investigators said preliminary evidence shows 40-year-old Justice Gleason just happened to be an unlucky stranger out mowing his lawn Saturday night when Riley drove by his home in Lakeland, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) east of Tampa, saying God told him to stop because Gleasons daughter was going to commit suicide. A second, unidentified person also confronted Riley, telling him that story wasnt true and warned theyd call police if he didnt leave, Judd said. He referred to the person as a victim but declined to clarify which one. Authorities responded to the scene but never found Riley. About nine hours later, around 4:30 a.m. Sunday, Riley returned to the home, laying out glowsticks to create a path leading to the house to draw officers into an ambush, Judd said. Randomly, a lieutenant far in the distance heard popping noises and immediately put the agency on active-shooter mode, bringing all state and local law enforcement in the area to the scene. Following the sounds of gunfire, authorities arrived at the home and found Rileys white truck ablaze and an unarmed Riley outside, dressed in camouflage. Riley immediately ran inside, where authorities heard another round of gunfire, a woman scream and a baby whimper, Judd said. Officers tried to enter the front of the house, but it was barricaded. When they circled to the back, they encountered Riley, who appeared to have put on full body armor including head and knee coverings and a bulletproof vest. Authorities exchanged heavy gunfire, with dozens if not hundreds of rounds fired, before Riley retreated back into the home, according to the sheriff. Everything fell silent, Judd said, until a helicopter unit alerted authorities on the ground that Riley was coming out. He had been shot once and was ready to surrender. Meanwhile, officers heard cries for help inside the home, but were unsure whether there were additional shooters and feared the home was booby-trapped. A brave sergeant rushed in and grabbed the 11-year-old girl who had been shot at least seven times. She told deputies there were three dead people inside, Judd said, adding that she was rushed into surgery and was expected to survive. Deputies sent robots into the home to check for explosives and other traps. When it was clear, they found the bodies of Gleason; the 33-year-old mother; the baby; and the babys 62-year-old grandmother, who was in a separate home nearby. Authorities released only Gleasons name, and did not say if or how he was related to the other victims. Authorities declined to say how many times the victims had been shot or where they were in the home, but said they were all hiding and huddling in fear. The family dog also was shot to death. Authorities said Rileys girlfriend of four years, whom he lived with, had been cooperative and was shocked, saying he was never violent but suffered from PTSD and had become increasingly erratic. She said hed spent the previous week on what he called a mission from God, stockpiling supplies that he said were for Hurricane Ida victims, including $1,000 worth of cigars. Prior to this morning, this guy was a war hero. He fought for his country in Afghanistan and Iraq, said Judd. And this morning hes a cold-blooded killer. Riley, who had no criminal history, also told authorities he was on methamphetamines. His vehicle had also been stocked with supplies for a gunfight, authorities said, including bleeding control kits. While being treated at the hospital, Riley jumped up and tried to grab an officers gun. They had to fight with him again in the emergency room, Judd said, adding that Riley was ultimately tied down and medicated. He is expected to recover and will be transferred to jail to face charges. The big question that all of us has is, Why? State Attorney Brian Haas said. We will not know today or maybe ever. ___ This story corrects a reference to the number of people killed. There were four, not three. It also clarifies a reference to one of victims. The infants grandmother was 62 years old and lived in a nearby home. Photo courtesy of GHBA On Aug. 28, two dozen GHBA Remodelers Council (RMC) crew members came out in full force to finalize paint and touch-ups to two office spaces they constructed for SEARCHs House of Tiny Treasures, and then held the official ribbon cutting to dedicate the project. This is an RMC Charity Project that is in collaboration with HomeAid Houston, a 501(c)(3) charity of the Greater Houston Builders Association. More than 20 companies donated materials, labor and talent to help complete this much needed addition. SEARCHs House of Tiny Treasures (HTT) is a nationally accredited preschool program that provides developmentally focused early childhood education to children, aged 2-5 years, who have experienced homelessness. Nutritious meals, education, and intensive art, play, and speech therapy address students needs and prepare them to be successful in kindergarten and beyond. This investment in early education for at-risk children strives to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. PHOENIX (AP) Police are investigating the discovery of a man's body near the light rail tracks in central Phoenix early Sunday. They said officers were called to the area regarding an injured person around 4:45 a.m. HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) A Cast of Blues, an exhibit featuring 15 resin-cast masks of blues legends and photographs of blues performers and juke joints, will be featured at the Historic Eureka School in Hattiesburg this month. The resin-cast masks were created by artist Sharon McConnell-Dickerson, and the exhibit will feature photographs by photographer Ken Murphy, who both hail from Mississippi. We decided to bring A Cast of Blues exhibit to Hattiesburg because of the exhibits ties to the history of blues music in Mississippi, and because the featured artists of the exhibition are Mississippians, said Rick Taylor, executive director of the Hattiesburg Convention Commission. The exhibit will be located at 410 E. 6th St. beginning Sept. 11. The exhibit is free to the public, and will be open until Oct. 9 from on 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. A life cast is like a 3-D photograph to someone who is blind, McConnell-Dickerson, who is visually impaired, said in a news release. It captures the flesh, muscle, bone, hair and subtle expressions of emotion. I wanted to discover the faces behind the music I love, so I went to Mississippi to map out the visages of the real Delta blues men and women. The exhibit features braille labels, a music playlist and a closed-captioned film about the Cast of Blues project. Visitors are encouraged to touch the resin-cast masks, McConnell-Dickerson said. Among the artists spotlighted are Bo Diddley and Bobby Rush. Georgia-Pacifics Leaf River Cellulose is the sponsor for A Cast of Blues. Anyone who knows music knows the blues were born in Mississippi and we are excited to see how this display will celebrate the rich history of so many blues artists who set the foundation for American music, said Bill Glenn, Leaf River Celluloses public affairs manager. The exhibit is also accompanied by the 2008 documentary film, M for Mississippi: A Road Trip through the Birthplace of the Blues. There will be fun, interactive components that will allow children the opportunity to learn about the blues through hands-on play, said Latoya Norman, director of museums for the Hattiesburg Convention Commission. A Cast of Blues comes with musical instruments that children will be able use to create their very own music and performances. We are excited to see what they will imagine. The exhibit was curated by Chuck Haddix, music historian, author, radio personality, and director of the Marr Sound Archives at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. For more information about A Cast of Blues, call 601-450-1942 or visit hattiesburgeureka.com. WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (AP) The Navajo Nation has reported 53 new COVID-19 cases and seven additional deaths. The latest numbers released Saturday pushed the Navajo Nations total to 32,907 cases since the pandemic began more than a year ago and 1,414 known deaths. In a statement, tribal President Jonathan Nez pleaded for residents not to leave the reservation over the Labor Day weekend. The safest place to be is at home here on the Navajo Nation where the infection rate for COVID-19 is much lower than border towns and cities off the vast reservation, Nez said. Nez previously said all Navajo Nation executive branch employees will need to be fully vaccinated against the virus by the end of September or submit to regular testing. The new rules apply to full, part-time and temporary employees, including those working for tribal enterprises like utilities, shopping centers and casinos. Any worker who does not show proof of vaccination by Sept. 29 must be tested every two weeks or face discipline. The tribes reservation is the countrys largest at 27,000 square miles (70,000 square kilometers) and it covers parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. BRAMWELL, W.Va. (AP) A photographers efforts and an historical interpreters research have come together to create a new book that describes a small town enriched by the history of residents who became coalfield millionaires and built the homes to prove it. Bramwells Golden Years: The Homes and History of Bramwell, W.Va. was created by photographer Hal Brainerd and historical interpreter Elizabeth L. Betty Goins. Brainerd and Goins went to the new Honeycomb Cafe on Main Street and spoke about how the new book came together. I wanted to do this book for many years and it was a dream that I dont think I really took seriously until I mentioned it so many times to Jackie Sheahan who lives in the Tudor House (the Thomas House), Brainerd recalled. And she said, Why dont you do it? You could do it. Brainerd went to the Bramwell Foundation with the idea. The foundations members thought it was a wonderful idea, and pointed out that the Bramwell Theater Corporation that raises funds for such projects. Goins is a member of both organizations. So I presented it to them, they liked the idea and said well turn you loose on that. Now what I was going to do was just have a photo book because Im a photographer, and have two or three sentences about each house, but when I got into it I decided that the history was more important than my photographs. I think the photographs will bring the attention to the book. They get your attention, but I think the history is really important. I already had a contract that this had to be finished by Sept. 1; our agreement, anyway, and I knew there was no way I was going to be able to research the history thoroughly in that length of time. Goins came to Brainerd and told him that she had already written a book detailing Bramwells history and invited him to use it for Bramwells Golden Years. So I figured that if I was going plagiarize all her work, I better put her name on the book, Brainerd said. Which, by the way, was not necessary as far as I was concerned, she replied with a smile. Betty never asked for anything, which amazed me. She just handed over the book and told me to use it, he said. I wrote a book about four years ago. I did it for my girls. Goins said. They said, mom, write what you know about the history of Bramwell. I just did it for them. It turned out to be pretty extensive. Its called A Comprehensive History of Bramwell. What I did, I took all of the articles I could find, all the books I could find, everything I could find and put all that information into one place so that when people come to Bramwell, they can pick up this book I had written, they could walk the streets, pick a page and say, OK, there is the Cooper House. My photographs in that book nowhere near compare to Hals. The new book is a good reference for people who are unfamiliar with the Town of Bramwell, they said. Besides the photographs, it includes the historical background of each home pictured in it. Besides seeing the homes exteriors, the readers get good views on their furnished interiors. They might say, Did people really live like this? Yes, Goins said. Many of the millionaires who built Bramwells fine homes had worked their way up from humble beginnings. For example, the first coal operator to settle in the area, John Cooper, was born in South Staffordshire, England to a poor family. He grew up in the coalfields, and he was not a wealthy man by any means, Goins said. When Cooper was 6 years old, he went into coal mining with his father. In 1862 after his father was killed in a mining accident, he came to the United States with his mother and two brothers. He settled in Pennsylvania, but later returned to England and married his childhood sweetheart, Maria, and brought her back to America in 1867. Cooper was practically penniless from 1872 to 1892 until some friends offered a lease on some coal lands they owned along the line of the C&O Railroad. After many struggles, he used his savings to close the first coal lease in the area with the Flat Top Coal Land Association, later the Bluestone Land Company, and became the first coal operator in the Flat Top Field. He later became the second president of the Bank of Bramwell. The book features the history of each home and its builders. This book is organized by when each of these individuals arrived because we wanted to show how the town grew as each individual came in, Brainerd said. They provided something else: by working together, they created the Town of Bramwell. The book is available the the Corner Shop and the Train Depot in Bramwell, but the best away to obtain a copy is to go online at visitbramwell.com and order one, Goins said. It costs $25, which comes to $28.50 with shipping. Unless you want to come to Bramwell and enjoy some of the shops, eat at one of the places here and walk around town yourself, she added. Putting together the book took cooperation with the homeowners. Getting the photographs involved more than taking a camera and visiting each home. Brainerd often had to stay at locations past midnight in order to get the right lighting and other factors in place. Property owners have been so kind. I think Hal can attest to that. Its not easy to come into someones home and spend hours upon hours upon hours trying to get the right picture, Goins said. Most of the homes have this very dark woodwork, Brainerd explained. You have to use theatrical lighting or youre not going to see the detail in the wood. And it being wintertime, I was always shooting in the evening. You dont want the blue light coming in the windows when youve got the yellow light, the incandescent, inside. Blue and yellow are opposites, and it throws the color off. If I started shooting at 9 oclock, I could finish by midnight or one in the morning. At first, people didnt think that much time was necessary to get the best photographs, but they changed their minds when they started seeing the results. To get those results, he had to arrive at the right time and get his equipment set up. Sometime factors such as clouds or rain complicated the effort. He compared the work to fishing: being there at the right time with the right equipment and the right conditions to get the best results. Its really what I call an art book because youre trying to get the most perfect natural light you can from mother nature, Brainerd said. The first hour of sunrise and the last hour of the evening is the best time to get the beautiful light. To get the best outdoor photographs, Brainerd used digital technology to move away power lines, power poles and other items that obstructed the view. When youre doing an art book, youre doing it for the love of it because youre spending a tremendous amount of time on it, he said. Brainerd thanked the Bramwell Foundation and the Bramwell Theater Corporation for their support along with the Community Foundation of the Virginias and the National Coal Heritage Highway Area Authority for their financial support. Proceeds raised by the book will benefit the Town of Bramwell. CULVER CITY, Calif. (AP) California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom enlisted progressive star Elizabeth Warren on Saturday to help him overcome a looming recall election that could remove him from office, warning that his ouster carries possible consequences for the national Democratic agenda on climate change, immigration and reproductive rights. On a crystalline summer morning, the Massachusetts senator and former presidential candidate joined the embattled governor for an outdoor rally at a suburban Los Angeles high school in the states populous Democratic heartland, where polls show left-leaning Latino and younger voters have been slow to turn in their mail ballots for the contest that culminates Sept. 14. Both Warren and Newsom evoked former President Donald Trumps tumultuous administration, depicting leading Republican candidate Larry Elder as an acolyte of the billionaire businessman who would undermine the minimum wage, chisel into environmental protections and threaten abortion rights. At a time when Washington is often gridlocked, Warren argued that states have become the engines of government policy-making, and voters need to recognize how much is at risk in the recall and how broadly the results will be felt. She said Elder, a conservative talk radio host, dreams of being Californias own Donald Trump. Battles over women's rights, the coronavirus and a warming climate are "not just in Texas, Florida, South Dakota, she said, referring to states with conservative governors. These fights have come to California. Newsom warned that Trump was defeated in 2020 but we did not defeat Trumpism. With just nine days remaining in the contest, Racial justice is on the ballot. Economic justice in on the ballot. Social justice in on the ballot. Environmental justice is on the ballot, the governor said to hundreds of sign-waving supporters, who responded by chanting Vote no on the recall. In recent months, Newsom appeared imperiled from widespread public frustration over his pandemic restrictions that shuttered schools and businesses. But he is hoping to bounce back with a decisive victory that could provide a springboard for 2022, when he will face reelection, and return his name to discussions about future White House contenders. Recent polling has suggested he has established a lead, but Newsom has been warning the race could be close. Mail-in ballots went to all 22 million registered voters in mid-August for the unusual, late-summer election. In the recall, voters are asked two questions: Should Newsom be removed? And, if so, who should replace him? With Warren on stage, Newsom appeared to be reassuring voters in the partys liberal wing that he remained loyal to their agenda, despite grumbles that he has been moving too slowly in Sacramento. Despite falling short in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, Warren remains a popular figure with party progressives for promoting such proposals as expanding Social Security benefits and canceling student-loan debt for millions of Americans. Warren is here to shore up Gov. Gavin Newsoms progressive flank, said Thad Kousser, who chairs the political science department at the University of California, San Diego. His campaign in the recall has been about what he stands against. This is a chance to remind voters what he stands for, especially for those on the left who havent seen as much progress on things like single-payer health care and police reform as they would like, Kousser added. Elder, meanwhile, was crisscrossing the state delivering his message that one-party, Democratic dominance in Sacramento was to blame for rising crime rates, a homeless crisis that is a national embarrassment, climbing taxes and home prices that are out of reach for many working-class families. If elected, he has promised to lift any mask or vaccine mandates for state workers that remain in place. Newsom was elected in a 2018 landslide in the heavily Democratic state, but his popularity faded as he contended with public unrest over long-running school and businesses closures during the pandemic, fallout from a multibillion-dollar unemployment benefits scandal and embarrassment over his decision to attend a lavish birthday dinner at an exclusive restaurant in November without a mask while lecturing residents to stay home for safety. As the race enters its final days, Newsom has talked of the contest in increasingly stark terms, depicting it as a focal point in the broader national fight over Americas political identity and direction in the post-Trump era. He told a group of Latinos this week that the drive to push him from office rose from the states political far-right in 2020 because California is standing up against all things Trump and Trumpism. He said those on the Republican fringe grew indignant when the recoiled against the Trump administrations immigration policies, which made it harder for immigrants to live or work in the United States, while seeking to sharply reduce the number of people entering the country illegally, including through construction of his signature border wall. California, meanwhile, expanded government-paid health care for lower-income residents 50 and older, regardless of their immigration status. He also referenced the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow a Texas law banning most abortions to remain in effect. Eyes are now on the state of California because they recognize this is not just about the state of California, Newsom told Latino supporters. This is about the direction that were going as a nation. The contest is being watched nationally because of its possible consequences for the 2022 midterm elections, when control of Congress again will be in play. It also appears Newsom is making a concerted effort to connect with women voters, after Elder faced allegations that he emotionally mistreated a former fiancee and was criticized for once writing that employers should be able to ask women if and when they plan to get pregnant. In addition to Warren's stop Saturday, Newsom has a planned appearance with Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar on Sunday, while Vice President Kamala Harris is expected in the state next week. The remainder of the race will focus on turning out voters. We're here ... with a very intense purpose in mind," Newsom told reporters after the rally. This all comes down to turnout. CASA GRANDE, Ariz. (AP) A 21-year-old man was arrested in the fatal shooting of a man who had intervened in an physical altercation between a man and a woman in a Casa Grande hotel parking lot early Saturday morning, police said. The victim, 35-year-old Brian Robinette of Casa Grande, was shot multiple times to the upper torso by the man involved in the altercation, police said in a statement. ESTILL, S.C. (AP) A lawyer from a prominent South Carolina legal family who found his wife and son shot to death at their home three months ago was shot in the head and wounded Saturday after he had car trouble on a lonely rural road, a family attorney said. Alex Murdaugh was heading to Charleston when his car had stopped on Salkehatchie Road in Hampton County, his lawyer Jim Griffin told The State newspaper. A truck passed Murdaugh on the road before turning around and then someone in the vehicle shot him, Griffin added. The lawyer said he received that information from Murdaugh's brother, Randy. Murdaugh was airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina hospital in Charleston, said Griffin, who didn't know how many times he was shot. The State Law Enforcement Division, South Carolina's top law enforcement agency, confirmed the shooting Saturday, but released no further details. Local deputies referred questions to the state police. The Murdaugh family has suffered through more than any one family can ever imagine," said a statement released by Murdaugh relatives Saturday evening. We expect Alex to recover and ask for your privacy while he recovers. Murdaugh, 53, found his wife and son shot to death at their Colleton County home on June 7. No arrests have been made, and state police have released little information, even going to court to fight public records requests. Maggie Murdaugh, 52, and her 22-year-old son Paul were both shot several times and found outside the house near dog kennels, authorities said. Alex Murdaugh said on a 911 call he had just returned home and in a later TV interview said he was out checking on his terminally ill father when his wife and son were killed. The Murdaughs are one of South Carolinas most prominent legal families. Alex Murdaugh was a volunteer prosecutor in the same office where his father, grandfather and great-grandfather spent more than 80 years combined as the area's top prosecutors. Other members of the family are prominent civil attorneys. When Paul Murdaugh was killed, he was awaiting trial for boating under the influence causing death in a February 2019 crash that killed a 19-year-old woman. State police have since started looking into the investigation into that crash to see if anyone tried to keep police from charging Paul Murdaugh. After the Murdaughs deaths, state police also reopened an investigation into a 2015 hit-and-run death of a 19-year-old man in Hampton County. The victims mother said she thought Paul Murdaugh could have been involved. Authorities haven't released any information about why those cases we reopened. CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (AP) Despite the COVID-19 pandemic or perhaps because of it business starts jumped to a record high in the first half of 2021, according to filings with the Tennessee Secretary of States Office. People who have been displaced are thinking that if they were ever going to do this, maybe now is the time, said Lynn Chesnutt, managing director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Center in Chattanooga. If there is any silver lining in what weve been through, we are seeing much more intentionality in what people are doing, and they are willing to do more to be successful. Montrell Besley has always had an entrepreneurial streak, and he started mobile arcade Rolling Video Games in May, when it looked as if the pandemic would soon relent. I dove right in, head first, because I knew the market was going to go crazy because people had been stuck in the house for an entire year, he said. A crisis like the pandemic tends to spur action in people who may have been considering entrepreneurship, Besley said. I saw a very big surge in people starting businesses, he said. Think about all those people that lost their jobs and didnt have an avenue to take. Some people didnt get unemployment they had to create something. In Tennessee, a report from Secretary of State Tre Hargetts office shows 70,118 businesses filed for business licenses over the past year, and 19,983 filed in the second quarter of 2021, the highest quarterly total ever recorded. New business filings in Tennessee in the second quarter of 2021 grew 61.6% from second-quarter filings in 2020. This is the second quarter in a row that Tennessee broke the previous record of year-over-year gain in the 28-year history of the data being collected. Nationally, Americans filed paperwork to start 4.3 million businesses last year, according to data from the Census Bureau, a 24% increase from the year before and by far the most in the decade and a half the government has kept track. Applications are on pace to be even higher this year. The surge is a striking and unexpected turnaround after a 40-year decline in U.S. entrepreneurship. In 1980, 12% of employers were new businesses; by 2018, the most recent year for which data is available, that share had fallen to 8%. Economic upheaval created both challenges and opportunities for business, said Bill Fox, director of the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research at the University of Tennessee. As companies shut down, it created a need for people to find other ways to support themselves, and it created new opportunities for business to get done in a different way, he said. The COVID-19 virus upended many businesses and careers, cutting nearly 575,000 jobs across Tennessee during the worst of the economic downturn in the spring of 2020. By July 2021, employment had returned to pre-pandemic levels, and many industries were facing a labor shortage. Besley still has his job as director of community engagement for Chattanooga Prep, a local charter school for boys, but he always encourages people to invest in themselves and their own ideas and passions, he said. It runs deep in my roots in my family, he said. We all have other businesses outside work. At the drop of a dime, your job can tell you, We dont need you anymore. The resurgent virus has slowed his business some, but not halted it, he said. I still get calls, and I still push safety when Im doing my events, he said. He also sought expert help in setting up the business, working with Launch Chattanooga to build a business plan, Besley added. The pandemic helped push me to do my own thing. It helped me lock in and build my business plan. It forced me to put some things down that were holding me back, he said. Hal Bowling, co-founder and executive director of small business booster Launch Chattanooga, said the pandemic drove demand for the nonprofit organizations services. We continue to experience high demand for training and support and are up more than 50% from pre-pandemic years in terms of the number of entrepreneurs we are working with, Bowling said. I believe the pandemic is bringing more people out to start a business during a time when things are very uncertain and entrepreneurs are coming up with solutions to address new community needs. Gloria DuBose worked for nine years at the nonprofit Bethlehem Center in Alton Park before she switched gears this summer to focus on her love of preparing healthy, creative food from a wide variety of cultures. Id been thinking about it for a while, but I think the pandemic really made me evaluate what my priorities were and what allowed me to thrive, she said. My faith is pretty important to me. I felt like God was putting pieces together. DuBose went to work in the kitchen of local vegan eatery Southern Squeeze and launched her Crossing Borders meal prep business in May. Shes working now with friends and family as she builds a business plan and gets certifications in nutrition, DuBose said. I was at the Bethlehem Center for years, and it was so great, but toward the end I thought it was time to transition to do something else, she said. I felt like I had some gifts and experiences I wasnt getting to use. For Besley, one benefit of working with young men and being an entrepreneur is sharing the message with them, he said. I just want to push people to have their own go out and have your own, Besley said. Figure out what you love to do, how youre going to do it, when you want to do it, and get out there and do it. QUETTA, Pakistan (AP) A suicide bomber detonated his explosives Sunday near a security checkpoint in restive southwestern Pakistan, killing at least three paramilitary troops and wounding 15 others, police said. Senior police officer Azhar Akram said the attacker had walked toward the checkpoint manned by the paramilitary Frontier Corps on Quetta-Mastung Road, some 25 kilometers (15 miles) south of Quetta, the capital of Baluchistan province. He said body parts were found at a distance from the security post after the bombing. Akram said some of the wounded were in critical condition and the death toll could rise. Banned militant group Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for the morning attack. It was the first time TTP claimed an attack on Pakistani security forces since the Taliban a separate organization took control of neighboring Afghanistan. Baluchistan has also seen a low-level insurgency by Baluch separatist groups for nearly two decades calling for independence for the gas and mineral rich province. Most attacks on security forces in Baluchistan in the recent past have been claimed by Baluch separatist groups Baluch Liberation Army and Baluch Liberation Front. Baluchistan, bordering Iran and Afghanistan, is a key province in southwest Pakistan, where China has been working on projects related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. The projects, including road construction, power plants and agricultural development, have cost billions of dollars. China has in recent years also played a key role in developing the deep-water port of Gwadar on the Arabian Sea. But there have been attacks on Pakistanis and Chinese working on the economic corridor projects. A suicide bomber last month detonated his explosives near a vehicle carrying Chinese workers, killing two Pakistani children playing by the roadside and wounding a Chinese national and two other Pakistanis in the port city of Gwadar. Suspected separatists also last month hurled a hand grenade at a store selling national flags in Quetta, killing one man and wounding four others who were buying flags to celebrate Pakistan's Independence Day. OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) Days after suing to block what is believed to be among the nations strictest COVID-19 employee vaccine mandates, Washington's largest state labor union has announced a tentative agreement for Gov. Jay Inslees order for state workers. The Northwest News Network report s the Washington Federation of State Employees has negotiated terms for Inslee's mandate that all 46,000 of its union members be fully vaccinated by October 18 or lose their jobs. The Democratic governor issued the order in August, citing the highly contagious delta variant. The union countered with a labor complaint, claiming Inslee's administration was bargaining in bad faith. The new agreement, which still needs to be ratified, was announced Saturday and defines the exceptions and religious and medical exemptions process for employees who can't or won't get their shots. This agreement is a victory for both public health and due process, WFSE said in a statement. It puts in place a fair, equitable and consistent process for members seeking a legitimate exemption to the mandate. Anyone who is eligible to retire by the end of the year can forgo the vaccine if they use accrued or unpaid leave until they reach their retirement date. Those who miss the October deadline will also be allowed to take leave for up to 30 days in order to get vaccinated. Workers wont lose their jobs while they wait for a determination on their exemption request and those denied will have 45 days on leave to get fully vaccinated. Employees can also get the vaccine while on the clock and they will get a vaccine incentive in the form of an additional personal leave day in 2022. "We are confident that through our negotiation efforts and partnership going forward, we have clarified issues to help employees get on the path towards vaccination and ultimately provide for safer workplaces, said Mike Faulk, Gov. an Inslee spokesman. We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form An unidentified woman, left, yells at Liberal candidate Patty Hajdu, right, being confronted by a man wearing a Peoples Party of Canada shirt during a campaign stop in Geraldton, Aug 18. It is one of Canadas most vitriolic elections in recent memory. Facebook A. Officials knew the mandates were coming for years; they should have phased in the increase. B. There's no master plan to justify the millions extra they are collecting. C. It's Save Our Waters Week; this shows officials care about the environment. D. Vote them all out of office. Vote View Results Stay up to date on COVID-19 Get Breaking News Sign up now to get our FREE breaking news coverage delivered right to your inbox. Were you an online subscriber to the Clearwater Progress prior to October 2020? Your subscription can be validated to continue access on our new site. Simply verify the email address associated with your subscription and you will be good to go! Beachwood, OH (44122) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then cloudy skies late. High 72F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Some clouds early will give way to generally clear conditions overnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) The Department of Health says it has distributed a total of 14.3-billion worth of benefits to healthcare workers in various healthcare facilities as of Sept. 3. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said in a statement to media on Sunday the benefits covered the periods Sept. 15 to Dec. 19, 2020 (Period 1), and Dec. 20, 2020 to June 30, 2021 (Period 2). For Period 1, 6.4 billion was disbursed for active hazard duty pay of 384,159 healthcare personnel and special risk allowance for 306,314 health workers, the statement said. Additionally, 990.9 million was allotted for the meals, accommodation, and transportation allowances of 103,096 healthcare workers, the DOH said. For Period 2, the DOH said 6.9 billion worth of SRA was released for 379,117 health workers. Further, 16 million worth of life insurance was released to 32,281 healthcare personnel. 570 million was also to disbursed 24,034 medical frontliners as COVID-19 sickness and death compensation. The said benefits, the DOH said, cover healthcare personnel from private and public hospitals who are attending to COVID-19 patients. Within the DOH family includes 72 hospitals with more than ten thousand medical frontliners. They, like many others, put their lives at-risk every day in order to serve patients from all over the country and from all walks of life, Duque said in the statement. The DOH through its Centers for Health Development enters into a Memorandum of Understanding with health facilities to legally disburse these benefits, said DOH. The health facilities are then responsible for disbursing these to the employees and submitting a liquidation report thereafter. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) Health experts in the country agree that the implementation of granular lockdowns in Metro Manila starting Sept. 8 would not be enough to significantly decrease COVID-19 cases in the region. OCTA Research fellow Dr. Guido David said granular lockdowns must be complemented by other interventions, such as randomized mass testing, more aggressive contact tracing, and early detection and isolation efforts to effectively curb the spread of the virus. David added that based from experience, granular lockdowns alone are not effective if the virus expanded its reach in an area. "Our local governments will have a hard time in this setup because of their limited manpower. For example, there are 100 barangays in a city and 10 of them only have cases, it will be easier to implement a granular lockdown. But if there are 90 barangays with cases, the local government will have a hard time dealing with those because there will be persons assigned to man the locked down area and bring food there," Guido told CNN Philippines' Newsroom Weekend on Sunday. RELATED: IATF approves granular lockdown status in NCR starting Sept. 8 DTI chief Infectious disease specialist Dr. Benjamin Co said the granular lockdowns should not only last for two weeks, the timeframe imposed by the Inter-Agency Task Force in implementing the localized quarantine classification. "It takes one family of five or six people in the household at least three to four weeks to be fully recovered. If you have one whole street, one whole barangay that's infected, it will take them two to three months to recover," Co told CNN Philippines. Co said local governments should utilize their isolation facilities, instead of granular lockdowns in barangays, to easily separate sick individuals. "That is where the testing, the tracing, the isolating comes in especially among the informal settlers," he added. With Metro Manila still registering over a thousand daily COVID-19 cases, health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon said a stricter quarantine classification is the answer to slow down infections in the region and the whole nation. Leachon added that an extension of the current modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) status in Metro Manila, not a granular lockdown, is the best compromise to control the spread of COVID-19 infections and to perform more mass testing, intensive contact tracing, and rapid vaccination activities. "It would be a disaster if they will actually do MECQ to GCQ (general community quarantine) on a granular lockdown. It's quite dangerous considering we have high positivity rate, we have high mobility, we have high reproduction number, we have low testings in a Delta variant environment with a demoralized workforce crisis," Leachon told CNN Philippines. "It is a perfect storm, actually." Meanwhile, David said the country's reproduction number, the number of people that can be infected by a person in a susceptible population, decreased to 1.31 and OCTA expects a downward trajectory of COVID-19 cases by the third week of September if the trend continues. On Sunday, the country recorded over 20,000 new COVID-19 cases for the third day in a row. CNN Philippines correspondent Paige Javier contributed to this report. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) Former pandemic task force adviser Dr. Tony Leachon said the government may not be able achieve its revised goal to attain herd immunity by year-end. The Health department said experts have recommended that government raise the target to "up to 90%" from the initial 70% because the new COVID-19 variants have lowered the efficacy of available vaccines. As of end-August, nearly 14 million Filipinos or 13% of the population are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus. The new goal is to inoculate 100 million Filipinos by the end of the year. READ: Govt experts increase herd immunity estimate to 90% At the rate the countrys vaccination rollout is going, however, Leachon believes it will take longer than the government's projected timeline to reach herd immunity. "I don't think we will achieve the targeted herd immunity, even the 50% targeted for the NCR bubble for December 2021. That is precarious at this point in time. At the rate we're going, I think we will reach the herd immunity about 85% to 90% in two years time. So that may be 2023," he told CNN Philippines. Leachon added the government must revisit its vaccine portfolio and prioritize the purchase of brands that have higher efficacy rates amid the spread of the Delta variant. He also raised concern on the supply of procured doses coming from the United States given the recent developments there. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration had given Pfizer-BioNTech full approval for its COVID-19 vaccine for those aged 16 and older, opening the door for the vaccine to be commercially sold in America. U.S. health officials also want vaccine booster shots to be offered starting Sept. 20, subject to the approval of the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. READ: COVID-19 vaccine booster shots to be offered to Americans beginning September 20, US health officials say Government vaccine expert panel member Dr. Rontgene Solante remains optimistic about the revised target, but he says achieving this goal will highly depend on the arrival of vaccines. "We still have four months to go. So, hopefully before mag-end ang year makakapag-bakuna, maski 70% (of the population) before the end of the year makukuha natin yan, that's already a good sign. Then in the first quarter next year, matapos natin yung (vaccination) ng remaining population," Solante told Newsroom Weekend. [Translation: We still have four months to go. So, hopefully before the end of the year we can vaccinate at least 70% of the population, that's already a good sign. Then in the first quarter next year, we can finish vaccinating the remaining population.] The government is expecting around 55 million vaccines to arrive between September and October. No final decision on booster shots yet The country's vaccine expert panel has recommended administering booster shots to healthcare workers and the immunocompromised. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire clarified that there's no final decision yet despite the suggestion of the panel, adding that 50% of the population must be vaccinated first before rolling out booster shots. Infectious disease expert Dr. Benjamin Co said the government must stick to the vaccination of the priority population first before expanding the rollout. "I think we just need to focus on what the initial plans are with the limited resources that we have. I guess by doing that, we can achieve our goals, slowly but without any background noiseIf we keep mixing and we keep adding all other variables: children, boosters, third doses and so on and so forth, it becomes a challenge to get everyone vaccinated," Co told CNN Philippines in another interview. Leachon, meanwhile, said the country should start planning for the possibility of rolling out booster shots in the future. "We should already put that in the equation so that we can actually demand for a higher budget. So that when the time comes that the Delta variant is here and the vaccines that we ordered may not be effective, then we have the available booster doses already," he said. Vaccine czar Carlito Galvez, Jr. said the government is already in talks with four vaccine manufacturers for booster shots. He added that Chinese drugmaker Sinovac also pledged to donate 500,000 more doses to the country. Health officials and the expert panel will meet to discuss their final recommendation on administering booster shots. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) Vice President Leni Robredo expressed her dismay anew over what she called the misplaced priority of the government as she questioned on Sunday the proposal to allot a higher 2022 budget for the 'Build, Build, Build' program. The official stressed in her weekly radio show that while she understands the need to accelerate infrastructure development in the country, controlling the surge in COVID-19 cases is a more pressing issue. Robredo said that once the Philippines succeeds in managing the public health crisis, the government could go full throttle on its massive infrastructure program. "Kahit magkano ipasok mong pera sa DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways), kung magkasakit at mamatay ang mga tao, wala rin," she said. "Kung ganito kataas ang kaso, tapos 'yan ang binibigyan mo ng priority, parang mali," Robredo added. [Translation: No matter how much money you put into the DPWH, if people get sick and die, it's still futile. If the case is this high, then that's what you're giving priority to, it seems wrong.] The Duterte administration seeks to allocate to the DPWH 686.1 billion next year, higher than this year's 667.320 billion. The Department of Health, meanwhile, may get a 19.68 billion budgetfar from its proposed 73.99 billion worth of COVID-19 response funds, of which 50.41 billion was intended for healthcare workers' benefits. Robredo said lowering the budget for the country's healthcare system "does not make sense". RELATED: No funds for frontliners benefits in proposed 2022 budget as DBM denies DOH request Rep. Stella Quimbo earlier said the DOH budget was "too small" versus the total COVID-19 response funds released from March 2020 to June this year, amounting to 160.97 billion. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 5) Vice President Leni Robredo says there is a lack of leadership in the country's pandemic response and this has prolonged the suffering of Filipinos. "Ang term ko nga ay konduktor, parang walang konduktor," she said during her weekly radio show. "Kung pwede lang mag-vo-volunteer na ako. Pero kung di ka rin bibigyan ng authority, wala kang magagawa," Robredo added. [Translation: My term is conductor, it seems we have no conductor. If only I could volunteer, I would. But if you are not given authority either, there is nothing you can do.] Robredo said the government continues to fail to strengthen the basic factors needed to stamp out the pandemic, which are testing, tracing, isolation, and treatment. Despite recording a high number of new infections amid the presence of the highly transmissible Delta variant, she said the government's testing capacity "remains low". The executive also reiterated repeated lockdowns are pointless if the government will not take advantage of the period to conduct mass testing. The government is now planning to implement granular lockdowns, under which local government units could restrict the movement of residents in a specific area. The Department of Health earlier said imposing such a lockdown rule will allow LGUs to actively do case finding. READ: IATF approves granular lockdown status in NCR starting Sept. 8 DTI chief "Kahit mag-granular lockdown tayo, pero kung walang basic, patuloy na tataas ang cases," Robredo said. [Translation: Even if we do granular lockdown, but without implementing the basics, cases will continue to increase.] Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday. Offer a personal message of sympathy... By sharing a fond memory or writing a kind tribute, you will be providing a comforting keepsake to those in mourning. If you have an existing account with this site, you may log in with that below. Otherwise, you can create an account by clicking on the Log in button below, and then register to create your account. 60% Website dmcreport.co.kr uses latest and advanced technologies. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 274918 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS. The main html page has a size of 1959 bytes (1.91 kb uncompressed). This CoolSocial report was updated on 2020-08-21, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. On February 3, 1883, a German grocer named John Von Dohlen was working at his store in Manhattan's West Village. He had a large sum of money on him (hundreds of dollars), as became clear when a customer asked for change and got a clear view of the bills. That customer walked out, and two new ones walked in, laughing. The two of them wanted the grocer to settle a bet for them, they said. Each man believed he had the larger hat. To figure out who was right, they wanted John to fill each hat with molasses, and by holding more of the delicious syrup, one hat would prove its owner had the larger head. They'd pay for the molasses, of course. John first assumed they were kidding, but he agreed to go through with it. He scooped molasses into the first hat. Then one of the men pinned his arms to his side. The other now picked up the hat and plopped it on John's head, so the syrup flowed down, filling his eyes. With John now blinded and very confused, the men relieved him of his money and took off. The robbers were eventually caught and jailed, and police discovered they were career criminals who used a bunch of different names. But the really weird thing about this story is how the molasses crime mutated as a legend. Continue Reading Below Advertisement Books about New York crime now refer to a 19th-century "Molasses Gang," who had three members (whose names don't correspond with any of the Dohlen robbers' aliases). The Molasses Gang, they claim, existed years before the Dohlen incident and pulled the molasses trick not as a one-off maneuver but as their regular M.O., again and again. Harry Houdini also wrote a book where he claimed this was a common tactic, and he placed the crime as happening repeatedly near London. None of these other references to the molasses trick are backed up by contemporary news sources. So, we're thinking they're a bunch of fictional copycats ... which is the highest honor any criminal can ask for. Continue Reading Below Advertisement This fact came from the new One Cracked Fact newsletter. Want more like this, straight from your email inbox, without any ads or popups? SIGN ME UP For more old-timey crime, check out: 5 Bizarre Ways Our Ancestors Solved Major Crimes 6 Real Crime Waves From History That Were Hilariously Insane 5 Ways The Past Was Even Crazier Than You Thought Follow Ryan Menezes on Twitter for more stuff no one should see. Top image: Badagnani/Wiki Commons Joyce S. Norrod, 86, of Crossville, passed away on Sept. 8, 2021, at her home in Crossville. Mrs. Norrod was born on May 20, 1935, in White County, daughter of Allen Smith and Anna O'Dell Smith. Joyce was a homemaker and a founding member of the Crossville First Church of the Nazarene. She w John Mayer Instagrams about hometown Fairfield On his way up to Boston, John Mayer posted a photo of the highway exit to his hometown of Fairfield with the following caption: "On the road up to Boston. I always like to look out the window when we pass my old hometown of Fairfield, CT. Its my opportunity to take inventory of the passage of time, and for one moment - and a couple of miles - reflect on how profound and formerly unbelievable it is to pass exit 24 from inside a tour bus." LUCEDALE, Miss. (AP) A teenager said she could hear the terrifying sounds of other vehicles crashing around and on top of the pickup truck where she and her mother were trapped after the truck plunged into a dark, muddy pit when a Mississippi highway collapsed during torrential rain brought by Hurricane Ida. I saw a black hole, then I blacked out and I woke up and my mom was leaned over toward me. She was choking on her blood and she couldnt breathe or anything, 16-year-old Emily Williams of Wiggins, Mississippi, told WLOX-TV in a video call from her hospital room. Williams managed to sit her 39-year-old mother, Amanda Williams, upright and stop her from choking. But, she said, she could still hear the chaos outside her familys truck. I remember hearing a car coming and then I heard a crash and I heard an engine going from a car because it was on top of us, Emily Williams said. It didnt really move us really much, but then I heard the screeching of another cars tires. I heard people screaming and then it crashed. Two people were killed and nine were injured late Monday when seven vehicles plunged, one after another, into a deep hole where a section of the two-lane Mississippi Highway 26 collapsed outside Lucedale. The Mississippi Highway Patrol initially said 10 were injured, but later released a list of nine names. Amanda Williams also remains hospitalized. Layla Jamison of Lucedale, a 17-year-old senior at George County High, was in the car that landed on the Williams truck. Emilys aunt, Shanna Bordelon, said Jamison's car landed without crushing the cab where Emily and Amanda sat. Emily Williams said waiting in the collapse zone for help was terrifying. In all honesty, I was ready to give up, she said. I was like, Were not going to make it out of here. No one is going to find us. Everybody is just going to keep piling in. Emilys father arrived, and she said once she heard him screaming from above, she knew she would be rescued. She is recovering from a torn colon, a broken leg and other injuries. Still, she said: I feel so lucky. Mississippi Highway Patrol Cpl. Cal Robertson said some of the vehicles ended up stacked on top of each other as they crashed into the abyss, which opened up in an area without street lights. Ida dumped as much as 13 inches (33 centimeters) of rain as it blew through Mississippi, the National Weather Service said. State troopers, emergency workers and rescue teams responded to the crash site about 60 miles (95 kilometers) northeast of Biloxi, to find both the east and westbound lanes collapsed. Robertson said the hole removed about 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters) of roadway, and was 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) deep. The vehicles were later lifted out by a crane. A drone video published by the Sun Herald showed how a raised berm beneath the road washed away, leaving a red-clay scar that runs for hundreds of feet, from a cemetery on one side into a wooded area on the other. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has released the cause of death of the veteran Connecticut State Police sergeant whose vehicle was swept away by floodwaters during Ida. Sgt. Brian Mohl died as a result of blunt trauma of the torso, according to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. A small jet crashed into a Farmington business Thursday morning, quickly catching fire and engulfing the building in flames while killing all four of the occupants. The crash, one of the most deadly in Connecticut in recent years, remains under investigation by a number of agencies, including local police, the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board. Heres what we know and what we dont know about the crash. What we know The crash was first reported around 9:52 a.m., according to Farmington police. The first officers to arrive at the Hyde Road scene found the plane, and the Trumpf Inc. facility it hit, engulfed in flames. Farmington police said four people were killed in the crash two pilots and two passengers. The plane was a Cessna Citation 560X business jet, according to the FAA. The plane had taken off from Robertson Airport in Plainville. The end of its runway is about 1,500 feet from where the plane crashed. Officials said early indications are that the plane suffered a mechanical failure during the takeoff sequence. Crews from surrounding towns were called to assist extinguishing the fire. The NTSB was planning to send a team of investigators to Farmington by Friday. Farmington police expected to remain on Hyde Road for several days collecting and documenting evidence. While four people were killed in the plane, officials said everyone working inside the Trumpf Inc. facility was accounted for and were not injured. The victims Police identified on Friday the two pilots as Mark Morrow, 57, of Danbury, and William OLeary, 55, of Bristol. The two passengers have been identified as Courtney Haviland, 33, and her husband, William Shrauner, 32, of Boston. What we dont know Investigators said they know the tail number of the plane, a unique identifier registered with the FAA, but have declined to release that information to the public. Officials have also not said who owned and operated the plane. While authorities said it appears to have been a mechanical issue during takeoff, they have not specified what might have failed. Local officials have yet to detail the extent of the damage to the Trumpf Inc. building that was hit by the plane before it was engulfed in flames. LOS ANGELES (AP) Adult film actor Ron Jeremy leveraged the novelty of his celebrity to meet and often isolate women who he raped and sexually assaulted, using the same tactics for years, according to grand jury testimony from 21 women that was unsealed Saturday. Wouldn't it be funny if we got a picture and an autograph from him? one woman, identified only as Jane Doe 8, said she remembered telling her friend when they saw Jeremy in 2013 at a West Hollywood bar and grill. He would sexually assault her minutes later, testified the woman, one of several who said their attacks came in the same small bathroom. I was like, wow, you know, this is Ron Jeremy, I mean, I was kind of impressed. Im like hes I dont want to say celebrity, but you know, he kind of was, said another woman, Jane Doe 7, when Jeremy came to the door of the Hollywood hotel room she was sharing with friends, where the porn actor would rape her soon after, according to her testimony. Jeremy, 68, whose legal name is Ronald Jeremy Hyatt, pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of sexual assault, including 12 counts of rape, when the Los Angeles County grand jury returned an indictment against him on Aug. 25. He has been in jail since his arrest in June 2020. His attorney, Stuart Goldfarb, has said he is innocent of all the charges" and they would prove it. An email seeking further comment from Goldfarb on Saturday was not immediately returned. Nicknamed The Hedgehog, Jeremy has been among the best-known and most prolific performers in the porn industry for decades, and became a recognizable pop cultural novelty through reality shows, public appearances and music videos. He has long been a magnet for seekers of autographs and selfies, which is how most of the women and girls aged 15 to 51 he is accused of assaulting first met him. Some didn't even recognize him initially, but they came into his orbit because of the air of fame around him. A woman, now 33, who Jeremy is charged with sexually assaulting when she was 15 in 2004 said she approached him at a rave he was hosting in Santa Clarita, California. I didn't know who he was, but I just everyone told me he was famous so I was excited to meet a celebrity," said the woman, now 33, known as Jane Doe 5. After they met, he invited her backstage, where he asked her if she wanted to see something cool, then lifted her in the air, put his hand under her skirt and molested her, she said. Many women described Jeremy using the same methods in the same places. He was a popular regular at the Rainbow Bar and Grill on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, where he had permission to use the employee bathroom. He would lure women there by offering to show them the kitchen where the restaurant made its famous pizzas, or by telling them he knew a bathroom they could use when the public restrooms were closed after last call. He would follow them into the small space, lock the door behind them, use his considerable size to block them from leaving, then rape them or engage in other sexual assault, several women testified. Jane Doe 8 said before her assault she told Jeremy they were staying at the Loew's Hollywood Hotel, but did not tell him the room number. He appeared at the door the next day. I have connections all over this town, she remembered him saying when she asked how she found them. She had not told her friend, Jane Doe 7, about the assault, and failed in her attempts to get her out of the room, where Jeremy would rape her, according to their testimony. Several women said Jeremy asked them to write a note about their experience on a napkin of scrap of paper in what prosecutors called an attempt to gain evidence of consent after the fact. The women, under duress and looking to get away, often complied. Jeremy also gave some victims cash after the attacks, for what prosecutors said was similar reasons. He just out of nowhere just tossed money at me, said a woman who got a $100 bill from Jeremy after she said he raped her in 2019 the Rainbow Bar and Grill bathroom. The woman's boyfriend and brother had warned her to stay away from Jeremy earlier in the evening when she asked who he was, but she took a picture with him anyway when she saw several others doing it. She testified that she got into the car with them holding the cash and said, "This came from that guy you guys told me to stay away from. He just raped me in the bathroom." The woman went to the police about an hour later, becoming one of the few who reported their assaults immediately. Some said Jeremy's status as a porn performer kept them from going to authorities for years. He's a celebrity and what he's known for is having sex with people on camera for money, said Jane Doe 7, who like many of the victims came forward years later only after Jeremy was arrested last year. I thought there is no way anyone is going to believe me, and I just wanted to get out of there and forget all about it. ___ Associated Press Writer Kathleen Foody contributed to this story from Chicago. ___ Follow AP Entertainment Writer Andrew Dalton on Twitter: https://twitter.com/andyjamesdalton DANBURY A plane landing at Danbury Airport on Sunday afternoon traveled off the runway and into the grass. The plane, which was flying in from Ocean City Municipal Airport in Maryland, traveled about 100 feet off the runway when landing around 3 p.m. Sunday, according to airport administrator Mike Safranek. BRIDGEPORT The Orcutt youth clubs slogan has been, Kids are our future. But what does the future hold for the troubled East Side organization? Director Bob Keeley, a former state representative, in an interview last week confirmed there is no reopening date planned for the building after it was shuttered suddenly earlier this summer following a fundraising dinner. Keeley said Orcutt ran out of money. Since taking over six years ago he has frequently complained about a lack of financial support from area elected officials. Weve just zeroed out, he told Hearst Connecticut Media. I feel really bad because they are like a second family to me the kids who use the club. But I cant keep spending my own money and the money of some good friends to keep it open. Its a shame because the ones losing out are the kids in the community. City Clerk Lydia Martinez joined Orcutts board a year ago and confirmed its closure. Its breaking our hearts, Martinez said. Theres a pool in there the only (public) pool we have on the East Side. ... Its very sad. Its like a jewel to us. The decision to cease operations was not widely or publicly communicated by Keeley or his board. Michael Giannotti, who was brought in to organize Orcutts June 17 gala at Vazzanos Four Seasons banquet hall in Stratford, said this week he was completely caught off guard and embarrassed by the subsequent shuttering of the building. Giannotti said the dinner event raised around $12,000. People are asking me, What happened to the money? Giannotti said. Keeley told Hearst the proceeds covered outstanding bills for utilities and other expenses. Area Realtor Sherri Steeneck is a friend of Keeleys who attended the gala. There were a lot of people there. ... Id say a couple hundred. It was a very nice event, Steeneck recalled. I was kind of disappointed that I heard it closed. Im hopeful they are going to reopen, Steeneck said. Its a nice club. And I think they have some money available for renovating. According to Tom Gill, Bridgeports economic development director, in recent years the City Council awarded Orcutt almost $1 million worth of federal Community Development Block Grants the majority for facility improvements and $40,000 for services. And because the clubs building at 102 Park St., built in 1936, is part of a federally-designated historic section of the East Side, the organization had also sought and received a $20,000 state grant to help plan the renovations. Now it is unclear if that work will ever proceed. Gill on Thursday said Orcutt submitted a reimbursement request for $35,000 of the $40,000 available for operations, but never submitted any paperwork necessary for the city to seek construction bids. So we have not advanced any of that (facility improvements) money, Gill said, adding, People were not notified they had closed. And staff with the Connecticut Historic Preservation Office, the agency that had offered Orcutt the additional $20,000 grant, said that money also remains unused. State Historic Preservation Officer Mary Dunne said though the funds were obligated to Orcutt, if the organization no longer needs the grant, she would like formal notification and I can just free up the money again. Though the clubs closure took many by surprise, there have been ongoing questions about how the facility has been run under Keeley, a former longtime member of the state House of Representatives. Last September the state Attorney Generals office told Hearst that in 2018 it had opened an investigation into Orcutt after receiving complaints regarding governance and management. That probe as of this week was ongoing with no additional information available. Also last year the club boards then-chairman, Reginald Walker, publicly complained Keeley was not being responsive to his requests for information about the youth organizations finances and management structure and asked the director to step down. Its sad, Walker said of Orcutts current situation. Martinez echoed one of Keeleys frequent complaints that many area officials have abandoned Orcutt. They dont like Bob and they dont want to work with him, she said. Keeley often displayed a confrontational leadership style. For example, in June 2020 Keeley on Facebook wrote a racially charged post attacking people for what he considered the lack of support. And in response to the Attorney Generals investigation, Keeley last September said, Im not scared of them. The Attorney Generals office is full of garbage. ... We have nothing out of line. Following the resulting backlash over his Facebook post, Keeley told Hearst he had not gotten anywhere by playing nicey nicey. Martinez said of Keeley, Bob sometimes goes crazy with his statements. But hes mad. He should be mad. City Council President Aidee Nieves, who represents the East Side, said she first learned of Orcutts closure when trying this summer to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine clinic in that neighborhood. Nieves said the money for the building renovations is still available if the clubs board can salvage the organization. The board has to get together ... and come up with a plan, Nieves said. The money is there. The city hasnt reneged on the money. They just have no plan to execute the expenditures. But state Rep. Antonio Felipe, a Bridgeport Democrat whose district includes the Orcutt area, said if it reopens he will support the club under one condition it reopens without Keeley and with a new board. There must be a change in leadership, Felipe said. Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media BRIDGEPORT An individual was seriously injured after being shot Sunday morning, officials say. Bridgeports Emergency Communication Center received a call reporting a vehicle that had fired seven to eight shots at an individual at Maple and Kossuth streets around 1:50 a.m. The victim suffered serious injuries and was in critical condition, officials said. WASHINGTON (AP) Divers at the site of an ongoing oil spill that appeared in the Gulf of Mexico after Hurricane Ida have identified the apparent source as one-foot diameter pipeline displaced from a trench on the ocean floor and broken open. Talos Energy, the Houston-based company currently paying for the cleanup, said in a statement issued Sunday evening that the busted pipeline does not belong to them. The company said it is working with the U.S. Coast Guard and other state and federal agencies to coordinate the response and identify the owner of the ruptured pipeline. Two additional 4-inch pipelines were also identified in the area that are open and apparently abandoned. The companys statement did not make clear if oil was leaking from the two smaller pipelines, but satellite images reviewed by The Associated Press on Saturday appeared to show at least three different slicks in the same area, the largest drifting more than a dozen miles (more than 19 kilometers) eastward along the Gulf coast. The AP first reported Wednesday that aerial photos showed a miles-long brown and black oil slick spreading about 2 miles (3 kilometers) south of Port Fourchon, Louisiana. The broken pipe is in relatively shallow water, at about 34 feet (10 meters) of depth. Talos said the rate of oil appearing on the surface had slowed dramatically in the last 48 hours and no new heavy black crude had been seen in the last day. So far, the spill appears to have remained out to sea and has not impacted the Louisiana shoreline. There is not yet any estimate for how much oil was in the water. The Coast Guard said Saturday its response teams are monitoring reports and satellite imagery to determine the scope of the discharge, which is located in Bay Marchand, Block 4. Talos previously leased Bay Marchand, Block 5, but ceased production there in 2017, plugged its wells and removed all pipeline infrastructure by 2019, according to the company. The area where the spill is located has been drilled for oil and gas for decades. Federal leasing maps show it contains a latticework of old pipelines, plugged wells and abandoned platforms, along with newer infrastructure still in use. With the source of the oil unclear, Talos hired Clean Gulf Associates to respond to the spill. Clean Gulf, a nonprofit oil-spill response cooperative that works with the energy exploration and production industry, has had two 95-foot vessels at the scene of the spill since Wednesday attempting to contain and recover crude from the water. The Bay Marchand spill is one of dozens of reported environmental hazards state and federal regulators are tracking in Louisiana and the Gulf following the Category 4 hurricane that made landfall at Port Fourchon a week ago. The region is a major production center of the U.S. petrochemical industry. The AP also first reported Wednesday on images from a National Atmospheric and Oceanic Survey that showed extensive flooding and what appeared to be petroleum in the water at the sprawling Phillips 66 Alliance Refinery located along the Mississippi River south of New Orleans. After AP published the photos, the Environmental Protection Agency tasked a specially outfitted survey aircraft to fly over that refinery on Thursday, as well as other industrial sites in the area hardest hit by the hurricanes 150-mph (240-kph) winds and storm surge. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality said a state assessment team sent to the Alliance Refinery observed a spill of heavy oil being addressed with booms and absorbent pads. A levee meant to protect the plant had breached, allowing floodwaters to flow in during the storm and then back out as the surge receded. State environmental officials said there was also no estimate yet available for how much oil might have spilled from the Phillips 66 refinery. ___ Follow AP Investigative Reporter Michael Biesecker at http://twitter.com/mbieseck ___ Contact APs global investigative team at Investigative@ap.org. Students and their teachers have begun to return to Connecticut classrooms, leading school officials to introduce various policies to help keep them safe. But in Greater Bridgeport, schools are split on the merits of one mitigation strategy offered by the state: COVID-19 screening tests. Screening testing, as opposed to diagnostic testing, are periodic checks for those who are symptom-free and without known exposure to COVID-19. Some districts have successfully used the measure to stop the virus in its tracks, before it led to school-wide outbreaks and temporary closures. But while some schools have signed onto a statewide program, including those in Bridgeport, Darien and Westport, others chose to rely this school year on other approaches to stop the spread, such as Trumbull, Shelton and Derby. State guidance released this fall suggested districts work with state-provided or other testing partners, especially in schools where students are not yet age-eligible for the COVID-19 vaccines. The health and education departments also recommended testing in places with low vaccination rates or difficulty implementing other mitigation strategies, such as schools that lack space for social distancing. The recommendation is not a mandate. Instead, Connecticut used federal funds to supply school districts with weekly pooled COVID-19 screenings. The program is free and voluntary. Participating districts were assigned vendors to administer shallow nasal swab tests at school-based sites. The program is designed for younger children and their teachers, though grades 7 through 12 could have been considered based on funding. It is critical to continue to test in unvaccinated populations, vulnerable communities, and high-risk communal settings because cases may be identified sooner when screening testing is utilized, read a program overview. Weekly surveillance testing of students and staff can help increase the time students spend in the classroom and reduce the number of days/times they are required to quarantine, the program continued. The offer comes as the delta variant, believed to be 60 percent more infectious than the alpha strain, has led to an uptick in cases involving children and posed new challenges for Connecticut schools. But the state, following CDC guidance, stopped short of recommending fully vaccinated students and staff be included in screening testing. The latest state Department of Public Health data shows 64 percent of children age 12 to 15, and 75 percent of children age 16 to 17, have been vaccinated. In the Park City itself, Superintendent Michael Testani said Bridgeport signed onto the state initiative for younger grades, where students are not yet eligible for the COVID-19 vaccines. The district also offers screening testing for student athletes, who could be more likely to come in close contact with others, engage in activities that involve heavy breathing, and gather in crowded settings. Younger students in Darien can get tested weekly through the state-provided program using polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, pool testing. Interested families can sign up through the district. Tests are also available for unvaccinated staff exempt from Gov. Ned Lamonts vaccination mandate. The districts health services director said testing for COVID-19 should be easier now than it was last year. It was taking five and six days to get results back, said Alicia Casucci. Now, youre able to get them much faster. Unvaccinated students in Ridgefield, too, can undergo weekly COVID-19 screenings starting Sept 13. One extra layer of mitigation to add to the elementary school and sixth-grade situation is to do weekly screening tests, knowing that as many as 40 percent of COVID-19 cases are asymptomatic, said Aaron Crook, the districts COVID-19 liaison. Westport has also opted into the states voluntary surveillance testing program for unvaccinated students with parental consent. Their partner, shared by many schools in Fairfield County, is Progressive Diagnostics. The few unvaccinated teachers and staff with exemptions are required to test weekly, per the state executive order. The district, like most across the country, has adopted a layered mitigation approach in which multiple measures are implemented, or removed, depending on the transmission rates and levels of risk at any given time, said Superintendent Thomas Scarice. Testing is one of these mitigation measures, he said. It is not as advanced as some other mitigating measures, but it is more advanced than the initial stages of the pandemic. Trumbull schools, too, reaffirmed they will follow Lamonts order mandating tests for unvaccinated employees. Superintendent Martin Semmel said on Wednesday he is working through the details, but that the process will be for teachers and staff only. We will not be testing students at our schools, he added, There are plenty of testing locations for parents to bring their children if they are symptomatic or need a test for a different reason. Like Trumbull, Shelton schools did not sign onto the state COVID-19 screening program, the districts superintendent, Ken Saranich, said this week. Derby does not at this time have a plan to offer screening tests for students or employees, its superintendent Matthew Conway said on Wednesday. We are fortunate to have Griffin Hospital as a community partner, he said. At this time, our Griffin Hospital offers testing for anyone wishing or needing to be tested. The superintendent, like educators across the state, could speak only to the moment a reminder of how much remains in flux as classes resume for their third pandemic year. Staff writers Amanda Cuda, Brian Gioiele, Katrina Koerting and Eddy Martinez contributed to this report. STRATFORD If he had gotten to work a minute or two earlier, Andy Wynn might not be around to tell the story. The Stratford resident was living in Brooklyn on Sept. 11, 2001 and worked for Blue Cross/Blue Shield in the actuarial department on the 31st floor of 1 World Trade Center. The night before, he had stayed late at the office to make a work deadline. So when his alarm clock rang the next morning, he decided not to get up right away. I hit the snooze button, fortunately, because usually Id get there about 8:45, Wynn said during an interview at his home last month. I got there a little later, thankfully. The first hijacked plane to crash into the twin towers that morning was American Airlines Flight 11, which slammed into the building where Wynn worked at 8:46 a.m. At the time, he was emerging from the subway and was walking toward the elevators into the building. Once it hit, it shot a fireball straight down the elevator shaft, and incinerated anyone in it, Wynn said. It could have been me. At the time, though, Wynn, a Detroit native who moved to Connecticut when he was 5, didnt have a clear picture of what was happening other than chaos. I heard a noise. I saw people running. Honestly I just thought it was a bomb or something, because the (World) Trade Center got bombed (in February of 1993), Wynn said. Im just in shock, I dont know whats going on, he said of his thoughts moments after the terrorist attack which no one knew was a terrorist attack at the time began. Now, two decades later, he said his memories of that day are mostly a blur, with a handful of moments that stick out. He remembers holding his daily copy of The Wall Street Journal over his head to shield himself from the swirling dust and rubble. His next vivid memory of the day is more macabre. At some point I saw a body come from the building, he said. It was surreal. Prior to the that day, the prospect of confronting a terror attack was not something most Americans thought about. I didnt even know what to expect. Im just slowly walking away from the building, but not really thinking What am I supposed to be doing right now? Do I need to go to work? Whats really happening? Wynn said. Everyone was scattering. Wynn headed in the direction of City Hall, east of the World Trade Center. I believe thats when I heard the second one hit, he said. And that was loud. I thought New York City was being bombed at that point. At that point I just crossed the Brooklyn Bridge and just went home, he said. I didnt know what else to do. Wynns memory of the attacks aftermath is also spotty. But he remembers that communicating with others was tough. Nothing was working. I dont even know if I had a cell phone back then, he said. I know people were trying to get in touch with me. It took awhile for me to speak to anybody. I wanted to get in touch with my parents, Wynn said. And they were trying to, and people were trying to get in touch with my parents - Have you heard from him? Have you heard from him? When he did reach his parents, Wynn said, he isnt sure what was said.. I know it took some time for me to actually speak with them, Wynn said. I was probably still in shock, so I dont remember what. It was more like Thank goodness youre alive and well see you soon. Thankfully, no one in his office was killed in the attacks. But the loss still hit close to home since he had worked for the New York City Fire Department for about a year and a half as a budget analyst, until May 2001. He recalls being in meetings with some of the terror attacks FDNY victims only months prior. I know some of them died, he said. I didnt know anybody personally that did. Even so, it took awhile for him to deal with what happened. I was really shook, Wynn said. To me the Trade Center and everything about it, it just meant a lot. It was tough, that first year. Im pretty good now, I can talk about it, I can see it. In the beginning I couldnt. His office moved to a temporary location in Newark, N.J. for three months, then to Times Square. He said moving away or taking another job wasnt an option. Im not going to let this affect my life, Wynn recalled thinking at the time. Im not going to let them win. Youre not going to scare us, Im not going to leave the city because of it. Absolutely no way I was ever going to do that, no. Still, he stayed away from ground zero. I hadnt been down there in 18 years, Wynn, now married and a father of two children, said. I went there for the first time with my wife two years ago. I never saw the rubble or the new building up until then. Wynn now works for a bank, and has been working from home the past 17 months. His office had been in Brooklyn, but when he does return, it will be to a new location blocks away from the World Trade Center. Im literally going to be back right there again, which Im OK with, he said. We went and visited, so that was probably good. Wynn said its difficult to draw lasting lessons from what happened especially seeing how divided the country can be, even in the midst of a pandemic. To me, my biggest takeaway, and its just because of the culture, I guess, we live in, and everything these days is political - is how united the country was after it, he said. I dont know if it scares me or its sad that if something like that ever happened again, I dont know if wed be as united as we were back then, just because of the environment we live in these days. Its sad and disappointing and almost makes you realize people didnt learn from that experience or that time what it really means to be a country thats united, Wynn said. Whats it going to take? STRATFORD Stratford High School English teacher Michael Fiorello is an advocate in and out of the classroom and is getting national recognition for it. The Stratford High School English teacher has been named the Connecticut winner of the National Education Association Foundations California Casualty Award for Teaching Excellence. The president of the Stratford Education Association, the union which represents the school districts teachers, Fiorello never has been afraid to call out school officials on behalf of his colleagues. He said Friday that his teaching work and union advocacy serve similar ends. Education, to me, is liberation and empowerment, Fiorello said. I believe it is the surest avenue to finding meaningful work and fulfillment. Union work, and other things I do, such as advising the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, meet the same need growing personally, being personally empowered, and helping others to grow. Fiorello, a Stratford native and Bunnell High School alumnus, has taught for 31 years, 20 of them at Stratford High and 11 prior to that as a middle and high school teacher in Bridgeport. He said 2020 had been one of the most difficult years for educators and students alike due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but hopes the lessons learned from the experience will be applied going forward. Last year was especially challenging for students, families, and teachers, he said. Everything about education was impacted making connections with and among students, facilitating small group work, conveying ones enthusiasm for a subject to students. And to the extent that they are safe, I hope for changes that allow us to connect and collaborate more authentically. Fiorello was been one of the most consistent speakers during the public comment portion of Board of Education meetings, and led a protest last November as the school district prepared to call back more students to schools despite rising COVID cases. In a prepared statement, Connecticut Education Association President Kate Dias said Fiorello is a fitting recipient of the teaching excellence award. Michael is a dedicated professional educator and union leader who has consistently advocated for good working and learning conditions and has worked hard to ensure the safety of Stratford students and educators during the COVID pandemic, Dias said. He has earned the trust and respect of his colleagues and community members and has amplified teachers voices on important issues, empowering them to participate in policy discussions that impact students, public education, and the teaching profession. Fiorello said he was thrilled and humbled by news of the award. I have the utmost respect for the educators who work with and for our union, he said. To be honored by them moves me deeply, and I am profoundly grateful. In a press release, the NEA said the award recognizes educators who embody excellence in their practice, advocacy for the profession, commitment to equity, diversity, and opportunity, community engagement, leadership and encouragement for fellow educators, and support for relevant, high-quality professional development. Fiorello will receive the award at the NEA Foundations Salute to Excellence Gala next February. Robert Wendell Glover, 81, of Dalton, Georgia passed away on September, 13th 2021 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years Patricia Lee McKaig Glover. Robert loved his family and Country and proudly served in the United States Air Force. Born Sunbury, PA (17801) Today Partly cloudy skies during the morning hours. Thunderstorms likely in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 83F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Are they trying to abolish cash? It seems that the national Covid panic, including wild suggestions that cash spreads disease, has been the pretext for a fierce attempt to march us towards a cashless society. Getting actual banknotes grows harder every day, as cashpoint machines are closed and banks disappear. Even shops that still accept cash often complain that they have no change. A cafe near my office has claimed for weeks that it is mysteriously unable to accept money, so I must produce a card to pay for a 1.25 cup of coffee. Increasingly bureaucratic pubs look shocked if offered coins or notes. You may think they are obliged to accept legal tender. But it is not quite like that. This rule can be enforced only if you are settling a debt which already exists. If they have not given you the goods, then there is no debt and they can refuse your money and demand a card. Getting actual banknotes grows harder every day, as cashpoint machines are closed and banks disappear I personally loathe and distrust contactless payment, though in recent months Ive felt more or less obliged to use it in some places. It makes money too easy to spend and too easy to steal. Where possible, I have chosen not to make my cards contactless, but sometimes there is no such choice. Ive also noticed that the old chip and pin system has become much slower than it used to be. I shudder to think what might happen in the interval between losing a contactless card and reporting it. The recent increase in the limit on these things to 45 was bad enough. A dishonest person could rack up huge amounts of spending in a few minutes. But on October 15, it will rise to 100. Does this matter? I think so. I fear very much that the next stage will be that shops will only accept payment through smartphones, already preferred by many places. I absolutely do not want to pay for anything through a phone, so easily lost, stolen or hacked. I also resent the idea that all my purchases are being recorded and monitored and studied by someone. At the moment, it is just people who want to sell me more things, but, as weve seen with Facebook and Google, it quickly spreads into other areas. I shudder to think what might happen in the interval between losing a contactless card and reporting it. The recent increase in the limit on these things to 45 was bad enough If money becomes purely electronic, as I think is now likely within 20 years, then it wont really be ours any more. Imagine the power over you which this gives banks and the state. Imagine the problems if it just goes wrong, as it has done more than once in the recent past, with reputable major banks refusing their customers access to their accounts. I used to laugh at the French peasants who stuffed old banknotes under the floorboards because they trusted neither banks nor the state with their savings. Silly, superstitious, backward old fools, I thought. Now I am not so sure. My advice for now: use cash wherever you can, welcome it if you are in business. And the Government should reform the legal tender laws to oblige traders to accept reasonable quantities of coins or notes for any transaction. A cashless society may sound desirable to those tidy, glinting people who think that all change is progress. But to me it sounds like a big step towards a Brave New World of surveillance, dependency and a total lack of privacy or real control over your own life. Sub drama plumbs new depths I have my doubts about the vast size and expense of Britains nuclear deterrent. It is a superpower cold war weapon, when we are no longer a superpower and the Cold War ended 30 years ago. We could and should manage with something smaller and cheaper. But I still find the self-righteous anti-nuclearism of the British Left irritating. The BBCs new thriller series Vigil seems to me to be 90 per cent proof CND rubbish. Weirdly, it casts as heroes the far from loveable Police Scotland, while portraying the Royal Navy as a stony-faced nightmare of humourless obstructionism, bad manners, callousness, lies and brutality. Really? Unlike most of those who have criticised this programme, I have been winched from a helicopter on to and later off the heaving deck of a warship. It was surprisingly enjoyable, in its worrying way. And I have spent a weekend as a (not entirely welcome) civilian interloper aboard a nuclear missile submarine, the Polaris boat HMS Repulse. What I remember above all else was the friendliness and kindness of all those involved, the enduring Naval humour which has for centuries allowed men to bear cramped conditions and danger. I remember some things especially well: standing next to the captain on top of the conning tower as we negotiated the dreaded Whirlpool of Corryvreckan, a current so fierce it could swing a battlecruiser round. He was trying to stay out of the way of a Soviet spy ship, and knew that if he miscalculated he could put the deterrent out of action for months; a jolly dinner in the wardroom 300ft below the waves, with a great deal of good red wine (viewed by many as a protection against radiation); being allowed to squeeze the Scalextric-like trigger, during an exercise, which would have launched a missile in real life (the rockets were guarded from idiots by two large men armed with wooden clubs); and Sunday morning church, where we sang Dear Lord and Father of mankind, forgive our foolish ways. No doubt its changed, but I still side with the Navy, and resent the way they are shown in this drama. A most amazing thing happened last week. A complaint I made against the BBC was upheld by its own Executive Complaints Unit. Last November, Radio 4 made a number of insinuations against a whistleblower at the chemical weapons watchdog the OPCW, and against me. They suggested this highly principled and non-political scientists brave actions might have been motivated by money, and that he held rather wild opinions, which I know he does not hold. They also suggested that I shared the views of the Syrian and Russian tyrannies. All were false. It has taken almost ten months to achieve this, but I do hope the BBC and others will now do some decent reporting of the scandal of what happened at the OPCW, the doctoring of a vital report to justify rash military action by the USA, Britain and France. Ministry for freeing monsters Well now, if the Ministry of Justice reckons it is safe to release the double child murderer and rapist Colin Pitchfork (gosh, I hope they are right), how can they continue to justify the imprisonment on remand of the brave journalist Julian Assange, who never hurt a hair of anyones head? I suppose there is a risk that Mr Assange might do another bunk, while he awaits the USAs endless attempt to kidnap him and lock him up in some supermax dungeon for centuries to come. He might even wander down to a South Coast beach and paddle his way across to France (it would be fun to see how the French responded to some traffic in the opposite direction). But it isnt really a very big risk, and it would be a lot more justified than the gamble of releasing the monstrous Pitchfork. I think it just shows that our Government is more afraid of the wrath of Washington than it is concerned that known criminals will strike again. If you want to comment on Peter Hitchens click here. Good news for romping MPs. They can hire their girlfriend or boyfriend as assistants on taxpayer cash as long as they do not live together, the expenses watchdog finally admitted last night. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (Ipsa) was supposed to have clamped down on MPs hiring their loved ones, a practice that has cost taxpayers millions of pounds each year. Campaigners had warned over the publics concerns about nepotism and the potential abuse of public money, when nearly a quarter of MPs employed a spouse or family member. Announcing tough new rules in June 2017, Ipsa said employing connected parties was out of step with modern employment practice and banned it. Peter Bone, Tory MP for Wellingborough, confirmed his new relationship to Helen Harrison (pictured) in January 2018, four months after she started working in his parliamentary office But in a generous move, the watchdog allowed those existing staff members who enter relationships to continue working under their MPs for another two years when they would have to be replaced by someone actually qualified. However, it turns out that the ban only applies to an MP employing partners they are living with. So a randy MP can still employ their lover as long as they are not co-habiting, which must come as a great relief to commitment-phobe parliamentarians and a shock to the taxpayer. Furthermore, my enquiries show the pathetic watchdog cant even enforce this lenient rule properly. Take Peter Bone, Tory MP for Wellingborough, who left his wife for a physiotherapist-turned-Tory-councillor. Bone confirmed his new relationship to Helen Harrison in January 2018, four months after she started working in his parliamentary office and following an article about their comings and goings from his taxpayer-funded flat. So why did she continue to work in his office for three and a half years after that she only stepped down last month? So a randy MP can still employ their lover as long as they are not co-habiting, which must come as a great relief to commitment-phobe parliamentarians and a shock to the taxpayer. Pictured: Matt Hancock and aide Gina Coladangelo in 2019 It turns out the loved-up pair did not meet Ipsas connected parties threshold until they had moved in together in April 2019 and the MP declared the relationships progression. But why wasnt her employment contract terminated in April 2021? At first Harrison told me she had stepped down to spend more time as a councillor. But what about those extra months on the public payroll? Harrison then replied that she had come to an arrangement with Ipsa. The watchdog had claimed back in 2017 that the new regime would be more transparent and showed it by refusing to explain its position on Bone and Harrison unless I made a Freedom of Information request, which takes weeks and often yields little. Several rounds of emails later and Ipsa finally admitted it had granted a short extension for Bone by allowing his employment of Harrison to continue beyond the two-year limit. But why? It was on account of the busy summer parliamentary term, the watchdog replied. To which I say, whats the point of Ipsa if it cant even enforce its own lenient rules? As Parliament returns this week to pre-Covid days, more or less, not all MPs are keen to get back to the Chamber for this democracy business. Im told that some of the newbies have been holding lively discussions with their whips to try to get out of having to stay for late- night votes. One seasoned MP full of generational disdain for the 2019 intakes lack of stamina said theyve been a little reluctant to give up Working From Home for late-night sessions in Parliament, not the pub. A young woman diagnosed with a little-known condition that leaves her in such intense pain that she finds it difficult to scroll on her phone has urged others to watch for early symptoms before it causes irreversible damage. Simone Black, 29, is one of an estimated 200,000 Australians living with psoriatic arthritis, an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation of the joints which can lead to heart damage, stomach problems and difficulty breathing. Left untreated, the condition which results from the skin disease psoriasis can damage joints and bones so severely that it leaves sufferers unable to walk. The public sector worker, who lives in Canberra, told Daily Mail Australia she used to teach gruelling body attack workout classes which burn an average of 555 calories in 55 minutes. Now, she said she cannot walk for more than 10 minutes at a time. Simone Black (right) is one of an estimated 200,000 Australians living with psoriatic arthritis, an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation of the joints which can lead to heart damage, stomach problems and difficulty breathing 'I used to be super physically active, in the gym, running and hiking all the time. Unfortunately, a lot of that is no longer possible,' she told Daily Mail Australia. Ms Black was only diagnosed in December 2020, five years after developing dull aches in her neck and the knuckles of her right hand. The cause of her pain was missed by 'four or five doctors', but when the aches spread to her feet and left her struggling to walk during Australia's first Covid lockdown in early 2020, she saw a rheumatologist who twigged it on the spot. Ms Black had a brush with psoriasis - an auto-immune condition that causes the skin to break out in painful rashes and itchy, dry patches - at the age of 11, but the flare-ups vanished after about a year and gave her no trouble since. 'The part of my immune system that used to attack my skin is now attacking my joints,' she said. 'GPs don't have much knowledge of the condition, no one told us at the time [when she was a child] that we should look out for joint pain in the future.' The public sector worker (pictured) told Daily Mail Australia she used to teach gruelling body attack workout classes which burn an average of 555 calories in 55 minutes; now, she said she cannot walk for more than 10 minutes at a time In most people with psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis appears long before joint problems develop. The skin condition typically begins during adolescence or early adulthood, while the knock-on arthritic effects usually occur between the ages of 30 and 50, though they can happen at any age. In rare cases, psoriatic arthritis develops without the presence of any noticeable skin issues. Unlike similar conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, the condition cannot be identified by blood tests which often leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Australia also has a shortage of specialists. In Canberra, Ms Black said there is a six-month wait to see a rheumatologist. She wants others to be aware of the early warning signs of the condition, which include joint pain and stiffness, joint swelling, pitted nails that look bumpy or dented, lower back pain and eye problems such as worsening vision. Ms Black (pictured) suffers from such intense pain that she finds it difficult to do simple tasks such as walking, chopping vegetables and scrolling on her phone 'I didn't know young people could get arthritis,' Ms Black said. 'But it's important to know because the risk is permanent damage to your joints.' Ms Black urges young people, particularly women, to 'take pain seriously' and insist on running through full medical history with doctors who may not be aware of such under publicised conditions. 'If you feel like you're not being listened to by your doctor or whoever, go elsewhere,' she said. 'I didn't know years ago that you should tell your GP things like, "I have a sore neck". I just thought being in pain everyday was normal.' Arthritis has now spread to the joints and tendons of Ms Black's hands and feet, as well as to her spine, affecting how she sleeps and limiting her ability to complete routine tasks such as cooking or even scrolling on her phone. What is psoriatic arthritis? Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic, autoimmune form of arthritis that causes joint inflammation. It results from the skin condition psoriasis. Left untreated, it can cause irreversible joint damage. It can affect large or small joints, and less commonly, the spine. About a third of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis. The condition causes the immune system to attack itself, primarily the joints and skin, but also organs. Scientists believe genes and an environmental trigger, like a trauma or virus, might play a role in the development of psoriatic arthritis. Fingers and toes may swell, and nails might become pitted or separate from the nail bed. The heel or sole of the foot may also ache. Psoriatic arthritis affects everyone differently. Symptoms may be mild or severe, affect just a few or many joints, and can come and go. A sudden onset of symptoms is called a flare. If the condition goes unchecked, it can cause myriad health problems including damage to the lining that covers the ends of bones in a joint and the bones themselves. This means it becomes harder to move joints, leading to disability. Other side effects include redness, irritation and disturbed vision, redness and pain in tissues around the eyes, diarrhoea and bloating, shortness of breath and coughing, and damage to blood vessels and the heart muscle. Source: Arthritis.org Advertisement 'I love to cook but I can't really manage it anymore, I can't chop vegetables because it's too painful,' she said. 'My partner has to do lots of things for me. It's really frustrating because I just want to be able to do normal things.' The only thing that alleviates her pain after exercise or movement is sitting with ice packs on her hands and feet. 'I do feel held back from life at the moment. I'm hopeful things will improve with the right treatment, but the ones I've tried so far haven't worked,' she said of the anti-inflammatory drugs typically given to patients. Australians living with psoriatic arthritis can now become active and informed participants in their journey with the disease through MyPsA, an online hub launched in August by Arthritis Australia. Arthritis Australia CEO Jonathan Smithers said the tool is 'vital' to educate patients on how to better manage the little-discussed condition. Ms Black (pictured) urges young people to 'take pain seriously' and insist on running through full medical history with doctors who may not be aware of such under publicised conditions 'Australians living with psoriatic arthritis have not been able to access simple, centralised, and relevant information about this condition before today,' he said. 'Along with consulting regularly with their rheumatologist, people with psoriatic arthritis should also have easy access to reputable sources of information so they can learn more about their condition, and MyPsA can offer them just that.' The hub provides information about the disease as well as a range of links for treatment options and tips about lifestyle changes that can improve quality of life. 'We want every Australian living with psoriatic arthritis to have access to up-to-date news, information, and treatment options regardless of where they are on their journey or where they live around the country,' Mr Smithers said. For more information about psoriatic arthritis and to visit the online hub, please click here. With large scale events back on the calendar and people's diaries rapidly filling up with rescheduled weddings, your wallet may be taking a sizeable hit from the pressure to stock up on occasionwear. But with fashionistas increasingly encourage to give equal consideration to sustainability as well as style, not to mention the cost of updating your wardrobe, how can you make the most of what you already own and still look fabulous? Sarah Kate Byrne, one of the UK's best known race day stylists, who works with ITVs Racing presenter Francesca Cumani has shared her tips with Femail, revealing how to style what you already own to create a chic look without spending a penny. Ahead of Ladies Day at Doncaster Races on 9th September, she's shared styling secrets, such as how she dresed Francesca with a vintage bracelet turned into a headband, and clip-on earrings turned into statement buttons on a jacket. ITVs Racing presenter Francesca Cumani wearing a vintage bracelet repurposed as a headband and clip-on earrings on her jacket to give it a fresh look without buying something new REPURPOSE YOUR ACCESSORIES Sarah Kate advises that 'statement earrings or a necklace can have a sensational effect', however . However, getting creative with how you wear jewellery cam really take your look to a new level - think brooches worn in your hair. 'For Francesca I use some beautiful pieces of costume jewellery in unusual ways, like a headband made using a vintage bracelet by me and clip-on earrings added to the front of her jacket,' Sarah Kate said. CHANNEL DESIGNER SILHOUETTES There's no need to spend big on a designer outfit if you have a special occasion coming up, but rather look to classic styles for inspiration. Trying to copy a contemporary designer look may be a bit too try-hard, but you can't go wrong with channeling a timeless look, such as the full flowing skirts and tiny cinched waists made popular by Dior in the 1950s. 'For me, its not about trying to copy something designer, especially contemporary trends,' said Sarah Kate. 'I prefer to look at archive looks and contemporise them - a Dior New Look silhouette for example using a full skirt and nipped jacket, or a jumpsuit blazer combination for a sexy YSL androgynous shape. 'You can elevate a look with some clever touches like changing buttons, embellishing with collars or cuffs or adding a belt to change the shape.' RECYCLE YOUR FAVOURITES, NO MATTER HOW OLD THEY ARE We all know that an old reliable outfit that makes you feel confident is a much better choice than something that's brand new that's bang on trend. If you feel awkward or uncomfortable, it's going to come across. And Sarah Kate agrees that there's no need to consign any particular look to the back of the wardrobe, just because it's a bit dated. 'Wear what makes you comfortable and you feel fantastic in, be that a grownup suit or frivolous mini dress,' she said. 'Style is personal and we shouldn't be led by brands pushing their new collections and sales agendas. 'Think about how you can re-wear an old favourite by pairing it with a new headpiece or clever accessory.' Sarah Kate advised upgrading TURN AN ITEM OF CLOTHING INTO SOMETHING NEW Next time you think you have nothing to wear, look at what's in your wardrobe and drawers and think about how you could sport it in a different way. 'I am a keen scarf repurposer, fashioning them into tops and belts all the time,' Sarah Kate said. 'Dresses can be turned into tops if paired with the right skirt over. A look of mine that went down well was a very short floral minidress that I layered a shocking pink ankle length skirt over. 'Belting loose jackets to give you a more structured look is another go to trick of mine.' Sarah Kate wearing a mini dress layered under a long skirt to create a whole new look. She also advises buying occasionwear in block colours, which won't date as quickly as prints that go in and out of fashion OPT FOR OCCASIONWEAR IN SOLID COLOURS Naturally the pieces you buy for a special occasion won't get the same wear as your everyday wardrobe. If you are going to opt for something new, what's the best may to maximise your investment? 'Put quality of fabric and cut first and foremost because a well-made piece will last,' said Sarah Kate. 'Solid colours tend to be more versatile because they aren't so obvious as a trending print for example. And fit - choose a silhouette that you know suits you if you want to enjoy wearing it for years to come.' BORROW OVER BUYING Embrace the idea of borrowing from friends' wardrobes for the ultimate in thriftiness. Or if you're keen to try out rental fashion, which is having a huge moment, remember that you can get a top-to-toe look, so don't forget about acessories too. Sarah Kate said: 'Hurr, My Wardrobe HQ and The Bag Butler offer daily/weekly loans of sought after pieces for a fraction of the cost of buying and make fashion more circular with less waste. 'For me, a winning look typically has a terrific hat or headpiece that sets it off and ensures you stand out from the crowd. 'Choosing a hat can be daunting so check out hat rental agencies such as The Cotswold Hat Club, run by Rachel Hawkins. 'This hat rental agency offers a premium collection of millinery where you can rent one off millinery, fascinators and headbands with styling help from Rachel herself.' The Cazoo St. Leger Festival in Doncaster plays host to one of the most prestigious race weeks of the British horse racing with Ladies Day taking place on September 9. For more details about the Cazoo St Leger Ladies Day and tickets visit www.doncaster-racecourse.co.uk A stylist has sparked a rush on an affordable pair of Kmart pants that flatter every body shape. Lisa Galanopoulos, 44, sent shoppers racing to buy the $15 Pull On Culottes after she featured them in a recent outfit reel on Instagram. Describing the pants as one of her 'must haves' for spring, the Adelaide blogger showcased their versatility by pairing them with a casual tank top, a structured blazer and a form-fitting bodysuit, proving they can be styled for any occasion. Shoppers have been stripping the shelves of the budget-friendly pants, which are already sold out in sizes 12, 14 and 16 on Kmart's website. Scroll down for video Australian stylist Lisa Galanopolous (pictured) has sparked a rush on an affordable pair of Kmart pants that flatter every body shape Shoppers have been stripping the shelves of the budget-friendly pants (pictured), which are already sold out in sizes 12, 14 and 16 on Kmart's website Her video of the tan coloured trousers, which has racked up hundreds of 'likes' since it was uploaded online on Friday, quickly sparked rave reviews. 'Those pants are a fab colour,' one viewer wrote. 'I love all of these, the pants are fabulous,' said a second, while a third added: 'Love the culottes so much, the colour is amazing!' Ms Galanopoulous, a mother-of-two with 25 years experience managing clothing stores, helps women to 'look stylish on any budget' by sharing her tips on Instagram. She previously told Daily Mail Australia she hopes to inspire women to 'shop smart' at brands such as Kmart, Zara and Lovisa which sell fashion-forward pieces at affordable prices. Her 'must have' spring pants are the latest in a long line of Kmart styles to catch attention online. Adelaide blogger Lisa Galanopolous (pictured) has built a following by sharing affordable outfits and styling tips on social media Describing the pants as one of her 'must haves' for spring, the Adelaide blogger showcased their versatility by pairing them with a casual tank top, a structured blazer (left) and a puff-sleeved blouse (right), proving they can be styled for any occasion Last month, the discount store was struggling to keep stock of its $20 Full Length Relaxed Jeans, which swiftly sold out in sizes 12 to 20 with just a handful of sixes, eights and 10s left online. Shoppers have been raving about the jeans on Instagram, ever since Gold Coast fashion stylist Jessica Allen featured them in a reel dedicated to her favourite new Kmart pieces. 'Hello spring wardrobe!' the mother-of-one captioned the video. The footage takes viewers through a haul of Ms Allen's outfits, including one made up of a $6 tank top, a $30 linen blazer and the best-selling $20 jeans. Women are stripping Kmart shelves of a basic pair of jeans (pictured) that suit every body shape - and will set you back just $20 Made from cotton and elastane, the loose-fitting legs and high-waisted silhouette create a flattering look for women of all sizes, in a way few styles do. The video, which has racked up 635 'likes' since it was uploaded online on Sunday, drew delighted responses. 'Those jeans!' one woman replied, while a second wrote: 'Go Kmart.' A third said she loved the combination of the blazer and jeans, prompting Ms Allen to agree that she is 'loving the new stock'. Game of Thrones, outer space and class A drugs served as inspiration for some of the world's most outrageous baby names. Bemused parents, believed to live in the US, took to Twitter to share the most shocking names they have ever heard, in a bizarre thread that proves some will do just about anything to ensure their children stand out from the crowd. Among the eyebrow-raisers were Kingslayer and Khaleesi - two fictional characters from HBO's award-winning Game of Thrones - along with Cocaine, Strawberry Rain, Diesel Duramax and Crystal Shining Waters. One woman said she knew of an astronomer couple who named their three daughters Neptune, Galaxy and Uranus. Game of Thrones, outer space and class A drugs have served as inspiration for some of the world's most outrageous baby names (stock image) A primary school teacher said she once taught a boy called Jacuzzi, the European term for a spa tub. Others listed unusual spellings of traditional names, including Psamantha, Jennifert and Kviiilyn - pronounced Kaitlyn but written with the Roman numeral eight. Also on the list were Reinbeaux - a twist on Rainbow - and Phelany, pronounced 'felony', news.com.au reported. The revelations come weeks after a celebrity parenting expert revealed Australia's most 'bogan' baby names of 2021. Sabrina Rogers-Anderson, author of The Little Book of BOGAN Baby Names first published in 2017, combed through the national birth register to uncover the country's most bizarre choices. 'Every year, I think my annual list will be the last because surely I've covered every bogan name in Australia. But every year, Aussie parents prove me wrong,' Ms Rogers-Anderson wrote on Kidspot. The Canadian author found one couple who named their first child SaTiva after a strain of cannabis, then ran with the theme by calling their second daughter Indica - another strain of marijuana - 16 months later. The worst baby names of all time - according to Twitter Kingslayer Khaleesi Cocaine Jacuzzi Uranus Strawberry Rain Crystal Shining Waters Diesel Duramax Kviiilyn (Kaitlyn, written with the Roman numeral eight) Advertisement Chardae and Jenesis - a misspelling of the biblical book Genesis - were just some of the wacky picks for girls, according to Ms Rogers-Anderson, who claims Chardae is simply Chardonnay 'sneakily disguised' as a new name. Other twists on traditional names included Sharlet, Zacqueline, Wednezdai and Trynyty, while one couple went completely rogue by naming their baby girl Vagina. Ms Rogers-Anderson said she discovered it ranked number 16,815th in popularity on a baby name website. Some parents drew inspiration from corporate brands by naming their daughters Mattel - the company that manufactures Barbie - and Velveeta, a processed, plastic-like cheese popular in the US. Top 10 bogan girl names 1. Chardae 2. Jenesis 3. Mattel 4. Sharlet 5. Summerbreeze 6. SaTiva 7. Indica 8. Trynyty 9. Zacqueline 10. Vagina Source: Sabrina Rogers-Anderson Advertisement Top 10 bogan boy names 1. Crash 2. Fysh 3. Heller 4. Jacksin 5. Kuba 6. Legend 7. Lundynn 8. Lynxx 9. Pinches 10. Rolexus Source: Sabrina Rogers-Anderson Advertisement Ms Rogers-Anderson's research shows boy parents drew inspiration from destinations, with names such as Kuba and Lundynn appearing on the list. Monosyllabic names including Crash, Fysh and Lynxx were also popular, along with bizarrely dramatic choices like Legend and Rolexus - a mash up of luxury watch maker Rolex and car brand, Lexus. Ms Rogers-Anderson also found parents naming their baby boys Jacksin - a misspelling of Jackson - and Heller, a nod to the trend for Americanised names ending in 'er' such as Striker, Breaker, and Dagger. Elsewhere on the list was Pinches, originally a surname first recorded in 12th century Europe which means 'bright' and 'chirpy'. Australians who use DIY teeth whitening kits without consulting a dentist risk irreversible damage that can leave them looking 'bizarre', experts have warned. University of Queensland Professor Laurie Walsh claims more than 2.5 million could be ruining their smiles because fillings and some teeth stains cannot be bleached with the chemicals contained in over-the-counter treatments. Professor Walsh, who is a member of the Australian Dental Association, says the potential side effects of home whitening products range from sensitive, discoloured teeth to chemical burns on the cheeks and gums. Scroll down for video Australians who use DIY teeth whitening kits without consulting a dentist risk irreversible damage that can leave them looking 'bizarre', experts have warned (stock image) 'You end up looking bizarre, that would be the nicest word to describe it,' Professor Walsh told AAP. Teeth whitening is popular in Australia, with one in five choosing to bleach in 2020, according to a survey by the Australian Dental Association. However less than half of those did so under the supervision of a dentist. More than 50 percent used kits bought online or from a supermarket or pharmacy, and in an alarming revelation almost 65 percent of those surveyed said they had no idea about the risks of home whitening. But it's not difficult to see why so many opt for the DIY version. Professional teeth whitening at accredited dentists can cost as much as $260 per tooth, while professional take-home kits cost an average of $610 - almost seven times more expensive than popular home kits from brands such as Advanced Teeth Whitening. DIY whitening is big business around the world, with the market projected to be worth a whopping $10.3billion globally by 2024. But Professor Walsh insists only dentists can manage the associated risks by assessing their patients and determining if their teeth would respond well to the treatment. He says the most common stains, caused by drinking tea and coffee, can be easily removed with a professional clean rather than bleach. Professor Walsh's warning follows a move by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to allow dentists to give patients stronger whitening agents in take-home kits, opening access to products from the US. Under current Australian laws, only dentists can use whitening products that contain more than six percent hydrogen peroxide - an active whitening agent used in over-the-counter and professional teeth whitening products. The dangers of hydrogen peroxide falling into unqualified hands made headlines last year after an 'extremely harmful' craze for home bleaching went viral on TikTok. Dental experts slammed the trend that saw thousands across the US, UK and Australia buy undiluted hydrogen peroxide to apply directly onto their teeth in the hope of achieving a brighter smile. What is hydrogen peroxide and is it safe? Hydrogen peroxide is an acidic chemical compound that is used in household cleaner, hair bleach and teeth whitening products. However in high concentrations it can be corrosive to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. For this reason, it needs to be used with caution on people. In teeth whitening products, it works to dissolve stains. This can be done most safely when the amount of hydrogen peroxide can be carefully monitored. Risks increase if DIY solutions are made at home or if it is not applied correctly. Advertisement Dentists warned using the chemical in such high concentration poses significant risk to oral health, including gum damage, weakened enamel, sensitivity and in the long-run, tooth loss. Dr Reena Wadia, founder of London gum clinic RW Perio, said home kits offer significantly less protection than professional treatments. 'Professional teeth whitening systems use a custom-made tray that holds the hydrogen peroxide gel in contact with the teeth and prevents it from contacting the gum tissue,' Dr Wadia explained. 'This is important as if the gel touches the gums it can lead to gum irritation, inflammation and pain.' She added: 'Gums and bone hold your teeth in place so there is no point having white teeth if they start loosening up, changing position and eventually fall out.' Dame Jenni Murray has hit out at the BBC for paying their biggest stars huge salaries and admitted it 'p****s her off' that Emma Barnett is being paid more than her after replacing her on Woman's Hour. The broadcaster, 71, is the Radio 4 show's longest serving presenter having resigned last year and claimed it's 'infuriating' to see her successor earning more money than she did. In an interview with The Sunday Telegraph, Jenni slammed the public broadcasting service for giving high-profile presenters such high salaries, insisting that despite their talent 'they are not worth all that money'. Speaking of Barnett supposedly receiving a higher salary for the show, she said: 'Well that really p****s me off. I was talking to an old colleague the other night and she was saying how horrified she is at what's being paid now. Dame Jenni Murray, 71, (pictured in October 2016) has hit out at the BBC for paying their biggest stars huge salaries She admitted it 'p*sses her off' that Emma Barnett, 36, (pictured hosting Woman's Hour) is being paid more than her after replacing her on the Radio 4 show 'We worked so hard and had high profiles, but we didn't earn anything like [that]. It's more than irritating. It's infuriating actually. I don't think, no matter how good they are, they are worth all that money.' Dame Jenni has said she was paid just over 100,000 for Radio 4's Woman's Hour while Barnett, 36, made 240,000-249,999 in 2020/21. In the same period the journalist also presented Radio 5 Live's The Emma Barnett Show and BBC Two's Newsnight. The list does not clarify which portion of her salary was for Woman's Hour. A BBC spokesperson said: 'Emma's salary for 2020/21 covers her 4 days a week hosting Woman's Hour, as well as Newsnight, her former 5 Live show and other BBC work. Jenni hosted Woman's Hour 2.5 days a week pro rata'. She also commented on the BBC's controversial scheme which has stripped millions of pensioners of their free licences, saying she's 'hacked off' she'll still be paying the fee in four years time. Dame Jenni left listeners in tears as she presented her final episode of Woman's Hour last October (pictured last year while hosting the programme) Jenni, who became a regular host for the programme in 1987 and is the longest serving host in the BBC Radio 4 show's 74 year history, announced her plans to step back from the show in July last year. During her 33 years on Woman's Hour, Dame Jenni interviewed a host of famous women including Margaret Thatcher, Hillary Clinton, Bette Davis, Benazir Bhutto, Dame Judi Dench, Monica Lewinsky and Joan Baez. Born in Barnsley, Dame Jenni joined BBC Radio Bristol in 1973 and went on to report and present for BBC TV's South Today. In 1983, she joined Newsnight before moving to Radio 4 as a presenter for the Today programme. Her final programme was in October 2020, which she opened saying it was 'very strange' to be hosting her final Woman's Hour, before one of her guests, MP Harriet Harman, praised her 'tremendous legacy.' Dame Jenni is pictured after receiving her DBE from the Queen for services to Radio Broadcasting in 2011 Many listeners were left crying over Dame Jenni's goodbye to the show, with one commenting: 'Just listened to Jenni Murray's farewell Woman's Hour - played out by Helen Reddy 'I am Woman'. Feeling tearful, but uplifted.' The episode celebrated the legacy of the programme and looked back at some of her most memorable interviews while the presenter spoke of some of her favourite moments from the programme over the years. She added she felt 'much cheered' after receiving the gift of a farewell chocolate cake from celebrity chef Mary Berry, saying: 'It's sitting in front of me, waiting to be shared with the team and we will wait for the end of the programme.' Outspoken period campaigner Emma was announced as the new host of BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour last October. The new presenter is known for her headline-making interviews and broadcasting firsts and recently hosted the Duchess of Cornwall's first guest edit, live from Clarence House. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridges Royal Foundation has revealed it's pushing for more diversity among its workforce in its annual report. The Trustees and Auditors report for 2020 stated that while diversity is always considered in recruitment, there have been no 'formal targets for diversity of the board' and improving this has become a 'particular focus'. The report, which covered the period of January to December 2020 comes after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's acrimonious split from the Royal Family and subsequent allegations of racism within the Firm. In their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey earlier this year, Meghan Markle claimed a senior royal had raised concerns about how dark their son Archie's skin might be before he was born. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridges Royal Foundation have revealed a push for more diversity among their staff in their annual report. The couple are pictured in Edinburgh in May The Trustees and Auditors report for 2020 stated improving diversity among staff has become a 'particular focus'. The Duke and Duchess are pictured speaking with the parent of a boy who has benefited from the Royal Foundation The report reads: 'The Royal Foundation remains committed to equality and diversity and to ensuring a positive, safe and respectful environment which promotes the wellbeing and dignity of its employees, applicants, partners, suppliers and those whose interests it represents.' The Foundation's report also states that they are committed to being a 'mentally healthy workplace' revealing they 'a number of wellbeing initiatives' in place to ensure employees can maintain good mental health. The Royal Foundation, of which the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are patrons, has set up several mental health initiatives. It helped launch Heads Together, a campaign to tackle stigma and change the conversation around mental health, and Contact, which aims to help members of the armed forces access mental health and support. The Royal Foundation, which has the Duke and Duchess of Sussex alongside the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as its patrons, has set up several mental health initiatives. Kate and William are pictured with Harry during a visit in support of the Heads Together in 2017 The Cambridges attended the launch of mental health charity Shout last year, backed by the Royal Foundation among others, which offers a 24/7 text service to those struggling with mental health issues. Prince Harry and Meghan were also patrons of the organisation but revealed their plan to split from the Royal Foundation and establish their own foundation in June 2019, six months before they decided to step back from the royal family. Meghan, 40, claimed in her explosive Oprah interview that she was offered no support from the monarchy after revealing she was suicidal. Buckingham Palace are reportedly ignoring the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's racism allegations in the hope they 'go away', an updated biography has claimed. A source claimed to Finding Freedom authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, who are seen as being close to the couple: 'There is a feeling that if it's ignored it will go away but surely by now they should have learned that that never happens?' The report, which covered the period of January to December 2020 comes after the Duchess of Sussex's acrimonious split from the Royal Family following allegations of racism within the Firm during her interview with Oprah Winfrey The updated Finding Freedom (pictured) chapter claims the Palace now think they can ignore the explosive claims and they 'will go away' The writers claimed the insider had been 'horrified' by Meghan and Harry's allegation. Earlier this week extracts from the revised chapter were leaked, claiming the Sussexes considered naming the royal who allegedly asked the question. The authors reported that the couple weighed up 'sharing this detail' during Oprah sit down. But Meghan ultimately told Oprah revealing the individual's identity would be 'very damaging to them'. A leaked epilogue to the update of Finding Freedom makes a series of dramatic claims about the couple, the state of their relationship with the Royal Family. It says Prince William was left 'furious' by the broadcast but Meghan found it 'cathartic' and 'liberating'. It also quotes a friend of the Duchess as complaining that, several months later, 'little accountability' had been taken by the monarchy over her allegations. Harry and Meghan have repeatedly insisted Finding Freedom was unauthorised and they had not offered any co-operation. Prince Frederik and Princess Mary of Denmark paid tribute to the country's fallen soldiers this morning at the annual Flag Day event. The royal couple arrived at the Military Headquarters Kastellet and participated in the traditional wreath-laying ceremony for Danish soldiers abroad. The service, also attended by veterans and Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, honours people who are or have been sent on a mission by Denmark. The princess, 49, was dressed in a large black hat with a white flower and wore a black Prada coat on top of a monochrome dress adorned with black poppies. Prince Frederik and Princess Mary of Denmark paid tribute to the country's fallen soldiers this morning at the annual Flag Day event The princess, 49, was dressed in a large black hat with a white flower and wore a black Prada coat on top of a monochrome dress adorned with black poppies The royal couple arrived at the Military Headquarters Kastellet and participated in the traditional wreath-laying ceremony for Danish soldiers abroad She carried a leather clutch bag and gloves and sported a large white floral brooch on her lapel, pearl stud earrings and completing her look with black heels. The mother-of-four sported dark liner to define her eyes and opted for a blush pink lipstick. The Crown Prince, 53, who was dressed in military regalia, sat by her side during the ceremonies before taking the time to greet the military officials in attendance. September 5 is an official day in Denmark to pay respect to deployed soldiers and is marked by a number of different events and ceremonies throughout the day. The service, also attended by veterans and Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, pictured, honours people who are or have been sent on a mission by Denmark The Crown Prince, 53, who was dressed in military regalia, sat by his wife's side during the ceremonies before taking the time to greet the military officials in attendance September 5 is an official day in Denmark to pay respect to deployed soldiers and is marked by a number of different events and ceremonies throughout the day Danish flags (Dannebrog) are carried by military personnel at the Military Headquarters Kastellet in Copenhagen, Denmark Last month the royal couple waved off son Prince Christian, 15, as he started at Denmark's oldest boarding school, Herlufsholm by the River Susa in Nstved, located south of Copenhagen. The three royal family members posed for a collection of photographs to celebrate the occasion, which were then shared to the Danish household's social media accounts. Prince Christians cousin Prince Nikolai of Denmark attended Herlufsholm from 2015 to 2018 - but this is the first time a future monarch has enrolled at the educational establishment. One of four, Prince Christains siblings are Princess Isabella, 14, and ten-year-old twins, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine. Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark (centre) stands in front of veterans at the Military Headquarters Kastellet in Copenhagen, Denmark, during a ceremony marking the Flag Day for Denmark's emissaries Advertisement Princess Maria Anunciata of Liechtenstein was a vision in white as she walked down the aisle with her entrepreneur boyfriend for the second time. The heiress, 36, who is the daughter of Princess Margaretha of Luxembourg and Prince Nikolaus of Liechtenstein, married Emanuele Musini in a small civil ceremony at the Villa della Tenuta di Fassia near Gubbio on June 26. Yesterday, the stunning royal tied the knot for a second time during their religious ceremony in Vienna and looked every inch the blushing bride in a white satin gown complete with statement balloon sleeves. A host of high-profile guests attended the wedding including Stephanie of Luxembourg, Prince Guillaume of Luxembourg, Ekaterina Princess of Hanover and Maria Teresa, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg. Princess Maria Anunciata of Liechtenstein was a vision in white as she walked down the aisle with her entrepreneur boyfriend boyfriend for the second time The bride was assisted by five adorable bridesmaids who all donned white satin bridesmaid dresses teamed with green satin ribbons and flower crowns The happy couple looked thrilled as they were pictured leaving the church and waving at royal fans as they made their way to the reception Princess Maria Anunciata of Liechtenstein, 36, married Emanuele Musini in a small civil ceremony at the Villa della Tenuta di Fassia near Gubbio on June 26, pictured Princess Maria completed her look with a veil emblazoned with dainty white flowers paired with a bejewelled crown and matching earrings, while her blonde tresses were swept back in a chic up do. The happy couple looked thrilled as they were pictured leaving the church and waving at royal fans as they made their way to the reception. Emanuele cut a handsome figure, donning a pair of pinstripe trousers paired with a camel waistcoat, black jacket and satin tie. The bride was assisted by five adorable bridesmaids who all donned white satin bridesmaid dresses teamed with green satin ribbons and flower crowns. The heiress, 36, who is the daughter of Princess Margaretha of Luxembourg and Prince Nikolaus of Liechtenstein, married Emanuele in a small civil ceremony at the Villa della Tenuta di Fassia near Gubbio on June 26 before a second ceremony in Vienna today Today, the stunning royal tied the knot for a second time in Vienna and looked every inch the blushing bride in a white satin gown complete with statement balloon sleeves The group left the wedding with Maria in a horse and carriage as a huge crowd of excited onlookers gathered to watch the happy couple tie the knot for the second time The group left the wedding with Maria in a horse and carriage as a huge crowd of excited onlookers gathered to watch the happy couple tie the knot for the second time. Earlier this year the royal gave a glimpse into her first wedding, where she opted wearing for a more relaxed white dress with balloon sleeves. In a picture shared on Instagram by a royal fan, Maria Anunciata could be seen looking ethereal as she and her husband signed the wedding registry at Villa della Tenuta di Fassia. The couple have been dating for several years, with Emanuele appearing in photos at Maria Anunciata's family functions since 2017. Maria Anunciata is member to not only one, but two royal families, being the granddaughter of the late Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg and Josephine-Charlotte of Belgium on her mothers side. Princess Maria completed her look with a veil emblazoned with dainty white flowers paired with a bejewelled crown and matching earring, while her blonde tresses were swept back in a chic up do Stephanie of Luxembourg and Crown Prince Guillaume of Luxembourg were among the high-profile guests at the wedding Christian von Habsburg and Marie-Astrid von Habsburg (left) joined Ekaterina, the Princess of Hanover and Princess Christian of Hanover (right) at the event yesterday Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg is pictured with her husband, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg Alana Bunte and Prince Casimir zu Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn (left) joined Francois du Chastel and his guest (right) at the event A host of high-profile guests attended the wedding including Prince Lorenz of Belgium who is pictured with a guest at the event In spite of her grand upbringing and royal ties, the 36-year-old has built a career for herself as a respected curator for museums. She worked for the Parisian art publishing house Cahier d'Art, which is renowned for its contemporary art periodical La Revue. In 2016, she worked on the Picasso retrospective which marked the 100th anniversary of the painter and Jean Cocteau's trip to Rome and Naples with the Ballets Russes. After proving herself by working for giants of the art world, Maria Anunciata is now working on independent projects and spends her time between New York and Paris. She has two younger siblings, Princess Maria-Astrid and Prince Josef-Emmanuel, who is often listed as one of Europe's most illegible bachelors. Her father Nikolaus, is 15th in line for the Liechtenstein throne, while her brother is 16th in line. He moved to the UK at a young age to attend The Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, and after graduation he joined the Irish Guard. Frederik Sachs posed for a photo at the event with Princess Mafalda of Savoy and German industrialist Rolf Sachs Italian journalist and fashion model Beatrice Borromeo arrived at the event with Pierre Casiraghi, the younger son of Caroline, Princess of Hanover Pictured, Prince Philipp of Liechtenstein with Princess Isabelle of Liechtenstein with their family Josef was quickly promoted to Lieutenant, aged just 21, and was selected to present the Queen with the flag of his regiment at the 2010 Trooping the Colour. He was joined after the ceremony by his parents and his two sisters Princess Maria-Anunciata and Princess Marie-Astrid. The regiment has a strong connection to the 31-year-old, since his grandfather, Grand Duke Jean served with the group as a Lieutenant in the Second World War. Grand Duke Jean had volunteered with the British Army after his royal family fled Nazi occupation of Luxembourg. Maria Anunciata's beau, Emanuele, founded Pillo Health, a company which aims to bring Artificial Intelligence into the health habits of the American home. His company, which registers a reported $3.8 million (2.7 million) a year, is based in Boston. Having been confined to our homes for much of the past 18 months and no longer working in an office five days a week, many of us have piles of clothes lurking in our wardrobes that haven't seen the light of day for over a year. But rather than bagging them up and chucking them, the founder of a preloved fashion app is encouraging us to turn our old threads into a lucrative side hustle. To mark the start of Second Hand September, an initiative introduced by Oxfam where people commit to only buying preloved for the entire month to reduce waste, Nikki Trollope - who started up Troopas with school friend Maria Pavli during lockdown - is urging us to give our clobber a second chance at life, while making a few quid at the same time. Nikki, 31, who is originally from Bulawayo in Zimbabwe but now lives in Surrey, works in the travel industry which was hit hard by the pandemic. To mark the start of Second Hand September, an initiative introduced by Oxfam where people commit to only buying preloved for the entire month to reduce waste, Nikki Trollope, left - who started up Troopas with school friend Maria Pavli (right) during lockdown - is urging us to give our clobber a second chance at life, while making a few quid at the same time Having been put on furlough in March last year, Nikki teamed up with Maria, 32, to bring her idea for a second-hand clothing site to life. 'At work I have to go to so many functions with clients, which are often cocktail parties and black tie events, and because you're always with the same people you don't want to wear the same outfit twice,' she explained. 'Not only that, if you go to a wedding these days so many people share photos on Instagram that it puts you off wearing the same dress to another wedding because everyone's seen it. 'I found I was constantly buying new stuff and ended up with a wardrobe full of clothes I'd only worn once or twice, which had cost me a fortune.' Inspired by the likes of Depop and Vinted, and with months of no work stretching out before her, Nikki set about bringing Troopas to life, with her and Maria investing 2,000 out of their savings to get it up and running Nikki and Maria, an operations manager in the gaming industry, have recently introduced a third membership - Star Troopas - for charities that are store-based and don't have an online marketplace to sell clothes (pictured: two wedding dresses currently for sale on Troopas) Inspired by the likes of Depop and Vinted, and with months of no work stretching out before her, Nikki set about getting Troopas up and running, with her and Maria investing 2,000 out of their savings. 'I wanted to keep busy and have a side project because we didn't know what would happen with the travel industry,' she told FEMAIL. 'So it was a little side industry, if my own didn't recover as fast as I hoped.' How to become a Super Troopa and turn your wardrobe into a side hustle Register and complete your profile: the more information you provide the more comfortable potential buyers will be. So, tell everyone a little bit about yourself, upload a profile image and let the buyers get to know you and your style. Add products! Add the items you would like to sell. Don't forget you must include your shipping cost in your final product price. Prepare your item: the more attractive it looks, the more likely it is to be sold. So, iron it or steam it, straighten the collar and button it up. Always use a white or light grey backdrop to take a photo of your item, as this makes it stand out and capture the colours as accurately as possible. Rolls of white paper are ideal, cheap, and readily available. Take photos next to a window for natural light. Take photos of the item from the front, back and side: Your aim is to create a shopping experience for the buyer; create a tangible effect by adding pictures such as a close up of the fabric texture, tags, buttons, patterns, tags and stitching. Work those poses and add a picture of you wearing it to showcase how it looks on. Get shipping sorted: always send items tracked to keep yourself protected and your buyer connected. Delivery time: Provide your potential buyers with accurate information on delivery and stick to it - the last thing you want is negative reviews. Set up a verified PayPal account so that you can receive your payments. If you're a buyer: first register and verify your account then browse what we like to call your 'Dream Wardrobe' where items are just hanging out and waiting for you to give them a brand new home! Next step is payment, hand over the cash using our secure payment methods. Wait for your new purchase to reach your doorstep, then put it on and strut your stuff wherever life takes you. Advertisement Unlike its competitors, the site offers three different types of memberships. The basic free plan is catered to 'adhoc' sellers who choose to sell the odd item now and again. Their 'Savvy Troopa' plan, which costs 10 a month, is geared towards thrifty members who regularly sell items on the platform as a side business to make some money. 'This membership provides you with additional features like a featured profile on the Troopas website, homepage display and a newsletter,' Nikki explained. 'It's great for those people who love digging out unique, unusual pieces at vintage markets, car boot sales and charity shops and selling them on. We've found the more one-off items like limited edition sneakers and vintage designer clothes give you a better return than run of the mill high street stuff.' Nikki and Maria, an operations manager in the gaming industry, have recently introduced a third membership - Star Troopas - for charities that are store-based and don't have an online marketplace to sell clothes. 'For the first 20 charities that sign up, we aren't charging a monthly fee,' Nikki said. 'The goal is to attract the smaller charity shops that don't have an online shopping presence. 'All our prices include shipping, so there are no extra charges when you get to the checkout.' Billions of tonnes of clothes end up in landfill every year, but buying preloved is becoming increasingly fashionable, with a growing number of consumers embracing the old, be it vintage, pre-owned or upcycled, because it provides a more sustainable approach to shopping. Sales of clothes and homeware on eBay went up 30 per cent during lockdown. Traffic on Depop more than doubled from April 2020 to November, and Vestiaire Collective, the go-to destination for pre-loved designer styles, saw a 144 per cent spike in orders compared to 2019. Even before lockdown fuelled a million wardrobe clearouts and the economic toll of the pandemic rendered us all more money-conscious the fashion resale market was booming. In 2019, it grew 25 times faster than traditional retail. Brands are also getting on board, with COS the chic, grown-up member of the H&M Group and Gucci launching dedicated resale platforms last year. Selfridges also launched Resellfridges to let customers buy and sell pre-loved designer pieces, while luxury online retailer Farfetch has offered pre-loved pieces since 2010. Nikki said: 'Our mission with Troopas is to make your wardrobe work for you and make you some money. It allows you to change up your look and wardrobe at reasonable prices, and build relationships by selling or buying clothes. 'We are committed to playing our part in curbing fast fashion, we are all about increasing and fully utilising the lifecycle of clothing and accessories, no matter the brand. Let's save the environment, one garment at a time.' For more information about Troopas visit troopas.co.uk or follow them on Instagram. Countries around the world are falling over themselves to announce bold ambitions for a transition to clean energy. Europe and the UK are targeting net zero carbon emissions by 2050, China by 2060, while the US hopes to be the world's clean energy superpower. More target setting and grandstanding from governments is likely at, and in the lead-up to, the Cop26 Climate Change conference to be held in Glasgow in November. There are questions about whether they have the strategies and political will to achieve their targets. But one thing is certain: transitioning to clean energy is going to take money and lots of it. Already countries have pledged trillions in investment. So it's perhaps no wonder that co-manager of Guinness Sustainable Energy Fund, Jonathan Waghorn, believes there are opportunities for investors in the energy transition. 'There is a global movement away from fossil fuels and towards low carbon energy,' says Waghorn. 'We look for the companies that will benefit. Not the fossil fuel companies that have to go through the transition, but those firms finding solutions that are already green and clean.' The 544million fund is made up of 30 companies, which Waghorn and his team aim to hold for three to five years. They invest wherever in the world they see opportunities. The fund is 40 per cent invested in companies based in the US, 11 per cent in China, seven per cent in South Korea, and the remainder split in between nine other countries including Germany, Canada, Spain and France. Waghorn, following the same principle as all Guinness fund managers, keeps his holdings equally weighted and rebalances regularly. 'This approach keeps things simple as it means we're not worrying about what weightings we should give to any one holding,' he says. 'By limiting ourselves to 30 holdings, we need to sell if we want to buy. Remembering to sell is far harder than buying, so this strategy maintains discipline.' The fund is split into two elements: companies producing clean power and those providing efficiency solutions to reduce energy consumption. One that fits into the latter category is ON Semiconductor, a US company that manufactures components used in electric vehicle charging points. Waghorn is always seeking out value and this company offers a way to invest in the popular theme of charging points, but at a reasonable price. Similarly, he invests in Chinese solar glass manufacturer Xinyi Solar, which offers exposure to solar power, but in a low-cost way. 'It is one of the largest and best-quality producers, offering value in an industry that is still very volatile,' says Waghorn. As with any specialist fund, Waghorn believes Guinness Sustainable Energy should only form a component of a well-diversified global portfolio. Guinness Sustainable Energy invests in 'clean' technologies such as solar power However, he believes that over time, the sustainable energy theme is poised to outperform other global stocks on average. In addition, the fund tracks the tons of carbon emissions saved by the activities of the companies in which they invest. They believe that for every $1million (727,000) of portfolio assets, 1,174 tons of carbon dioxide are not emitted that would have been otherwise. That is the equivalent of the energy consumption of 135 households for one year. Guinness Sustainable Energy has turned a 1,000 investment into 2,253 over three years, following a particularly impressive growth spurt of 50.4 per cent over the past year. The fund has an ongoing charge of 0.69 per cent and its stock market identification code is B3CCJ63. Aviation group Meggitt is flying high back into the FTSE100 to be precise. The company, which makes parts for both commercial and military aircraft, has had a turbulent ride over the past few years. As a result it has zigzagged in and out of the top British index. This might well be its final flight, as the company is in the middle of a takeover battle. Up in the air: Aviation group Meggitt has had a turbulent ride over the past few years It has agreed to a 6.3billion takeover from US-based engineer Parker Hannifin, but has also been approached by rival TransDigm, which could make an even higher bid. TransDigm now has until September 14 to make a formal offer or get off the plane, the Takeover Panel has ruled. To add to the complications, the UK Government has said it will be monitoring any Meggitt takeover closely due to the defence implications if the company has a new owner. The shares have risen stratospherically thanks to the takeover news, from 4.54 at the end of July to 8.37 on Friday. That makes them look very expensive indeed, whatever you think about the prospects for military and commercial aircraft, post pandemic. Of course the company's share price is merely a reflection of what the market thinks will happen in terms of the takeover battle. The agreed bid from Parker Hannifin, which is the only deal officially on the table, is at 8.00 a share, so the current elevated price indicates that some people expect TransDigm to come good. It is understood that TransDigm would pay 9.00 a share, so if you believe a deal could go ahead, the shares are a steal. However, the longer the company waits to make an offer, the less likely a deal becomes, especially with the Government indicating that a successful bid would require assurances about a continued presence in the UK. Parker Hannifin has already made some, for the first year at least. That is a lot of uncertainty, especially if you've already made a profit on Meggitt, and do not want to see it coming crashing down to earth with a bump. Midas verdict: Midas readers will know that the column has long been a fan of Meggitt, which was tipped in April 2018 at 4.37, and then again in January 2019 at 4.97. Readers who followed our recommendations are sitting on some amazing profits and might be wondering whether it is time to press the button for the ejector seat. While it is tempting to hang on to see what happens next with TransDigm, anyone who has spent time in the City knows there is many a slip between a takeover bid and an actual acquisition, and the involvement of the British Government makes the unknowns even greater. Despite the firm's elevation into the FTSE 100 and its continued strong performance, there's no shame in bringing Meggitt into land. Take profits. Listed on: Main market Ticker: MGGT Contact: www.meggitt.com, 024 7629 4200 Marks & Spencer has held an emergency meeting with 40 of its top European food suppliers amid fears EU member states and the UK are not ready for the introduction of stringent border controls within a month. New restrictions being introduced from October 1 are expected to disrupt imports from the EU the source of a quarter of Britain's food. Industry experts expect a succession of further controls to be brought in between then and January will cause chaos as food supplies are refused entry or delayed amid a tangle of bureaucracy with drivers being asked to supply up to 700 pages of documents at borders. Red tape: Marks & Spencer, promoted here by Joanna Lumley, has major supply concerns The slow movement of goods has already seen Sainsbury's temporarily shore up gaps on shelves in its Northern Ireland shops with produce from local suppliers including its retail rival Spar. Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's and others are also subject to numerous product shortages of fresh and 'composite' food that containing animal products in the province. But the nightmare of red tape bedding in the Northern Ireland Protocol, set up to ease trade between the British mainland and the province, could be dwarfed by the chaos of importing goods from the EU when the full force of restrictions is imposed by Brussels from next month. The Mail on Sunday has learned the retail giant's bosses at the meeting on Friday warned suppliers from across the Continent that authorities in the UK and the EU are not prepared for the border rule changes, affecting the movement of fresh meat and fish. Some national authorities in the EU have even failed to translate the necessary documents into local languages, they warned. European countries have a shortage of vets who are required to sign off health certificates for foods containing animal products such as pepperoni pizza A letter has been circulated this weekend among M&S suppliers across Europe to warn that port facilities in Wales, Scotland and England will not be ready in time for physical checks on consignments scheduled to begin at the end of the year. It also raised the alarm over shortages of vets in European countries. They will be needed to sign food health certificates for goods containing animal products including meat, fish, dairy products, lasagne, pepperoni pizza and even ice cream destined for the UK. It blamed 'outdated and burden - some' border systems that threaten the flow of food from Europe unless the UK and the EU agree action. Environment Secretary George Eustice has branded excessive demands placed on exports of British goods as 'bonkers' given the high standard required in farms and food processing plants. One senior food industry source said: 'We expected friction at borders, but not this much friction.' Marks & Spencer has written to suppliers warning them that the current system of slow, paper-based documentation for imports 'doesn't work' A Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs spokesman said importers and exporters 'should continue to prepare for the new checks coming in from October 1'. He said: 'We have taken a pragmatic approach to their introduction, phasing them in over a number of months [and implementing them later than originally planned] to give businesses time to adapt.' M&S chairman Archie Norman has urged the EU and UK to work on closer 'common sense' reciprocity which means lowering the number of checks and stringent demands for minutely detailed documentation. He also wants Defra and the EU to adopt a scheme of digital checks aimed at easing the burden on drivers who are currently required to carry large files of paperwork on each trip sometimes only to be turned back because of errors in the fine detail. In its letter to suppliers, M&S said 'high volume, slow, paper-based' documentation 'in short doesn't work'. It added that 'it is clear from the information you have shared with us as well as our own intelligence that neither the UK Government or EU member state authorities are going to be ready' for the changes due to begin on October 1 or for the physical checks starting at the beginning of next year. Mario Furer, UK managing director of Spanish charcuterie and fresh meat firm Noel Foods and an M&S supplier, said documentation demands and new border checks 'pose a significant risk to our supply chain'. He added: 'Whilst we have been preparing for this moment for the last year, there are many elements in the supply chain that are out of our direct control.' Paolo Lasagni, managing director of M&S wine supplier Bosco Viticultori, said: 'What we are delivering now is exactly the same as before Brexit. It would be great if the EU and Britain could find a sort of simplification agreement.' Britain's biggest airlines are heading for yet more cash calls and cost-cutting to survive the winter, industry experts are warning. Airlines are facing their weakest trading season after a fragmented summer of changing restrictions for short-haul travel and with lucrative US routes remaining closed to UK travellers. Going nowhere: Airlines are facing their weakest trading season after a fragmented summer of changing restrictions and with US routes remaining closed to UK travellers Aviation consultant John Strickland said: 'I think a number of large airlines will have to secure additional liquidity by means including rights issues, equity raises and loans. 'If they can convince the Government to extend the furlough scheme beyond September, that will also help. But it's going to be a second challenging winter after two emaciated summers.' All the big airlines have raised funds since the pandemic began. British Airways and Ryanair are among major aviation firms in talks with unions over cutting costs by moving staff to flexible seasonal contracts or part-time working. Restructuring lawyer Andrew Wilkinson, a senior partner at Weil, Gotshal & Manges, said airlines may cut the number of routes they operate due to a decline in business trips. Consulting giant BCG has banned flights for company jollies and PwC expects staff business travel to fall by about two-thirds. Wilkinson said: 'Until you can write a business plan around the future of business travel, companies have to play for time. 'This will mean controlling costs as best they can and then either tapping their shareholders for a rights issue or increasing the liquidity lines provided by banks.' Strickland added: 'We haven't had major out-and-out failures but I think it's still possible that could happen.' Engineering giant Rolls-Royce has issued a robust defence of its Power Systems business amid suggestions from its biggest shareholder that the division should be sold off. Causeway Capital Management, which owns just under 9 per cent, last week launched an attack on the board and mooted the sale. The intervention came as Anita Frew is poised to become chair next month. Power Systems, headquartered in southern Germany and previously called MTU, makes engines to power ships and trains and is estimated to be worth more than 3.5billion. Struggle: Rolls-Royce has been pummelled by the pandemic, which devastated its main market in civil aerospace Causeway portfolio manager Jonathan Eng said he was undecided on whether the division should be offloaded, but added: 'With a stroke they can become an aerospace and defence company and they can fix their balance sheet.' However, Rolls-Royce strategy director Ben Story told The Mail on Sunday last night: 'There has been a quiet revolution in the Power Systems business. It was historically a German business which largely exported. 'Now we have a joint venture in China which is running seven days a week and is going gangbusters. And a joint venture in India with local suppliers and distributors. We have really globalised that business and we've made it the heart and soul of the group.' He added that Rolls-Royce was benefiting from close links between the Power Systems arm and teams developing products for electric planes and flying taxis. Chief executive Warren East has been meeting shareholders over the last month. It is understood that Frew will meet investors soon. Causeway has also called on Frew to 'refresh' the board when she takes over from Sir Ian Davis. Rolls-Royce has been pummelled by the pandemic, which devastated its main market in civil aerospace. In response, the company cut 9,000 jobs and secured 7.3billion of new equity and debt last year. The group includes a significant defence arm and a burgeoning nuclear reactor programme. Story declined to directly address Causeway's suggestions, but said: 'We listen to all of our shareholders. We need to communicate the broader story.' He praised East who has faced a series of woes in his efforts to turn around Rolls since 2015. A Serious Fraud Office probe was dropped in 2019. Story said: 'With the SFO, Trent 1000 [engine problems] and Covid the poor guy has been buffeted by one tsunami after another, but despite that we've got new exciting businesses in electrical systems and small nuclear reactors.' The boss of one of Britain's biggest banks has accused social media giants of aiding fraudsters and profiting from online investment scams during the pandemic. Debbie Crosbie, the chief executive of TSB, told The Mail on Sunday that 'fraud is the next pandemic', and condemned social media firms which include giant platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google Hangouts and Instagram for their role in allowing victims to be duped. She said: 'These companies are not just helping fraudsters, they're effectively making money from them through advertisements. 'Fraud is the next pandemic it's the fastest-growing crime. So much fraud has begun with social media companies hosting advertisements that are fraudulent. 'On so many occasions, we have had customers defrauded because they've logged on to websites and done their best to check them out, but they are very sophisticated scams.' Demand: TSB chief executive Debbie Crosbie said tech firms should be legally obliged to vet advertisers and take down scam sites The pandemic has pushed consumers into conducting their finances online, leaving them exposed to digital scammers. Savers were cheated out of 135.1 million through investment scams last year, up 42 per cent on the year before, figures from banking trade association UK Finance show. The number of victims of bogus investment opportunities rose by 32 per cent to 8,958, with the average amount lost per case increasing from 14,000 to 15,000. As the series of Covid lockdowns forced consumers online, shoppers fell victim to text message scams conducted by con artists purporting to be from delivery firms including Royal Mail and DPD. The surge in the price of Bitcoin during the pandemic has also sparked scams, involving fake celebrity endorsements of cryptocurrencies. Individuals suffered losses of up to 200,000 as a result of a scam featuring fake investment advertorials from high-profile businessmen such as Sir James Dyson and Lord Sugar. Last month, Nikhil Rathi, chief executive of regulator the Financial Conduct Authority, urged the Government to include an amendment to tackle advertising fraud in the Online Safety Bill, which is working its way through Parliament. A lot of people have this view that 'people are idiots, why did they get involved?' But some of these scams are very sophisticated The Government announced measures to tackle some online fraud in the Bill in May, but did not include scams conducted via advertising, cloned websites or email. Facebook launched a tool in the UK allowing users to report scam adverts in response to a campaign by MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis in 2019. But Crosbie has also called for an end to the 'victim-blaming culture' around fraud and demanded that big tech firms work with regulators, banks and the Government to tackle the issue. She said they should have a legal obligation to vet advertisers, take down scam sites and be officially measured on how quickly they do this. She also called for a code of conduct to protect customers across industries ranging from telecoms to retail. 'A lot of people have this view that 'people are idiots, why did they get involved?' But some of these scams are very sophisticated,' she said. TSB, which has Britain's seventh-largest bank branch network serving more than five million customers, launched a fraud refund guarantee in 2019 and publishes the level of refunds to victims. Sophisticated scams: More Britons fell victim to fraudsters during the pandemic, as they were forced to take their money management online TSB has a refund rate of more than 98 per cent and wants rivals to publish their equivalent figures. 'People should be able to choose their bank based on the level of protection and reimbursement,' Crosbie said. TSB has signed up to the Good Business Charter, a voluntary accreditation designed to promote responsible business behaviour. The charter, which was founded and backed by Julian Richer of hi-fi retail chain Richer Sounds, demands commitments from firms to a string of goals, including paying fair tax rates, reducing their environmental impact and encouraging diversity in the workforce. More than 600 organisations have signed up, including insurer Aviva and contractor Capita. TSB hopes to use commitments to social goals, including fraud protection, as a point of difference as it attempts to win customers from bigger rivals, such as Lloyds and Barclays. Crosbie said: 'We want to differentiate on the basis that people can trust us. We want relationship banking and we do want to deliver that human touch.' The bank is in the process of shutting 164 branches this year, angering some customers. Crosbie said every closure was considered 'carefully', but that customers were rapidly moving to conducting their banking online. One of Britain's leading economic think-tanks has called for a permanent end to Government furlough, despite warning there could be a rise in unemployment when the scheme stops later this month. The Resolution Foundation told The Mail on Sunday that there is 'no need to extend furlough or provide further targeted support,' given that there are now no restrictions on businesses operating normally. Chancellor Rishi Sunak introduced furlough, officially the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, at the start of the first lockdown to cover 80 per cent of employees' usual monthly wages to protect jobs. Success: Chancellor Rishi Sunak introduced furlough, officially the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, at the start of the first lockdown It is widely considered to have been successful, keeping unemployment low despite forecasts that a pandemic recession could trigger unemployment of up to 10 per cent. The Trades Union Congress, the umbrella body for UK unions, has urged the Government to abandon plans to scrap the scheme and instead create a permanent scheme to deal with future periods of economic turbulence. The Resolution Foundation said it accepts the jobs market is in for a 'bumpy ride', with a possible rise in unemployment from 4.4 per cent to 4.9 per cent. But its report said: 'It certainly seems plausible that we have passed the peak of unemployment, reflecting the extraordinary success of the job retention scheme in keeping people in their jobs.' One of the country's biggest lettings agencies could be about to change hands for up to 400million. City sources said the private equity owner of Leaders Romans Group has appointed bankers from NM Rothschild to work on a 'strategic review' of the business, which could lead to a sale later this year. The possible disposal follows an unexpected property boom over the last year, driven in part by the Government's stamp duty holiday, which triggered a potential round of corporate activity in the property industry. On a high: The possible disposal follows an unexpected property boom over the last year Estate agency Chestertons has recently been put on the market for 100million by Libyan businessman Salah Mussa, who is believed to have appointed advisers from Deloitte. Chestertons has around 30 branches in the UK and is focused on sales of expensive houses. Leaders Romans concentrates on lettings and has around 160 branches across Britain. Bankers said Leaders Romans is expected to generate around 35million in operating profits, so the business could be sold for between 350 million and 400million. Private equity firm Bowmark Capital originally invested in Leaders Romans in 2010 and backed the firm to carry out 110 acquisitions to make it one of the largest lettings agencies in the UK. It is thought that a sale of the company most likely to a large buyout firm could take place either later this year or in early 2022. Boris Johnson will meet pension and insurance bosses in Downing Street next month to thrash out plans to channel billions of pounds of retirement funds into 'green' projects. A source said there will be in-depth discussions about how pension cash can be diverted into initiatives such as installing solar panels in homes and providing charging points for electric cars. More than 1trillion is sitting in defined contribution pensions including workplace schemes. Summit: Boris Johnson will meet pension and insurance bosses in Downing Street next month The Government is hoping to unlock more of this to invest in Britain's green economy and 'build back better' initiative. Another 2trillion is in annuities and defined benefit schemes. The agenda is expected to include more detail on funnelling pension money into various projects to reach 'net zero carbon' by 2050 the commitment to reduce greenhouse gases to offset carbon emissions in order to combat climate change. Sources said the trade body the Association of British Insurers is separately meeting with City Minister John Glen this week to talk over the new push. One of the plans is to make homes one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gas after travel more reliant on green energy such as solar power. That project is estimated to cost about 250billion. A source said: 'This needs a scheme, and the Government is probably best placed to do it because you need a supply chain lined up including investment and the people to implement projects. There is a need to coordinate and get the right types of projects going.' But the plans are expected to spark controversy as many of these investments are illiquid meaning they are difficult to buy and sell which could leave pension savers with some of their cash trapped in assets. The debate over hard-to-sell investments came under the spotlight following the collapse of Neil Woodford's fund after he poured billions of pounds into small, risky companies. Andy Briggs, chief executive of Phoenix, the largest retirement company, said: 'We need to pick up the pace if we're going to hit net zero carbon by 2050. 'We're supportive of this initiative, and how pensions can invest whilst retaining strong customer protection. We will be mindful of the importance of maintaining returns.' Britain's most powerful activist investor has secretly built a stake in one of the country's largest insurance brokerages after it was forced to abandon a $30billion sale to a rival. City sources said The Children's Investment Fund, controlled by multi-millionaire hedge fund boss Sir Chris Hohn, quietly accumulated shares in Lloyd's of London broker Willis Towers Watson which is listed in the US but whose headquarters are in Britain. Those were the days: London-based TCI once employed chancellor Rishi Sunak The stakebuilding move by London-based TCI, which once employed Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak, comes after Willis pulled the plug on a sale to rival Aon in late July following opposition from the US authorities to the megamerger. It's not yet clear why Hohn's firm has bought the stake. TCI is said to have begun engaging with Willis's management last week to express its views on strategy, according to trade publication The Insurance Insider. Typically TCI buys large stakes and holds the investment for a long period. Occasionally Hohn will launch a public campaign if his firm's concerns are not met. In 2007, TCI urged ABN Amro to consider a break-up, which eventually led to the bid battle between Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland for the Dutch lender. Sir Chris also got into a row with German stock exchange Deutsche Borse over its proposed takeover of the London Stock Exchange. A spokesman for Willis declined to comment. TCI did not return calls. Superdry has sued Asos in the High Court claiming the online giant copied its 'Osaka' branding on T-shirts and sweatshirts. In court documents seen by the Mail, the company highlighted five items on the Asos website, including Asos, Topman and New Look branded clothes, which use the word Osaka. Copy: In court documents, Superdry highlighted five items on the Asos website, including Asos, Topman and New Look branded clothes, which use the word Osaka Asos was asked to remove the 'identical' items from its website and, when it allegedly refused, Superdry sued. 'It is clear that the product is designed to reproduce the look of Superdry's goods to mislead customers,' it said, adding that Asos acted 'flagrantly' by continuing to list items with the branding. Superdry boss Julian Dunkerton yesterday came under fire for using his fuel-guzzling private Cessna 525C jet for a family holiday and a work trip despite his aim to make Superdry 'the most sustainable fashion brand on the planet'. The company said he offset the carbon. Knowing when to call time on a failing investment is one of the hardest decisions an investor will face. Selling at a loss means admitting you made a mistake, which is difficult at the best of times not least when you have money riding on it. Investors are often haunted by the fear that an asset they owned will recover in value as soon as they sell, leaving them racked with regret. And that can happen. Markets plunged in March last year as nervous investors sold out due to fears over the impact of the global pandemic. Decision time: Investors who sold out when markets were in freefall last year would have missed out on an epic recovery Now 18 months later, the value of the UK's top 250 listed companies is hitting record highs this week. Investors who sold out when markets were in freefall would have missed out on an epic recovery. So how do you decide the right time to sell? One trick is to write down your reasons for buying an investment at the moment you make the purchase. You can revisit this record regularly to check you are still on track. If the investment is diverging from that goal, you could consider selling. If it is still on track, you may want to sit tight, even if its value has fallen since you bought it. Simon Evan-Cook, an independent fund analyst, believes having a well thought through strategy from the start should enable you to act quickly if you spot things aren't going to plan. Why is selling so much harder than buying? Private and professional investors alike have a tendency to hold on to disappointing investments for too long in the hope they might recover. David Coombs, head of multi-asset investments at Rathbones, says there is much more emotion involved in selling than buying. 'People always feel the pain of a loss more than the pleasure of a gain,' he explains. Mark Slater, manager of the Slater Growth fund, believes it can be hard to face up to the truth. 'There's no doubt that most people take profits too early,' he adds. 'And when they have a loss, they hate admitting they are wrong and would much rather hope it comes right. But that is the road to hell. It is much better to bite the bullet and take the loss.' 'People always feel the pain of a loss more than the pleasure of a gain,' according to Rathbones' David Coombes Work out why the investment is failing There are a number of reasons why an investment can disappoint. It may be one systemic problem, such as a management or accounting issue. There could also be several factors at play. Evan-Cook advises investors to be wary where a problem emerges at a company; it could be a sign that there are others. He points to the wise words of Angus Tulloch, a retired fund manager who made his name at Stewart Investors, who warned: 'There is always more than one cockroach in the cupboard.' Slater believes that once you have worked out what is driving the fall in value, you must consider whether it undermines your 'buy case' the reason that you bought it in the first place. But, if it doesn't, Slater suggests holding on. This may be the case if the issue is temporary and can be resolved. An investment can also disappoint because you bought in at the wrong price. A company or fund may be perfectly sound, but if you bought in at a high price it can be hard to make a return when you sell. You may want to have a subs bench of other investment ideas ready, so that if you need to sell, you can seamlessly shift the money into something you feel more positive about. Alternatively, you could simply sell and hold out until you have time to research other opportunities or add to your existing holdings. Try not to panic when a price falls... There are some reasons that an investment can fall in value that, however, don't spell long-term disaster. This can happen if a fund or share has moved in line with the market and there is a clear reason why the market is down. The point when an investment falls in value is not always the right time to sell, as the volatility in the markets at the beginning of the pandemic illustrated In this case, Evan-Cook suggests sitting tight. He cites the markets in March last year as a prime example. 'A lot of people sold then. But, if you panicked and sold at that point, you would have locked in some nasty losses,' he says. Another reason a fund may underperform is that the manager follows a certain style or theme that is currently out of fashion. If you understand why that is and expect performance to bounce back, you may wish to be patient. ...but don't put off making a decision Dean Cheeseman is a multi-asset portfolio manager at Janus Henderson Investors. He says it's easy to delay making a decision, but this can make things worse. 'It is very easy for inertia to take over and to put your head under the duvet and hope things will get better,' he says. 'One rule of thumb is to stand back, be as objective as you can and ask: if you were making the same investment tomorrow, would you be happy to commit fresh money? If the answer is 'no', it is time to sell.' If you were making the same investment tomorrow, would you be happy to commit fresh money? If the answer is 'no', it is time to sell Dean Cheeseman, Janus Henderson He adds that the worst thing an investor can do is to create a new narrative or reason for holding a stock or fund once performance starts to deteriorate. Coombs goes one step further in his strategy. If an investment in his portfolio falls in value, he either has to buy more of it or sell the lot. 'This takes a lot of the emotion out of the decision,' says Coombs. 'If you know that you are going to put more money in, you have got to be really convinced that the fall is short-term.' And finally, don't forget about fees Remember that some investing platforms charge customers for buying and selling shares. This is not necessarily a reason to put off selling if you have lost conviction in a holding. However, it is worth buying with an expectation that you will hold for the long term as the cost of chopping and changing can quickly add up. If you find that you are someone who buys and sells shares frequently, then consider investing through a platform with low fees for doing so. Fees tend to be less common for buying and selling funds. Investors in individual companies are spoilt for choice, with more than 1,300 trading on the London Stock Exchange alone. Of course, a well-constructed portfolio should contain many holdings so investors do not have all their eggs in one basket. But for a bit of fun and to test the strength of their conviction we asked a group of experts what single company they would invest in if they could pick only one. They considered factors such as potential growth, income and track record and then revealed their choice. This is what they told us. Hot property: Experts favour Rightmove, games firm Team17, and The Restaurant Group Aviva Insurance company Aviva is the top choice of Ben Yearsley, an investment director at Shore Financial Planning. He believes the FTSE100 company has been unloved for many years, but is coming back into fashion. Its strategy is also likely to benefit investors looking for an income. 'The chief executive Amanda Blanc has done a great job of realising value by selling off non-core assets to the tune of 7.5billion,' Yearsley says. 'This is going to lead to a big capital return to shareholders. 'It will also allow management to focus on the core business, which has arguably trod water for many years.' Yearsley points out the company has announced a 750million share buyback and predicts further buybacks, as well as special dividends. 'Recent results showed good progress in the core business, too' he adds. 'The final cherry is that the dividend yield from normal earnings is a healthy 5 per cent.' Aviva shares (4.11) are up an impressive 55.4 per cent over one year, and 8.8 per cent over three. ID CODE: 0216238 Ticker: AV. FDM Alexandra Jackson, manager of the Rathbone UK Opportunities Fund, says her top pick would be FDM, which recruits, trains and deploys IT and business professionals to work with clients around the world. She believes demand for its services is set to grow. 'When questioned, the chief financial officers of some of Britain's biggest businesses said that recruiting staff with IT and digital skills is the biggest hurdle right now,' she says. Jackson adds that FDM has long offered a classy solution to this recruitment problem. 'They train graduates, returners and ex-Forces personnel with the most relevant and up-to-date IT skills, who then get a two-year placement with one of FDM's clients,' she explains. 'They usually stay on with the client after that.' Recruiting staff with IT skills is a big challenge for British firms, according to Alexandra Jackson, manager of the Rathbone UK Opportunities Fund She notes that FDM has a gender pay gap slightly in favour of women in the UK, thanks to an increase in women in senior leadership positions and the success of its programme to support people returning to the workforce after a break. 'Not only do leading companies get well trained software testers or data engineers on a flexible basis, they also get access to a genuinely diverse and representative workforce,' she adds. FDM's dividend yield was 4.1 per cent last year and its share price (12.94) rose by 27.7 per cent. Over three years, shares are up 55.5 per cent. ID CODE: BLWDVP5 Ticker: FDM Rightmove Online property portal Rightmove is the preferred choice of Darius McDermott, managing director of investment scrutineer Chelsea Financial Services. In fact, he describes it as a 'money printing machine'. 'It is the dominant UK property portal and estate agents are totally dependent on it to get their properties seen,' he says. 'The UK is obsessed by property and Rightmove reaps the benefits.' McDermott points out that neither the website nor the app require much capital to run. This means the company generates huge amounts of cash, which it can return to shareholders. The company has also been a beneficiary of the recent property market boom, Darius adds. 'Rightmove has rebounded strongly and recently announced underlying earnings up 93 per cent for the half year to the end of June,' he says. 'Despite all this, the stock still trades around where it was before the pandemic started.' Rightmove's share price (7.26) is up 14 per cent over one year and 47 per cent over three years. ID CODE: BGDT3G2 Ticker: RMV Team17 Leigh Himsworth, a portfolio manager at Fidelity International, is impressed by the 'amazing' games created by Team17 especially one called Worms Rumble. Team17 makes premium computer games and educational apps for children under the age of eight. Himsworth suggests Covid-19 has accelerated the trend towards gaming, but it was already an area with broadening appeal. 'Faster download speeds lend themselves to greater interactive and collective gaming,' he says. 'This content need will grow with 5G and perhaps autonomous driving.' Himsworth believes Team17 will benefit as it has a wide geographic reach, is available on most tech platforms, and could continue to enjoy an annual growth rate of near 20 per cent for the foreseeable future. Shares in Team17 (8) are up 22per cent over one year and 233 per cent over three. It did not pay a dividend last year. ID CODE: BYVX2X2 Ticker: TM17 Wagamama is one of the brands owned by The Restaurant Group the chosen stock of AJ Bell's Danni Hewson. It also owns Frankie & Benny's, Chiquito and Coast to Coast The Restaurant Group The Restaurant Group is top of the menu for Danni Hewson, financial analyst at wealth platform AJ Bell. She believes there is a lot to like about the business, which owns brands including Wagamama, Frankie & Benny's, Chiquito and Coast to Coast. 'It is in the midst of a restructuring plan, has shed underperforming restaurants, negotiated rent cuts and secured new long-term debt facilities,' she says. The Restaurant Group has had a difficult few years, with shares down 36 per cent over three years. However, it has benefited from a bounce as hospitality has opened up again following national lockdowns. Shares (1.20) are up 122 per cent over one year. However, it is Wagamama the jewel in the crown which interests Hewson the most. 'From home delivery to home cooking, the brand has become a firmly entrenched consumer favourite, plugging nicely into the healthy eating, healthy living vibe,' she says. Hewson believes there are still opportunities for expansion in the UK and US. 'It won't be a shortterm winner, but there does appear to be plenty of soul left in this particular bowl,' she adds. ID CODE: B0YG1K0 Ticker: RTN WPP Roddy Davidson, media analyst at Shore Capital, believes WPP is extremely well placed to benefit from the strong growth in advertising spending following the pandemic. The FTSE100 company is an expert in communications, advertising and marketing. 'Its deep resources, digital expertise, comprehensive international service offering and diverse blue-chip client base make for a very strong competitive position,' says Davidson. He adds that the management team is currently introducing initiatives that should strengthen it even further, including simplifying operations, investing in technology and reducing debt. WPP shares (9.98) are down ten per cent over three years. However, they were up 62 per cent over one year, and the dividend yield was three per cent. 'Although its stock has performed well of late, we see good scope for forecast upgrades and strong medium-term returns.' ID CODE: B8KF9B4 Ticker: WPP An Australian woman's search for her missing cat unexpectedly led to her learning about her grandfather's life fighting in World War II 77 years ago. Brigitte Obelander, 49, of Glebe in Sydney, had dozens of locals trying to track down her eight-year-old Burmese cat Fonzi in an online community group. So many people commented that she took the opportunity to ask if anyone could translate a precious letter handwritten by her soldier grandfather in 1944. Irwin Obelander, a hairdresser before he enlisted to fight at age 30, wrote the letter to his one-year-old son, Bernd - Ms Obelander's father - shortly before he went missing in action. As Brigitte notes, the moving letter is written as though Irwin believes he may not ever see his son again. Irwin Obelander's wartime letter and photograph, given to Bernd Obelander in his 40s Brigitte Obelander never felt much of a connection to her soldier grandfather until the precious family letter was translated last weekend One of the documents supplied to the Obelander family surrounding Irwin's wartime disappearance The letter, which still has the wildflower pressed to it that Irwin attached, urges young Bernd to understand why he was away - fighting for a 'calmer world'. 'Still you do not understand what is happening to you and you know nothing of the greatest battle between the nations of the globe, in which all nations are standing in the fields to fight for the right of life, and for all the little boys that are lying in their cradles, so they might know a calmer world,' Irwin wrote. It ends: 'Now give to your mother the flower attached to this letter along with a healthy smile, and allow me to hope that you shall come to be the son that every mother and father wishes for.' Irwin Obelander was a hairdresser when he joined the German army at age 30. He went missing in 1944 and his family received no explanation of where or how he died Fonzi the still-missing Burmese, whose search inspired his mum Brigitte to post her precious family letter in a community Facebook group He left instructions that the letter be given to young Bernd only when he was an adult. Ms Obelander remembers her father finally opened the letter in his 40s, when she was about eight. 'I remember him reading what he could when he was in his 40s, he cried when it was given to him,' she said. The letter was stored in family records and forgotten about until recently, when Bernd died. Ms Obelander decided to take a chance and ask if anyone in the Facebook group Glebe Locals could translate 'old German'. 'I can speak some German, but this was written in old German,' Ms Obelander said. 'Nobody in our family could read it through.' While Fonzi the cat is still missing, a woman living near Ms Obelander, solved the puzzle of the beautifully-written family heirloom. She translated it for free in a few hours and then dropped a translation into Ms Obelander's letterbox the next day. She bought the woman a lottery ticket - which returned a $7.80 prize. The remarkable letter that 'In all honesty, the first time I read the translation, which was Sunday, it was the first the first time I thought about this man as my grandfather - I had a moment there, for sure,' she said. 'The letter was very beautiful, very poetic, very emotional. It was a surprise as I wouldn't describe my father, or grandmother, in the same way. 'It sounds in the letter like he knows he's not coming home.' Ms Obelander said very little is known of when or where her grandfather served - or how he died. 'People of German ancestry know that their older relatives were not keen to reminisce. My grandmother didn't want to talk about it much,' she said. 'But I have wondered about that Nazi Party connection and I did look it up. 'The answer seemed to be that all soldiers in the German army were involved in some way in the persecution of others. 'I did think for a moment, though, because he was never found, maybe he fled to Argentina and lived out his days there, a bit like my missing cat.' Red Cross documents the Obelander family received about their missing father and husband, Irwin Obelander The girlfriend of a 'kinky sex overlord' who has spent six months in jail accused of keeping a slave is preparing to give birth to their first child together. James Robert Davis hoped a magistrate would grant him bail back in June to witness the birth, but it was determined that he posed too great a risk to the community. His baby with 'main' girlfriend Charlotte Davis is due on September 6th, but the former English teacher has reportedly experienced 'trial labour' on and off for the last two weeks. Charlotte's father Rod arrived at the farmstead she shares with Davis' four other girlfriends in Armidale in the New South Wales Northern Tablelands from Laos a fortnight ago to help as the women settle into parenthood. 'I've finally jumped through all the obstacles and am staying with my daughter and her friends on their farm,' he said. Davis (pictured with two of his current girlfriends, Charlotte and Hunter) remains behind bars accused of reducing a woman to servitude When announcing the pregnancy online, Charlotte shared a photo of a custom made onesie which read: 'Six mums are better than one' Baby Davis appeared 'all good and healthy' at the latest check ups and Charlotte suffered her first 'trial labour' on the night Rod arrived. The grandfather-to-be lamented the fact that his daughter would be forced to endure the birth without her partner, who will remain in jail. 'The hospital is in a red [Covid] zone so she can only have one person with her... Dad's not even allowed to visit the baby,' he said. It is unclear who Charlotte's support person in hospital will be - but her father or one of her four girlfriends is the likely option. The soon-to-be mother previously begged New South Wales Supreme Court to release Davis in an affidavit signed by the other women in the polyamorous BDSM relationship. Davis' baby with 'main' girlfriend Charlotte (pictured together) is due on September 6th Charlotte's father Rod arrived at the farmstead she shares with Davis' four other girlfriends in Armidale in the New South Wales Northern Tablelands from Laos a fortnight ago to help as the women settle into parenthood She swore to report Davis if he were to breach any of the proposed bail conditions, and said each of his girlfriends wanted him to come home. It's understood Davis expects his girlfriends to sign 'slave contracts' when he moves them into his sprawling rural property. But when discussing the birth of his grandchild, Rod referred to the other women in the coupling as 'Charlotte's friends' rather than her romantic partners. Back in April, Charlotte told the court she and Davis had been dating for six years and were in a relationship with four other women; Sophie, Hanne, Hunter and Finlay. James-Robert Davis was denied bail in the NSW Supreme Court She revealed they'd been trying to fall pregnant for three years before resorting to in virtro fertilisation treatments. Charlotte and her medical team were concerned the stress of Davis' imprisonment could be damaging to her pregnancy, which was already considered 'high risk'. The women all contribute to household bills and expenses equally, and it is understood they will raise the child together, as a family. When announcing the pregnancy online, she shared a photo of a custom made onesie which read: 'Six mums are better than one'. 'After three years, three surgeries, two types of hormone therapy and one round of IVF, baby Davis is due early September,' Charlotte said. 'I am so over-the-moon happy, as are we all, and I'm so grateful for the love, patience and care all my partners have shown me throughout this process.' Since that post, one of the girlfriends has left the relationship. Each of the five women who remain in a relationship with him told the court they're in a consensual polyamorous BDSM relationship with each other. Charlotte's father shared a photo of her baby bump (pictured) three months ago before arriving on the farm Davis (centre) had allegedly been living with as many as six women he allegedly called 'slaves' at his home near Armidale in northern New South Wales They all signed some form of slavery and servitude contract in which the 'submissive' agrees to 'forfeit elements of [their] body, mind and will'. In the contract, the 'submissive' agrees to display affection whenever required and engage in 'predetermined kink events, kink related domestic and social activities, play parties and special days'. The 'slave' signs over her sexuality and right to sexual gratification in the contract, which states that 'all sexual gratification whether by myself or others is a privilege granted at the grace and pleasure of my Owner'. In total there are 20 clauses that a prospective 'submissive' must sign in the contract, which is reviewed first after three months and then renewed every six months. But Davis maintains each of the women know the contracts are in no way legally binding, and merely form part of a 'play acting' dynamic in which they mimic slavery as part of their BDSM kinks. Pictured is a supplied Australian Federal Police photo of the sprawling rural estate Davis and his girlfriends live on Charlotte's father revealed in a social media post that he'd moved to the farm to be with his daughter and her 'friends', while also lamenting that Davis would not be allowed to visit the baby 'At no stage did my client exercise any real powers of ownership... There are aspects of play acting, affectations of slavery which do not amount to real slavery,' defence barrister Ian Lloyd SC said. The women are all free to move as they please, and all five attend the University of New England, completing degrees ranging from law to nursing and mathematics. Davis is accused of making a woman sign a contract to enter into slavery, forcing her to wear a steel collar and locking her in a cage for up to three days over a period of two years between 2013 and 2015. But Mr Lloyd argued that each of the women were given collars upon signing their 'play' contract, and that they had access to Allen keys to unlock the collars whenever they needed. Police allege the woman was subjected to extreme violence and threatened with court action if she broke the contract for the most minor of indiscretions, like going to the toilet without permission. It is further alleged the woman was forced to work as a prostitute at a brothel six nights a week and hand over every dollar she earned when Davis short of cash. This allegation will also be 'strenuously denied', Mr Lloyd told the court. Each of the women appeared at Davis' last court appearance to support him and prove to the court that they were in a consensual relationship Authorities in New Zealand had for years been trying to deport the Islamic State-inspired terrorist who carried out a frenzied attack in a supermarket, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern revealed last night. Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, 32, was served a deportation notice in April 2019 after his refugee status - which authorities say was fraudulently obtained - was revoked. While the legal process dragged on, Samsudeen grabbed a knife off a supermarket shelf in Auckland on Friday and injured seven people, leaving three critically wounded. Samsudeen, who had been flagged to authorities as having shown support for terror group Islamic State, was shot dead by police who were tailing him. Ms Ardern, who described the stabbings as a 'terrorist attack', last night admitted authorities had looked at detaining Samsudeen during the deportation process and that it was 'frustrating' he was allowed to stay free. She said she expected a toughening of the country's counter-terrorism legislation would be backed by parliament by the end of September. The revelations were made after automatic legal restrictions preventing Samsudeen's name being made public were removed on Saturday. It was revealed that the Islamist arrived in New Zealand from Sri Lanka as a 22-year-old in 2011 on a student visa and was granted refugee status two years later. New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said measures were already underway to strengthen New Zealand's terrorism suppression laws Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, 32, was served a deportation notice in April 2019 after his refugee status - which authorities say was fraudulently obtained - was revoked While the legal process dragged on, Samsudeen grabbed a knife off a supermarket shelf in Auckland on Friday and injured seven people, leaving three critically wounded. Pictured: Police at the scene in Auckland on Friday Islamic State-inspired New Zealand terror attacker was first placed on terror watchlist in 2016 Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, 32, who was shot dead in a Countdown supermarket on Friday was known to police and politicians for his extremist views, which were largely inspired by terror group, ISIS. The Sri Lankan arrived in New Zealand in 2011 and was first placed on the terror watchlist in 2016 after authorities were alerted to extremist posts he made on social media. Some of the videos he shared online depicted war-related violence, a clear approval of violent extremism and pledging his support for ISIS, New Zealand Herald reported. He received an official warning from police but continued to post the material, including a comment which read: 'One day I will go back to my country and I will find kiwi scums in my country... and I will show them... what will happen when you mess with S while I'm in their country. If you're tough in your country... we are tougher in our country scums #payback'. Samsudeen reportedly told a worshiper at a mosque that he hoped to join ISIS in Syria and was detained at Auckland International Airport in 2017 after booking a one-way flight to Singapore. He spent a year in custody before pleading guilty to distributing restricted material, earning a supervision order in 2018. The day after he was released from prison, Samsudeen was arrested by counterterrorism police who followed him as he purchased a hunting knife. Internet search history reportedly found he'd researched how to kill 'non-believers'. Police hoped to prosecute Samsudeen under the Terrorism Suppression Act 2002, but it was determined that preparing a terrorist attack was not an offence under the legislation, given he had not carried out any attacks. He was prosecuted on lesser charges of possessing propaganda in support of ISIS. During his trial, Samsudeen reportedly told the jury: 'You're worried about one knife, I am telling you I will buy 10 knives. It's about my rights.' Samsudeen had reportedly performed internet searches asking about the guidelines of 'lone-wolf mujahideen', knife attacks and prison conditions in New Zealand. Following his release from prison, he was kept under 24/7 surveillance by police, who followed him from his home to the store on Friday. Advertisement In 2016, he came to the attention of the police and intelligence agencies after expressing sympathy on Facebook for terrorist attacks. During their investigations it became evident the refugee status was fraudulently obtained and the process began to cancel his right to stay in New Zealand, Ardern said. The following year he was arrested at Auckland Airport, when it was suspected he was on his way to Syria. A police search of his home revealed a large hunting knife and 'material related to ISIS propaganda', court documents said, using another acronym for IS. Ardern said deportation notices were served in April 2019. But Samsudeen, who described himself as a Tamil Muslim, appealed the deportation. He told a court he faced 'arrest, detention, mistreatment and torture' if sent back to Sri Lanka. 'He was still in prison at this time, and facing criminal charges. For a number of reasons, the deportation appeal could not proceed until after the conclusion of the criminal trial in May 2021,' Ardern said. 'In the meantime, agencies were concerned about the risk this individual posed to the community,' she added, noting officials knew he could be released and that the appeal, 'which was stopping his deportation, may take some time'. The country's immigration agency looked into ways of detaining Samsudeen during the appeal process through the Immigration Act, according to Ardern. 'It was incredibly disappointing and frustrating when legal advice came back to say this wasn't an option,' she said. Samsudeen at that stage had been held in custody for three years and authorities had exhausted all avenues to keep him detained. Attempts to have him charged under New Zealand's Terrorism Suppression Act were unsuccessful and Ardern said changes to New Zealand's counter-terrorism legislation were expected to be approved by parliament before the end of the month. 'In late August, officials including the commissioner of police raised the possibility of expediting the amendments,' she said. Police commissioner Andrew Coster said there had been nothing unusual about the man's actions in the lead up to the attack, and he had appeared to be doing normal grocery shopping. Because he had a 'high level of paranoia' around surveillance, Coster said the police kept their distance, and it took more than two minutes to reach the man and shoot him after he started his stabbing spree. The day after the attack, Sri Lankan authorities said they would cooperate with New Zealand's investigation 'in any way necessary', according to foreign ministry spokesman Kohularangan Ratnasingam. Sri Lankan police sources said criminal investigators had already interviewed the attacker's brother, who lives in the capital Colombo. Ardern said deportation notices were served in April 2019. But Samsudeen (pictured), who described himself as a Tamil Muslim, appealed the deportation Police Commissioner Andrew Coster (pictured right) said there had been nothing unusual about Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen's actions in the lead up to the attack at an Auckland supermarket on Friday, and he had appeared to be doing normal grocery shopping 'We are collecting information about him as well as anyone else who may have had contacts with him,' a top police official said. In an interview on Saturday, Samsudeen's mother said her son had been 'brainwashed' by neighbours she said hailed from Syria and Iraq. 'We knew there was a change in him,' she told Hiru TV from her home in Kattankudy, east of Colombo. Sri Lanka's Muslim Council has condemned the Auckland attack as a 'barbaric act of terrorism'. 'This reminds all of us to come together and be united and fight against terrorism and violent extremism,' council member Mohamed Hisham told the news agency AFP. Sri Lankan Muslim legislator Mujibur Rahman said his community was saddened by the attack, while lauding Ardern for easing public sentiment. 'Her statement soon after the incident defused the situation and ensured there was no harm to the Sri Lankan community (in New Zealand),' Rahman told AFP. Ardern insisted no one community should be singled out for the violence. 'It was carried out by an individual, not a faith, not a culture, not an ethnicity,' she said. Funeral director Wayne Bright has seen grief piled upon grief as the more aggressive Delta variant of the coronavirus ravages through Florida. A woman died of the virus, and as her family was planning the funeral, her mother was also struck down. An aunt took over arrangements for the double funeral, only to die of COVID-19 herself two weeks afterward. 'That was one of the most devastating things ever,' said Bright, who runs Wilson Funeral Home in Tampa and arranged the funeral of one of his closest friends last week. Florida is in the grip of its deadliest wave of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, a disaster driven by the highly contagious delta variant. Wayne Bright, funeral director at Wilson Funeral Home in Tampa, Florida, has seen death after death pile up as the state continues to battle the Delta variant of COVID-19 Florida cases have multiplied as much as 10 times from a summer lull due to the Delta variant Florida is in the grip of its deadliest wave of COVID-19 since the pandemic began Vaccinations in Florida are high, but experts say they're not high enough for such a large state Cases have risen ten-fold in the state, from 16,000 in the week of June 25 to 151,000 in the week of August 20, according to data from the Florida Department of Health. Tampa's Hillsborough County, where 63 percent of the population over 12 is vaccinated, has a case positivity rate of 17 percent for the week of August 27 to September 2, meaning that 17 percent of those tested were positive. Florida's vaccination rate of 69 percent is slightly higher than the national average of 62.5 percent. But the Sunshine State has an outsize population of elderly people who are especially vulnerable to the virus; a vibrant party scene; and a Republican governor who has taken a hard line against mask requirements, vaccine passports and business shutdowns. As of mid-August, the state was averaging 244 deaths per day, up from just 23 a day in late June and eclipsing the previous peak of 227 during the summer of 2020. Because of both the way deaths are logged in Florida and lags in reporting, more recent figures on fatalities per day are incomplete. Hospitals have had to rent refrigerated trucks to store more bodies. Funeral homes have been overwhelmed. Cristina Miles of Orange Park, Florida (bottom right) lost her husband Austin (center) to COVID two weeks before losing her mother-in-law. Above, the couple in 2019 with their five children 'We are all kind of in a weird dream state,' Miles said of how she and her five kids are grieving Cristina Miles, a mother of five from Orange Park, is among those facing more than one loss at a time. Her husband died after contracting COVID-19, and less than two weeks later, her mother-in-law succumbed to the virus. 'I feel we are all kind of in a weird dream state,' she said, adding that her children are grieving differently, with one shutting down, another feeling inspired to pass a hard swimming test, and the oldest going about her life as usual. Hospitals have been swamped with patients who, like Miles husband and mother-in-law, hadnt gotten vaccinated. In a positive sign, the number of people in the hospital with COVID-19 in Florida has dropped over the past two weeks from more than 17,000 to 14,200 on Friday, indicating the surge is easing. Florida made an aggressive effort early on to vaccinate its senior citizens, but Dr. Kartik Cherabuddi, a professor of infectious diseases at the University of Florida, said the raw number of those who have yet to get the shot is still large, given Florida's elderly population of 4.6 million. 'Even 10 percent is still a very large number, and then folks living with them who come in contact with them are not vaccinated,' Cherabuddi said. 'With delta, things spread very quickly.' Cherabuddi said there is also a 'huge difference' in attitudes toward masks in Florida this summer compared with last year. This summer, 'if you traveled around the state, it was like we are not really in a surge,' he said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has opposed mask and vaccine mandates as his state suffers a spike Gov. Ron DeSantis has strongly opposed certain mandatory measures to keep the virus in check, saying people should be trusted to make decisions for themselves. He has asserted, too, that the spike in cases is seasonal as Floridians spend more time indoors to escape the heat. At his funeral home in Tampa, Bright is working weekdays and weekends, staying past midnight sometimes. 'Usually we serve between five and six families a week. Right now, we are probably seeing 12 to 13 new families every week,' he said. 'It's nonstop. We are just trying to keep up with the volume.' Residents oppose mask mandates at a school board meeting in Tavares, Florida on Thursday He had to arrange the burial of one of his closest friends, a man he had entrusted with the access code to his house. They used to carpool each others kids to school, and their families would gather for birthday and Super Bowl parties. 'It is very, very difficult to go through this process for someone you love so dearly,' he said. Pat Seemann, a nurse practitioner whose company has nearly 500 elderly, homebound patients in central Florida, had not lost a single patient during the first waves. And then the variant she calls 'the wrecking ball' hit. In the past month, she lost seven patients in two weeks, including a husband and wife who died within days of each other. 'I cried all weekend. I was devastated, angry,' she said. Cases have risen throughout the country as the summer progresses and vaccination rates lag Overall, more than 46,300 people have died of COVID-19 in Florida, which ranks 17th in per-capita deaths among the states. The majority of the deaths this summer - like last summer - are among the elderly. Of the 2,345 people whose recent deaths were reported over the past week, 1,479 of them were 65 and older - or 63 percent. 'The focus needs to be on who's dying and who's ending up in the hospital,' Seeman said. 'It's still going after the elderly.' But the proportion of under-65 people dying of COVID-19 has grown substantially, which health officials attribute to lower vaccination rates in those age groups. Aaron Jaggi, 35, was trying to get healthy before he died of COVID-19, 12 hours after his older brother Free Jaggi, 41, lost his life to the virus. They were overweight, which increases the risk of severe COVID-19 illness, and on the fence about getting vaccinated, thinking the risk was minimal because they both worked from home, said Brittany Pequignot, who has lived with the family at various times and is like an adopted daughter. After their death, the family found a whiteboard that belonged to Aaron. It listed his daily goals for sit-ups and push-ups. 'He was really trying,' Pequignot said. A mysterious aircraft caught flying over the Philippines could be the United State's ultra-secret new RQ-180 stealth drone, aviation experts believe. Local landscape photographer Michael Fugnit captured the craft on Thursday when he was attempting to take pictures of the sunrise by the coast of Santa Magdalena, a resort town 364 miles south of Manila. Fugnit regularly watches the skies for planes, and quickly realized that the batwing-shaped flyer was unlike any commercial or military aircraft he'd ever seen before. The oddly shaped aircraft appears to match rumored designs of the secret US Air Force RQ-180 stealth drone, an unmanned aircraft that the US is developing for missions around the world, according to Tyler Rogoway of The Drive. The Air Force has never officially acknowledged the existence of the Northrop Grumman-made RQ-180. The drone is reportedly dubbed the Great White Bat or sometimes Shikaka, a reference to white bat featured in the movie Ace Ventura 2 among personnel at Edwards Air Force Base, where it is rumored to be based. A white bat symbol has also emerged as the badge for the 74th Reconnaissance Squadron, the unit thought to be training to take command of the RQ-180. The US has said little else about the drone, designed to avoid detection by adversaries. The mysterious batwing-shaped craft was seen hovering above Santa Magdalena on Thursday The Air Force has never officially acknowledged the existence of the Northrop Grumman-made RQ-180, but this artistic rendering shows what it might look like based on rare sightings Santa Magdalena is a resort town 364 miles south of Manila. An expert says it makes sense for the secretive US RQ-180 drone to be there amid tensions between the US and China The RQ-180 is reportedly similar in shape to the Northrop-designed B-2 stealth bomber. The unmanned aircraft is, however, considerably smaller than the manned bomber. Its also said to feature design improvements that Northrop is including on the B-21 bomber, which the company is currently building for the Air Force, Forbes David Axe reported. Although the drone has never been pictured up close, some artists including HangerB Productions have produced renderings based on rare sightings of it. It is not the first time someone has claimed to spot the the elusive RQ-180. A craft matching the description of the bat-wing RQ-180 was pictured soaring over Edwards Air Force Base sometime in early October 2020 by photographer Rob Kolinsky, who briefly posted the image to Instagram. This thing flew over my house several weeks ago and I still have yet to identify it! Kolinsky said in a since-deleted post. Its shaped like a B-21 but was painted white. Mystery! He added: I was not going to post it but I thought that if it were really classified, they wouldnt be flying it in broad daylight like this. Aviation Week reporter Guy Norris identified the aircraft in Kolinskys pictures as the classified drone. The RQ-180 reportedly first took flight back in 2010, and is believed to be the potential successor to the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, a long-range, high-altitude manned reconnaissance craft which was retired by USAF in 1998. Air Force surveillance chief Lt. Gen. Bob Otto said the RQ-180 would give the Pentagon 'better access to contested airspace' at an aerospace industry event in 2014, according to Air Force magazine. A craft matching the description of the bat-wing RQ-180 was pictured soaring over Edwards Air Force Base sometime in early October 2020 by photographer Rob Kolinsky Rogoway, who reports on military tech, said there was no evidence that Fugnit's photo was forged, and that it would make sense for it to be spotted in Eastern Asia as the RQ-180 is being designed amid worsening tensions between the US and China. Former President Donald Trump accused China of engaging in unfair trading practices and slapped tariffs, or taxes, on goods coming into the US from the communist country, which set of what many called a trade war. More recently, Vice President Kamala Harris visited Vietnam, the first sitting vice president to do so since the Vietnam War, in a show of support as China lays claim to vast portions of the South China Sea, part of which Vietnam also claims for itself. Rogoway added that because the aircraft is believed to be housed in the Area 51 Nevada airbase and Edward Air Force Base in California, it would stand to reason that the aircraft would be spotted in the Pacific as it's expected to be used in extremely long-duration missions. RQ-180 is reportedly similar in shape to the Northrop-designed B-2 stealth bomber (pictured) The stealth drone is meant to replace the Lockheed SR-71 reconnaissance aircraft, seen above Aviation Week were the first to break the news of the drones alleged development in 2013. Six years later, in 2019, the magazine followed up with an in-depth feature that claimed at least seven RQ-180s had been developed. There is a growing body of evidence that the stealthy vehicle is now fully operational with the U.S. Air Force in a penetrating intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance role, the article read at the time. The US has also conducted various air craft tests over the Pacific Ocean through the Andersen Air Force Base in Guam. That base is believed to be too public to house such a secret project, although a US-operated facility on the remote Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia has also been mooted as a possible base for the RQ-180. While evidence suggests that the mystery craft spotted in the Pacific is the RQ-180 out for a test flight, Rogoway noted that it could also have been a drone from China. The Chinese government have been developing its own set of secret stealth drones for years that could look similar to the RQ-180, Rogoway said. China's CH-7, or Rainbow-7, was revealed in late 2018, and also has a delta-wing shape. China's CH-7, or Rainbow-7, was revealed in late 2018, and also has a delta-wing shape It is billed as a 'high altitude, high speed, invisible and long range' strike drone and is said to be able to carry out 'continuous scouting and attacking missions in risky environments'. The Philippine Sea and other nearby seas are among the most highly surveilled geographical areas in the world, with the U.S. and China heavily monitoring the area, according to the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative. One of Britain's most senior defence chiefs has been criticised by his own troops for failing to use a specialist RAF unit in the evacuation of British nationals from Afghanistan. Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston, the head of the RAF, has been accused of damaging morale and showing a lack of moral courage by members of the RAF Regiment. The attack came in a letter signed by 63 senior and junior non-commissioned officers serving in the regiment's No 1 Squadron based at RAF Honington in Suffolk. Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston (pictured), the head of the RAF, has been accused of damaging morale and showing a lack of moral courage by members of the RAF Regiment It describes the failure to use the RAF Regiment in Afghanistan as an 'embarrassment' and proof that Air Chief Marshal Wigston had 'no clue' how to use the RAF Regiment, comprising 1,800 men and women across seven squadrons, properly. One of the squadrons is trained in parachuting and another has a specialist chemical, biological and nuclear warfare capability but the regiment's primary role is to provide protection for aircraft and airfields in hostile environments. Referring to the decision not to send the regiment to Afghanistan and a sense of being overlooked for other missions worldwide, the 2,000-word letter says: 'There is clearly no voice that has the moral courage to fight for the viability and survival of the RAF Regiment and the gulf between the troops on the shop floor and the commissioned ranks has never been greater. 'This is just another failing in a long list of issues currently facing the RAF Regiment and its inability to maintain its own standards and relevance.' The attack against Sir Wigston (pictured) came in a letter signed by 63 senior and junior non-commissioned officers in the regiment's No 1 Squadron based at RAF Honington in Suffolk The author, whose identity is not known, adds: 'It is very clear we work for a risk-averse organisation. 'The management from the top is one of self-preservation, over actual deliverables and doing what is best for the Corps and wider Air Force.' The letter goes on to say that the failure to deploy the unit 'has caused a great deal of upset'. Last night the Ministry of Defence said it 'deploys the appropriate unit to each operation dependent on a number of factors including readiness, capability, the required task and current commitments'. Advertisement President Joe Biden has come under heavy criticism for traveling to Delaware for the holiday weekend amid the crisis in Afghanistan. The president was scheduled to visit his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware two weeks ago but had his trip pushed back due to the withdrawal from Afghanistan and Hurricane Henri. But after touring the devastation of Hurricane Ida in Louisiana, Biden decided now was time to take a break back home for the holiday weekend. The move was slammed by Republicans who called the president out for flying home in the midst of the crisis in Afghanistan, where hundreds of citizens and allies have been left behind, due to the botched withdrawal and evacuation from the country. President Joe Biden flew from Louisiana to his home state of Delaware on Friday. (Pictured: Biden arrives at Delaware Air National Guard, in New Castle, Delaware on Air Force One Friday, September 3 after traveling to Louisiana to view damage caused by Hurricane Ida) He headed to Wilmington, Delaware to spend the weekend at his private residence. (Pictured: Biden steps off Air Force One upon arrival at Philadelphia International Airport in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on September 3) Biden had originally been scheduled to visit Delaware two weeks ago but delayed the trip due to the ongoing withdrawal from Afghanistan. (Pictured: Biden salutes the military while disembarking from Air Force One at Philadelphia International Airport on September 3) Biden has been criticized by Republicans for traveling to Delaware amid the crisis in Afghanistan. (Pictured: President Biden and the first lady walk between tombstones as they leave St. Joseph on the Brandywine Catholic Church in Wilmington, Delaware September 4) Republicans took to Twitter to voice their condemnation of Biden's Labor Day weekend trip. (Pictured: The Bidens leave Mass on Saturday at Brandywine Catholic Church September 4) Biden visited Louisiana on Friday to see the devastation left behind by Hurricane Ida before taking off to Delaware. (Pictured: Joe Biden leaving Mass in a navy blue suit and bright red tie with Jill Biden wearing a long black dress embellished with white flowers carrying an orange clutch on September 4) Along with the situation in Afghanistan, Biden is also working to solve other major issues including the aftermath of Hurricane Ida and the influx of migrants at the southern border. (Pictured: The Bidens holding hands as they walk through the tombstones at Brandywine church on September 4) The Pentagon has confirmed that they are aware of hundreds of Americans who were left behind in Afghanistan. (Pictured: The president and first lady arrive for Saturday Mass in Wilmington on September 4) Biden has continued to defend the withdrawal and evacuation of the US from Afghanistan calling the mission an 'extraordinary success.' (Pictured: Joe and Jill Biden walk into Brandywine Catholic Church during their weekend visit to Delaware September 4) Former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows tweeted: 'American citizens are still stranded behind enemy lines in Afghanistan, and meanwhile Joe Biden is vacationing in Delaware.' 'Joe Biden left Americans hostage in Afghanistan. No speech, press release, or Biden family vacation in Delaware can change that.' Alabama Representative Mo Brooks also pointed to the Americans who were left behind. He tweeted: 'Joe Biden will be spending his weekend on vacation in Delaware. Roughly 100 Americans will be spending their weekend abandoned in Afghanistan.' New York Congresswoman Claudia Tenney denounced Biden's trip home while calling for him to be held accountable for the $85 billion of military equipment that was left behind in Afghanistan. She posted: 'Joe Biden is a career politician whos only ever worked in D.C. For the rest of us, we are responsible for the equipment we use at work. If we lose it, we pay for it. Biden lost $85 billion in military equipment and then left for vacation. Congress must hold him accountable!' Republicans also mentioned other issues that the country is facing including migrants at the US-Mexico border and the residents of New Orleans who are still left without power. Former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows tweeted his discontent with Biden's trip home amid the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan Meadows pointed to the Americans left in Afghanistan in his tweeting calling out the president for his holiday weekend trip to Delaware Alabama Representative Mo Brooks criticized Biden's trip home for the Labor Day weekend while American citizens and allies are stranded in Afghanistan New York Congresswoman Claudia Tenney condemned Biden's trip to Delaware calling for Congress to hold him accountable for the $85 billion of military equipment that was left in Afghanistan Karine Jean-Pierre, White House deputy press secretary, said on Friday that Biden was dealing with 'different multiple crises.' 'But [] this is the role of the president, right? To make sure that we keep working. We have addressed multiple crises at the same time,' she said. On Thursday, Senate Republicans accused the White House of evacuating thousands of Afghans from the country while leaving American citizens and allies behind. Secretary of State Antony Blinken admitted that up to 200 Americans are still stranded in Afghanistan even though the last US flight left the country a day before the evacuation deadline. 'We believe there are still a small number of Americans, under 200 and likely closer to 100, who remain in Afghanistan and want to leave,' he said in a speech at the State Department Monday night with remarks delayed for more than two hours. The number was somewhat lower than estimates in the final hours as the Biden administration's troop withdrawal deadline approached. He said 'about' 6,000 Americans had been flown out of the country or departed in an airlift of 123,000 people. 'A new chapter of engagement with Afghanistan has begun,' the nation's top diplomat proclaimed. 'The military mission is over. A new diplomatic mission has begun,' he proclaimed. But he vowed to use diplomacy and leverage to bring out any Americans, allies, or Afghanis who assisted the US and want to leave, as critics pounded Biden for allowing the withdrawal before all Americans were out, comparing those who remained to hostages. Secretary of State Antony Blinken promised a 'new chapter' of diplomacy in Afghanistan, and vowed to continue the evacuation of Americans and allies in the country The Pentagon announced that the last American troops had left Kabul airport almost 24 hours ahead of schedule on Monday afternoon. (Pictured:Taliban fighters wave as they patrol in a convoy along a street in Kabul on September 2) Biden has been criticized for setting the August 31 evacuation deadline which left many American citizens and allies in Afghanistan. (Pictured: Taliban supporters gather to celebrate the US withdrawal of all its troops out of Afghanistan, in Kandahar on September 1) 'We made extraordinary efforts to give Americans every opportunity to depart the country,' he said. Blinken said some who stayed were dual citizens and US passports who weren't sure they wanted to go and were 'trying to decide whether or not they wanted to leave.' He said the US and allies plan to hold the Taliban to keep the airport open and allow safe passage. 'Any engagement with the Taliban-led government in Kabul will be driven by one thing only our vital national interests,' he said. He also mentioned new ways out - including 'overland routes,' which means driving across Afghanistan's famously inhospitable terrain. This could involve driving east toward Pakistan the same areas many Taliban members used to find sanctuary during the 20-year U.S. led war that came to a close a minute before midnight in Kabul. 'We're also working to identify ways to support Americans , legal permanent residents, and Afghans who have worked with us who may choose to depart via overland routes,' he said. 'We have no illusion that any of this will be easy or rapid,' Blinken said, calling it an 'entirely different phase of the evacuation.' 'We will hold the Taliban to their commitment on freedom of movement,' he said on a day when US forces departed the airport in Kabul, leaving it intact, while scuttling aircraft that were left behind. The Pentagon announced on Monday afternoon that the last American troops had left Kabul airport almost 24 hours ahead of schedule, ending the U.S. war in Afghanistan after 20 years and the deaths of almost 2500 troops. Witnesses in Kabul said the Taliban let off celebratory gunfire as news circulated that the final U.S. flight had left. The glamorous designer of Meghan Markles 56,000 engagement dress has been accused of squandering her companys cash on luxury lingerie and costly hair-salon appointments before its collapse. Documents released by the High Court detail extraordinary new claims that Australians Tamara Ralph and her ex-business partner Michael Russo personally enriched themselves before their fashion label went to the wall in March. Ralph & Russo was renowned for designing stunning haute couture gowns for stars including Gwyneth Paltrow and Kylie Minogue. Ms Ralph says her directors loans were not used to extract money out of the company but as a proper accounting mechanism. She said she has not been given enough details about the lingerie spending to be able to respond But earlier this year The Mail on Sunday revealed how the pair had been accused of plundering the fashion house to fund jet-set lifestyles. Ms Ralph, who is being sued by the company via its administrators for 20.8 million in damages, has strenuously denied the allegations. Now, in newly released legal papers submitted by the company, it is claimed that: Ms Ralph spent more than 300 of company cash on luxury lingerie at Agent Provocateur in Paris and 130 on an eyelash treatment; More than 1,500 was spent on weekly blow-drys for Ms Ralph at the fashionable Larry King hair salon in South Kensington, London, charged to a company credit card; Two of the fashion labels bosses refused to pay a 15,000 bill for a stay by Ms Ralph at a five-star hotel prompting her to claim they were discriminating against her because she was pregnant; Ms Ralph complained that her 225,000 salary was extremely low for someone in her position. Ms Ralph and Mr Russo won acclaim in December 2017 for designing the diaphanous gown worn by Meghan Markle for her engagement. Less than four years later, the firm collapsed, owing 23 million to creditors and the taxman. In a witness statement, Paul Appleton, a company administrator, blamed Ms Ralph and Mr Russo for the collapse, adding: The founder directors have personally enriched themselves beyond their contractual entitlements. Ms Ralph rejects the allegations and says the cash flow problems were in the main caused by Russo, accusing him of siphoning funds out of the company and subjecting her to a campaign of abusive bullying, harassment and sex discrimination. Dan Morrison, a lawyer for the company, claimed the 300 spent at Agent Provocateur was put on a company credit card and then classified as a loan to Ms Ralph. A model is seen above wearing Agent Provocateur lingerie Mr Russo has called Ms Ralphs allegations misleading and false. Dan Morrison, a lawyer for the company, claimed the 300 spent at Agent Provocateur was put on a company credit card and then classified as a loan to Ms Ralph. When the company collapsed, Ms Ralph owed 195,436 in directors loans, which she has since repaid, while Mr Russo owed 2.6 million. Ms Ralph says her directors loans were not used to extract money out of the company but as a proper accounting mechanism. She said she has not been given enough details about the lingerie spending to be able to respond. She was not aware a company credit card was used for her eyelash treatment, and only put blow-drys on expenses for interviews, photoshoots or meetings when no third party would pay, she added. Emails submitted to the court reveal tensions between Ms Ralph and executives over use of funds. It is claimed that in November 2020, two Ralph & Russo bosses refused to pay her 15,000 bill for a stay at a five-star hotel in London. Ms Ralph had moved to Monaco to live with her British-Indian billionaire boyfriend Bhanu Choudhrie. This isnt a matter of opinion, Tamara. Its just not a business trip, wrote Robin Maxe, the companys chief operating officer. Mr Appleton claimed Ms Ralph reported both bosses to human resources and claimed they were discriminating against her because she was pregnant. Eventually, the company paid the bill, he added. Her spokesman said the bill related to a business trip at the companys request while she was pregnant. The cost has been repaid to the company, he added. In February one month before the label collapsed Ms Ralph was asked about her debts to the company. She agreed to repay the cash but added: Ive taken an extremely low salary for many years, (market rates for my level are 5mil a year, whilst I take 220k). Her spokesman insisted Ms Ralph did not believe her salary was low. She is suing for sex discrimination and victimisation, he added. It is the simmering sub-plot to the briefing war between No 10 and the Foreign Office over the Government's handling of the retreat from Afghanistan, an enmity between advisers triggered by a drugs revelation dating back to the 2016 Tory leadership election. Allies of Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab who have been enraged by claims from anonymous sources that he is 'toast' in the next Cabinet reshuffle because of his 'flatfooted' response to the collapse of Kabul believe he has been caught in the crossfire between feuding former members of Michael Gove's campaign team. Mr Gove is one of the Ministers tipped to replace Mr Raab. At the centre of the intrigue is Mr Raab's powerful adviser Beth Armstrong, who became estranged from the Goveites after they blamed her for Gove's shock cocaine confession, which appeared in a biography two years ago. Allies of Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab believe he has been caught in the crossfire between feuding former members of Michael Gove's (pictured) campaign team Leading members of the Goveites, known as 'the three musketeers' Henry Newman, Henry Cook and Meg Powell-Chandler now hold powerful advisory positions in No 10. Ms Armstrong, 32, has furiously denied to friends that she planted the story in Michael Gove: A Man In A Hurry by journalist Owen Bennett. She was suspected by her former friends because she was one of the aides who put Mr Gove 'through his paces' about what to expect from media questioning. When asked if he had taken drugs, Mr Gove stunned the room by admitting: 'Yes, cocaine.' Ms Armstrong served as Mr Gove's special adviser when he was Justice Secretary, but was working for Mr Raab by the time the two men squared up in the 2019 leadership campaign. The contest triggered the suspicions about Ms Armstrong, with one insider saying at the time that it 'doesn't take Sherlock to work out how this got out'. Mr Raab's (pictured) allies have also been enraged by claims from sources that he is 'toast' in the next Cabinet reshuffle because of his 'flatfooted' response to the collapse of Kabul Another claimed she had had the 'dark arts flowing through her' since she cut her teeth as an 'Opposition researcher' at Conservative Party HQ, digging up dirt about Labour. Mr Raab's team denied that the drugs story had come from anyone involved in his campaign, while Mr Gove's spokesman said that he was not seeking to blame anyone for the revelation. A source said: 'The resentments are still festering, and Raab's lot think that is where a lot of the reshuffle talk is coming from. 'Beth has also put some noses out of joint over there because she is perceived to be more powerful than some of the Ministers.' The Afghanistan crisis has left Mr Raab looking isolated in Cabinet, with the Foreign Secretary trying to pin the blame for the chaotic exit on Ben Wallace's Ministry of Defence for failing to predict how quickly the Taliban would seize control of the country. Priti Patel's Home Office has also been criticised for being slow to finalise the Afghan resettlement scheme. A friend of Ms Armstrong said the feud was 'totally unfair' on her. They added: 'The drugs story was nothing to do with Beth and it is totally ridiculous to bear this grudge.' Farmers could be forced to destroy nearly 100,000 pigs because of a post-Brexit shortage of butchers to work in slaughterhouses. Leading figures in the livestock industry say that the animals face being killed and burned because Home Secretary Priti Patel has failed to include the job on a list of shortage occupations, which would allow foreign butchers to enter the UK on a skilled worker visa. One said they found it baffling that ballet dancers were on the list, but not butchers. Pig farming is the latest industry to be hit by shortages of workers after hundreds of thousands of EU citizens went back to their home countries as a result of Brexit and the pandemic. Farmers could be forced to destroy nearly 100,000 pigs because of a post-Brexit shortage of butchers to work in slaughterhouses, according to leading figures (stock image) A shortage of HGV drivers, who are also not on the list, has led to empty supermarket shelves and pushed some drivers' salaries over 50,000, while growers in Scotland said last week they had to destroy 2.5 million broccoli crowns and 1.5 million cauliflowers because of staff shortages. Last week, Greggs became the latest fast-food chain to warn customers about shortages of products, joining McDonald's, Nando's, KFC, Beefeater and Subway. Dr Zoe Davies, chief executive of the National Pig Association, said a 15 per cent shortfall of abattoir butchers had led to a backlog of 85,000 pigs awaiting slaughter, growing by 15,000 every week. Just over 200,000 pigs are sent to the abattoir every week. Unless they can be butchered soon, they will have to be destroyed as it becomes uneconomical to feed them. Dr Davies said that the migration advisory committee had recommended to the Home Office that butchers should be on the Shortage Occupations list, but their advice had been ignored. 'You have ballet dancers on it but not butchers. You couldn't make it up,' she said. A review of the list is not due until next year. The worker shortages have led to fears that much of this year's harvest could be left rotting in the fields. The most recent labour market survey by the National Farmers' Union found that more than a third of vacancies for horticultural workers were going unfilled. Home Secretary Priti Patel (pictured) has failed to include the job on a list of shortage occupations, which would allow foreign butchers to enter the UK on a skilled worker visa According to the Office for National Statistics, a total of 27 per cent of food and accommodation firms have reported lower than normal stock levels. A report by accountants Grant Thornton found more than 500,000 vacancies across food and drink businesses. Nick Allen, of the British Meat Processors Association, said: 'No one is asking that we return to freedom of movement. The UK voted to leave the EU so that our politicians could be in charge of the decisions. 'The immigration policy is entirely within their control. We are asking that the Government manage the policy so that we can have a smooth transition rather than ending up with this potential catastrophe. It is in their hands.' A Home Office source said: 'More free movement from the EU is not the answer. Butchers can still come to the UK if they are sponsored, skilled workers earning more then the salary threshold of 25,600'. A Government spokesman said: 'We want to see employers make long-term investments in the UK domestic workforce instead of relying on labour from abroad. 'The Government encourages all sectors to make employment more attractive to UK domestic workers through training, careers options and wage increases and to invest in increased automation technology.' Scott Morrison has promised he will force rogue state premiers to let Australians fly interstate for long-overdue family reunions this Christmas. Once adult double-dose vaccination rates hit 80 per cent, the prime minister said the country must live with Covid and open up for domestic travel. 'Grandparents in the east can hold their new grandchild in the west for the first time,' he said. Mr Morrison is locked in a stalemate with Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan who insists his borders will stay closed for 'months' after the landmark vaccination milestone. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has promised Australians will be able to fly interstate for long-overdue Christmas family reunions this year. (Pictured, a family travelling from New Zealand is reunited at Sydney airport) Once adult double-dose vaccination rates hit 80 per cent, Prime Minister Scott Morrison (pictured) said the country will be able to live with Covid and open up for domestic travel in time for Christmas. The hardline premier warned travellers from NSW, Victoria, and the ACT will continue to be banned from entering WA until 2022 as the state aims to maintain its zero Covid status despite the inevitability of the virus coming in. But the PM vowed to smash down state barriers and enforce the National Plan blueprint to reopen so the country 'can be together again, safely and soon,' he said. 'We don't have to fear the virus, but we do have to live with it,' Mr Morrison told the Herald Sun. 'Holding onto Covid zero will only hold Australians back as the world moves forward.' He held out hope families would enjoy trips to theme parks in Queensland while singles could look forward to summer parties and New Year's Eve fireworks again. The PM held out the hope for families to enjoy trips to theme parks in Queensland while singles can look forward to summer parties and New Year's Eve fireworks again. (Pictured, Christmas Day revellers on Bondi Beach) Families will be reunited in time for Christmas under the PM's plan. (Pictured, family reunions at Sydney Airport following the easing of travel restrictions between Australia and New Zealand in April) 'Nobody wants Covid to be the virus that stole Christmas, and we have a plan and the vaccinations available to ensure that's not the case,' he promised. 'Everyone can make plans for a family Christmas, with all our loved ones at the dinner table, cracking bon-bons and bad jokes together.' But the message is at odds with some state premiers who are determined to maintain their Covid zero policy at any cost. In Queensland, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has suggested her state borders may remain closed until children under 12 are vaccinated, which is not even TGA-approved at this stage. 'You open up this state and you let the virus in here and every child under 12 is vulnerable, every single child,' she said. She vowed to keep her borders closed 'until I can get every child vaccinated'. Her ultra-cautious stance has been backed by some epidemiologists as planning for the worst case scenario. The Prime Minister said Australians can start to plan their family Christmas dinners. (Pictured, Bondi Beach revellers enjoy Christmas day fun) The PM dismissed state concerns about interstate travel and insists they must stick to the national cabinet-agreed timetable. (Pictured, a domestic traveller arrives at Sydney Airport) But it was dismissed by the prime minister, who insisted states must stick to the National Cabinet-agreed timetable. 'The worst-case scenario is not the plan,' he said. 'What is the plan is the better-case scenario, which sees you take actions, which has always been part of the national plan. 'If you do none those things, of course you put the community at great risk. That's not what the national plan suggests and to suggest that is what the national plan is, that would be a complete misreading of it.' Mr McGowan insisted he would wait until the 'overwhelming majority' of the state is vaccinated and that it would be 'complete madness' to open up prematurely. Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) has stated that WA borders may not open until 2022 Families may not get to see each other this Christmas as state borders may remain closed until 2022 Earlier this week, Mr McGowan said it was unlikely that families living in different states would be able to see each other in time for Christmas. 'I know that'll result in people screaming and yelling we should bring it down as soon as we can and infect ourselves. I don't understand that logic and I'm going to resist it,' he said. These vaccination targets are set to be hit in late November to early December based on the speed of the rollout. Mr McGowan told National Cabinet that different states are in different positions and the plan for getting out of Covid needed to reflect this. 'Then we'd probably set a date a couple months after that to give everyone the opportunity to get vaccinated,' Mr McGowan said. 'I think that's entirely fair and I advised the National Cabinet today that's exactly our position.' He said the national plan that was drawn up before the NSW outbreak is a one-size-fits-all proposition and is not working. He stated that until WA's vaccine rollout hits above the 80 per cent target, the borders will remain closed This follows truckies coming from hotspot states needing to return a negative Covid test three days before they reach the WA border The plan progressively removes restrictions as the 70 to 80 per cent vaccination rate targets were being met. Mr McGowan signed on to this along with all other state leaders but is now distancing himself from the agreement. This follows the decision to block truckies from entering WA if they do not return a negative Covid test result three days before their arrival into the state from high risk areas through NSW and Victoria. If they have not received their result before reaching the WA border, they will have to undergo a rapid antigen test at Eucla or Kununurra border checkpoints. MPs have urged the BBC to stop broadcasting daily coronavirus statistics in its news bulletins and stop 'frightening' people from living their lives. Former Tory party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said flagging the regular Covid statistics meant even fully vaccinated people were 'scared of normal life'. The Conservative MP said last night: 'The vaccines are really good at stopping hospitalisation and death, yet every night we report the infection rate why? 'Why does the BBC throw over every single bit of data, when Covid is about sixth on the death toll? Can we have the death toll for pneumonia while we're at it? Former Tory party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith (pictured) said flagging the regular Covid statistics meant even fully vaccinated people were 'scared of normal life' 'Cancer, heart disease, liver problems? Why are we continuing with the Covid stuff on the BBC and the main news channels? It frightens people. 'Older people are still asking, 'Are we allowed to hug now?' Even when they have had all the jabs. 'We have people who are now scared of normal life.' The Chingford and Woodford Green MP added: 'We certainly don't do it for flu, and we don't do it for cancer. 'Either we go the whole hog and every night publish a list of how you're going to die, or not at all. Covid isn't the major reason for death.' Richard Holden, the Conservative MP for North West Durham, added: 'The context is incredibly important for all of this. Only presenting Covid stats is odd in a situation where there are clearly long-term implications for other illnesses.' Richard Holden (pictured), the Tory MP for North West Durham, said the context was important as 'only presenting Covid stats is odd' when there are 'implications for other illnesses' Several scientists have called on the UK to scrap the daily updates. In June, Professor Robert Dingwall, who sits on the Government's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, said it was time to stop 'obsessively' publishing daily Covid stats. He tweeted: 'It is well past time to panic about infection rates and to publish them obsessively. 'Even hospitalisation rates are increasingly misleading as better therapy reduces length of stay. Covid is now a long way from being an important cause of mortality.' Professor Tim Spector, of King's College London, has also called for context to the Covid figures, which he said could be published alongside the data for illnesses such as flu, heart disease and cancer. He added that, on their own, the Covid statistics were 'scaremongering'. Professor Tony Brookes, a health data scientist at Leicester University, said of the daily publication of Covid case numbers: 'It is clearly motivated to promote fear to keep people compliant.' The BBC has admitted that a Radio 4 documentary on an alleged chemical weapon attack in Syria contained serious inaccuracies. The Corporation's Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) upheld a protest from Mail on Sunday columnist Peter Hitchens following last November's broadcast of Mayday: The Canister On The Bed. Adjudicators agreed that the programme by BBC investigative journalist Chloe Hadjimatheou failed to meet the Corporation's editorial standards for accuracy by reporting false claims. The programme, part of a series on aspects of the conflict in Syria, dealt with an attack at Douma in 2018 and included an account of the role later played by 'Alex', a former inspector with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the poison gas watchdog. The BBC has admitted that a Radio 4 documentary on an alleged chemical weapon attack in Douma (pictured in 2018), Syria, contained serious inaccuracies Adjudicators agreed the programme by investigative journalist Chloe Hadjimatheou (pictured) failed to meet the Corporation's editorial standards for accuracy by reporting false claims Last week nearly ten months after the broadcast the ECU delivered its finding that the BBC was wrong to insinuate that 'Alex' was motivated to go public about his doubts over the attack by the prospect of a $100,000 (72,000) reward from the whistleblowing website WikiLeaks. No such reward was ever paid, according to WikiLeaks. The BBC also accepted it had no evidence to back up its claim that 'Alex', a highly qualified and apolitical scientist, believed the attack in Douma, which prompted retaliatory missile strikes by Britain, the US and France, had been staged. In its ruling, the Corporation withdrew the imputation that Mr Hitchens, who has reported on despotic regimes for more than 40 years, shared 'the Russian and Syrian state views on the war'. The programme (pictured) dealt with an attack at Douma in 2018 and included an account of the role later played by 'Alex', a former inspector with the poison gas watchdog The ECU ruled the BBC was wrong to insinuate that 'Alex' was motivated to go public about his doubts over the attack by the prospect of a reward from WikiLeaks. Pictured: Syrian police on a destroyed street in Douma in April 2018 Upholding his complaint, the adjudicators said: 'The ECU found that, although they were limited to one aspect of an investigation into a complex and hotly contested subject, these points represented a failure to meet the standard of accuracy appropriate to a programme of this kind.' Welcoming the ruling, Mr Hitchens said: 'This is a major victory for the truth. The whistleblowers inside the OPCW were always motivated by a strict regard for scientific truth. 'Far from seeking rewards, they realised that their actions would damage their careers but went ahead anyway. 'I do not serve any government, least of all those in Moscow and Damascus. 'I am glad the BBC has now made clear that it grasps that my reporting was motivated solely by the search for truth.' He added: 'It is astonishingly rare for the BBC to rule against itself. 'This is a huge development. I hope it represents a wider change of heart in the Corporation.' California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom enlisted progressive star Elizabeth Warren on Saturday to help him overcome a looming recall election that could remove him from office, warning that his ouster carries possible consequences for the national Democratic agenda on climate change, immigration and reproductive rights. On a crystalline summer morning, the Massachusetts senator and former presidential candidate joined the embattled governor for an outdoor rally at a suburban Los Angeles high school in the states populous Democratic heartland, where polls show left-leaning Latino and younger voters have been slow to turn in their mail ballots for the contest that culminates Sept. 14. Both Warren and Newsom evoked former President Donald Trumps tumultuous administration, depicting leading Republican candidate Larry Elder as an acolyte of the billionaire businessman who would undermine the minimum wage, chisel into environmental protections and threaten abortion rights. At a time when Washington is often gridlocked, Warren argued that states have become the engines of government policy-making, and voters need to recognize how much is at risk in the recall and how broadly the results will be felt. California Gov. Gavin Newsom campaigns against the recall election at Culver City High School in Culver City on Saturday Gavin Newsom has enlisted Elizabeth Warren to help him reject election recall which may have national consequences ahead of 2022 midterms She said Elder, a conservative talk radio host, 'dreams of being Californias own Donald Trump.' Battles over women's rights, the coronavirus and a warming climate are 'not just in Texas, Florida, South Dakota,' she said, referring to states with conservative governors. 'These fights have come to California.' Newsom warned that Trump was defeated in 2020 but 'we did not defeat Trumpism.' With just nine days remaining in the contest, 'Racial justice is on the ballot. Economic justice in on the ballot. Social justice in on the ballot. Environmental justice is on the ballot,' the governor said to hundreds of sign-waving supporters, who responded by chanting 'Vote no' on the recall. In recent months, Newsom appeared imperiled from widespread public frustration over his pandemic restrictions that shuttered schools and businesses. But he is hoping to bounce back with a decisive victory that could provide a springboard for 2022, when he will face reelection, and return his name to discussions about future White House contenders. Recent polling has suggested he has established a lead, but Newsom has been warning the race could be close. Mail-in ballots went to all 22 million registered voters in mid-August for the unusual, late-summer election. In the recall, voters are asked two questions: Should Newsom be removed? And, if so, who should replace him? With Warren on stage, Newsom appeared to be reassuring voters in the partys liberal wing that he remained loyal to their agenda, despite grumbles that he has been moving too slowly in Sacramento. Despite falling short in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, Warren remains a popular figure with party progressives for promoting such proposals as expanding Social Security benefits and canceling student-loan debt for millions of Americans. Recent polling has suggested he has established a lead, but Newsom has been warning the race could be close California Gov. Gavin Newsom gives a thumbs-up as he greets supporters at an event against the recall election at the Culver City High School in Culver City Warren 'is here to shore up Gov. Gavin Newsoms progressive flank,' said Thad Kousser, who chairs the political science department at the University of California, San Diego. 'His campaign in the recall has been about what he stands against. This is a chance to remind voters what he stands for, especially for those on the left who havent seen as much progress on things like single-payer health care and police reform as they would like,' Kousser added. Elder, meanwhile, was crisscrossing the state delivering his message that one-party, Democratic dominance in Sacramento was to blame for rising crime rates, a homeless crisis that is a national embarrassment, climbing taxes and home prices that are out of reach for many working-class families. If elected, he has promised to lift any mask or vaccine mandates for state workers that remain in place. Newsom was elected in a 2018 landslide in the heavily Democratic state, but his popularity faded as he contended with public unrest over long-running school and businesses closures during the pandemic, fallout from a multibillion-dollar unemployment benefits scandal and embarrassment over his decision to attend a lavish birthday dinner at an exclusive restaurant in November - without a mask - while lecturing residents to stay home for safety. As the race enters its final days, Newsom has talked of the contest in increasingly stark terms, depicting it as a focal point in the broader national fight over Americas political identity and direction in the post-Trump era. He told a group of Latinos this week that the drive to push him from office rose from the states political far-right in 2020 because 'California is standing up against all things Trump and Trumpism.' He said those on the Republican fringe grew indignant when the recoiled against the Trump administrations immigration policies, which made it harder for immigrants to live or work in the United States, while seeking to sharply reduce the number of people entering the country illegally, including through construction of his signature border wall. California first lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom, left, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., middle, join California Gov. Gavin Newsom at a campaign event Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., left, campaigns with California Gov. Gavin Newsom against the recall election at the Culver City High School California Gov. Gavin Newsom, middle, takes selfies with supporters at an event against the recall election at the Culver City High School California, meanwhile, expanded government-paid health care for lower-income residents 50 and older, regardless of their immigration status. He also referenced the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow a Texas law banning most abortions to remain in effect. 'Eyes are now on the state of California because they recognize this is not just about the state of California,' Newsom told Latino supporters. 'This is about the direction that were going as a nation.' The contest is being watched nationally because of its possible consequences for the 2022 midterm elections, when control of Congress again will be in play. It also appears Newsom is making a concerted effort to connect with women voters, after Elder faced allegations that he emotionally mistreated a former fiancee and was criticized for once writing that employers should be able to ask women if and when they plan to get pregnant. In addition to Warren's stop Saturday, Newsom has a planned appearance with Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar on Sunday, while Vice President Kamala Harris is expected in the state next week. The remainder of the race will focus on turning out voters. 'We're here ... with a very intense purpose in mind,' Newsom told reporters after the rally. 'This all comes down to turnout.' New South Wales is halfway to the 80 per cent Covid vaccination mark that will finally allow residents to live a normal life. But weeks out from reaching that milestone, it was dealt another blow in its fight against Covid-19 with 1,485 new cases and three deaths. The soaring numbers come as Premier Gladys Berejiklian faces mounting pressure to ease Covid lockdown restrictions before hitting her 70 per cent vaccination target. None of the patients who died were fully vaccinated, further highlighting the importance of getting double-jabbed. NSW has reached the halfway mark towards 80 per cent vaccination that will allow it to treat coronavirus like the flu and open state borders and international travel. The premier offered an insight into what life will look like when that hits 70 per cent, indicating there would be density limits in hospitality venues and QR codes when businesses reopened. Capacity limits on large events will be maintained to ensure compliance with social distancing requirements. Any double-jabbed Australians returning home from overseas would also be eligible for at-home quarantine rather than in a government-run facility, Ms Berejiklian said. A man and woman were spotted on Bronte Beach in Sydney's east taking pictures while on their morning stroll. Outdoor recreation is permitted under Covid restrictions 'The planning has already started, to see what life was like for Aussies coming home when they are fully vaccinated,' she said. 'We still need some form of quarantine, whether it is in the future for international students, skilled labour 'But as far as Australians are concerned, if you are fully vaccinated with a credible vaccine, you should be allowed to quarantine at home and that is a transition we will be making.' And, most importantly, once the 80 per cent double jab target is reached, NSW will 'never have to do a statewide lockdown ever again', the premier promised. Ms Berejiklian reiterated daily Covid cases are likely to peak within 'the next week or two', while the peak for hospitalisations and intensive care requirements will occur in October. Government and health modelling for these statistics will be released this week, as the premier added it would be disastrous if restrictions were eased too early. Ms Berejiklian did not dispute reports case numbers are expected to soar beyond 2,000 each day. Police patrolled a busy Bronte Beach on Sunday morning to ensure locals were complying with Covid restrictions Despite the warning, the premier is also optimistic October will be the month all residents in the state can 'feel a sense of relief and that we are on the home stretch'. 'Once we get over the peak number of cases, people will feel more positive about the next few weeks, people enjoying those things in life we have not been able to do for a long time.' She said her government would consider easing any restrictions that chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant recommended were no longer necessary, particularly in regional NSW in areas with few cases. 'Firstly, (the government's aim is) not to burden our citizens any more than we need to and secondly to move together forward,' Ms Berejiklian said. 'We need to check the health advice and in some parts of regional NSW, for example, we will be making a decision this week as to what happens to the regions post 10th September because the lockdown technically goes until Friday. October is the month where all of us will feel relief and that we are on the home stretch Premier Gladys Berejiklian There are 11,000 people receiving Covid treatment at home, while 1,300 people remain in hospital - including 175 in intensive care. Police, fire, ambulance and emergency services workers across Sydney's Covid hotspots were invited to turn out for priority vaccine appointments on Sunday in a 'super vaccination blitz' to boost coverage in high-risk industries. NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard described the blitz as a 'golden opportunity' for any staff who were yet to be jabbed. Meanwhile three children under 12 are fighting for their lives in Sydney hospitals - including a baby on a ventilator. The infant who requires ventilation is believed to be the youngest person to ever be placed in ICU with Covid in Australia. A nine-year-old child also requires ventilation while a third, believed to be under 12, is being treated with a hi-flow CPAP machine to help them breathe. All three children have underlying health conditions which may strongly contribute to the severity of the virus. Covid generally does not cause serious illness in young children. New South Wales has been dealt another crippling blow in its fight against Covid-19 with 1,485 new cases and three deaths recorded overnight Another woman set up her towel on the beach and performed yoga moves while watching the waves crash around her The victims of Covid in the 24 hours to Sunday included a woman in her 50s from western Sydney, a western Sydney woman in her 70s with significant comorbidities and a man in his 70s who died at Liverpool hospital, also with underlying health conditions. Of the 1,485 locally acquired cases reported to 8pm, 518 are from South Western Sydney Local Health District, 479 are from Western Sydney LHD, 174 are from Sydney LHD, 116 are from South Eastern Sydney LHD and 80 are from Nepean Blue Mountains LHD. Thirty-two of the new cases were recorded in western NSW, while 12 are from Hunter New England, 11 are from Illawarra Shoalhaven and seven are from the Central Coast. Poll Should NSW ease lockdown restrictions before reaching 70 per cent vaccine target? YES NO Should NSW ease lockdown restrictions before reaching 70 per cent vaccine target? YES 114 votes NO 138 votes Now share your opinion Despite increased spread of Covid cases in regional communities, the NSW government is still hoping to ease restrictions on September 10 as planned. Local MPs are among a growing chorus of voices citing lockdown fatigue and deteriorating mental health as reasons to begin easing restrictions early. They're hopeful the premier will expand the 5km exercise limit and allow more than five fully vaccinated people to meet outdoors for a picnic come September 13. The proposal would mean families can more easily gather outdoors - where cases of Covid transmission are virtually non-existent - in time for the school holidays. Ms Berejiklian was asked about her own mental health on Sunday during lockdown, but dismissed the question, telling reporters she 'doesn't think people would care'. Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello, who holds a seat in the state's crisis cabinet and helped to champion the necessity of a singles bubble, said all avenues are being explored. 'The premier has rightly recognised the need to get mental health right,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald. Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello, who holds a seat in the state's crisis cabinet and helped to champion the necessity of a singles bubble, said all avenues are being explored to ease Covid restrictions. Pictured: A woman patting a puppy while on a walk through Bronte Beach in Sydney's east Two surfers head into the water on Bronte Beach on Sunday morning on a sunny 18C day 'Mental health is a critical component and the government is constantly looking at the changing circumstances, and we'll adjust our settings accordingly.' This may include easing some of the restrictions before that 70 per cent milestone vaccine target is reached. More than 20.6 million doses of vaccine have been administered across Australia since the pandemic began. In NSW, 40.3 per cent of the eligible population are fully vaccinated, while 72.7 per cent have received their first jab. Ms Berejiklian addressed a small minority of people who might choose not to get the vaccine due to their personal beliefs, stating the safety of the majority dictated her actions. 'If you are vaccinated, you have a choice to get a meal outside. If you don't want to be fully vaccinated, that is your choice but you won't be able to participate in things,' she said. 'These are challenging times but what you have to do is make decisions that will affect the majority of people and keep the majority of people safe.' One possibility repeatedly addressed by Liberal MPs who hold seats across Sydney was to ease the five-person limit on picnics and outdoor recreation come September 13. From that date, outdoor gatherings for up to five fully-vaccinated people are permitted, but there is mounting pressure for children to be excluded from this limit. Premier Gladys Berejiklian is being urged to consider easing some restrictions by September school holidays Contact tracers 'no longer calling positive Covid cases in NSW' Ms Berejiklian confirmed any newly diagnosed Covid patients should not expect a phone call from a contact tracer. Instead, to assist the overwhelmed system, new cases will be notified via text message. 'We are still contact tracing - it is an important part of Covid-19 control along with vaccination and the social measures that we have been talking about,' she said. 'But as numbers increase, it obviously stresses the system and work has been streamlining the processes that track we have been streamlining the processes we have. 'Over the last several days, we have been using text messages for cases to give them clear information about what they need to do in terms of staying at home, isolating, caring for themselves, seeking additional care where necessary.' Ms Berejiklian described the contact tracing system as 'robust' but said it was necessary to find a way to alleviate pressures on the system. Advertisement As it stands, it would be difficult for any family comprising more than one child to include grandparents or other loved ones. 'That's something that needs to be put on the table,' MP for Oatley in south Sydney Mark Coure said. 'If we had that increased or at least looked at, I think that would be very beneficial.' Given children under 12 are not yet eligible for the vaccine, some MPs suggested it should not make a difference how many children are at gatherings with their relatives - so long as all adults involved are double-jabbed. Some 2,000 people under the age of 18 are now infected with the respiratory virus statewide, and are seeking assistance from the Sydney Children's Hospital network. As it stands, it would be difficult for any family comprising more than one child to include grandparents or other loved ones when picnics of five fully vaccinated people are permitted from September 13 In addition to the standard inpatient services, medical professionals are offering a 24-hour virtual health service providing care to children who are well enough to be cared for at home. There is also a 'home in hospital' facility for kids whose parents or carers are being treated for Covid in a hospital. Children under 12 are not yet approved for a vaccine anywhere in the world, and this is not likely to change until at least mid-September. 'Globally, children under 12 are not yet eligible for Covid-19 vaccines, so the best way to safeguard them as much as possible is for the community to have high vaccination coverage,' Sydney Children's Hospital Network said. Teenagers between 16 and 18 are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, while the Moderna jab, which will be rolled out in Australia, has also been provisionally approved for 12 and up. Gladys Berejiklian is under mounting pressure to ease Covid lockdown restrictions across NSW before hitting her 70 per cent vaccination target. Local MPs are among a growing chorus of voices citing lockdown fatigue and deteriorating mental health as reasons to begin easing restrictions early. They're hopeful the premier will expand the 5km exercise limit and allow more than five fully vaccinated people to meet outdoors for a picnic come September 13. The proposal would mean families can more easily gather outdoors - where cases of Covid transmission are virtually non-existent - in time for the school holidays. Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello, who holds a seat in the state's crisis cabinet and helped to champion the necessity of a singles bubble, said all avenues were being explored. The proposal would mean families can more easily gather outdoors - where cases of Covid transmission are virtually non-existent - in time for the school holidays 'The premier has rightly recognised the need to get mental health right,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald. 'Mental health is a critical component and the government is constantly looking at the changing circumstances, and we'll adjust our settings accordingly.' This may include easing some of the restrictions before that 70 per cent milestone vaccine target is reached. More than 20.6 million doses of vaccine have been administered across Australia since the pandemic began. In NSW, 40.3 per cent of the eligible population are fully vaccinated, while 72.7 per cent have received their first jab. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian is under mounting pressure to ease Covid lockdown restrictions before hitting her 70 per cent vaccination target They're hopeful the premier will expand the 5km exercise limit and allow more than five fully vaccinated people to meet outdoors for a picnic come September 13 One possibility repeatedly addressed by Liberal MPs who hold seats across Sydney was to ease the five-person limit on picnics and outdoor recreation come September 13. From that date, outdoor gatherings for up to five fully vaccinated people are permitted, but there is mounting pressure for children to be excluded from this limit. As it stands, it would be difficult for any family comprising more than one child to include grandparents or other loved ones. 'That's something that needs to be put on the table,' MP for Oatley in south Sydney Mark Coure said. 'If we had that increased or at least looked at, I think that would be very beneficial.' Health Minister Brad Hazzard assured the public any restrictions that are no longer necessary would be lifted as soon as Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant gave the green light Health Minister Brad Hazzard assured the public any restrictions that are no longer necessary would be lifted as soon as chief health officer Kerry Chant gave the green light. 'While we are enthusiastic and keen to see more freedoms back, we do have to rely on the health advice,' he said during Saturday's press conference after announcing a new daily record of 1,533 Covid cases. 'At the moment it is not the perfect time, perhaps, to be expecting too many changes because we are today at another high, a very high level of cases. 'Hopefully in the next few weeks we will see some changes, but if you haven't been vaccinated, get out and get vaccinated.' Three relatives have been found dead inside a Utah home after a nearly 24-hour stand-off with police. Officers with the Unified Police Department of Greater Salt Lake (UPD) responded to the home in Millcreek around 6 p.m. on Friday after a man with bloody hands reported to a local precinct that another man shot multiple people inside the home. It was not clear what the man's relation was to the alleged killer or other victims, but cops said that they are also considering him a victim at this time. Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said in a statement posted to Facebook that the situation had been 'resolved' by 4 p.m. on Saturday after the alleged shooter and police engaged in a nearly 24-hour standoff. 'We can confirm three fatalities, including most likely the shooter. No shots were fired by our officers,' Silvestrini said. Incredible footage from the standoff shows police rushing an elderly woman believed to live at the home to safety after she was trapped inside SWAT officers can be seen carrying her while running to safety on Friday night The mayor of Millcreek said in a statement that the elderly woman was 'fortunately' not injured as the events unfolded A woman appears to console another woman after the horrific shooting on Friday The male suspect, 30, is believed to have killed a man and woman, both around 50 years old, before shooting himself dead after the family staged an intervention for possible mental health problems or substance abuse, KSTU-TV reported. The identities of the two victims and the possible suspect have not been released. Incredible footage from the standoff shows police rushing an elderly woman believed to live at the home to safety after she was trapped inside. SWAT officers can be seen carrying her while running to safety on Friday night, though it was not immediately clear why the woman had to be carried. The man had allegedly shot at officers who breached the home to rescue the elderly woman trapped inside, Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera said during a press conference on Saturday. SWAT teams are seen outside of the home as the standoff ensued The suspect also allegedly shot at a robot that had been deployed into the home Members of the SWAT team are pictured with their gear outside of the home Police had blocked off the street, which continues to remain closed for the time being The Mobile Command Post police had set up is seen as the standoff continued into the night Silvestrini said in a statement that the elderly woman was 'fortunately' not injured as the events unfolded. The man continued to fire at officers throughout the night, though cops never returned fire and none were injured, said Rivera - who oversees the UPD. Rivera said the standoff lasted so long because the man was 'extremely' heavily armed with a massive amount of ammunition, and he 'took out' other resources cops used - shooting at a robot that had been sent into the home. 'When you have a standoff that takes so long and somebody is shooting at officers, you can only have officers out for a certain amount of time and they get tired, so we brought in resources from other agencies,' she said. Millcreek Mayor Jeff Silvestrini said in a statement posted to Facebook that the situation had been 'resolved' by 4 p.m. on Saturday Rivera said more than 70 officers from UPD responded to the standoff, on top of officers from other agencies providing mutual aid. Cops realized the standoff was over when drones were sent into the home and found three people dead - one of whom matched the description of the suspect, she said. 'What we don't know is what occurred in the middle of the night,' Rivera said. SWAT teams have since cleared the home for forensic investigators and detectives to identify the bodies and determine with certainty that the suspect is among them - and that he shot the two victims before he later shot at police. 'Thanks to SLCPD SWAT for relieving our people during the night and to many agencies from around the valley which rendered mutual aid.' Silvestri said. 'Thanks most of all to our UPD officers who resolved this though patience and proper police work.' A proposed law to combat online abuse risks crushing freedom of speech and handing state-backed powers to technology firms to snoop on internet users' private conversations, campaigners warn. A hard-hitting report by the civil liberties group Big Brother Watch says that while well-intentioned, the Government's Online Safety Bill is 'fundamentally flawed' and could harm 'fundamental rights to privacy and freedom of expression'. The clamour for legislation has been growing since the suicide of Molly Russell in 2017. A hard-hitting report by the civil liberties group Big Brother Watch says that while well-intentioned, the Government's Online Safety Bill is 'fundamentally flawed' and could harm 'fundamental rights to privacy and freedom of expression' [File photo] The 14-year-old took her life after viewing thousands of online posts about suicide and self-harm. Her case increased pressure to force social media firms to do more to keep users safe. The new system will be policed by Ofcom with powers to impose fines of up to 18 million on firms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube if they fail to remove content that could cause 'psychological harm'. But critics warn the definition of harmful is too vague and could lead to tech firms systemically erasing lawful comments on issues from transgender rights to Brexit. The Big Brother Watch study, published today, warns that under the new law, things that can be legally and freely said in a pub will be prohibited online. The new system will be policed by Ofcom with powers to impose fines of up to 18 million on firms such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube if they fail to remove content that could cause 'psychological harm' It argues: 'The law should be upheld online as it is offline... it would be dangerous to impose a two-tier system for freedom of expression with extra speech controls for lawful speech just because it is online.' The study warns the draft bill could give social media companies the right to monitor private messages. It says it 'would empower and even force big tech companies to conduct mass surveillance of their platforms and act as speech police online'. The report also cites examples of legitimate articles being censored by internet companies. Facebook had to apologise after labelling an article by Mail on Sunday journalist Ian Birrell about the World Health Organisation inquiry into Covid-19's origins as 'false information' last year. The report also warns that the new law would allow the Government to add to Ofcom's list of 'harmful' online content without consulting Parliament creating a risk of the Bill being misused to censor debate. Mark Johnson, of Big Brother Watch, said: 'The Government is establishing a censor's charter where big tech censorship would be state-backed. 'Politicians talk about 'reining in the tech platforms' when really they're getting into bed with them.' A Government spokesman said: 'We make no apologies for wanting to protect children online and tackling criminal content, including protecting young people from sexual abuse and content that encourages self- harm and suicide. 'Our new laws beef up protections for free speech and journalistic content to stop tech firms removing legal content arbitrarily. Ministers have been clear they will not allow this to be a tool of censorship.' Texas-based dating app companies Match and Bumble have launched funds to help women seeking abortions after the state implemented America's most extreme reproductive rights law. Shar Dubey, CEO of Match Group which owns Tinder, OkCupid, Hinge and PlentyOfFish, said she is personally setting up a fund to support employees and their dependents who may need to travel out of state for an abortion. Bumble, meanwhile, announced it will donate to women's reproductive rights organizations as the company vowed to 'keep fighting against regressive laws.' The women-led companies are among only a handful of major companies who have publicly taken a stand against the Lone Star State's new abortion law. The law, which came into effect Wednesday, bans abortions from when a fetal heartbeat can be detected. The company vowed in a statement to 'keep fighting against regressive laws like SB8' Shar Dubey (right), CEO of Match Group, said she is personally setting up a fund to support employees and their dependents who may need to travel out of Texas for an abortion. Bumble, meanwhile, announced it will donate to women's reproductive rights organizations. Pictured CEO and founder Whitney Wolfe (left) Match Group owns Tinder, OkCupid, Hinge and PlentyOfFish and has around 400 employees in Texas This is typically after six weeks of pregnancy - before many women even know they are pregnant. The ban also does not make exceptions for women who are victims of rape or incest, with the only exception being to save the life of the mother. Dubey sent a memo to Match's Texas-based staff Thursday, announcing the fund and hitting out at the restrictive law. In the memo, obtained by The Dallas Morning News, the Indian native said she was 'shocked' to see a US state introduce a 'highly punitive and unfair law' that is 'more regressive than most of the world.' 'The company generally does not take political stands unless it is relevant to our business,' she wrote. 'But in this instance, I personally, as a woman in Texas, could not keep silent and have made this statement that you might see covered over the next few days.' She added: 'I immigrated to America from India over 25 years ago and I have to say, as a Texas resident, I am shocked that I now live in a state where women's reproductive laws are more regressive than most of the world, including India.' Dubey said it was a 'sad day' and a 'big step back in women's rights.' 'Surely everyone should see the danger of this highly punitive and unfair law that doesn't even make an exception for victims of rape or incest,' she wrote. 'I would hate for our state to take this big step back in women's rights.' The CEO told staff she was setting up the fund to support any of them who may be impacted by the law. 'I also wanted to let you know that I am setting up a fund to ensure that if any of our Texas-based employees or a dependent find themselves impacted by this legislation and need to seek care outside of Texas, the fund will help cover the additional costs incurred,' she wrote. Dubey is launching the fund personally, not through Match Group, which employs around 400 people in Texas and is based out of Dallas. Competitor Bumble announced its action against the state's law on social media. 'Starting today, Bumble has created a relief fund supporting the reproductive rights of women and people across the gender spectrum who seek abortions in Texas,' the company tweeted. 'Bumble is women-founded and women-led, and from day one we've stood up for the most vulnerable. We'll keep fighting against regressive laws like #SB8.' Bumble, based in Austin and founded by CEO Whitney Wolfe, said the relief funds will go towards organizations that support women's reproductive rights. A group of protesters gather in Times Square, New York City, Saturday to demonstrate against the Texas law The law bans abortions from when a fetal heartbeat can be detected. This is typically after six weeks of pregnancy - before many women even know they are pregnant Planned Parenthood clinics protected from Texas' abortion law under temporary restraining order Abortion providers and pro-choice supporters have secured a minor victory in Texas after a state judge banned an anti-abortion group from suing Planned Parenthood under the new Texas law. State District Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin granted Planned Parenthood a temporary restraining order against Texas Right to Life, its legislative director and 100 unidentified associates late Friday. The order blocks the anti-abortion group from bringing lawsuits against providers and staff at Planned Parenthood centers across the state under the 'Texas Heartbeat Act'. Friday's restraining order only relates to Texas Right to Life and Planned Parenthood clinics in the Lone Star State. There are currently 41 Planned Parenthood clinics left in Texas. Gamble ruled that the new law creates 'probable, irreparable, and imminent injury in the interim for which [Planned Parenthood] and their physicians, staff, and patients throughout Texas have no adequate remedy at law' if they are sued in private lawsuits. Planned Parenthood welcomed the decision saying it 'offers protection to the brave health care providers and staff at Planned Parenthood health centers throughout Texas, who have continued to offer care as best they can within the law while facing surveillance, harassment, and threats from vigilantes eager to stop them.' However, Elizabeth Graham, the vice president of Texas Right to Life, vowed to fight the judge's decision and said 'we will continue our diligent efforts to ensure the abortion industry fully follows' the new law.' The order will remain in effect until September 17 when Planned Parenthood will need to prove the need for a permanent order. A hearing on a preliminary injunction request is set for September 13. Texas Right to Life is the state's largest anti-abortion group. It said this week it had legal teams ready to bring lawsuits and launched a tips website for private citizens to 'snitch' on women who have abortions and anyone that 'aids and abets' them. Advertisement The company also urged people looking for support to contact one of the organizations: Frontera Fund, Fund Texas Choice, Lilith Fund, Repro Legal Defense Fund, Abortion Funds and Brigid Alliance. The new abortion bill, dubbed the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', was signed into law in May by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and took effect Wednesday. The conservative-heavy Supreme Court ruled 5-4 Wednesday in favor of upholding the law, denying a request from abortion providers to block it and enabling the state to backpedal on the landmark Roe v. Wade law of 1973 which gave women across the country the right to choose to have an abortion. Rather than enforcement by state officials, the new law gives private citizens the right to sue women who get abortions for $10,000. Private citizens can also sue anyone who helps the woman get an abortion including abortion providers, health care workers at clinics and even Lyft or Uber workers who drive them to a clinic for the procedure. This means the law is more difficult to contest through the courts. Pro-choice supporters and abortion rights groups have warned that the law will disproportionately impact teenagers and people of color. Calls are mounting for big businesses based out of Texas to boycott the state over the law. But, to date, only a few have taken a stand. Lyft and Uber have both vowed to cover 100 percent of their drivers' legal fees if they get sued for transporting women to abortion appointments in Texas. Lyft was first to push back against the law Friday, with the company releasing a statement announcing the creation of a legal fund. 'A new Texas law, SB8, threatens to punish drivers for getting people where they need to go specifically, women exercising their right to choose and to access the healthcare they need,' the company said in a statement. 'We want to be clear: Drivers are never responsible for monitoring where their riders go or why. Imagine being a driver and not knowing if you are breaking the law by giving someone a ride. 'Similarly, riders never have to justify, or even share, where they are going and why. Imagine being a pregnant woman trying to get to a healthcare appointment and not knowing if your driver will cancel on you for fear of breaking a law. Both are completely unacceptable.' The company blasted the law as 'incompatible with people's basic rights to privacy' and 'an attack on women's right to choose.' In the statement, signed by CEO Logan Green, President John Zimmer and General Counsel Kristin Sverchek, Lyft said its new Driver Legal Defense Fund will cover 100 percent of legal fees for any of its drivers sued under the law. It will also donate $1 million to Planned Parenthood to 'help ensure that transportation is never a barrier to healthcare access'. Lyft and Uber have vowed to cover 100 percent of their drivers' legal fees if they get sued for transporting women to abortion appointments in Texas Green tweeted about the move, adding Lyft 'encourage[s] other companies to join us.' Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi quickly responded to his call to action, saying the ride-sharing app would join its competitor in covering drivers' legal fees. 'Right on @logangreen - drivers shouldn't be put at risk for getting people where they want to go,' he tweeted. 'Team @Uber is in too and will cover legal fees in the same way. Thanks for the push.' Meanwhile, the city of Portland is considering boycotting Texas over the law. Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said the city council will vote next week on whether it will stop doing business with the state, including a ban on buying goods and services from it and stopping all city employee business travel there. Democrats are trying to push back against the law, with Joe Biden condemning it 'un-American' and describing the deputizing of private citizens as 'a vigilante system.' The new abortion bill, dubbed the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', was signed into law in May by Texas Governor Greg Abbott (pictured) and took effect Wednesday Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Stephen Breyer, Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Elena Kagan dissented. The other justices - all appointed by Republican presidents - allowed the law to stand. From left: Justices Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanaugh, Clarence Thomas, Elena Kagan, John Roberts, Neil Gorsuch, Stephen Breyer, Amy Coney Barrett, and Sonia Sotomayor A former girlfriend of the man suspected of abducting Madeleine McCann has described her shock at discovering that she slept with him in a campervan police believe he may have used to kidnap the youngster. In an interview with The Mail on Sunday, Nuray Oezgen told how Christian Brueckner took her to the yellow and white Volkswagen T3 Westfalia van at a local park which he described as his house. It was the same campervan that appeared in the media when they said Brueckner was a suspect, said Ms Oezgen. He used to sleep inside. At the time, I just thought he was very poor. I sometimes stayed at night in the campervan with him. The 52-year-old dated Brueckner, a lifelong criminal with convictions for rape and child sex offences, for three months before they split over what she says was his growing obsession with young women who he would take to swingers parties. In an interview with The Mail on Sunday, Nuray Oezgen, 52, described her shock at discovering that she slept with him in a campervan police believe he may have used to kidnap the youngster Ms Oezgen the first of Brueckners former girlfriends to speak on the record was twice interviewed by the Bundeskriminalamt, the German equivalent of the FBI, as part of the Madeleine inquiry before his name was made public by the authorities. She believes her former lover is capable of committing the crime. I believe it is possible because Brueckner had two sides, two faces, she said. He had a nasty and aggressive side to him. Madeleine, then aged three, vanished from a holiday apartment in the Portuguese resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 as her parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, dined nearby with friends. German prosecutors appealed last May for information about Brueckner, who spent long periods in the Algarve in the 1990s. They released photographs of the campervan which the 44-year-old had been driving at the time and which may have been used during Madeleines kidnap. The couple split over what she describes was his 'growing obsession' with young women who he took to swinger parties. Pictured: Christian Brueckner The vehicle is thought to have been sold in the Algarve in 2015, and was recovered by German police. Ms Oezgen met Brueckner, now serving a seven-year jail term for the 2005 rape of a pensioner in Praia da Luz, in the German city of Hanover in 2012. He was working as a mechanic at a garage owned by her uncle and he began drinking at a bar called Debakel where she was a barmaid. Brueckner charmed her with stories about his travels across Europe and they began a relationship, eventually renting a kiosk selling drinks and snacks and the neighbouring flat in Braunschweig, 40 miles east of Hanover. After moving there, Brueckners behaviour became aggressive and he began drinking heavily and taking and dealing cannabis, said Ms Oezgen, who now lives near Berlin. I would sit at the kiosk all day and he would be out drinking beer and Jagermeister with friends. Madeleine, then aged three, vanished from a holiday apartment in the Portuguese resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 as her parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, dined nearby with friends They would come back and get drunk all night, she said. He started taking interest in young girls, schoolgirls, who used to come to the kiosk before they went to school. I did not like that. He also started going to swingers clubs with friends and some young Croatian girls. Her testimony chimes with that given to the MoS last year by Peter Erdmann, a former caretaker who recalled how Brueckner would shower youngsters with toys as they walked to a school barely 100 yards from the kiosk. At the time, I did not think anything of it It turns my stomach now to think of his intention, he said. In an interview with The Mail on Sunday, Nuray Oezgen told how Christian Brueckner took her to the yellow and white Volkswagen T3 Westfalia van at a local park which he described as his house Ms Oezgen said she finally left Brueckner when it became clear he was in a sexual relationship with a local teenager he would bring back to their flat. Brueckner, originally from the Bavarian city of Wurzburg, fled Germany for the Algarve in the 1990s after being charged with molesting a young girl. German police say mobile phone records place him close to the Ocean Club apartments where the McCanns were staying on the night she vanished. Brueckners lawyers firmly deny he had any involvement in her disappearance. The MoS revealed last year that Brueckner was given a 15-month sentence for sexually abusing the five-year-old daughter of a 35-year-old woman he began dating in Braunschweig in 2014. After the mother of the girl, who closely resembles Madeleine, called police, officers recovered almost 400 child abuse images from his camera. Official letters will soon be sent out to parents of children aged between 12 and 15 asking for permission to administer Covid-19 vaccines. A Whitehall insider told The Sun that parents will be contacted via the letters within the next few days requesting permission. It comes after an expert said that vaccinating children against Covid will stop classroom disruption when they return to school. Ministers are pushing for schoolchildren aged 12- to 15-years-old to be given a jab, despite the Joint Commission for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) yesterday advising against the move. Official letters will soon be sent out to parents of children aged between 12 and 15 asking for permission to administer Covid-19 vaccines The JCVI the independent body that advises the Government on the roll-out claimed the virus posed such a low risk to people in the age group that the benefit of vaccination to their health would be marginal. It did however recommend the jabs for 200,000 more children with chronic heart, kidney, lung and neurological conditions in that age group. A total of 350,000 children aged 12 to 15 are now eligible for the vaccine. But experts pushing back against the plans today argued that it would be 'ethically dubious' to jab children solely to protect adults, because Covid itself poses such a tiny risk to youngsters. Others believe it is better for children to catch Covid and recover to develop natural immunity than to be reliant on protection from vaccines, which studies suggest wanes in months. SAGE adviser Professor John Edmunds, an epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, today said ministers must take into consideration the wide implications of not vaccinating children. SAGE adviser Professor John Edmunds, an epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, today said ministers must take into consideration the wide implications of not vaccinating children Pictured: Lottie Beard, 16, receives a jab at a walk-in Covid vaccination clinic at the Reading Festival at Richfield Avenue And Jillian Evans, head of health intelligence at NHS Grampian in Scotland, said vaccinating the age group would help prevent transmission of the virus, as well as protect children from long Covid. Former chief scientific adviser Professor Sir Mark Walport said it is for the Government to look at the broader harms of not vaccinating children. Professor Edmunds told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It's a very difficult one, They're going to take a wider perspective than the JCVI took, I think that's right. 'I think we have to take into consideration the wider effect Covid might have on children and their education and developmental achievements. 'In the UK now it's difficult to say how many children haven't been infected but it's probably about half of them, that's about six million children, so that's a long way to go if we allow infection just to run through the population. 'That's a lot of children who will be infected and that will be a lot of disruption to schools in the coming months.' Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: 'If the guidance is this will reduce the disruption for all those young people, yes, we will absolutely back that. 'The government is right on this - we have to look at the broader picture In England. This graph shows the number of first doses dished out by age group. The NHS publishes age groups as periods of five years, and groups all those under 18 together. It shows more than 620,000 have already been inoculated among under-18s Scotland's weekly Covid cases have nearly trebled in the fortnight after schools went back after summer there, Office for National Statistics data shows. There are fears the rest of the UK will be hit with a similar bang in cases now that classes are resuming this week Latest estimates from a symptom-tracking app suggested under-18s had the second highest number of Covid cases in the country (blue line). Only 18 to 35-year-olds had a higher number of Covid cases (orange line). That is despite schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland only starting to go back this week. The data is from the ZOE Covid Symptom Study Latest Public Health England data showed Covid cases are rising fastest among 10 to 19-year-olds (grey line) and 20 to 29-year-olds (green line). Approving Covid vaccines for 12 to 15-year-olds would likely help curb the spread of the virus in the age group, scientists in favour of the move add WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF VACCINATING CHILDREN? Pros Protecting adults The main argument in favour of vaccinating children is in order to prevent them keeping the virus in circulation long enough for it to transmit back to adults. Experts fear that unvaccinated children returning to classrooms in September could lead to a boom in cases among people in the age group, just as immunity from jabs dished out to older generations earlier in the year begins to wane. This could trigger another wave of the virus if left unchecked, with infection levels triggering more hospitalisations and deaths than seen during the summer. Avoiding long Covid in children While the risk of serious infection from Covid remains low in most children, scientists are still unsure of the long-term effects the virus may have on them. Concerns have been raised in particular about the incidence of long Covid the little understood condition when symptoms persist for many more weeks than normal in youngsters. A study released last night by King's College London showed fewer than two per cent of children who develop Covid symptoms continue to suffer with them for more than eight weeks. Just 25 of the 1,734 children studied 0.01 per cent suffered symptoms for longer than a year. Cons Health risks Extremely rare incidences of a rare heart condition have been linked to the Pfizer vaccine in youngsters. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) in the US where 9million 12- to 17-year-olds have already been vaccinated shows there is around a one in 14,500 to 18,000 chance of boys in the age group developing myocarditis after having their second vaccine dose. This is vanishingly small. For comparison, the chance of finding a four-leaf clover is one in 10,000, and the chance of a woman having triplets is one in 4,478. The risk is higher than in 18- to 24-year-olds (one in 18,000 to 22,000), 25- to 29-year-olds (one in 56,000 to 67,000) and people aged 30 and above (one in 250,000 to 333,000). But, again, this is very low. Britain's drug regulator the MHRA lists the rare heart condition as a very rare side-effect of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. They said: 'There have been very rare reports of myocarditis and pericarditis (the medical term for the condition) occurring after vaccination. These are typically mild cases and individuals tend to recover within a short time following standard treatment and rest.' More than four times as many hospitalisations were prevented as there were cases of myocarditis caused by the vaccine in 12- to 17-year-olds, the health body's data show. Jabs should be given to other countries Experts have also claimed it would be better to donate jabs intended for teenagers in the UK to other countries where huge swathes of the vulnerable population remain unvaccinated. Not only would this be a moral move but it is in the UK's own interest because the virus will remain a threat to Britain as long as it is rampant anywhere in the world. Most countries across the globe are lagging significantly behind the UK in terms of their vaccine rollout, with countries in Africa, Southeast Asia and South America remaining particularly vulnerable. Jabs could be better used vaccinating older people in those countries, and thus preventing the virus from continuing to circulate globally and mutate further, than the marginal gains to transmission Britain would see if children are vaccinated, experts argue. Professor David Livermore, from the University of East Anglia, has said: 'Limited vaccine supplies would be far better used in countries and regions with large vulnerable elderly populations who presently remain unvaccinated Australia, much of South East Asia and Latin America, as well as Africa.' Advertisement 'Specifically, where we have got so few measures now, this is going to be one of the most reassuring ways of telling those 12 to 15 year olds that is going to minimise the disruption for you. Professor Wei Shen Lim, the JCVI's chairman of Covid-19 immunisation, said the group's view was that the benefits of vaccinating the age group 'are marginally greater than the potential harms' but that the benefits were 'too small' to support a universal rollout at this stage. But insiders are playing up the likelihood of a subsequent approval of the programme, with a Government source telling the BBC: 'We believe there is strong case to vaccinate but await the advice of the chief medical officers.' Chief medical officers (CMOs) from around the UK are now considering the wider societal and educational impacts of extending the rollout and will report in the coming days. Ms Evans said: 'We know that the JCVI's decision is predominantly based on the individual benefits and risks to a child, and not considering some of the wider impacts, and that's what the chief medical officers will do. 'The thing about this is, it's frustrating because it just builds in further delay in a decision that we've already been pushing for, so it delays things a little bit further. 'Although I'm absolutely certain that there'll be a lot of activity going on right now and in the days ahead so we can get to a decision as quickly as possible.' She said that although the risk of long Covid in children was deemed to be small, much was still unknown about the illness. Ms Evans continued: 'You might pick up this news and think the JCVI has said no. 'They haven't said no what they've said is on the balance of marginal benefits of vaccination against the risk of severe disease we're saying no, but we're leaving it open for you to consider other wider considerations. 'So people might get confused by that.' On Friday, Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said he had joined his counterparts around the UK in order to ask for more advice. He tweeted: 'I thank JCVI for advice in relation to vaccinating 12-15yr olds. 'I have spoken to other Health Ministers across UK & we have asked our respective CMOs to rapidly explore wider educational & societal impacts in relation to vaccinating 12-15yr olds as per JCVI's suggestion.' Discussing the chief medical officers being tasked with giving further advice on vaccinating 12 to 15-year-olds, Sir Mark told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It's uncomfortable but it's not necessarily a particularly rare situation. 'The JCVI looks through a very particular lens, which is the clinical safety of the vaccine for a given population group against the effects of the disease itself. 'But what they don't look at is the wider issues such as education and the harms to that, so the broader harms potentially to children and the knock-on effects to their families that's where policymakers come in.' The mass rollout of vaccines was initially approved by the JCVI only for over-18s. The committee then extended it to 16 and 17-year-olds in a U-turn last month. Since then it has come under intense political pressure to cover the 12-15 age group. Ministers fear the failure to vaccinate these children could lead to a surge in new cases as pupils return for the new academic year. Asked if the JCVI had felt under political pressure over the decision, deputy chairman Prof Anthony Harnden told Times Radio: 'We are an independent committee but we are an advisory body, and ultimately we advise. There's been a lot of pressure from people coming out and making pronouncements about what we're going to do with NHS planning.' Cases in Scotland have soared since schools returned last month, with infections among youngsters now higher than at any time during the pandemic. Earlier this week, the NHS began recruiting thousands of vaccinators to help with a rapid rollout in schools while awaiting advice from the JCVI. Tensions over the issue, which have been simmering for weeks, burst into the public domain on Thursday when Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said offering Covid jabs to 12 to 15-year-olds would be 'deeply reassuring' to parents. But the JCVI said it was sticking to a 'precautionary approach' and only 200,000 at-risk children in this age group should get jabbed. Because youngsters are so unlikely to get ill with Covid, the medical benefits were not judged to be great enough to outweigh the small risk of side effects, including heart inflammation. The panel said it was not qualified to determine whether vaccinating children would have wider benefits. 'It is still finely balanced,' said Professor Anthony Harnden, deputy chairman of the JCVI. 'We don't think on the basis of health alone that we should be vaccinating 12 to 15-year-olds. But given this is so finely balanced there may be other considerations like education.' Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: 'Along with health ministers across the four nations, I have written to the chief medical officers to ask that they consider the vaccination of 12 to 15-year-olds from a broader perspective, as suggested by the JCVI. 'We will then consider the advice from the chief medical officers, building on the advice from the JCVI, before making a decision.' He said that given the importance of this issue he would like the advice 'as soon as possible'. Australia's worst-ever coronavirus outbreak will finally start to improve next week - but not before new cases top 2,000 a day. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said cases were expected to peak in the next two weeks, as she announced another 1,485 infections on Sunday. After that, she and her team of heath experts expect cases to drop off in the second half of September as more people are vaccinated. When asked if cases are expected to top 2,000 a day, the premier stayed tight-lipped but did not dispute prediction. She will release the modeling that is helping to shape public policy this week, which will provide an indication of how bad authorities expect cases to get, and by when. The premier already explained that hospitalisations and severe reactions to the virus lag by about two weeks from the point of initial infection, meaning the healthcare system won't notice a huge spike in admissions until October. Residents in Covid-hit NSW have been warned the situation will deteriorate further with case numbers predicted to soar in the next two weeks. Pictured: People relaxing at Bondi Beach on Sunday 'The modelling changes every single day,' Ms Berejiklian warned. 'There are so many variables, so the day that we provide the information will be the best information for that day, but please know that you base your modelling on the best advice at the time.' For the time being, it is expected that hospitals will experience a surge in admissions - and likely patients needing treatment in the intensive care units - in October. 'We have great resources in terms of our surge capacity and clinicians and other health experts will be providing that advice directly to the public so that everyone feels confident that we have the capacity to deal with what will come our way over the next few weeks,' she said on Sunday. Despite the warning, the premier is also optimistic October will be the month all residents in the state can 'feel a sense of relief and that we are on the home stretch'. 'Once we get over the peak number of cases, people will feel more positive about the next few weeks, people enjoying those things in life we have not been able to do for a long time.' This graph shows when cases and hospitalisations are likely to peak before case numbers drop off She said her government would consider easing any restrictions that chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant recommended were no longer necessary, particularly in regional NSW in areas with few cases. 'Firstly, (the government's aim is) not to burden our citizens any more than we need to and secondly to move together forward,' Ms Berejiklian said. 'We need to check the health advice and in some parts of regional NSW, for example, we will be making a decision this week as to what happens to the regions post 10th September because the lockdown technically goes until Friday. October is the month where all of us will feel relief and that we are on the home stretch Premier Gladys Berejiklian There are 11,000 people receiving Covid treatment at home, while 1,300 people remain in hospital - including 175 in intensive care. Meanwhile three children under 12 are fighting for their lives in Sydney hospitals - including a baby on a ventilator. The infant who requires ventilation is believed to be the youngest person to ever be placed in ICU with Covid in Australia. Pictured: Sydneysiders enjoying the weekend sun in Bondi on Sunday A nine-year-old child also requires ventilation while a third, believed to be under 12, is being treated with a hi-flow CPAP machine to help them breathe. All three children have underlying health conditions which may strongly contribute to the severity of the virus. Covid generally does not cause serious illness in young children. More than 20.6 million doses of vaccine have been administered across Australia since the pandemic began. In NSW, 40.3 per cent of the eligible population are fully vaccinated, while 72.7 per cent have received their first jab. Ms Berejiklian addressed a small minority of people who might choose not to get the vaccine due to their personal beliefs, stating the safety of the majority dictated her actions. 'If you are vaccinated, you have a choice to get a meal outside. If you don't want to be fully vaccinated, that is your choice but you won't be able to participate in things,' she said. 'These are challenging times but what you have to do is make decisions that will affect the majority of people and keep the majority of people safe.' More than 20.6 million doses of vaccine have been administered across Australia since the pandemic began A mentally ill New York woman has been taken to a psychiatric unit after reportedly confessed to murdering her 97-year-old aunt. Antonia Cardona, 97, was found dead inside her apartment on Friday morning. After her body was discovered, her niece - who has not been named - allegedly confessed to murdering her to her son, 19. On Saturday, the 50-year-old niece was seen being taken away from the Baruch Houses on the Lower East Side, Manhattan, in handcuffs while repeatedly telling them she was responsible for Cardona's murder. 'I killed, I killed her,' she repeated to cops, according to a neighbor. 'She was handcuffed, and she kept telling the cops, I killed her. And they told her, "Ok, you did, but just keep paying attention to what were telling you. Walk this way,"' the neighbor, who only wanted to be identified as Maria, told The New York Post. Antonia Cardona, 97, was found dead in her apartment building (pictured) in the Lower East Side of New York City's Manhattan borough on Friday morning Her niece is suspect in the case and was reportedly walked out in handcuffs by police saying 'I killed her, I killed her,' neighbors said. She has since been taken to a psychiatric ward for an evaluation and charges have not been pressed A police source told the Post that the niece had a history of mental history. The niece was brought to the NYC Health Bellevue psychiatric ward for an evaluation and as of Saturday, no charges have been pressed, an NYPD spokesperson said. Another neighbor, who lived down the hall from Cardona, Nephtali Braudy, 77, told the Post: 'Thats a bad shame. She was a good lady. She had somebody that helped her and take her for walks, and that was it. She minded her own business.' Braudy, who knew the niece from the times they played dominos together, said she didn't think the woman was capable of murder. 'She seemed normal. But things happen. People go off.' Authorities reported the elderly woman had a cut on her wrist and suffered from bruises, but the official cause of death has not been reported. The Daily News reported Cardona moved to New York City seven decades ago and could often be found taking walks with his grandson Chris Cardona until her health declined. She was also a regular at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish a few blocks away from her home and often attended the 10am mass. Crime has been on the rise in New York City. Murders and robberies are down 1.3 per cent since last year. Shooting are up 2.4 per cent, rape is up 5.1 per cent, and felony assault is up 5 per cent. Overall crime in the city has risen less than one per cent since 2020. New York residents are calling on new Governor Kathy Hochul to crack down on crime. Tory MPs have raised renewed fears about the Chinese governments access to personal data after it tightened its grip on the owner of TikTok, the video-sharing social network with hundreds of millions of users worldwide. The privacy concerns were raised after billionaire investor George Soros revealed Beijing had taken a stake and gained a board seat at a key subsidiary of TikToks ultimate owner Byte Dance. Mr Soros warned that it gives Beijing first-hand access to the inner workings of a company that holds one of the worlds largest troves of personal data. The move by China comes amid growing concerns that the app is used by Beijing to spy on users something which TikTok denies. The move by China comes amid growing concerns that TikTok is used by Beijing to spy on users something which the company denies. [File picture] The company says that it collects less data than Google or Facebook and is committed to protecting the privacy and safety of the TikTok community. Last year TikTok was the worlds most downloaded app: each month its 732 million active users spent as much time on it as there has been since the Stone Age 2.8 billion hours, or nearly 320,000 years. In July it became the first app not owned by Facebook to cross the 3 billion download mark, with Byte Dance now turning over nearly 30 billion a year in revenue. The privacy concerns were raised after billionaire investor George Soros revealed Beijing had taken a stake and gained a board seat at a key subsidiary of TikToks ultimate owner Byte Dance Last week The Mail on Sunday revealed Government concerns about the sinister surveillance tactics employed by the Chinese fashion brand Shein, including spying on unsuspecting customers by using social media sites and apps TikTok in particular collecting data on what its customers view and like, and then instructing its factories to churn out copies at a lower cost than its competitors, including British fashion producers. Tory MP Tom Tugendhat, the chairman of the Commons foreign affairs committee, warned yesterday about the growing might of Chinas surveillance state. Mr Tugendhat said: The US stopped the sale of Grindr to a Chinese firm because they were rightly concerned at the risk to the privacy of Americans. TikTok tracks the dreams of many more and its data is now heading towards a security state that keeps its own citizens on an electronic leash. It could now try the same with our citizens. A dad has been stabbed to death hours before Father's Day during a violent argument with a neighbour. The man was stabbed 11 times at Shawlands Caravan Park in Dandenong South about 10pm on Saturday by a neighbour before he died at the scene. The victim only moved into the Melbourne area a week earlier with his 21-year-old son. A man has been stabbed to death hours before Father's Day at a Dandenong South caravan park (pictured, Shawlands Caravan Park) A fight allegedly broke out between the father and son, and the attacker and his 32-year-old partner. Another resident at the caravan park said he knew the alleged murderer, claiming he was very drunk on Saturday night. 'I think he was drunk. I saw him yesterday and he said he got a bottle of Jim Beam,' Steven Marsh said to the Herald Sun. 'You wouldn't just go and stab someone sober. He was ragdolling them all around. I saw a lot of blood.' A fight was said to have broken out between the father and son and their neighbours, before the man was stabbed 11 times (pictured, Shawlands Caravan Park) The 25-year-old alleged killer is in hospital under police guard with non-life threatening injuries. No charges have been laid. The son of the deceased man, who is believed to have been stabbed and the partner of the attacker, was also taken to hospital with minor injuries. Victoria Police said in a statement that a crime scene had been established, and forensic police were at the park on Sunday morning bagging items for evidence. The weapon used in the attack has not yet been identified. A couple facing 66 child sex abuse charges allegedly lured youngsters for innocent sleepovers - then drugged, molested and recorded them for sick child abuse movies. The man, 52, and woman, 43, are alleged to have abused 19 children, aged as young as six and up to 17, including some living with the woman near Albury in southern NSW. Horrified Australian Federal Police detectives investigating the couple branded the case a 'repugnant breach of trust'. The arrests came after Australian police were tipped off by the American National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in January 2020. A couple facing 66 child sex abuse charges allegedly lured youngsters for innocent sleepovers - then drugged, molested and recorded them for sick child porn movies They spotted child abuse material being uploaded to an Australian Facebook account, sparking an intense investigation which led to the man's arrest in July 2020. Child porn was allegedly found on his mobile phone and more on a flash drive hidden under his desk at the home he shared with his wife, as well as WhatsApp messages to the woman. According to police, the messages asked the woman to supply him with child exploitation material of one of the girls living in her home. Police immediately got a search warrant for her property and allegedly found hidden remote-control cameras and a cache of electronic storage devices. As well as the alleged sleepover attacks, the man and woman were also alleged to have covertly recorded children in the shower and the toilet between 2017 and 2020. Police are still to identify one of the 19 children in the material collected. Several lived with the woman and others were allegedly invited to sleep over at the property. On Sunday, detectives warned parents to carefully check who their children are sleeping over with and make sure they talk to them about it afterwards. 'The best form of protection for our kids is knowing where they are, who they are engaging with online and in the real world, and knowing what really happens under someone's roof,' AFP Detective Sergeant Jarryd Dunbar said. The arrests came after Australian police were tipped off by the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in January 2020 after child porn was uploaded to Facebook 'When children sleepover at another person's house, we encourage parents to ask who else will be in the home, and to talk to their children about their sleepover when they come home.' He added: 'There is no one profile of a child sex offender. They are men, women and of all ages and professions. 'Child sexual abuse is an insidious crime and the breach of trust allegedly committed by the adults who should be protecting them from these offences is repugnant and concerning.' The two accused were remanded in custody to appear at Albury Local Court on September 28 and face charges carrying a maximum of life imprisonment. Australia's health minister has reassured parents their kids as young as twelve can get the Covid-19 vaccine safely, despite a shock warning from UK health advisers. Greg Hunt insists the expansion of the vaccination rollout to ages 12-15 is based on the best health advice and will allow thousands of students in lockdown to return to the classroom sooner. The reassurance comes after Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration granted provisional approval for the Moderna jab to be given to ages 12-17 on Saturday. The recent decision to extend jabs to teens goes against recommendations by the British Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. Melbourne teen Luka Wain (right) and brother Darcy (left) were among thousands of teens who received the Pfizer jab last week While the organisation admits vaccination benefits are marginally greater than the potential known harms, it considers the margin of benefit to vaccinate healthy teens too small. 'For otherwise healthy 12 to 15 year old children, their risk of severe Covid-19 disease is small and therefore the potential for benefit from Covid-19 vaccination is also small,' JCVI Covid-19 Immunisation chair Professor Wei Shen Lim said on Friday. 'The JCVI 's view is that overall, the health benefits from COVID-19 vaccination to healthy children aged 12 to 15 years are marginally greater than the potential harms.' He conceded teens with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe Covid should be offered Covid-19 vaccination. Health ministers in the UK have since written to chief medical officers requesting further details. The aim of getting ages 12-15 vaccinated allow thousands students in lockdown to return to the classroom sooner (pictured, a Melbourne student getting vaccinated) Mr Hunt said Moderna and Pfizer will 'offer the best protection possible' to ages 12-17. 'Australians parents can be confident in the decisions taken by, in our view, the best medical regulators in the world, the TGA and ATAGI,' he told Sydney Morning Herald. 'This is an important next step, vaccinations for all 12 to 15-year-olds will open on September 13 and have already been available for immunocompromised children, children with disabilities and indigenous kids from early August.' The first one million doses of Moderna will arrive on Australia's shores later this month. The vaccine requires two doses 28 days apart and latest data from the US shows it is 93 per cent effective against Covid-19 infection, 98 per cent effective against severe disease, and 100 per cent effective against death. Teens and their parents who soon have a choice between Pfizer and Moderns (pictured a pop up vaccination clinic in Sydney) Moderna has also received regulatory approval for ages 12-17 in the UK, Canada, the European Union and Switzerland. The dosage intervals are the same regardless of the age of the recipient. The jab uses the same mRNA technology as the Pfizer vaccine and is not linked to the rare blood clots caused by the AstraZeneca vaccine. 'Provisional approval for use in the 12-17 years age group has been made following careful evaluation of the available data supporting safety and efficacy,' a statement by the TGA on Saturday said. 'The agreement includes the supply of 10 million doses of Spikevax (elasomeran) in 2021 and of 15 million doses of Moderna's updated variant booster vaccine in 2022.' Health Minister Greg Hunt (pictured) has assured parents that extending vaccines to ages 12-15 is safe and is based on the best health advice Mr Hunt added: 'Australia has an advance purchase agreement with Moderna to secure 25 million doses of the vaccine - 10 million this year and 15 million of booster vaccines in 2022, with the first doses arriving later this month. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation will advise next week on how the Moderna product for children should be incorporated in the vaccine program. 'The approval was based on evidence of strong ability for these vaccines to raise just as good, if not stronger, immunological responses as it does in young adults and older groups,' the TGA's John Skerritt told reporters on Saturday. Sajid Javid is set to roll out plans to make a Covid-19 vaccination a requirement for all members of NHS staff. It is believed by ministers that mandatory jabs for all NHS workers would help restrict the spread of the virus within hospitals and could 'save lives'. However, with the plans predicted to be rolled out as early as this week, The Telegraph reports that the move could spark a mass exodus of staff. The publication reports that as many as one in four NHS workers in certain hospitals had not received a dose of the vaccine by April, and a Facebook group, called 'NHS workers for choice, no restrictions for declining a vaccine' has amassed as many as 2,600 members. A Department of Health spokesman told the publication: 'NHS staff have a duty of care to those most vulnerable to Covid-19 and we are encouraging all frontline staff to come forward for the jab. Sajid Javid is set to roll out plans to make a Covid-19 vaccination a requirement for all members of NHS staff 'Ensuring the NHS is well-staffed is a top priority for this Government and we will continue to work with employers to ensure they have the right number of staff to meet increasing demand.' A similar requirement has already been enforced on care home workers, resulting in a staffing shortages, with all staff expected to have their first jab by September 16. However, experts are predicting that as much as seven per cent of the care homes workforce could be depleted by the zero-tolerance policy. The news comes as reports suggest official letters will soon be sent out to parents of children aged between 12 and 15 asking for permission to administer Covid-19 vaccines. A Whitehall insider told The Sun that parents will be contacted via the letters within the next few days requesting permission. It comes after an expert said that vaccinating children against Covid will stop classroom disruption when they return to school. It is believed by ministers that mandatory jabs for all NHS workers would help restrict the spread of the virus within hospitals and could 'save lives' (stock image) Ministers are pushing for schoolchildren aged 12- to 15-years-old to be given a jab, despite the Joint Commission for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) yesterday advising against the move. The JCVI the independent body that advises the Government on the roll-out claimed the virus posed such a low risk to people in the age group that the benefit of vaccination to their health would be marginal. It did however recommend the jabs for 200,000 more children with chronic heart, kidney, lung and neurological conditions in that age group. A total of 350,000 children aged 12 to 15 are now eligible for the vaccine. But experts pushing back against the plans today argued that it would be 'ethically dubious' to jab children solely to protect adults, because Covid itself poses such a tiny risk to youngsters. Others believe it is better for children to catch Covid and recover to develop natural immunity than to be reliant on protection from vaccines, which studies suggest wanes in months. SAGE adviser Professor John Edmunds, an epidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, today said ministers must take into consideration the wide implications of not vaccinating children. And Jillian Evans, head of health intelligence at NHS Grampian in Scotland, said vaccinating the age group would help prevent transmission of the virus, as well as protect children from long Covid. Former chief scientific adviser Professor Sir Mark Walport said it is for the Government to look at the broader harms of not vaccinating children. Professor Edmunds told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'It's a very difficult one, They're going to take a wider perspective than the JCVI took, I think that's right. 'I think we have to take into consideration the wider effect Covid might have on children and their education and developmental achievements. Official letters will soon be sent out to parents of children aged between 12 and 15 asking for permission to administer Covid-19 vaccines (stock image) 'In the UK now it's difficult to say how many children haven't been infected but it's probably about half of them, that's about six million children, so that's a long way to go if we allow infection just to run through the population. 'That's a lot of children who will be infected and that will be a lot of disruption to schools in the coming months.' Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: 'If the guidance is this will reduce the disruption for all those young people, yes, we will absolutely back that. 'The government is right on this - we have to look at the broader picture In England. 'Specifically, where we have got so few measures now, this is going to be one of the most reassuring ways of telling those 12 to 15 year olds that is going to minimise the disruption for you. Professor Wei Shen Lim, the JCVI's chairman of Covid-19 immunisation, said the group's view was that the benefits of vaccinating the age group 'are marginally greater than the potential harms' but that the benefits were 'too small' to support a universal rollout at this stage. Meanwhile, Jeremy Hunt recently urged ministers to 'get on' with a mass booster Covid vaccine programme and not wait on their advisors to sign off on the plans. Jeremy Hunt recently urged ministers to 'get on' with a mass booster Covid vaccine programme The former health secretary said the situation in Covid-ravaged Israel should serve as a warning sign that even highly-immunised countries are vulnerable to another wave. Britain's Covid vaccine advisory panel has hinted that it will give the go-ahead to boosters for 'millions' but is yet to formally make the recommendation or decide who will be eligible. On Thursday, Boris Johnson appeared to jump the gun and get hopes up as he told elderly Britons and patients with underlying conditions to prepare for their third doses this autumn. It may be weeks before the final details of the booster programme are set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). At the moment only 500,000 people with very weak immune systems are being invited to come forward for a third Covid vaccine. But Mr Hunt urged the Government to press ahead with a wider programme and not wait a moment longer, adding: 'In a pandemic I think even a few days can make a big difference.' He told the BBC Radio 4 Today programme: 'If you look at what's happened in Israel, they have a higher vaccination rate even than us 80 per cent of adults and they have found a Delta variant does lead to increased hospital admissions, but two weeks after they introduced boosters those admissions started to go down again. 'I understand why scientists are taking their time but I think in a pandemic politicians can also read the rooms and see the direction of travel. Israel is recording the highest infection rate in the world and deaths and hospitalisations have risen sharply in the past month - despite 80 per cent of adults being vaccinated with two doses. The country has been offering booster jabs to people over the age of 60 since July, and the scheme has helped to curb rising hospital admissions. UK record labels are refusing to put forward performers for next year's Eurovision Song Contest in a backlash against 'anti-British bias', The Mail on Sunday can reveal. BBC chiefs have irritated music bosses with demands for them to supply talent to enter the singing competition only for them to fare badly on the night. The annual music contest has become one of the BBC's most successful broadcasts of the year, with this year's competition attracting nearly eight million British viewers. But record company executives now believe there is anti-UK bias when it comes to the judging of artists performing at Eurovision, particularly after Brexit, and are planning to boycott the event. UK record labels are refusing to put forward performers for next year's Eurovision in a backlash against 'anti-British bias', after James Newman (pictured) was awarded nul points It comes after James Newman, the UK's Eurovision entry, was awarded nul points and finished in last place with his performance of Embers at this year's contest in the Netherlands in May. The result was greeted with huge cheers by the audience inside the arena in Rotterdam, and meant the UK came last in two successive contests. Record label BMG, which spent 25,000 to fund Newman's entry, is understood to be among those now refusing to repeat the exercise for next year's contest. Other major UK record label bosses believe European countries are prejudiced against British artists and say they 'would not go near' next year's Eurovision after the way the voting panned out this year. The boycott could leave the BBC having to discover future acts and fund their entry themselves. One record industry boss said: 'The truth is we could have entered Paul McCartney backed by the Spice Girls and still ended up finishing in last place. The feeling inside the UK music industry is that there is now open bias against our acts. Boycott could leave the BBC having to discover future acts and fund their entry. One record industry boss said the UK could have entered Paul McCartney and still been in 'last place' Other major UK record label bosses believe European countries are prejudiced against British artists. Pictured: Katrina And The Waves, who read out Eurovision votes in 2017, in 1997 'Nobody wants to go near the Eurovision any more, but the BBC are arrogantly demanding we put forward acts because it is such a ratings winner for them. 'James Newman was humiliated last year there was no way his was the worst song on the night. The BBC can't expect us just to go along with their demands like lambs to the slaughter.' Voting at the Eurovision Song Contest has long been dogged with controversy amid claims of bloc voting by countries, in particular former Soviet nations. After the performances, each country awards points for each song ranging from one to eight, and then ten and 12 for the best. If you come outside the top ten, you are not awarded points from that country. The first round of points is decided by a jury of five music industry professionals in each country, and the second is awarded by viewers watching at home who can vote by telephone, text message or a phone app. The jury announces the points they are awarding live on air. The viewers' points are then added up and revealed at the end of the show, from lowest to highest. This year's victors, Maneskin, from Italy, were glam rockers who took to the stage in flared lederhosen with their nipples out. The man who received the world's first hand transplant has died. Clint Hallam, 69, passed away in the French city of Lyons, where he underwent the pioneering surgery in 1998. British surgeon Professor Nadey Hakim, part of the medical team who attached the hand of a man who had died in a motorbike accident, paid tribute to his patient. Clint Hallam (pictured), 69, passed away in the French city of Lyons, where he underwent the world's first hand transplant in 1998 He said: 'Anyone who is a pioneer like Clint has to be admired for being the first to have a new medical procedure. I am sorry to hear of his death.' Mr Hallam told medics that he lost his hand in a domestic accident, but it later transpired he was a white-collar fraudster and it was severed when he fell on an electric saw while in prison in his native New Zealand. Four months after the operation, Mr Hallam gave an exclusive interview to The Mail on Sunday, where he proudly showed off his ability to hold a pint of beer in a pub and play the piano. However, he had difficulty adapting to his new hand and a refusal to take his medication resulted in his body rejecting it. The hand was removed by surgeons in 2001. A taxpayer-funded charity that promotes breastfeeding has sparked controversy by replacing the word mother with the term breastfeeding person. Critics accuse the Breastfeeding Network of erasing women in a bid to appease transgender activists after dropping the word mother from its social-media posts. However, the charity insists using terms such as breastfeeding families helps broaden its message. The Breastfeeding Network stopped using the term mother on Twitter two months ago, switching to the message that it is supporting breastfeeding families The row follows reports that hospital midwives have been advised to use the terms chestfeeding and birthing parent to avoid upsetting transgender people. The British Medical Association has also advised its doctors to refer to expectant mothers as pregnant people. The Breastfeeding Network stopped using the term mother on Twitter two months ago, switching to the message that it is supporting breastfeeding families. In one example from July, the charity avoided suggesting breastfeeding was a uniquely female activity when it promoted a blog entitled 17 things you should never say to a breastfeeding person and used the gender-neutral term in its tweet. The last time that the charity appears to have explicitly used the word mother in a tweet was on July 1. Breastfeeding counsellor Yolanda Forster accused the charity of erasing mothers, saying: When it comes to diversity and inclusion, the Breastfeeding Network seems to be focusing mainly on one thing in their social media, which is trans issues. It has funding from the NHS to run their helpline, and their mission is supposed to be supporting women with breastfeeding. But despite 98 per cent of the people they serve calling themselves mothers, thats not the language theyre using. This is mother erasure. The charity, set up in 1997 and based in Paisley in Scotland, received annual grants from the Scottish government ranging from 40,000 to 120,000 between 2016 and 2020. It receives 150,000 a year from Public Health England. The British Medical Association has also advised its doctors to refer to expectant mothers as pregnant people According to the latest accounts covering the year to March 31, 2020, its total income was just over 1 million and spending on salaries was 708,746, up ten per cent on the previous year. Its helpline receives about 47,000 calls a year. In a blog post on its own website in July, the charity asked for pictures showing a diverse range of families breastfeeding, including trans parents. A spokeswoman for the charity rejected the criticism, saying: We aim to support all mothers, parents and families with breastfeeding. Our support takes a whole-family approach as we know that breastfeeding is better supported when more people understand its value. There is no intention to exclude mothers or any individuals in our activities over social media. In fact, as a charity we want to ensure our support is respectful and accepting of everyone who needs our help. The US will take in around 50,000 Afghan refugees and spend up to $2,275 on each for housing, food and sending children to school. A State Department official told Bloomberg the Biden administration has set aside the funds to help tens of thousands of Afghans fleeing from the Taliban resettle in America over the next few months. The department is also exploring with Congress the possibility that evacuees will be given access to federal benefits such as Medicaid, the official said. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a press briefing Friday that at least 50,000 Afghan evacuees are expected to be resettled in the US following the Taliban takeover. This number includes US citizens, lawful permanent residents, visa holders, people who have applied for special immigrant visas (SIVs) and other Afghans who are most at risk under Taliban rule such as journalists and aid workers. The US will take in around 50,000 Afghan refugees and spend up to $2,275 on each for housing, food and sending children to school. Pictured evacuees who fled Afghanistan walk through the terminal to board buses at Dulles International Airport on August 31 Former Delaware Governor Jack Markell has been tasked with leading the resettlement process of those evacuated to the US. Dubbed 'Operation Allies Welcome', the program will work alongside the National Security Council, Domestic Policy Council, DHS, and other federal agencies. Around 200 private agencies have also been brought on board to help get eligible Afghans resettled as quickly as possible. Thousands of evacuees are being granted entry to the US under humanitarian parole, which admits them on an emergency basis. Once on US soil, evacuees on this program have one year to apply for a permanent visa to stay. A resettlement director told Bloomberg that plans are in place to give these evacuees federally funded health insurance until the end of September. Mayorkas said Friday the relocation efforts are part of the US's 'enduring commitment' to the people who worked with or helped the US during its 20 years of war in Afghanistan. 'Our commitment is an enduring one. This is not just a matter of the next several weeks,' he said. Armed Taliban fighters stand next to a Mullah, a religious leader, speaking during Friday prayers at the Pul-e Khishti Mosque in Kabul Friday Taliban fighters intervene as women hold a demonstration for women's rights in Kabul Saturday 'We will not rest until we have accomplished the ultimate goal.' The US has 'a moral imperative to protect them, to support those who have supported this nation,' he added. Mayorkas said the 50,000 figure was an estimate which could become greater and is not to a particular deadline. Around 40,000 evacuees have already made it through security vetting and arrived in the US, including US citizens or permanent residents. Federal data obtained by CBS News shows around 25,600 were being housed at US military sites as of Friday. Eight military sites across five states of Virginia, Wisconsin, New Mexico, New Jersey and Indiana are being used as temporary housing for the evacuees. A State Department official told Bloomberg the Biden administration has set aside the funds to help tens of thousands of Afghans fleeing from the Taliban resettle in America over the next few months. Joe Biden visits Louisiana Friday after Hurricane Ida devastated the state As of Friday, there were: 8,800 at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin; 6,200 at Fort Bliss, Texas; 1,700 at Fort Lee, Virginia; 3,700 at Joint Base McGuireDixLakehurst; 650 at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico; 800a at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia; 3,650 at Fort Pickett, Virginia; and 65 at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. The sites are expected to be able to collectively take in 50,000 people by September 15. An unknown number of people who helped the American government in its two-decade war in Afghanistan didn't make it out before the US's last evacuation flight on August 31. Many are now living in fear for their lives under the Taliban rule. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (pictured Friday) said at least 50,000 Afghan evacuees are expected to be resettled in the US The Taliban has claimed it will not retaliate against people who worked with Western allies and has said it will not be returning to the hardline restrictions seen two decades ago including a lack of women's rights. However, last month, RHIPTO Norwegian Center for Global Analyses reported that militants were already going door-to-door to hunt for 'collaborators' of the US or Nato. The UN also said it had received credible reports of 'summary executions' of civilians and Afghan security forces who had surrendered to the Taliban. Several reports have also surfaced that the Taliban is trying to access and official files left behind during the US's withdrawal to identify and track down Western allies. An employee of the former government told Reuters the Taliban asked him in late August to preserve the data held on the servers of the government ministry he used to work for. 'If I do so, then they will get access to the data and official communications of the previous ministry leadership,' the employee said. The employee said he did not comply and has since gone into hiding with Reuters not identifying the man or his former ministry out of concern for his safety. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has finally accepted the state will open at 80 per cent double dose vaccinations and urged locals to get jabbed now. The state recorded one new Covid case overnight, sparking a renewed call from the premier for Queenslanders to go out and get vaccinated before the state reopens. The stubborn premier previously hinted she was not going to re-open her state's borders until children under 12 had been vaccinated. There are not yet and Covid vaccines in Australia approved for children under 12. But on Sunday, she appeared to backtrack and accept the inevitability of borders coming down - and told locals to make the most of this time and get vaccinated. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (pictured) has finally accepted the state will open at 80 per cent double dose vaccinations and urged locals to get jabbed now She now wants locals to get jabbed as soon as possible before the state faces an influx of interstate travellers who could bring the virus into Queensland. 'It is absolutely imperative that you get vaccinated because this virus is going to pop up sometime in the near future,' she warned on Sunday. 'This is basically our window to get this done. We have been hearing extensively about the modelling of 70 and 80 per cent. 'We need to aim for 80 per cent and above. We have this window of opportunity, Queensland, to get vaccinated. Now is a window of opportunity to get vaccinated.' Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczu wants locals to get vaccinated now before the state is confronted by an influx of double-jabbed interstate travellers bringing in the virus. (Pictured, holidaymakers soaking up the sun in a swimming pool in Airlie Beach) The mother of a Queensland four-year-old girl who has Covid-19 has now also tested positive for the virus after a series of negative tests. Ms Palaszczuk says the woman tested negative twice before she returned a positive result among the 8,330 tests in the 24 hours to 6.30am on Sunday. The woman was already in home quarantine when she tested positive. However the premier is still concerned that the index case who transmitted the virus to a truck driver, who then spread the virus to the girl, is still out there. Ms Palaszczuk has urged 1,000 families, ordered into home quarantine exposed to the girl and her mother at the Windaroo State School and nearby daycare centre, to abide by health orders. 'We really need you to abide by their home quarantine, we saw how well it worked, especially when we dealt with the Indooroopilly cluster,' she told reporters on Sunday. The premier had previously hinted she was not going to re-open her state's borders until children under 12 had been vaccinated. (Pictured, a woman in a bikini walks along the deserted beach at Surfers Paradise) The premier says Queenslanders now have a window of opportunity to get vaccinated while cases are close to zero before the state borders re-open at 70-80 per cent double dose vaccinations. (Pictured, a woman getting a Pfizer vaccine jab in Brisbane) There are also concerns about the lack of checking in at the Beenleigh Marketplace and nail salon in the complex when the infected truckie visited both venues on Monday. Chief health officer Jeannette Young said at least 74 people were at the centre at the same time as the truckie, but had not checked in. 'I'm very worried that there are a lot more people who went and attended last Monday morning and we need to get hold of you,' she said. 'We're using the check-in data that we've got, but it's not enough. 'That is an ongoing risk so it's really important that anyone who was there on Monday come forward so we can test them and make sure that there isn't ongoing spread in that Logan-Beenleigh community.' A Qantas pilot who also works as a part-time freight truck driver flew from Brisbane to Hong Kong and then drove to Melbourne has also tested positive on arrival in the Victorian capital A third truck driver has also tested positive for COVID-19 in NSW after being infectious in Brisbane's southern suburbs for two days. (Pictured, border controls at Tweed Heads) A Qantas pilot who lives near Kingaroy and flew from Brisbane to Hong Kong and then Melbourne has also tested positive on arrival in the Victorian capital. He was fully vaccinated and works as a part-time freight truck driver and had been in Tamworth in northern NSW on August 20. Queensland authorities are trying to work out where he contracted the virus and awaiting sequencing data from Victoria. A third truck driver has also tested positive for Covid-19 in NSW after being infectious in Brisbane's southern suburbs for two days. Dr Young said she was confident the risk posed by both cases is low. Anyone in the Beenleigh and Logan areas with even the mildest of symptoms is urged to come forward for testing. Gladys Berejiklian has dodged a question about how she is coping with battling NSW's Covid outbreak - claiming people wouldn't care. Her state recorded 1,485 new Covid cases on Sunday with three more deaths, but reached a significant milestone with 40 per cent of the population now fully vaccinated. During Sunday's press conference, the premier was asked what she was doing to take care of her mental health - just like many of her struggling citizens. 'Obviously there is a lot of mental health concerns throughout the community, and I know you don't like talking about yourself but have you adopted any personal measures to keep yourself sane?' she was asked. 'How are you coping personally, you're working seven days a week, do you work from home, do you have some kind of regular routine you do?' Ms Berejiklian responded with a smile, saying that she doesn't have time in her role to worry about those things. 'That's why we look closely to make sure everyone has adequate opportunity to exercise and get fresh air while the weather is good,' she deflected. 'So I just encourage everybody to make use of the easing of the restrictions we have provided over the last few weeks. 'From next Monday the community will be able to also have a slight easing of restrictions in those areas of concern, but also outside of those areas... so we just ask everybody to be mindful of their health and wellbeing. 'The health orders that we have in place are a balance, they are a balance of making sure the virus doesn't spread beyond our ability to take care of people but also looks at the health and wellbeing of everybody.' NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has dodged a reporter's question about how she is coping during the current Covid outbreak (pictured, the NSW Premier during Sunday's press conference) Initially the premier dodges the question, but after the journalist probes her to answer she claimed 'I don't think people care' (pictured, NSW's Covid outbreak) The journalist then tried again to her the premier to open up on her own coping strategies. 'Can you give just one little anecdote about your own personal health management?' he asks. 'I don't think people care,' Ms Berejiklian said before she laughed awkwardly and moved on to other questions. In dodging the question, Ms Berejiklian spoke of the easing of restrictions that are upcoming for NSW residents (pictured, people exercising at Dolls Point) The NSW Premier also said that October is the month that residents will feel relief, claiming we are on the home stretch (pictured, Bondi Beach) She tried to sound upbeat, given that NSW had passed 40 per cent vaccination, halfway to the target for reopening borders and lifting almost all restricitons. 'As far as dealing with the worst bits of the virus... October is the month where all of us will feel relief. All of us will feel we are on the home stretch,' she, said. 'Certainly we almost feel that now, once we get over the peak of the number of cases I think people will feel much more positive about the next few weeks and people will start turning their minds to preparing their children for school, you know enjoying those things in life we haven't been able to do for a long time. 'It has been a difficult time, but also one in which we have done as well as we can to protect life, to ensure wellbeing and also to minimise what we are doing to the community'. In the press conference it was also revealed none of the patients who died from the virus were fully vaccinated, highlighting the importance of getting double-jabbed. The premier offered an insight into what life will look like when that hits 70 per cent, indicating there would be density limits in hospitality venues and QR codes when businesses reopened. Capacity limits on large events will be maintained to ensure compliance with social distancing requirements. The premier claimed that once the 80 per cent double jab target is reached, NSW will 'never have to do a statewide lockdown ever again' (pictured, people enjoying the sun in Rushcutters Bay park) Any double-jabbed Australians returning home from overseas would also be eligible for at-home quarantine rather than in a government-run facility, Ms Berejiklian said. 'The planning has already started, to see what life was like for Aussies coming home when they are fully vaccinated,' she said. 'We still need some form of quarantine, whether it is in the future for international students, skilled labour 'But as far as Australians are concerned, if you are fully vaccinated with a credible vaccine, you should be allowed to quarantine at home and that is a transition we will be making.' And, most importantly, once the 80 per cent double jab target is reached, NSW will 'never have to do a statewide lockdown ever again', the premier promised. Ms Berejiklian reiterated daily Covid cases are likely to peak within 'the next week or two', while the peak for hospitalisations and intensive care requirements will occur in October. Three young adults are dead and three others were injured after a black sedan pulled up next to them and a group got out of the car and starting shooting into a crowd. Metropolitan Police Department are hunting for the gunmen and searching for their black Honda Accord with tinted windows after the shooting on the 600 block of Longfellow Street in Washington DC at 7.33pm on Saturday. No arrests have yet been made. Three people have died from their injuries while another three are still in the hospital being treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Victims are not being identified until police have informed their next of kin. Three young adults are killed and another three are injured after a car pulls up and 'multiple suspects' open fire on a Washington DC street The MPD is currently looking for a dark four-door Honda Accord with multiple people in it. They reported that shooters exited the vehicle for firing guns at a crowd on Longfellow Street Metropolitan Police Department Police Chief Contee (middle) reported that three are dead and three are being treated for non-life-threatening injuries in local hospitals after a shooting took place around the 600 block of Longfellow Street in Washington DC tonight Police believe there are multiple suspects who exited the car and shot into the crowd, Police Chief Contee said in a press conference. A gun was recovered on the scene by police, but they believe there was more than one after neighbors reported multiple gunshots. The motive behind the shooting is still unknown and police are unaware of the relationship between the group and the shooters. Police have recovered a gun from the scene, but suspect more than one gun was used after neighbors reportedly heard multiple shots Police are unaware of if the shooters knew anyone in the crowd of people or if it was random. There was also another shooting reported in the area around 8.30pm, but police are unaware if they are related The MPD is calling on the community to help solve the case, including asking neighbors with Ring doorbells or home surveillance cameras from Kennedy to Longfellow to check their footage from Saturday evening. There was also another 911 call reporting another shooting in the area around 8.30pm, but Contee said he did not know if the two shootings were related. 'It is very frustrating. We have been talking about gun violence for a long time, and we know that this issue is not unique to Washington DC, but I think it speaks to the overall sickness that we are seeing in our community. 'Now, that sickness being gun violence. There are people in our communities that are committing these acts and we are asking for the public's help to close this case, to bring these individuals to justice.,' he said on scene. Metropolitan Police Department are asking members of the public to call (202) 727-9099/text 50411 if they have any information about this case. The reward is now up to $75,000, up from the original $10,000 for anyone who has information. The MPD is asking anyone who has a Ring doorbell or home surveillance cameras from Kennedy to Longfellow to review the footage to see if they can identify the sedan This is the moment a protester allegedly poured gasoline on an NYPD van while cops were inside, during a violent demonstration over a fatal cop shooting of a Bronx man. Black Lives Matter protesters have gathered outside the 46 Precinct police station in the Bronx, New York, multiple days this week after Mike Rosado, 24, was shot dead by off-duty NYPD officers. On Friday, police say one of those demonstrators picked up a red gas can, walked over to a parked police van, which had officers inside, and began pouring it over the vehicle. Police bodycam shows the terrifying moment the liquid, which officers believed to be gasoline, was dumped over the roof and windows at 10.32pm. The video clip then ends and the NYPD told the New York Post that the van drove away before it could be lit on fire. They added that the protester could face state and federal charges for his alleged actions. This is the moment a protester allegedly poured gasoline on an NYPD van while cops were inside, during a violent demonstration over a fatal cop shooting of a Bronx man Body camera footage shows the man allegedly pouring gasoline on an NYPD van The main protest also got rowdy and video shows the crowd pushing at police barricades. 'While protesting, the group began to push barricades into police officers protecting the precinct as well as throwing eggs at a marked police van,' an NYPD spokesman said in a news release. The protest was against the fatal shooting of Rosado and arrest of his father. Rosado and his father, 44-year-old Rafael Rosado, had been in a fight that allegedly involved bottle throwing between a crowd gathered outside in the Tremont neighborhood of the Bronx around 4 a.m., the New York Daily News reported. He then pulled out a gun and shot about 10 rounds toward the group, witnesses told the outlet. The NYPD claims that two off-duty police officers spotted Rosado with the gun and ordered him to drop it but he opened fire on them, not hitting anyone, cops told the Daily News. The main protest also got rowdy and video shows the crowd pushing at police barricades Black Lives Matter protesters have gathered outside the police station house multiple days this week after Mike Rosado, 24, was shot dead by off-duty police Protesters also allegedly threw eggs at a marked NYPD police van The officers returned fire and hit Rosado in the chest and he was taken to St. Barnabas Hospital where he died from his injuries. Rosado's family members claim the two off-duty cops did not identify themselves as members of the NYPD before they opened fire, and that he he had his hands in the air when he was shot. After Rosado was shot, his father allegedly grabbed his son's weapon and exchanged gunfire with the off-duty cops until he handed the weapon off to a woman and tried to flee, the Daily News reported. Rafael Rosado was arrested and has been ordered to be held without bail on a charge of attempted murder, illegal gun possession and reckless endangerment. Mike Rosado, pictured, was shot dead by two off-duty police officers in the Bronx Cops set up barricades outside of the 46 Precinct station house in order to protect it A woman demonstrates putting her hands up during a protest after Mike Rosado was shot dead by two off-duty police officers People protest after Michael Rosado was fatally shot and killed by New York City Police Officer in The Bronx Friends and family members mourn the death of Mike Rosado with a candle vigil Prosecutors noted during his arraignment in Bronx Supreme Court that Rafael Rosado has been arrested nearly 60 times on charges including drug possession, assault and weapons possession, the Daily News reported. Rafael Rosado has five prior felony convictions, including one for dragging a cop who tried to pull him over in 2010 and another for driving his car into multiple police cars when cops tried to pull him over for speeding in 2013, prosecutors said. In the latter incident, five police officers were sent to the hospital and Rosado spent five years in prison, prosecutors said. Mike Rosado's mother Marta Negron ripped the NYPD in statements to the New York Daily News, claiming that her son was shot 'ruthlessly.' 'By law you're not supposed to shoot someone with their hands up,' Negron said. She added: 'How was my son supposed to know that it was the NYPD shooting at him? There were shots everywhere.' Anna Rosado, the young man's wife, called him a family man who left behind two young sons, who are ages 2 and 5. 'He's not a criminal, he's not a cop shooter. That's what the NYPD did to us, they broke our family. Now we have nothing,' she said. 'He didn't deserve to die like that. He was 24 years old, his life had just begun. The truth is gonna come out, I promise.' A video shared by Black Lives Matter co-founder Hawk Newsome purports to show the gunfire exchange with police In the video, Rosado's hands appear to be raised and not holding the weapon Hawk Newsome, the co-founder of the Black Lives Matter chapter in New York, claimed that the younger Rosado didn't have a gun when the NYPD shot him. He posted video footage to Instagram showing Rosado with his hands in the air without the weapon. A funeral service was held for Rosado at the Rivergate Funeral Home on Bathgate Avenue on Friday before the protest which was attended by a sizable crowd. Vanessa Gibson, a city council member representing the Bronx, told News 12 that Rosado's death could have been prevented by his own actions. She said: 'This police-involved shooting could have been totally prevented, it was unnecessary, but the young man had a gun and a pointed out at police what are officers supposed to do?' Advertisement Devastated Greenville residents have returned to find what is left of their homes, as the evacuation order was finally lifted one month after the Dixie Fire tore through the California town. Homeowners choked back tears Saturday as they surveyed the charred rubble from their houses, their burned out cars and the remains of their worldly possessions left behind by the second-largest and 14th most destructive wildfire in California history. Riley Cantrell told AFP her family dog died when her mother's home burned to the ground back in August and was buried by firefighters who later found it. She broke down as she and her boyfriend Bradley Fairbanks returned to find nothing but debris where the home once stood Saturday. Curtis and Wendy Weight also returned to the neighborhood Saturday to see the Dixie Fire had claimed their home too. The couple revealed they were selling the property and had been set to close escrow in just two weeks. Plumas County Sheriff's Office lifted the mandatory evacuation order on the Greenville area Friday, deeming the area safe from active fire and hazards. However, even for those whose homes remain intact, the Gold Rush-era town still has no clean running water or internet, landline phone service or basic services. Devastated Greenville residents returned to find what is left of their homes Saturday, as the evacuation order was finally lifted one month after the Dixie Fire tore through the California town Riley Cantrell is comforted by her boyfriend Bradley Fairbanks as they surveyed what's left of her mother's home. The Cantrell's family dog died at the home and was buried by firefighters who later found it Residents Cody Najera (right) and Arizona Erb (left) looked through the remains of their burned home in Greenville Deer wandered through the burned rubble where homes once stood in the small mountain town where just 1,000 people live Dozens of properties have been reduced to rubble by the Dixie Fire which is the second-largest and 14th most destructive wildfire in California history Tests of the water in the Indian Valley Community Services District has revealed it contains harmful chemicals including the cancer-causing chemical benzene. Residents are being warned the water is not safe to drink - even if boiled - and they should only use bottled water until told otherwise. Few basic services are available, with no pharmacy or ability to refill prescriptions, no gas stations and food services delayed with one local store, Gigi's Market in Crescent Mills, open. Power has been restored to the area and cell towers should be fully functional so cellphones can be used. The sheriff's office urged residents to exercise extreme caution if returning to the area, warning that disturbing debris could be hazardous. Some residents came back last month, despite the evacuation order still being in place, to view the damage. One man told Action News Now he was fortunate to discover his home was one of the few still standing. Lloyd Cash said he couldn't understand how his home was left intact when his neighbors lost everything. 'I just don't understand how it got so close and all that's gone and our house is still here,' Cash said. Cash described the devastation to the area as 'surreal' but said he was thankful people escaped the blaze unscathed. 'I'm glad that we were one of the fortunate few that still have our house and possessions, my family and animals are safe, my neighbors are safe. That's the most important thing,' Cash said. Homeowners choked back tears Saturday as they surveyed the charred rubble of their houses, burned out cars and the remains of their worldly possessions left behind by the blaze Plumas County Sheriff's Office lifted the mandatory evacuation order on the Greenville area Friday, deeming the area safe from active fire and hazards Resident Wendy Weight crouches down as she surveys the burned remains of her home in Greenville, California, Saturday Some residents had stayed behind until the very last moment in the hope of salvaging their homes and livelihoods. Jose Garcia told the New York Times in August that he and his father Juvenal Garcia stayed back chopping down trees to create firebreaks while sending the rest of the family away as the fire closed in. But it didn't make a difference and they were forced to quickly jump in the truck with their dogs and important family documents to escape the flames. 'I tried to defend it to the last second. The fire just pushed me out,' he said. Garcia said the family's homes and his taco restaurant were destroyed. 'We lost everything,' he said. Curtis Weight said he was about scheduled to close escrow on the sale of his now burned-down home when it was scorched The blaze has burned 889,001 acres or 1,389 square miles across Butte, Plumas, Lassen, Shasta and Tehama counties A deer is seen among the rubble. Even for those whose homes remain intact, the Gold Rush-era town still has no clean running water or internet, landline phone service or basic services Another resident, Ryan Meacher, said it looked 'like a bomb went off' in the town, with his father's home burned to rubble as well as the library and local pizza place. Greenville is a small mountain town about 125 miles northwest of Reno, Nevada, home to just 1,000 people. It was almost completely destroyed by the Dixie Fire - the state's second-largest fire in history which continues to rage across the state almost two months after it first ignited. The blaze has burned 889,001 acres or 1,389 square miles across Butte, Plumas, Lassen, Shasta and Tehama counties - destroying an area more than twice the size of Los Angeles. It is still only 56 percent contained with 6,163 structures still under threat from the fire and thousands of people still under evacuation orders. A burned US Post Office truck sits charred in Greenville, California on September 4 as the evacuation order was lifted Residents are being warned the water is not safe to drink - even if boiled - and they should only use bottled water The sheriff's office urged residents to exercise extreme caution if returning to the area, warning that disturbing debris could be hazardous The historic blaze also claimed the life of its first victim Saturday, with Cal Fire confirming in its daily incident report that a first responder has died. Three other first responders have been injured, with no other details provided at this time. The Dixie Fire first ignited on July 13 in the Feather River Canyon near Cresta Dam. Utility company PG&E later said its equipment may have started the fire following a malfunction with one of its utility poles. The fire reached Greenville on August 4, nearly wiping out the town and forcing residents to evacuate to makeshift camps. A firefighter lights backfires to slow the spread of the Dixie Fire Friday near the town of Greenville, California, August 6 A firefighter tackles the blaze in Greenville August 6 - two days after it reached the mountain town forcing an evacuation Dozens of burned vehicles rest in heavy smoke during the Dixie fire in Greenville August as the fire nearly wiped out the town Around 100 homes were destroyed as well as historic buildings including the Cy Hall Memorial Museum. The Dixie Fire is now only smaller than one past wildfire that rocked California - the 2020 August Complex which burned over 1 million acres. About 65 miles south of the Dixie Fire, the Caldor Fire is also currently ravaging the state. Firefighters are making progress in bringing the blaze under control in South Lake Tahoe with residents hoping for a chance to also return home soon. The fire began August 14 and has burned more than 213,270 acres and destroyed nearly 900 homes, businesses and other buildings. A Portland Proud Boys leader was shot in the foot during a violent clash between the far right group and Antifa that also left a female journalist injured and led to at least one arrest. Tusitala 'Tiny' Toese was shot in the foot while protesting COVID mask and vaccine mandates in Olympia, Washington on Saturday. Five gunshots went off on Saturday afternoon nearly a mile outside Washington's state capitol. Footage of the Medical Freedom protest, which was live-streamed online by fellow Proud Boy Robert Zerfing, shows Toese writhing around in pain and bleeding from the foot. Tusitala 'Tiny' Toese, a leader of the Portland Proud Boys, was shot in the foot during a protest on Saturday September 4.(Pictured: Toese laid on the sidewalk as his wound was treated) The Proud Boys gathered in Olympia, Washington to protest the state's COVID mandate. (Pictured: Toese lays on the sidewalk after being shot in the foot September 4) The Proud Boys claim that Toese was shot by a member of Antifa who clashed with them at the protest and then boarded a public bus. A suspect has not been named. (Pictured: Olympia police arrived at the scene and taped off the area September 4) Toese is a well-known leader of the Portland Proud Boys. He was arrested in August 2020 after he became violent during a protest (Pictured: Toese argues with anti-fascists on August 8, 2021 in Portland, Oregon) His fellow protestors rushed to him and took off his shoe to attend to the wound as Toese lay on the sidewalk wincing in pain. The Proud Boys then began inspecting the scene for shell casings at the bus stop next to where Toese was shot. Paramedics arrived to the scene as local police taped off the area at the Intercity Transit mall on State Avenue Northeast near Franklin Street. Zerfing said in a follow up video that doctors believe Toese may have nicked an artery but do not know if the bullet hit the bone. He also said that detectives might have a suspect in custody but the suspect has not been named. It's unclear who fired the shots but the Proud Boys had been squaring off with Antifa in the minutes before the shooting, according to several videos and tweets about the event. Footage of the event shows them marching down the streets of Olympia chanting 'F**k Antifa' and yelling slurs. The Proud Boys clashed with Antifa as they chanted 'F**k Antifa' while marching down the streets of downtown Olympia (Pictured: Proud Boys gathered in Olympia to protest COVID mandates September 4) The herd of Proud Boys chased down several people they believed to be Antifa on Saturday (Pictured: Proud Boys marching down the street in Olympia to protest COVID mandates September 4) A freelance journalist was attacked by the Proud Boys during their COVID protest in Olympia. In the live-stream, Zerfing said 'Antifa shot at them while they were running' and then jumped on a bus. A local transit employee said that the bus stop has video surveillance and that one of the buses which heard the shots may have footage of the gunfire. The Olympia Police Department did not respond to DailyMail.com. Toese is a well-known member of the Portland Proud boys. He attends protest often and was arrested in August 2020 after he became violent during a protest when the Proud Boys clashed with Antifa and Black Lives Matter groups. The Medical Freedom protest was held to object to Washington's COVID mandates which requires mask to be worn in indoor public spaces. WHO ARE THE PROUD BOYS? Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes started the all-male Proud Boys in 2016. McInnes and the Proud Boys have described the group as a politically incorrect men's club for 'Western chauvinists' and deny affiliations with far-right extremist groups that overtly espouse racist and anti-Semitic views. The Alabama-based Southern Poverty Law Center designated the Proud Boys as a hate group, saying that its members often spread 'outright bigotry' and 'anti-Muslim and misogynistic rhetoric' over the internet, and have posted social media pictures of themselves with prominent Holocaust deniers, white nationalists and 'known neo-Nazis.' Current national leader of the Proud Boys, Enrique Tarrio, marched in the infamous Charlottesville Unite the Right rally in 2017. Proud Boys have been involved in a series of high-profile violent clashes at political events. In New York City in October 2018, police arrested several Proud Boys members who brawled with anti-fascist protesters following a speech by McInnes at a Manhattan Republican club. Proud Boys members also have frequently clashed with counterprotesters at rallies in California and Oregon. Most recently, the group took part in the siege on the Capitol on January 6, where some members were seen breaking into the building. In February, they were designated a terrorist group by Canada. Advertisement During Saturday's protest, the Proud Boys chased down several people who they believed were Antifa, beat up and maced a female reporter, and chased three minors who were unassociated with the protest, according to Seattle Youth Liberation Front. Freelance journalist Alissa Azar was tracked down and beaten by the Proud Boys during the protest. Footage of the protest does not show her beating but recorded the men yelling at her. Azar can be heard screaming for the men to get off her and tweeted about the attack. In the clip, the Proud Boys are heard spotting her shouting 'Yo Alissa' just before she can be heard screaming. She explained that she began running when a group of about 50 men began chasing her and eventually pushed her to the ground, pulled her hair, and sprayed her with bear mace. Azar eventually got away and hid inside a local bar. Thurston County, where the protest was held, has recorded 111 recent COVID cases adding to the 15,149 cases that have been reported since the pandemic began. The Proud Boys held another gathering to protest Washington state's COVID mandates on Friday. Three Pacific Northwest schools went into lockdown Friday afternoon after anti-mask demonstrators tried to break into a Vancouver, Washington, high school during school hours. Vancouver school officials locked down for the afternoon Skyview High School, Alki Middle School and Chinook Elementary in Clark County, located along the state's border with Oregon. 'The lockdown allows normal operations to continue inside the school,' Huntington Union Free School District spokesperson Patricia Nuzzo said in a statement. 'All students and staff members remain safely inside. District resource officers are onsite to help maintain safety.' Videos emerged on Twitter around 1pm local time on Friday purportedly showing Proud Boys and other far-right extremists as well as anti-maskers chanting 'USA USA USA' outside of Skyview High School. Nuzzo said protesters have gathered outside the schools on Thursday and Friday to voice their anger with the state's mask requirements for staff and students. Pictures of groups of protesters with large banners that read, 'Stop the mandate' - seemingly a call back to 'Stop the steal' rally cries during the January 6 Capitol riot - outside the school. The Clark County Sheriff's Office didn't respond to DailyMail.com's calls and emails. Australians returning home to NSW from overseas will quarantine at home once the state hits 70 per cent Covid vaccination. Premier Gladys Berejiklian made the highly-anticipated announcement during her press conference on Sunday. A further 1,485 Covid cases were recorded along with three deaths - none of whom were double-jabbed and mostly had health complications. The premier reiterated the need for all eligible NSW residents to get the jab as soon as possible, hinting at the further freedoms that would be announced in return. One of the major drawcards will be for residents with loved ones still stuck overseas. One of the major drawcards will be for residents with loved ones still stuck overseas, who will have an easier time getting home. Pictured: Two people reunited at Sydney airport Premier Gladys Berejiklian made the highly-anticipated announcement during her press conference on Sunday Ms Berejiklian said any fully vaccinated Australians returning from overseas would be eligible to do at-home quarantine rather than in a government-run facility. She said once that 70 per cent target has been met, 'the current quarantine system [will have reached] its use-by date'. 'When Australians coming back home fully vaccinated with a credible vaccine, it would make sense that they could quarantine at home,' she said. 'The transition will start in earnest when we hit 70 per cent double dose... We still need some form of quarantine, whether it is in the future for international students, skilled labour. 'As far as Australians are concerned, if you are fully vaccinated with a credible vaccine, you should be allowed to quarantine at home and that is a transition we will be making.' New South Wales has been dealt another crippling blow in its fight against Covid-19 with 1,485 new cases and three deaths recorded overnight The premier has already committed to increasing the number of returning travellers NSW will open its borders to when more of the population is vaccinated. Qantas expects flights to low risk destinations with high vaccination rates - like the United States, Canada, Singapore and Britain - to resume by December 2021. Flights to cities with lower vaccination rates that are considered higher risk will likely resume by April 2022, chief executive Alan Joyce indicated. 'I know the prospect of flying overseas might feel a long way off - especially with NSW and Victoria in lockdown,' he said. The premier has already committed to increasing the amount of returning travellers NSW will open its borders to when a greater proportion of the population is vaccinated 'But the current pace of the vaccine rollout means all Australian states are on track to reach the 80 per cent target by December - which is the trigger for starting to carefully open to some parts of the world.' Ms Berejiklian has been equally as vocal about the necessity to remove state borders when vaccine targets are met. She said internal borders should no longer exist after each state reaches an 80 per cent vaccination rate. 'Once we hit 80 per cent double dose, all internal borders in Australia should not exist and by that stage NSW would welcome home thousands of Australians every week,' Ms Berejiklian said. 'I look forward to Sydney airport welcoming home Australians from lots of states.' 'I'm confident every other state leader will come to the same conclusion, that we have to stick to the plan.' Returning Aussies will not be required to undergo two weeks' hotel quarantine. Pictured: People checking out of hotel quarantine An Afghan refugee who shared a photo of his meager food ration at Fort Bliss has divided the internet as some slam him as 'ungrateful' while others mocking the meal for resembling the now iconic, pathetic cheese sandwich from the disastrous Fyre Festival. Hamed Ahmadi, 28, is now living in a tent with 70 others at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, just days after escaping from Kabul, Afghanistan, as the Taliban rips through the country. But as more and more refugees arrive at the military base, which is already housing 4,000, resources are being stretched thin and food is in short supply. On Thursday, Ahmadi took to Twitter to share his evening meal; two tiny slivers of chicken, a few small chunks of cantaloupe and a bit of bread. The ration would have to last him 12 hours until his next meal. The tweet sparked strong reactions on both sides, with some furious that Ahmadi was criticizing the free food as a refugee and even called for him to be sent back to Afghanistan. Hamed Ahmadi, 28, shared his meager Fort Bliss meal to his Twitter followers that showed very little food Ahmadi, 28, boarded an evacuation flight from Kabul before landing safely and heading to Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas One user shared a picture of a FedEx plane, writing: ''@ahmadihamed_ Get in. We're sending you back.' A common theme throughout the thread. Another user similarly commented: '@ahmadihamed_ More than happy to fly you home and trade you for the service dogs. Just ask. One way ticket, on me.' Others, however, were much more sympathetic and even called out the ration as resembling something from the Fyre Festival in 2017. The festival, organized by Billy McFarland and rapper Ja Rule, advertised the ultimate in luxury festivals on a tropical island for tickets costing thousands of dollars, but delivered nothing more than disaster tents for shelter, and truly awful food. A photo of the sad cheese sandwich given to festival goers who had paid up to $12,000 for the experience became a symbol of scam. Many Twitter users were unhappy that Ahmadi complained about receiving free food from taxpaying Americans and said others 'had it worse' On Saturday, tweeters began comparing Ahmadi's ration to the picture, stating 'People have paid a lot more for a lot less.' Others wrote: '@ahmadihamed_ You are absolutely allowed to complain, this is nothing. Refugee still have rights and it's ridiculous that you are getting fed so little.' Another user wrote in support: '@ahmadihamed_ My heart goes out to all the afghanis who had to leave their country and family. Its never easy leaving your motherland behind. And I am sorry to see this is the food you are getting. I hope it was better.' However, the majority of users were unhappy with Ahmadi for 'complaining' about getting free food and getting to live in the US instead of being stuck in Afghanistan under the Taliban. A few users showed Ahmadi sympathy and wished him better luck on the food and welcomed him to the country The majority of users were unhappy with Ahmadi 'complaining' about the food. Many offered to 'send him back' and 'trade him for a service dog,' while others he should stop 'complaining' about 'free food.' However, one user pointed out that America is not a starving country Other users focused on the fact that Ahmadi was using an iPhone to tweet a photo of his meager meal and suggested he sell it for better food. One woman wrote: @ahmadihamed_ Maybe you could sell the iPhone you're tweeting from and get yourself several 5 [star] meals. Or, trade places with many homeless American veterans.' The main theme throughout the thread of bashing Ahmadi for 'complaining' about free food and that 'Americans have it worse.' One user wrote: '@ahmadihamed_ Guy is getting free meals, without threat of being slaughtered by Taliban. "meh, the meals could be better."' Ahmadi admitted to KTSM that he thought the Texas government 'was not really prepared' for the influx of refugees, which now have reach more than 4,300 at Fort Bliss (pictured) Ahmadi now lives with 70 others in one of the tents (pictured) as Fort Bliss gets slammed for the meager meals and its uninhabitable bathroom situations Another woman wrote: 'You are complaining and you're receiving more than alot of American citizens. Please stop.' Another user replied back, bashing the woman for saying Americans citizens were starving and sharing a picture of obese children eating at McDonald's. She wrote: 'You act like we are a starving country.' As of Wednesday morning, more than 4,300 refugees have arrived at Fort Bliss. The situation here is not as good as we expected,' Ahmadi told KTSM. 'The problem with the situation here is that the Texas government was not really prepared.' The military base is being slammed for its uninhabitable bathrooms with waste on the floor and backed up sinks, in addition to the food. More than 123,000 refugees have been evacuated from Kabul, with more than 75,000 of them being Afghanis. The Independent reported refugees coming into the US could face up to 10 years of uncertainty. Dozens of families separated by Covid-19 border closures have finally seen their loved ones for the first time in weeks, sparking emotional scenes. Families gathered at various barricades along the Queensland-NSW border for tearful reunions on a Father's Day like no other on Sunday. Loved ones hugged each other and chatted over the barricades on both side of the border at Tweed Heads and Coolangatta. A heavy police presence watched on and handed out hundreds of masks while ensuring everyone was social distancing. There were heartbreaking Father's Day reunions at the NSW-Queensland border on Sunday Grandparents spent precious time with their young grandchildren as families exchanged Father's Day gifts such as fishing rods and cases of beer. One man hadn't seen his baby daughter since relocating south of the border for work three weeks ago. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk described the scenes at border barricades as 'heartbreaking'. But she refused to budge on the border closure, days after she allowed NRL players' families and officials to arrive from Covid-hit Sydney. Queensland closed its border to NSW on July 23 as Sydney's Covid outbreak hit, and today added 1,485 new cases. 'I'm trying so hard. We have been really reaching out to the NSW government to be able to have that border bubble, to be able to move that checkpoint,' Ms Palaszczuk said. Loved ones separated by border closures exchanged Father's Day gifts at the barricades Grandparents spent precious time with grandchildren they hadn't seen in weeks Queensland Police described Sunday's border operation as a success and acknowledged it was difficult day for many families. 'Father's Day is a emotional time and obviously we do use that compliance approach as a last resort,' acting Chief Superintendent Rhys Wildman told reporters. 'For us, it was about getting the public health messaging across and it worked with individuals and family groups. But we fully understand it's quite difficult under the circumstances.' 'I think everyone wants to have hope. Everyone wants to be able to catch up with friends and family for Christmas,' she said. 'I think this is the dream of all Australians, of all Australian families but the way to do that is to get vaccinated. 'That's the key. The key is vaccination.' Prime Minister Scott Morrison and state premiers Mark McGowan and Dan Andrews all copped harsh criticism from Australians who weren't able to spend Father's Day with their families on Sunday due to lockdowns - but one particular tweet from a rival backfired spectacularly. Each of the men shared tributes to their own families, while the West Australian Premier acknowledged the sacrifices everyday Aussies are making amid the Covid pandemic. Georgie Crozier, the deputy leader of the Victoria's Liberal party, accused Mr Andrews of being 'more focused on PR and spin' than on his constituents. The Premier had shared a photograph of himself alongside his three children at the dinner table, noting they cooked him an early Father's Day steak and chips dinner because he had to work on Sunday. 'Beats socks and jocks. Love them more everyday', he tweeted. In a retweet of the original picture, Ms Crozier said: 'How about concentrating on a plan for Victoria There are thousands of Victorians not able to be with their father today due to Lockdown 6. Think of them - not yourself.' Her criticism of Mr Andrews didn't sit well with her followers, many of whom accused her of contributing to unnecessary hatred and division. A Victorian opposition politician has been slammed for making critical comments about Premier Dan Andrews' sweet tribute to his children on Father's Day Georgie Crozier, the deputy leader of the state's Liberal party, accused Andrews of being 'more focused on PR and spin' than on his constituents 'The vast majority of Victorians saw a bloke who has worked tirelessly on their behalf for the last year and a half enjoying a dinner with his children. Not spin, not PR just a reminder that our premier is human. Your failure to see this says everything about you,' one person wrote. 'So you're objecting to a photo of Dan Andrew's dinner on Saturday night celebrating him, the day before Father's Day, because he IS working today,' another questioned. But others agreed they found the photo insensitive, particularly given there's countless families who cannot be together due to Victoria's lockdown. Others said they couldn't afford expensive steaks and lived off cheap mince and sausages after the pandemic and multiple lockdowns put them out of work. Her criticism of Andrews didn't sit well with her own followers, many of whom accused her of contributing to unnecessary hatred and division There were several requests for Ms Crozier to impart the same judgement Mr Morrison, who shared his own tribute to fatherhood on Sunday with an old photo of his wife and two daughters, describing fatherhood as 'a gift'. 'To all the Dads, have a great day and never forget how fortunate we are to have the tremendous opportunity to love, cherish and care for our kids,' he said. 'How about hundreds of thousands of dads who have been forced to separate from the loved ones because of all borders shutdown,' one person asked in response to the post. 'Except for the fathers who cant see their kids because of current policies on lockdowns and restrictions which have made us the laughing stock of the world. happy father's day,' another said. 'Nice to see you're spending time with your family. How about the people that can't?' a third posted. Mr Morrison also shared an old photo with his wife and two daughters, describing fatherhood as 'a gift' 'How about hundreds of thousands of dads who have been forced to separate from the loved ones because of all borders shutdown,' one person asked in response to the post Meanwhile residents in Western Australia have told the state Labor government's PR team they missed the mark after encouraging them to sign a Father's Day card to 'state dad' Premier Mark McGowan. 'Sign the card and say Happy Father's Day to our Premier and State Dad,' a post from WA Labor read on Facebook. While Mr McGowan has enjoyed immense popularity among his constituents for his hardline stance on borders and keeping Covid out of his state, others are beginning to get fed up with the never ending restrictions. One person described the idea as 'creepy and disturbing', while another said it was 'the worst idea ever'. Others were genuinely upset at the 'cringey' post, adding Mr McGowan's hardline border stance had kept them apart from their own fathers. 'Thanks for separating us from our real fathers. What a joke,' one person wrote. 'Tired of being treated like small children who need to be bossed around by daddy government. Our 'State Dad' is incredibly controlling. He keeps his 'kids' stuck in a never ending mindset of fear and panic at the faintest chance of falling ill. 'What a pompous request. Happy Father's Day to those fathers separated from their families by draconian lockdowns of our State Premiers.' Meanwhile residents in Western Australia have told the state Labor government's PR team they missed the mark after encouraging them to sign a Father's Day card to 'state dad' Premier Mark McGowan While Mr McGowan has enjoyed immense popularity among his constituents for his hardline stance on borders and keeping Covid out of his state, others are beginning to get fed up with the never ending restrictions Dozens more loved the idea, signing the card and publicly thanking the premier for keeping Covid out of Western Australia. Mr McGowan, himself a father-of-three, laughed off the criticism, telling reporters on Sunday: 'Social media is social media. People and organisations do all sorts of things. One of the things I've learnt about social media is you can't control it.' He later shared his own tribute to fathers, thanking his dad who is stuck in NSW. 'Many Western Australians throughout this pandemic have been separated from family and friends in the interest of everyone's health,' Mr McGowan said online. 'I know how difficult it can be... being separated on days like today are not easy. I'll talk to Dad today over the phone, but I miss him a lot.' Dozens loved the idea, signing the card and publicly thanking the premier for keeping Covid out of Western Australia, but there were plenty of people who thought it was 'weird, cringey' or simply offensive to other dads Mr McGowan is locked in a stalemate with fellow premiers and the prime minister after insisting his borders would stay closed for 'months' after the landmark 80 per cent vaccination milestone is reached. He warned travellers from NSW, Victoria, and the ACT will continue to be banned from entering WA until 2022 as the state aims to maintain its zero Covid status despite the inevitability of the virus coming in. But the PM vowed to smash down state barriers and enforce the National Plan blueprint to reopen so the country 'can be together again, safely and soon,' he said. Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) has stated that WA borders may not open until 2022 'We don't have to fear the virus, but we do have to live with it,' Mr Morrison told the Herald Sun. 'Holding onto Covid zero will only hold Australians back as the world moves forward.' Mr McGowan insisted he would wait until the 'overwhelming majority' of the state is vaccinated and that it would be 'complete madness' to open up prematurely. Earlier this week, Mr McGowan said it was unlikely that families living in different states would be able to see each other in time for Christmas. 'I know that'll result in people screaming and yelling we should bring it down as soon as we can and infect ourselves. I don't understand that logic and I'm going to resist it,' he said. A Covid-19 isolation hub, including 30 caravans, will be established in one of NSW's hardest hit regional towns. Temporary accommodation will be available for isolating Covid patients at Wilcannia's Victory Park Caravan Park, in the state's far west. In the latest reporting period, there were nine additional infections reported, taking the town's cluster to 97. More than 13 per cent of its predominantly Indigenous population have now caught the virus. Temporary accomodation has been set up in the far west NSW town of Wilcannia, including 30 caravans (pictured, caravans ready for isolating cases) The caravans should be ready early this week, NSW Health said on Sunday. 'The site includes 30 motorhomes that will provide temporary accommodation options for people, helping to protect their loved ones and reduce the risk of transmission of the virus,' a statement read. 'This option provides a respectful and appropriate environment to safely isolate for the Wilcannia community and will remain in place until no longer required.' Elsewhere in Wilcannia, an emergency management centre has been established at the town's showground, housing personnel and staging response activities. The patients will be set up in temporary accomodation in Wilcannia's Victory Park Caravan Park (pictured, motorhomes are driven into Wilcannia) 'It will include personnel from NSW Health, NSW Police, Australian Defence Force, Aboriginal Affairs, Rural Fire Service, SES, NSW Ambulance ... and a number of volunteer organisations.' More than 600 food hampers have been delivered to Wilcannia residents and the distribution program continues. Covid patients isolating in the free, self-contained caravan accommodation will be provided with all meals and have 24/seven assistance on hand. As well as the innovative isolation hub, an emergency management centre has been set up on the town's showground (pictured, the isolation hub in Wilcannia) There were 1485 new locally-acquired cases of Covid-19 and three deaths reported on Sunday as authorities battle to contain the spread of the virulent Delta strain through the locked-down state. Of these cases, 21 were in Western NSW, four in the Far West, 12 in the Hunter-New England region, 11 in the Illawarra Shoalhaven area and seven on the Central Coast. NSW Health's ongoing sewage surveillance program recently detected fragments of the virus that causes Covid-19 at sewage treatment plants across the state. Fragments were found in Byron Bay overnight and recently at Tamworth and Glen Innes in Hunter New England, Cooma in Southern NSW and West Kempsey on the Mid North Coast. Queenslanders could be thrown back into lockdown within the next 24 hours as health workers struggle to trace hundreds of contacts of an infected truck driver. They fear countless visitors to a Brisbane suburban shopping centre could have been exposed to the highly infectious Delta variant of coronavirus by the driver. The driver - who brought the virus north from NSW - is believed to have been infectious in the community for five days between August 28 and September 1. He spent 45 minutes at a nail salon in Beenleigh Marketplace and contact tracers are checking up on hundreds of shoppers who checked in there at the same time. Chief health officer Jeannette Young (pictured) admitted there was a 'really high risk' the state could be forced back into its sixth lockdown by the latest outbreak But they fear there could be hundreds more who did not check in and may now also be infected. Chief health officer Jeannette Young admitted there was a 'really high risk' the state could be forced back into its sixth lockdown by the latest outbreak. 'If we find cases who went to the Beenleigh Marketplace and have since then been out infectious in the community in an uncontrolled situation, then that would lead me to think we need to consider a lockdown,' she said. Queensland Health Minister Yvette D'Ath added: 'The next 24 to 48 hours is critical here. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (pictured) has begged locals to get vaccinated before Covid hits the state in the 'near future' 'We need to test as many people as we can and we need to ensure that we quarantine those people. 'When we don't have check-in data and we are waiting for people to come forward and tell us they've been to a place, that's where we lose time. 'I cannot reinforce enough the importance of the check-in data and everyone checking in. You're putting yourself at risk by not doing so.' Dr Young said there were at least 74 people who were at the centre at the same time as the truckie but had not checked in - but the number could be much higher. The truck driver spent 45 minutes at a nail salon in Beenleigh Marketplace (pictured) and contact tracers are tracing hundreds of shoppers who checked in there at the same time About 600 people did check in the same morning but the car park holds 900 cars and it was a busy shopping period. 'I'm very worried that there are a lot more people and we need to get hold of you,' she said. 'We're using the check-in data that we've got, but it's not enough. Unfortunately people didn't use the check-in app. At least eight other people were also at Stylish Nails salon (pictured) at the same time as the infected truck driver but didn't check in 'That is an ongoing risk so it's really important that anyone who was there on Monday come forward so we can test them and make sure that there isn't ongoing spread in that Logan-Beenleigh community.' At least eight other people were also at Stylish Nails salon at the same time as the truckie but didn't check in, forcing contact tracers to trawl CCTV footage to try to find them. A four year old girl and her mother from Logan are already confirmed as having been infected by the truck driver who was a family friend. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk repeated her call for Queenslanders to get vaccinated as soon as possible before the state does get hit by a large-scale Covid outbreak. (Pictured, a woman wearing a mask at Brisbane's Soutbank) The outbreak has put 1000 families into isolation who are connected with the early learning childcare the girl attends and and its associated Windaroo Primary School. Dr Young said she was less concerned about school situation as families were locked down early. But Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk begged all the affected families to stay in isolation until they get the all clear. 'We really need you to abide by their home quarantine,' she said on Sunday. 'We saw how well it worked, especially when we dealt with the Indooroopilly cluster,' But Ms Palaszczuk repeated her call for Queenslanders to get vaccinated as soon as possible before the state does get hit by a large-scale Covid outbreak. The premier says Queenslanders now have a window of opportunity to get vaccinated while cases are close to zero before the state borders re-open at 70-80 per cent double dose vaccinations. (Pictured, a woman getting a Pfizer vaccine jab in Brisbane) Queensland will also be forced to open its borders to interstate travellers once the national adult double-dose vaccination rate hits 80 per cent. She warned: 'It is absolutely imperative that you get vaccinated because this virus is going to pop up sometime in the near future. 'This is basically our window to get this done. We have been hearing extensively about the modelling of 70 and 80 per cent. 'We need to aim for 80 per cent and above. We have this window of opportunity, Queensland, to get vaccinated. Now is a window of opportunity to get vaccinated.' Advertisement Furious Heathrow arrivals have slammed the government over the border queue chaos at the airport - with yet more passenger backlogs seen today - less than 24 hours after Home Office chiefs branded wait-times as 'unacceptable'. Arrivals at the London airport this morning say they are facing 'horrific' queues to get through to the border area of Terminal 3. One arrival posted a scathing attack on the Home Office today, saying in a Tweet: 'Still horrific queues at Heathrows T3 this morning. Its inhumane to force the disabled and children especially to stand for hours! Wheres the promised improvement?'. Another arrival posted a picture on Twitter from the arrivals area today showing a line of people packed into a hallway. The picture shows a sign urging passengers to 'have your passports ready'. It comes as The Home Office finally admitted yesterday that massive queues at the airport's Terminal 5, where people including a pregnant woman fainted on Friday night, were 'unacceptable'. Meanwhile, in Manchester, there were also delays at Manchester Airport yesterday. Passengers were seen standing in long snaking queues leading up to border control. Pictures also showed luggage and suitcases overflowing from the conveyor belts and strewn across the floor at arrivals the terminal, which has recently undergone a 1billion refurbishment. Furious Heathrow arrivals are complaining of yet more queues at the Heathrow today, less than 24 hours after Home Office chiefs branded the wait-time chaos at the airport as 'unacceptable'. Pictured: One Twitter user, John O'Hara, posted this image on Twitter today Another wrote: 'Still horrific queues at Heathrows T3 this morning. Its inhumane to force the disabled and children especially to stand for hours! Wheres the promised improvement?' Meanwhile, in Manchester, there were also delays at Manchester Airport. Passengers were seen standing in long snaking queues leading up to border control at the airport's newly refurbished terminal (pictured) Pictures show luggage piled up on conveyor belts and floors. Other pictures taken on Saturday afternoon show hundreds of passengers in snaking queues at border control The strongly-worded statement from the Home Office on the border chaos at Heathrow came after a furious blame-game broke out yesterday. It followed the posting of pictures on social media showing thousands of British arrivals being forced to cram into small hallways with no social distancing measures in place and queueing for several hours to pass immigration. One holidaymaker, Sonny Singh, told Sky News he saw a pregnant woman pass out while in the queue on Friday night. 'There were thousands of families queuing and just two people in booths up front checking documents,' he claimed. 'Children were screaming and crying. The queue moved about five feet in the space of about 45 minutes. 'Then, when the pregnant woman fainted, it finally got through to someone somewhere - the kids were then put on the side to sit while the adults waited in the queue and it began moving faster.' One photo even appears to show a male traveller lying on the floor in the London airport after apparently passing out while queueing for passport control, amid claims that stressed holidaymakers had no access to ventilation or toilets, and no shuttles were available. The queueing chaos at Heathrow airport continued overnight, with incensed British holidaymakers complained of the risk of spreading Covid as hundreds of passengers were rammed into small hallways and forced to queue for up to five hours One image even appears to show a male traveller lying on the floor in Terminal 5 after apparently passing out while queueing Have YOU been waiting hours to get through immigration at Heathrow? Send photos and videos of the queues to james.robinson@mailonline.co.uk Advertisement An incensed passenger queueing for hours to get to immigration at Heathrow tweeted on Friday night: 'Kids crying and screaming and fully grown [men] fainting whilst two people at the booth serving thousands of people queuing up to the runway.' Astonishingly, Heathrow has twice admitted that they have no idea how long it will take passengers to pass through immigration. The border chaos has been compounded by the fact that families with children aged under 12 can't use the e-gates. In a statement, a Heathrow spokeswoman blamed 'unacceptable queueing times in immigration' on 'too few Border Force officers on duty'. She claimed the Home Office 'were aware of the extra demand' and said they are 'disappointed' they didn't provide 'sufficient resource'. 'We have additional Heathrow colleagues to support in managing queues and to hand out passenger welfare including water, but we need every immigration desk to be staffed at peak times. 'We have escalated this with Border Force and expect them to provide a better service over the remainder of the weekend,' the spokeswoman added. Images on Twitter show huge lines of people packed together tightly - apparently without access to water, ventilation or toilets - while they queued for several hours to pass through immigration on yet another day of mayhem at Terminal 5 It has been claimed that a male holidaymaker fainted while standing in line for passport control while pregnant women, pensioners and young children were made to walk long distances with no shuttles available and no social distancing possible Astonishingly, Heathrow yesterday admitted that they have no idea how long it will take passengers to pass through immigration. The chaos has been compounded by the fact families with children aged under 12 can't use the e-gates A Home Office spokesman admitted yesterday: 'Throughout the pandemic we have been clear that queue times may be longer as we ensure all passengers are compliant with the health measures put in place to keep the UK public safe. 'However, the very long wait times we saw at Heathrow (on Friday night) are unacceptable. 'This is the busiest weekend of the year for returning passengers, with particularly high numbers of families with children under the age of 12 who cannot use e-gates. Are they TRYING to make life hard? Industry expert accuses government of 'sowing complexity' to stop people from travelling abroad A leading travel expert today accused the Government of 'deliberately sowing complexity' to discourage British nationals from going on overseas trips. Paul Charles, CEO of the respected PC Agency, told MailOnline that the Government is 'obsessing over Covid numbers and keeping them down at whatever cost'. He said: 'There's certainly incompetence and mismanagement. But it does seem that the Government are trying to make international travel as difficult as possible for British holidaymakers wanting to get away. 'I don't think they don't want people to leave this country because they're obsessing over Covid numbers and keeping them down at whatever cost. 'This is not a government famous for trying to reopen global travel. It has put the brakes on overseas travel throughout this pandemic, despite the industry clamouring for a proper reopening. Add the traffic light system and the testing regime to chaos at Heathrow, and it has the effect of putting people off from flying anywhere. And it's working. 'It does seem to me that they're deliberately sowing complexity around global travel.' Mr Charles added: 'This weekend is one of the busiest weekends for travel into the UK after that long summer break and the week following the August bank holiday. Border Force either know that or they don't. 'They should have been planning for an increase in passengers coming through Heathrow, and it's ridiculous that this has been allowed to happen yet again. 'What kind of message does this send to the world about Britain? How does it look to other countries who are looking at those pictures and videos of big queues at Heathrow? Well I'll tell you. It sends the message that Britain is not fit for purpose.' Advertisement 'Border Force is rapidly reviewing its rosters and capacity and flexibly deploying our staff across the airport to improve waiting times. 'We are working very closely with Heathrow Airport and its airlines and we are all committed to making sure all passengers can have a safe and hassle-free journey.' Asked about the queuing situation at Heathrow today, a spokesperson for the airport told MailOnline today that any request for comment would have to go to the Home Office who operate the border through the Border Force. A spokesperson for Manchester Airport said: 'We are aware that queues at the border have been longer than usual at times this weekend. 'Immigration checks are the responsibility of UK Border Force and we will review events with them to understand how these circumstances arose, and to ensure that passengers enjoy the best possible experience going forward.' Yesterday Tory MPs joined a growing backlash against the border chaos overseen by Home Secretary Priti Patel and Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, while industry experts warn the huge queues are damaging Britain's reputation as a hub for global travel. Henry Smith, Tory chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on General Aviation, told MailOnline: 'More resources need to be put into managing the chaos at the border at Heathrow, otherwise it could lead to increased risk of Covid transmission, a surge in cases and another crisis this winter. 'These scenes are discouraging people from going abroad and are making safe international travel even harder. With fewer people willing to get on planes abroad or to come into the UK, I fear that the result of this will be further job losses in the aviation and hospitality sectors already devastated by what has already been two very difficult years.' Paul Charles, CEO of the respected PC Agency, told MailOnline that Border Force should have known this weekend is one of the busiest for travel back into Britain after the summer period and August bank holiday week, and urged Miss Patel to 'get a grip'. He accused the Government of 'incompetence' and 'making life so hard for those airlines who have experienced months of shutdown and are now trying to make travel as Covid-safe and seamless as possible for holidaymakers who frankly just want a break'. Dr Steven Freudmann, former President of ABTA, said the images of chaos at Britain's biggest airport make the country look like a 'laughing stock' and will 'put people off from visiting'. He also called the mayhem a 'disgrace' and 'totally predictable'. Responding to criticism, the airport tweeted yesterday: 'Whilst we do not have exact figures out how long queues can take our teams in the terminals are on hand to support where possible and we are working with Border Force to reduce delays as soon as possible.' It then said this morning: 'We are unable to provide information in regards to immigration queue times on behalf of UK Border Force, who operate and manage our immigration halls'. Speaking to MailOnline, Lucy Moreton, spokeswoman for the Immigration Services Union, said: 'Border Force, and in particular large airports like London Heathrow, have suffered from chronic under funding for some years. Although Border Force as whole has recruited almost 1,000 new officers in the last two years these have been paid for with EU exit money and directed solely to inland and international trade. 'London Heathrow has had no inbound recruitment for many years but staff loss is still running between 10 and 20 per cent. Resources are understandably also stretched by the demands of small boats migration, Afghan re-settlement etc. 'This, as well as normal staff sickness, leave demands and staff positive for Covid all contribute to reduced staff on a day by day basis.' A Queensland teenager has been killed and his dad critically injured in a horrific Father's Day highway crash. The father and 19-year-old son were driving on the Mount Lindsay Highway at Cedar Vale, around 50km from Brisbane, on Sunday morning. Paramedics, including a critical care doctor, were dispatched to the busy motorway around 11am after reports of a two-vehicle collision. The two occupants of the other vehicle, aged in their 50s, have been left fighting for life following the horror smash. A teenager has been killed and his father left critically injured in a horror Father's Day crash on the Mount Lindsay Highway (pictured) at Cedar Vale, around 50km from Brisbane A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson said when emergency crews first arrived there were four people trapped in the wreckage. The spokeswoman said the teenager's passenger, a 54-year-old man, had been flown to the Princess Alexandria Hospital in a critical condition. The other driver, a 56-year-old man, was also taken to the Princess Alexandria Hospital in a serious condition with chest, abdominal and leg injuries. His passenger, a 53-year-old woman, was flown to the Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition with head and leg injuries. Police said the 19-year-old had been driving a white Mitsubishi Triton when it collided with a Toyota Landcruiser travelling in the opposite lane. An off-duty paramedic treated the teenager but he later died at the scene. The Mount Lindsay Highway was closed as a result of the two-vehicle smash with investigators working to determine the circumstances of the collision. Boris Johnson is facing a mounting Tory backlash over his plan to hike National Insurance to pay for social care reform as he was warned it will cause 'significant damage' to the Conservative Party and could see the tax burden hit a 70 year high. The Prime Minister is expected to announce a new NHS and Social Care Levy this week to provide a funding boost to the health service and overhaul help for the elderly. But the levy is expected to consist of an increase of at least one per cent on employee and employer National Insurance contributions (NICs), hitting millions of workers in the pocket. Ministers, MPs and Conservative grandees have all warned Mr Johnson not to go ahead with the 'idiotic' move because it will break a key 2019 Tory election manifesto pledge not to raise taxes. There are also growing fears of a hammering at the ballot box at future elections from younger workers who will be disproportionately affected by the hike. Lord Hammond, the Tory former chancellor, said today he believes asking young workers to 'subsidise older people who've accumulated wealth during their lifetime' is 'wrong' and 'would provoke a very significant backlash'. Meanwhile, Vaccine Minister Nadhim Zahawi said the Tories are the party of 'fair taxation' after he was asked whether the Conservatives can still claim their age old mantra of being the party of 'low tax'. It came amid claims that the tax burden will hit a 70 year high if National Insurance contributions are increased. The Taxpayer's Alliance said a one per cent increase would see the tax burden hit 35.4 per cent of GDP by 2024/25 compared to 34 per cent in the last financial year. Such a number would be the highest recorded since 36.1 per cent in 1951 at the end of Clement Attlee's Labour administration. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is also being dragged into the debate, with union bosses urging him to make the case to tax the wealthy to pay for the social care overhaul. The TUC has called for Sir Keir to argue in favour of an increase in capital gains tax instead, stating that it is 'not right' to hit young people 'when ministers are leaving the wealthy untouched'. The row comes amid growing Westminster rumours that Mr Johnson could reshuffle his Cabinet as early as Thursday, as part of a plan to 'relaunch' his Government for the autumn. The rumours started after some advisers were told to 'block out their diaries' for the end of the week, with Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and Education Secretary Gavin Williamson favourites to be moved. Boris Johnson is facing a mounting Tory backlash over his plan to hike National Insurance to pay for social care reform The Prime Minister is expected to announce a new NHS and Social Care Levy this week to provide a funding boost to the health service and overhaul help for the elderly The Taxpayers' Alliance has said the tax burden will hit a 70-year high if the National Insurance increase goes ahead Who pays National Insurance and how much would a 1% increase generate? National Insurance contributions, widely known as 'NICs', are the UK's second biggest tax after income tax. The system was introduced as part of the first state benefit system in 1911 and then revamped after the Second World War. The levy is expected to generate almost 150billion for the Treasury in 2021/22, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies, amounting for approximately 20 per cent of all tax revenue. The money generated is used to pay for state benefits, like the state pension. It is paid by employees and the self-employed on the money they earn and by employers on the earnings of their workers. An estimated 26million people pay National Insurance. However it is a direct tax on those who work. Payments end when people retire and start drawing their state pension, meaning that pensioners would be unaffected by the move. A one per cent increase on the value of National Insurance would add a three-figure hit to the annual payments by all but the lowest paid, according to analysis by accountancy firm Blick Rothenberg. No NI is paid on earnings below 10,000. Those earning that sum would pay an additional 4 per year. Those on 15,0000 would have to cough up an additional 54 a year, while those on 25,000 - below the UK's average wage, would pay an extra 154. The figure rises to 254 for those on a 35,000 salary, 404 for those on 50,000 and 654 for those on 75,000. A typical worker who earns 1,000 a week pays no National Insurance on the first 184 in their pocket. They then pay 12 per cent, about 94, on the earnings between 184 and 967, and then two per cent on the remaining earnings above 967. That means the National Insurance payment for the week is just under 95, according to Treasury estimates. The Office for Budget responsibility says for the financial year 2019-20 NICs raised 145 billion for the exchequer - 17.5 per cent of all tax income and equivalent to 5,100 per household. This figure was up from 56.9billion 20 years previously in 1999/2000. But it has remained fairly constant as a percentage of GDP over that same period, ranging between 5.3 per cent and 6.8 per cent. Advertisement The Conservative Party's 2019 general election manifesto gave a cast iron commitment not to raise taxes. It said: 'We promise not to raise the rates of income tax, National Insurance or VAT. 'This is a tax guarantee that will protect the incomes of hard-working families across the next Parliament.' Tory backbenchers fear they will face a massive backlash from the public if Mr Johnson goes ahead with the plan to now hike National Insurance. Mr Johnson said in his first speech as premier on July 24, 2019 that 'we will fix the crisis in social care once and for all with a clear plan we have prepared to give every older person the dignity and security they deserve'. He has faced sustained criticism from his political opponents and campaigners for failing to bring forward the plan. Mr Johnson is expected to argue that the new levy is necessary to save the NHS and clear the surging appointments backlog. A one per cent increase on NI would generate approximately 10billion extra for the Treasury. But the prospect of a tax increase has sparked Tory fury, with at least five Cabinet ministers reportedly opposed to the move. The proposed increase is expected to dominate proceedings in Westminster this week as MPs and peers return to work following their summer holidays. Lord Hammond, the former chancellor, told Times Radio: 'An increase in National Insurance contributions is asking young working people, some of whom will never inherit the property, to subsidise older people who've accumulated wealth during their lifetime and have a property and on any basis, that has got to be wrong.' He added: 'I think that if the Government were to go ahead with the proposed increase in National Insurance contributions, breaking a manifesto commitment in order to underwrite the care costs of older people with homes, I think that would provoke a very significant backlash. 'I think it would cause the Government - the Conservative Party - significant damage.' Mr Zahawi was grilled on Times Radio on whether the Tories are still the party of 'low tax'. He replied: 'The Conservative Party is the party of fair taxation and making sure that we get, not just the tax rate right, but the tax take right as well because you will know that it is not just focusing on the rate that makes a difference..' One senior Government figure had told the Sunday Telegraph a tax increase would be 'idiotic' while a source said it will be 'either a very big row or a f***ing almighty row' with Tory backbenchers. A Cabinet minister told the newspaper: 'Putting up National Insurance would be morally, economically and politically wrong. 'It kicks in at a low level and there are all kinds of exemptions which benefit the rich. 'If you get all your income from investments and property you don't pay a penny but if you work your guts out for minimum wage you get clobbered.' The minister warned against a 'tax raid on supermarket workers and nurses so the children of Surrey homeowners can receive bigger inheritances'. Steve Baker, the former Brexit minister, demanded a different approach, saying: 'Of all the ways to break manifesto tax pledges to fund the NHS and social care, raising NIC must be the worst.' Former prime minister Sir John Major echoed a similar sentiment as he said increasing National Insurance would be a 'regressive way' of generating extra revenue. Lord Hammond, the Tory former chancellor, said today he believes asking young workers to 'subsidise older people who've accumulated wealth during their lifetime' is 'wrong' He called for the Government to 'do it in a straightforward and honest fashion and put it on taxation'. The exact terms of the NHS and Social Care levy are yet to be finalised amid a row over the size of the tax increase and future funding for the health service. Downing Street had been hoping to secure agreement with the Treasury over the new levy by early yesterday and to announce the details on Tuesday. But Mr Johnson and Chancellor Rishi Sunak are reportedly still on the same page on the proposal. By early evening last night Mr Sunak was still demanding assurances from the Prime Minister that, once introduced, the 10billion-a-year levy would cover the cost of dealing with the NHS's Covid backlog and that he would not be forced to keep finding top-up funds from depleted Treasury coffers. Sir Keir is under pressure from union bosses to push for tax rises on the wealthy to pay for the social care upgrade. Shadow foreign secretary Lisa Nandy said today that Labour supports the 'broad principle' articulated by TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady. She told Sky News: 'I think the broad principle that Frances OGrady is laying out that those with the broadest shoulders should take some of the burden is absolutely right.' This is the moment a daredevil pilot made history by flying his plane through two tunnels while going at more than 150mph. The nail-biting feat - which set five new world records - had never before been attempted until stunt pilot Dario Costa of Italy flew his specially modified Zivko Edge 540 racing aircraft through the Tunnel Pass system near Istanbul, Turkey on Saturday. Precision skill was needed as Costa maintained an altitude of less than three feet with solid concrete surrounding his aircraft on all sides as he flew through two tunnels on the Northern Marmara Motorway in Catalca Mevki. Scroll down for video Dario Costa of Italy set five world records after flying his plane through two tunnels in Turkey Despite a cross-wind, the Red Bull stunt pilot perfectly navigated his plane through the 360-metre tunnel and into a longer second one, which measured 1,160 metres. The whole stunt took 43.44 seconds to complete, with Costa celebrating with a 360-degree loop and punching his fist in delight after emerging into the open air. He was presented with five Guinness World Record certificates for the longest tunnel flown through with an aeroplane, the first aeroplane flight through a tunnel, the longest flight under a solid obstacle, the first aeroplane flight through two tunnels and the first aeroplane take-off from a tunnel. After he touched down, Costa said he was 'very emotional' about his achievement, which was more than a year in the planning and required a team of 40 people. The red Bull stunt pilot flew through a 360-metre tunnel, before one measuring 1,160 metres The entire nail-biting stunt took 43.44 seconds to complete at a speed of more than 150mph He said: 'You don't know what to expect. You don't know if it's going to go good. I have never flown in a tunnel in my life. Nobody [has] ever done [it]. 'So, there was a big question mark in my head, if everything would have been like we expected, or there would have been something to improvise. So yeah, it was a big relief of course, but big, big happiness. That was the biggest emotion of the two.' Sir John Major has labelled the UK and US withdrawal from Afghanistan 'strategically very stupid' as he blasted the 'shameful' failure to evacuate all British allies. The former prime minister said pulling out allied troops 'abruptly and in my view unnecessarily' will be a 'stain on the reputation of the West' for at least a lifetime. His comments came as Tobias Ellwood, the Tory chairman of the Defence Select Committee, said 'unseemly, unprofessional squabbling' between Dominic Raab and Ben Wallace over the UK's exit 'must stop'. The Foreign Secretary has suggested military intelligence failings were to blame for the UK failing to anticipate the speed of the Taliban takeover while the Defence Secretary claimed he argued in July the 'game is up'. Sir John Major has labelled the UK and US withdrawal from Afghanistan 'strategically very stupid' as he blasted the 'shameful' failure to evacuate all British allies Tobias Ellwood, the Tory chairman of the Defence Select Committee, said 'unseemly, unprofessional squabbling' between Dominic Raab and Ben Wallace over the UK's exit 'must stop' Sir John, speaking at the FT Weekend Festival, said: 'I think we were wrong to leave Afghanistan, I think we were wrong morally but we were also wrong practically. 'I think it was shameful that we weren't able to take out those who had worked for us in one capacity or another, or who had worked carrying out the changes to Afghanistan that the Taliban won't approve of. 'It's also I think strategically very stupid.' The former premier rebuked US President Joe Biden for insisting his troops had to leave the nation by the hard deadline of August 31 after two decades in Afghanistan. 'The fact that it was left in that fashion will leave a stain on the reputation of the West that will last for a very long time and certainly through the whole of the lifetime of those people in Afghanistan whom we have returned to Taliban rule,' Sir John said. Sir John's excoriating criticism came after Mr Raab returned from a diplomatic tour to the region to try to assist those left behind after the Taliban took over Afghanistan. Thousands of Afghans who helped British efforts there, their relatives and other vulnerable civilians, are feared to have been left behind after the US decided to pull out its troops. Mr Raab, who has been criticised for holidaying in Crete in August as the Taliban swept to power, has been unable to say how many Afghans were left behind. More than 8,000 former Afghan staff and their family members were among the 15,000-plus people evacuated by the UK since August 13. But up to 1,100 Afghans deemed eligible were estimated to have been left behind, though that figure will fall short of the true number the UK would wish to help. Meanwhile, Mr Ellwood has called for the Whitehall 'blame game' over Afghanistan to come to an end. Ben Wallace and Dominic Raab engaged in a public row last week as they disagreed over the circumstances surrounding the UK's exit from Afghanistan He said the UK has 'caused further reputational damage in the unattractive blame game over Afghanistan that has played out so publicly between the Ministry of Defence and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office'. 'This unseemly, unprofessional squabbling must stop,' he wrote in the Observer. The Foreign Secretary held talks in Pakistan on Friday to discuss British nationals and Afghan citizens crossing the land border in order to find safety. He also visited Qatar for talks about reopening Kabul airport in order to resume evacuations. Supermarket shelves have been left bare across Sydney on Sunday as the city's Covid crisis continues to worsen. Woolworths and Coles have both been hit with major supply chain issues after thousands of staff members at stores and key distribution warehouses were forced into isolation, causing a 'reduced product availability' on the shelves and online. Social media was flooded with confronting images showing empty shelves in the fresh produce and non-perishable sections of several supermarkets. Supermarket shelves have been left bare across Greater Sydney on Sunday as the city's Covid crisis continues to worsen (pictured, a Sydney Woolworths store) Woolworths and Coles have both been hit with major supply chain issues after thousands of staff members at stores and key distribution warehouses were forced into isolation (pictured, Coles in Sydney) Social media was flooded with confronting images showing empty shelves in the fresh produce and non-perishable sections of several supermarkets Some TikTok conspiracy theorists suggested in the comments section the dire situation had been caused by recent truck blockades carried out by anti-vax transport workers. However Australia's supermarket juggernauts say the protests, which have mainly taken place along the NSW and Queensland border, have nothing to do with the supply chain issues facing Sydneysiders who are now entering their 12th week of lockdown. 'In playing our part to help protect the community, a number of our team members are currently in self isolation to reduce the spread of Covid-19,' Coles told Daily Mail Australia in a statement. 'As a result, we are experiencing reduced product availability in stores and online.' The retail chain said it has 'sufficient stock' available across its network, and is doing all they can to get those products onto shelves 'as quickly and safely as possible'. But with about 1,800 workers at key distribution centres and stores currently in quarantine in NSW, the business asked for customers' understanding and admited it is a very 'challenging time'. Woolworths is also feeling the pinch with 3,300 of its staff currently in isolation nationwide. The meat section at a Sydney supermarket is seen mostly empty due to staff shortages A fresh produce aisle is bare with thousands of supermarket workers in isolation 'You may have noticed some gaps on our shelves this week, or substitutions in your online order,' CEO Bradford Banducci said earlier this week. 'Unlike 18 months ago, this is less to do with surges in customer demand (aka 'the toilet paper wars') and more because of the extra pressure on our Distribution Centres, with over 500 of those team members needing to self-isolate as close or casual contacts. 'If you're shopping online in NSW and the ACT, you'll notice that currently we are automatically allowing substitutions on all orders given the demand pressure. 'We know this isn't ideal, but it does mean there's less chance of missing out on an essential item. We'll revert to your preference as soon as we possibly can.' Like Coles, Woolworths have apologised to shoppers for the inconvenience and pleaded with customers for 'patience' during this time. A white ute has been seized by police from an abandoned property near where a young autistic boy went missing two days ago. Anthony 'AJ' Elfalak, three, was last seen at 11.45am on Friday morning at his home in Putty, 150km north-west of Sydney. After teams of searchers and a private helicopter spent the weekend scouring the area, police on Sunday night towed away a white ute they labelled a 'vehicle of interest' from a property about 1km south from the Elfalak's home. Anthony 'AJ' Elfalak (pictured) went missing on Friday with search crews scouring the area AJ's mother Kelly Elfalak (pictured) has raised concerns that her son may have been abducted SES crews have indicated they will continue looking for the boy on Sunday night and into Monday - but police have warned locals they could be fined for breaching lockdown laws if they join the search. Fifteen dams on the property are a focus of the search with one being drained on Sunday morning. 'It's very stressful, a kid just doesn't pick up and disappear,' AJ's father Anthony told 9 News. 'Not from here, not from these parts... We're not doing too well,' he added. His mother Kelly Elfalak says she only turned her head for a moment and the young boy was gone. She said her son never wanders too far and thinks there may be a more sinister reason for his disappearance. Police seized a white ute (pictured) from a property 1km south from the Elfalak's property on Sunday night SES search crews (pictured) spent the weekend searching the area for the boy and are set to continue on Sunday night and Monday The 250-hectare property where he was last seen has difficult terrain, making the search even more difficult for authorities 'I think he's been taken. If he was around here, I would've found him by now,' she said. 'He holds my hand all day, all night. We are together all the time.' A neighbour claimed to have seen a 'suspicious' white Toyota ute on the property's private access road hours before AJ disappeared. The 250-hectare property where he was last seen has difficult terrain, making the search even more difficult for authorities Police have been conducting a search using trail bike officers, Police Rescue, the Dog Unit, police divers and helicopters but have asked the public to stay at home to avoid breaking Covid restrictions. 'Police are absolutely looking into every angle possible in relation to AJ's disappearance,' Superintendent Tracy Chapman said. 'Obviously our focus is very much around the search and trying to locate AJ.' Police cars (pictured) near the area where the boy was last seen on Friday They boy went missing from a property at Putty 150km north west of Sydney A desperate search is underway for three-year-old 'AJ' Elfalak who disappeared from a rural property more than 48 hours ago Police tow the white ute (pictured) away as a 'vehicle of interest' in the search for 'AJ' The three-year-old boy with autism was last seen at a home on Yengo Drive, Putty, 75km south of Singleton in regional NSW just before midday on Friday The ute seized by police as a 'vehicle of interest' on Sunday night (pictured) Anyone with information about the vehicle (pictured) or boy should contact Crime Stoppers Police will now examine the vehicle as SES search teams continue to look for the boy NSW Ambulance, State Emergency Service, Rural Fire Service and the Volunteer Rescue Association have also assisted in the search. Authorities worked through the night to find the missing boy and more than 100 emergency services volunteers are still continuing the search on Saturday morning. Anthony lives with autism and is non-verbal. The young boy lives who lives with autism and is non-verbal is believed to be wearing a grey jumper and pants, and sneakers Authorities worked through the night to find the missing boy, and are still continuing the search into Saturday evening The young boy is described as being of Mediterranean/Middle Eastern appearance, with short dark hair and is believed to be wearing a grey jumper and pants, and sneakers. NSW Police said in a statement public assistance is not required in the search for the young boy and reminded people that Covid-19 Public Health Order restrictions still apply in the region. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. A young mother has faced court after allegedly driving her Audi into a group of people following what police say was a wild brawl over a KFC car parking space. Footage uploaded to social media shows a white car collide into two people and a Ford Explorer at a parking lot on Hoxton Park Road in Liverpool, Sydney's southwest, on Saturday. Police allege the Audi was driven by Gazwa Elniz, 26, and that she 'kicked and spat' at an officer while being arrested. Gazwa Elniz (pictured) faced court after allegedly being behind the wheel of a white Audi which hit a group of people after an alleged wild brawl over a KFC car parking space The 26-year-old luxury car driver (pictured) is also accused of kicking and spitting at police A 30-year-old woman who allegedly hit the outside of the Audi was also charged over the incident. Three people can be seen in the video trying to block the path the Audi's path as it attempts to drive away. Footage then captures the car hit a man who is catapulted over the bonnet of the car. Another woman is also flung to the ground as the front of the Audi smashes into the back of their Ford Explorer. The man was later taken to Liverpool Hospital suffering minor injuries. The alleged road rage incident was sparked when the personal trainer allegedly got into a wild brawl with the occupants of the SUV outside the fast food chain (pictured) Three people can be seen in the video trying to block the Audi's path as it attempts to drive away before the man is catapulted over the bonnet (pictured) Ms Elniz (pictured) spent the night behind bars but was later granted strict conditional bail when she appeared before Parramatta Local Court 'He's lucky to be alive,' a witness told Nine News. 'We thought he was gone,' Ms Elniz spent the night behind bars but was later granted strict conditional bail when she appeared before Parramatta Local Court. She is now facing five charges including driving with a disqualified licence and assaulting a police officer. The 30-year-old, who was charged with affray and property-related offences, was granted bail and will face Liverpool Local Court on Thursday. A healthy baby was aborted after doctors mistook it for its twin, who also died during the procedure, a report on NHS hospitals in England has revealed. Surgeons at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust carried out the procedure in a bid to save the healthier twin, after the other was found to have restrictive growth, increasing the potential for stillbirth and other health complications. The mother-to-be was faced with the agonising decision to proceed with the abortion after learning that the healthier twin's life was at risk. Doctors at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust terminated a healthy baby after they mistook it for its twin, which was suffering from restricted growth (file image) The tragic case is one of 700 incidents uncovered by a Freedom of Information Act survey revealing basic errors that caused deaths, the Sunday Express reports. Other incidents include the death of an unborn baby after a vital heart scan was delayed at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Trust in Harlow, Essex, while at North Bristol NHS Trust a patient died after doctors used the wrong section of the bowel to create a colostomy. The report also revealed the death of an unborn baby after a vital heart scan was delayed at the Princess Alexandra Hospital Trust in Harlow, Essex (stock image) At West Suffolk NHS Trust, doctors sent home a patient after telling them they had flu, but they later died from sepsis. Meanwhile a patient at The Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Trust died after not being given anti-embolism stockings despite being at risk from deep vein thrombosis. Speaking about the tragic death of the unborn twins, a Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists spokesman said: 'In the most serious cases, selective termination can improve the survival chances of the normally grown fetus at the expense of the severely growth-restricted co-twin. 'However, all such procedures can carry an increased risk of early or total pregnancy loss.' A Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists spokesman acknowledged while the procedure could help save the healthy baby there was 'an increased risk' of pregnancy loss Dr Fiona Reynolds, chief medical officer at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Trust, said: 'A full and comprehensive investigation was carried out swiftly after this tragic case and the findings were shared with the family, along with our sincere apologies and condolences.' Up to 10 per cent of pregnancies are affected by fetal growth restriction (FGR), according to pregnancy and baby loss charity, Tommy's. The condition occurs when the placenta is not working well enough to provide the baby with the nutrients they need to grow normally, though the reason why it happens is not always known. Sometimes it can be caused by other conditions, such as chromosomal problems or infections, such as cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis. Complications can also occur after birth, including a higher risk of high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes and thyroid disease in later life. Only Fools and Horses star John Challis has been granted honorary citizenship in Serbia for his portrayal of Boycie in the much-loved British comedy series. The second-hand car dealer, with his staple nasal twang and mocking laugh, has become somewhat of a household name in the country. The show has always been popular in the Balkan state but it enjoyed a resurgence last year, causing 'Boycie mania' to sweep through the country. During a visit, Challis, 79, was mobbed by fans as he met Serbian Ambassador to Britain Aleksandra Joksimovic. During a visit to Serbia, John Challis, 79, was mobbed by fans as he met Serbian Ambassador to Britain Aleksandra Joksimovic Challis meets Serbian Ambassador to Britain Aleksandra Joksimovic Fans mob Only Fools and Horses star John Challis during his trip to Serbia He even made a documentary called Boycie in Belgrade to explore Serbia's love affair with the show. Challis told the Mirror: 'It's just as popular out there as it is here. A local DJ said it was the only thing that made them smile during their terrible wars. 'I think people identify with those characters and the stories. 'They love Boycie, Trigger, Del Boy, Rodney they have murals of them all over the place.' Challis was offered honorary Serbian citizenship by the Deputy Mayor of Belgrade, Goran Vesic, following the release of his documentary. Mr Vesic said: 'Prime Minister Ana Brnabic said to me she would give the passport to him personally when he comes to Belgrade.' Challis added: 'I was just flabbergasted. It's the greatest thing that's ever happened to me really.' Challis in Serbia exploring why the Balkan country's obsession with Only Fools and Horses and his character Boycie Challis made a documentary called Boycie in Belgrade to explore Serbia's love affair with the show The actor played Boycie or Terrance Aubrey Boyce between 1981 and 2009 (pictured in OFAH in 2001) The actor played Boycie or Terrance Aubrey Boyce between 1981 and 2009. He was friends with wheeler dealer Del Boy, played by David Jason, and Roger Lloyd-Pack's road sweeper Trigger. His on-screen long-suffering wife Marlene was played by Sue Holderness - and Challis is keen to give her a tour of Serbia when he returns next year. He said: 'We'll probably have lots of rakia [a fruit brandy]. And we'll have a bit of a banquet. 'I'd recommend everybody going there because they're such a jolly people. I'm looking forward to meeting more because they're right up our alley. 'We all need a cheer up. I can't wait to get out there again.' Only Fools and Horses was written by John Sullivan and will enjoy the 40th anniversary of its first broadcast on Wednesday. 'It will be a very special day,' said Challis. A seasoned ambulance worker has choked back tears after gallantly battling to save the life of a young surfer who was mauled and left bleeding to death by a shark. Four crews of paramedics desperately tried to save the man in his 20s after he was attacked off Emerald Beach in Coffs Harbour, NSW, at about 10.45am on Sunday. The man had his arm bitten off shark, believed to be a great white, and suffered large lacerations to his back. NSW Ambulance Inspector Chris Wilson looked visibly emotional as he relayed the young surfer's injuries from the horror attack to reporters. NSW Ambulance Inspector Chris Wilson (pictured) looked visibly emotional as he relayed the young surfer's injuries sustained in a horror shark attack in Coffs Harbour on Sunday 'A male in his approximate late 20s, sustained significant injuries to his upper body, which has resulted in major bl I can't even say that,' the paramedic stuttered. 'It was a devastating for everybody on the beach this morning. 'A number of local surfers and bystanders came to the aid of this man, they were incredibly brave in a very challenging situation.' Brave locals performed CPR on the man before first responders arrived as one bystander signalled for others to return to shore. 'I saw a lady run down... everyone was yelling (to) get out of the water,' one witness told 9News. A helicopter lowered an emergency doctor onto the beach as paramedics tried desperately to revive the surfer in a makeshift ICU unit on the sand. Despite their gallant efforts, the young man sadly succumbed to his injuries at the scene. 'I saw a lady run down... everyone was yelling (to) get out of the water,' one witness (pictured) said of the gruesome scenes witnessed at the shore The man was mauled to death and he reportedly lost an arm during the attack (pictured, emergency services on Emerald Beach) A surfer who said he witnessed the attack described hearing harrowing screams and said he soon saw a man without an arm losing copious amounts of blood. 'He was shouting 'help me' people were trying to get him out to the shore,' he told the Courier Mail. 'I saw paramedics performing CPR on him for about an hour and a half trying to save them.' The keen surfer said he felt spooked by the gruesome scenes and said he didn't plan on returning to the popular beach for some time. 'The Westpac Rescue Helicopter winched in a critical care medical team onto the beach to continue treatment,' Inspector Wilson said. 'The patient suffered a critical injury to his arm, but despite the best efforts of bystanders, paramedics and other emergency services, the patient couldn't be revived.' Emerald Beach will remain closed for 48 hours as police patrol the water. Raver Michael Gove who was filmed throwing shapes on the dancefloor at a Scottish nightclub was spotted reading about his exploits on his flight back home. The senior Tory MP, 54, who was caught dancing in Bohemia in Aberdeen last Sunday, was seen reading about his antics during a BA flight from Aberdeen to Heathrow this week. It comes after footage emerged of the Cabinet Office minister, who grew up in Aberdeen, dancing to techno music with fellow revellers in his suit. The newspaper article, which included an analysis of Mr Gove's dance skills by Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood, appeared to amuse the Tory minister who was heard 'stifling a giggle', according to one witness. Michael Gove was spotted reading about his exploits at a Scottish nightclub during a BA flight from Aberdeen to Heathrow this week The senior Tory minister, 54, was filmed throwing shapes on the dance floor at Bohemia in Aberdeen last Sunday The passenger told The Sun: 'He was devouring every word and at one point seemed to be stifling a giggle.' The Tory minister had been visiting his parents Ernest, 85, and Christine, 75, when he embarked on his night of adventure over the Bank Holiday weekend. His mother Christine later revealed she first heard about her son's night out after seeing the pictures in the paper. She told The Sun: 'I was surprised to see him in the club but he looked like he was having a good time, which is the most important thing.' She added: 'I think he was de-stressing after the last few months. I don't ask about his family life, that's his business.' This week musician Emma Lament, who posted the videos to Instagram, wrote in the captions that the newly-single minister was 'giving it big licks' as he bopped to the music. In the videos, Mr Gove, who dressed in a suit with no tie, could be seen jumping, two-stepping and waving his arms around to the music. The senior Tory MP reportedly turned up to O'Neill's pub alone and was quickly adopted by local punters who urged him to join them for the Pipe club night at Bohemia upstairs after last orders were called. Mr Gove, who grew up in Aberdeen, was seen pulsating to techno music with fellow revellers in his suit The minister appeared in high spirits as he dancing to the music at the Aberdeen club The minister then appeared to be enjoying a night on the tiles in his hometown and posed for pictures with several punters throughout the night. The scenes came two months after Mr Gove and his wife of 20 years, columnist Sarah Vine, announced they were in the process of getting divorced. Ms Lament told The Daily Record that Mr Gove had appeared at O'Neill's around 1.15am just as the pub was closing and appeared to be by himself. 'The Tories aren't too popular in Scotland but people were generally quite nice to him,' she said, adding: 'It's fair to say he'd had a good few shandies when he arrived at O'Neill's.' Ms Lament said that she was happy to see an MP backing Scotland's nightlife, which has recently reopened after an extended closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Meanwhile Pipe manager Adam Taylor claimed Mr Gove tried to avoid the club night's 5 entry fee. 'I was welcoming people at the door of O'Neill's for the launch of Pipe, our new club night and art organisation, when Michael Gove, who had been drinking downstairs tried to walk past me upstairs without paying the entry fee,' Taylor told The Daily Record. 'He was saying he shouldn't have to pay because he is the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.' A statement from the club said: 'Thanks to all the amazing people, and Michael Gove, who made it out for the first Pipe last night. We had a great time going in for four hours straight. Definitely blew some cobwebs away.' The leader of the Afghan opposition group resisting Taliban forces offered peace talks to the Islamist militants after they advanced deep into their last holdout province of Panjshir. But in response, the Taliban warned the National Resistance Front (NRF) that they must surrender or face death as their 'victory is inevitable'. It comes after analysts said the resistance could collapse in a 'fight to the death', while a top US general warned Afghanistan still faces a wider civil war that could fuel the resurgence of terror groups like ISIS. His stark warning came as the country's former vice-president Amrullah Saleh said Afghanistan was on the brink of collapsing into a 'large-scale humanitarian crisis', with food and money becoming increasingly scarce. The Taliban is pushing ahead to crush resistance forces defending the mountainous Panjshir Valley, led by Saleh and Ahmad Massoud - the son of legendary anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud. Thousands of Taliban fighters moved towards Panjshir from four directions on Sunday in an attempt to claim total rule of Afghanistan after they had defeated the NRF at mountain outposts, reports The Times. Massoud, the leader of the NRF, said in a Facebook post that he would stop the fighting and instead negotiate with the Taliban but the Islamist militants were not willing to talk. Ahmad Massoud (pictured centre in 2019), the leader of the Afghan National Resistance Front said he would stop the fighting with the Taliban in the province of Panjshir but the Islamist militants were not willing to talk Afghan resistance forces, seen here in an undated picture, observe from a hill in Panjshir province, as reports suggest Taliban forces have moved deeper into the region on Sunday Massoud said: 'The NRF in principle agree to solve the current problems and put an immediate end to the fighting and continue negotiations. 'To reach a lasting peace, the NRF is ready to stop fighting on condition that Taliban also stop their attacks and military movements on Panjshir and Andarab,' he said, referring to a district in the neighbouring province of Baghlan. But in response, one of the Taliban's commanders, Maulawi Mohammed Faruq, told The Times: 'Our message to the Panjshir resistance leaders is 'surrender'. 'We don't want to kill you... but surrender you must. Our victory is inevitable.' Both Saleh and Massoud have pledged they will never surrender to the Taliban, with Saleh tweeting last month that he would 'never, ever and under no circumstances bow to the Taliban terrorists.' At the same time, the country is grappling with an impoverished economy, having been thrown into disarray by the fall of the Ghani government and the Taliban's seizure of power last month, with many banks in Kabul and other Afghan cities still shut and cash in short supply. Members of the Taliban Special Forces enter the international airport in Kabul, Afghanistan Destroyed Afghan military aircraft is seen inside Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul A suspected ISIS member sits blindfolded in a Special Forces' car in Kabul, Afghanistan Damaged Afghan military helicopters inside Kabul airport, which has opened to some flights Passengers disembark as they arrive in Kabul from Kandahar, following the resumption of some domestic flights to and from Hamid Karzai International Airport Airport closures have also threatened humanitarian aid getting trough, with one-third of the country facing food and economic insecurity, according to the World Food Programme - although as of Saturday some flights resumed between Kabul and three major provinicial cities. The Taliban, who rolled into Kabul three weeks ago at a speed that analysts say likely surprised even the hardline Islamists themselves, are yet to finalise their new regime but are seemingly trying to appear more moderate. In the 1990s, when the group last controlled the country, they enforced strict controls across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Taliban's Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar meets with Martin Griffiths, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, in Kabul, Afghanistan on September 5 Crowds are seen outside exchange offices, which opened for the first time since last month People exchange foreign currency for the first time on Sunday since the Taliban takeover In this undated still obtained from a video, members of the National Resistance Front observe a house near Panjshir Valley, Afghanistan, where the Taliban are mounting an offensive In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. The Taliban is seeking to crush resistance forces defending the mountainous Panjshir Valley US General Mark Milley questioned whether they can consolidate power as they seek to shift from a guerrilla force to government. 'I think there's at least a very good probability of a broader civil war,' said Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, in a bleak assessment. 'That will then in turn lead to conditions that could, in fact, lead to a reconstitution of Al-Qaeda or a growth of ISIS (Islamic State group),' he told Fox News on Saturday. Afghanistan's new rulers have pledged to be more accommodating than during their first stint in power, which also came after years of conflict comprising the Soviet invasion of 1979, and then a bloody civil war. They have promised a more 'inclusive' government that represents Afghanistan's complex ethnic makeup, although women are unlikely to be included at the top levels. But few in Panjshir, a rugged valley north of Kabul which held out for nearly a decade against the Soviet Union's occupation and also the Taliban's first rule from 1996 to 2001, seem to trust their promises. Taliban official Bilal Karimi reported heavy clashes in Panjshir on Sunday, and while resistance fighters insist they have the Islamists at bay, analysts warned they are struggling. Resistance fighters, pictured on 2 September, say they have the Islamists at bay, but analysts warn that they are struggling and the Panjshir province could fall to Taliban forces The Italian aid agency Emergency said Taliban forces had reached the Panjshir village of Anabah, where they run a surgical centre. 'Many people have fled from local villages in recent days,' Emergency said in a statement on Saturday, adding it was continuing to provide medical services and treating a 'small number of wounded'. Anabah lies 15 miles north inside the 71-mile-long valley, but unconfirmed reports suggested the Taliban had seized other areas too. The Taliban had reportedly gained control of four of the valley's seven districts and captured administrative buildings in the capital of Bazarak, reports The Times. Bill Roggio, managing editor of the US-based Long War Journal, said Sunday that while there was still a 'fog of war' - with unconfirmed reports the Taliban had captured multiple districts - 'it looks bad'. Both sides claim to have inflicted heavy losses on the other. The Taliban is using weaponry left behind by American troops (pictured: Taliban using US armoured vehicle) to crush the last pockets of resistance to its takeover of Afghanistan 'The Taliban army has been hardened with 20 years of war, and make no mistake, the Taliban trained an army,' Roggio tweeted on Sunday, adding that 'the odds were long' for the Panjshir resistance. 'The Taliban army was injected with a massive amount of weapons and munitions after the US withdrawal and collapse of the ANA' (Afghan National Army), he added. Former vice-president Amrullah Saleh, who is holed out in Panjshir alongside Ahmad Massoud - the son of legendary anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud - warned of a grim situation. Saleh in a statement spoke of a 'large-scale humanitarian crisis', with thousands 'displaced by the Taliban onslaught'. The Panjshir Valley, surrounded by jagged snow-capped peaks, offers a natural defensive advantage, with fighters melting away in the face of advancing forces, then launching ambushes firing from the high tops down into the valley. A Taliban fighter stands guard at Sarai Shahzada market in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Sunday The United States invaded Afghanistan and toppled the first Taliban regime in 2001 in the wake of the 9/11 attacks by Al-Qaeda, which had taken sanctuary in the country. Western governments now fear Afghanistan could again become a haven for extremists bent on attacking them. Washington has said it will maintain an 'over-the-horizon' capability to strike against any threats to its security in Afghanistan. The international community is coming to terms with having to deal with the new Taliban regime with a flurry of diplomacy. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due to arrive on Monday in Qatar, a key player in the Afghan saga and the location of the Taliban's political office, though he is not expected to meet with the militants. He will then travel to Germany to lead a virtual 20-nation ministerial meeting on Afghanistan alongside German foreign minister Heiko Maas. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is also set to convene a high-level meeting on Afghanistan in Geneva on September 13, to focus on humanitarian assistance for the country. Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi today said children can overrule their parents' wishes to get the Covid-19 vaccine. It comes as health experts are urging the Government to push ahead with plans to jab 12 to 15 year olds against the virus. This is despite the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) this week recommending against the plan. The independent panel of experts, which is made up of professors and doctors who routinely advise the Government on vaccination strategies, cited the fact that the Covid-19 virus presents a very low risk to younger teenagers. But on Times Radio Mr Zahawi said 12 to 15-year-olds could override their parents' wishes 'if they're deemed to be competent to make that decision, with all the information available'. Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi today said children can overrule their parents' wishes to get the Covid-19 vaccine Mr Zahawi told the T&G programme: 'What you essentially do is make sure that the clinicians discuss this with the parents, with the teenager, and if they are then deemed to be able to make a decision that is competent, then that decision will go in the favour of what the teenager decides to do.' Professor Chris Whitty and the UK's three other chief medical officers are now reviewing the wider benefits of vaccinating the age group, such as minimising school absences, and are expected to present their findings within days. Professor Peter Openshaw, of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (Nervtag) which advises the Government, told BBC Breakfast he was 'a little surprised' at the JCVI's decision to not back the rollout among children. 'We do know the virus is circulating very widely amongst this age group, and that if we're going to be able to get the rates down and also prevent further surges of infection perhaps later in the winter, then this is the group that needs to become immune,' he said. Professor Peter Openshaw (pictured), of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (Nervtag) which advises the Government, told BBC Breakfast he was 'a little surprised' at the JCVI's decision to not back the rollout among children What does the JCVI do? This JCVI is an independent group of experts who advise the Government health departments in the four UK nations on immunisations and the prevention of infectious disease. They consider vaccine safety, efficacy and look at the impact and cost effectiveness of immunisation strategies. The JCVI looks at data on the impact of a disease, data from clinical trials and modelled data, then advises on the best way to get these vaccines to the public. This is how we come to have the vaccine schedule, which tells us when you need certain vaccines for example, why young children need their MMR and 6-in-1 vaccines at certain ages, and why we start vaccinating people against flu from September every year. They also look for any gaps in the information presented where further research or surveillance may be required. The underlying principles of the JCVI's advice on the first phase of any COVID-19 vaccination programme are to reduce mortality and serious disease and protect the NHS and social care system. Essentially, they make sure vaccines meet robust standards of safety, that they work as effectively as possible and that the NHS and wider care system has the right strategy in place to administer them. Their work has fed into getting new and important updates to the vaccination schedule, such as expanding the HPV vaccine to include boys as of 2019. Source: publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk Advertisement 'And the best way to become immune is through vaccination, and there's never been as much information as this in the past. 'To think there hasn't been enough research is completely wrong.' He added: 'To my mind, the public health benefit is very, very important, and we have to take the wider view that unless we do get infection rates down amongst this particular part of the population, it will be very, very hard to prevent further large recurrences (of Covid-19). 'I would say that teenagers are often amongst the most altruistic and the most generous people in society. 'They often think very deeply about these moral and ethical issues and they want to protect others as well. 'So I would think that a lot of teenagers, actually, if they see the evidence in the round, would prefer to be vaccinated.' Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said Sunday that if the chief medical officers recommend vaccination among youngsters aged 12 to 15 then it is 'absolutely' the right thing to do, but he said he does not want to 'pre-determine' that. The Government is awaiting their advice before making a final decision but ministers and Health Secretary Sajid Javid are reportedly keen to authorise a wider rollout. Speaking on Sky's Trevor Phillips on Sunday, Mr Zahawi said: 'We have not made any decisions, so we haven't decided not to listen to the experts. 'On the contrary, all four ministers, the Secretary of State, Sajid Javid, and his fellow ministers in the devolved administrations have agreed to ask the chief medical officers to convene expert groups, including the JCVI being in that, to be able to recommend which way we should go on healthy 12 to 15-year-olds.' He said parents of healthy 12 to 15-year-olds will be asked for consent if coronavirus jabs are approved for their children. 'I can give that assurance, absolutely,' he said. It comes as family campaign groups warned that some parents are planning on pulling their children from school during any proposed vaccination drive in a bid to stop them being 'peer-pressured' into getting the jab. Campaign group UsForThem said there is a 'great concern' among families after it was suggested that children as young as 12 could decide for themselves whether or not to get the jab. Molly Kingsley, co-founder of the parent campaign group UsForThem, told the Telegraph: 'We have seen an incredible amount of concern among parents about the suggestion that parental consent for children as young as 12 may either be overridden or not needed if you are relying on Gillick competence. Campaign group UsForThem said there is a 'great concern' among families after it was suggested that children as young as 12 could decide for themselves whether or not to get the jab (file photo) Health Secretary Sajid Javid is reportedly planning on rolling out the vaccine to all 12 to 15 year olds, despite the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommending the jab for higher risk children only 'We have heard a lot of parents saying that if it happens they will keep their children off school for the duration of any vaccination programme. 'Were vaccination of children to happen on school premises without fully respecting the need for parental consent it would really prejudice parents' trust in schools.' It comes after guidance circulated to NHS trusts says most 12 to 15-year-olds should be deemed 'Gillick competent to provide [their] own consent' over jabs. 'Gillick competent' stems from a 1985 legal decision which ruled that a teenage girl could obtain contraception without her parents' involvement. It suggests a parent's permission may not be needed to give a pupil the vaccine - although the vaccines minister insisted Sunday that it would be required. While some parents remain concerned about their children receiving the jab, teacher unions have warned that not vaccinating healthy children could see chaos this autumn if it leads to a rise in Covid cases. Geoff Barton, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said the decision will 'make it more difficult during the autumn term and beyond to guard against educational disruption caused by transmission of the virus'. Latest Public Health England data showed Covid cases are rising fastest among 10 to 19-year-olds (grey line) and 20 to 29-year-olds (green line). Approving Covid vaccines for 12 to 15-year-olds would likely help curb the spread of the virus in the age group, scientists in favour of the move add This graph shows the number of first doses dished out by age group. The NHS publishes age groups as periods of five years, and groups all those under 18 together. It shows more than 620,000 have already been inoculated among under-18s Latest estimates from a symptom-tracking app suggested under-18s had the second highest number of Covid cases in the country (blue line). Only 18 to 35-year-olds had a higher number of Covid cases (orange line). That is despite schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland only starting to go back this week. The data is from the ZOE Covid Symptom Study Prof John Edmunds, an epidemiologist on the Government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, said: 'We need to take into consideration the wider effect that Covid might have on children and their educational and developmental achievements. 'Because if you think about it, in the UK now, it's difficult to say exactly how many children haven't been infected but it's probably about half of them, so that's about six million children. 'That's a long way to go if we allow infection just to run through the population, that's a lot of children who will be infected and that will be a lot of disruption to schools in the coming months.' Prof Edmunds said it was likely that the return of schools and greater numbers of workers returning to offices will cause an increase in cases. He added: 'It's with a wider reopening of society that I think we'd expect to see, now summer's over, organisations will be starting to expect their employees back at work in the office, and I think that employees want to go back to the office, and all of that will add to increased contact rates and increased risk in society. 'So I think we will see increased cases now in the coming months.' It comes as Mr Zahawi today confirmed vaccine passports will be required to gain entry to large venues, arguing the documents are the 'best way' to avoid winter Covid closures. The Vaccine Minister said the Government is concerned large venues 'could end up causing a real spike in infections' because of groups of people mixing in close proximity. Nadhim Zahawi today confirmed vaccine passports will be required to gain entry to large venues, arguing the documents are the 'best way' to avoid winter closures Vaccine Minister Nadhim Zahawi hints Sajid Javid WILL make full vaccination a condition of employment for all NHS workers Vaccine Minister Nadhim Zahawi today hinted Sajid Javid is going to press ahead with plans to make full vaccination a condition of employment for all NHS staff. Reports suggest that Mr Javid, the Health Secretary, will proceed with the change as part of a bid to reduce the spread of coronavirus in hospitals and other healthcare settings. Mr Zahawi did not deny the move is on the table as he said 'it is only right and responsible that we look at the duty of care for healthcare workers on the frontline and across the NHS' who are looking after vulnerable people. The Government is set to launch a consultation on the issue, potentially as soon as this week, according to the Sunday Telegraph. However, there are fears that a vaccination requirement could spark an exodus of NHS staff. Mr Zahawi told Sky News: 'I think it is only right and responsible that we look at the duty of care for healthcare workers on the frontline and across the NHS who are looking after people who are, when they are entering hospital, vulnerable to infection and we consult and we will come back and of course publish that consultation in due course.' Told that his answer sounded like a confirmation the change will happen, Mr Zahawi said: 'I think the right thing to do is to consult and then publish that.' Advertisement He said the 'worst thing' for those venues would be for surging coronavirus case numbers to result in an 'open shut, open shut strategy' and the 'best way' to ensure they can remain open for the long term 'is to check vaccine status'. Boris Johnson announced back in July that being double-jabbed would be made an entry requirement for all nightclubs in England by the end of September. He also signalled the requirement would likely be imposed on other large venues. Many Tory MPs are vehemently against the documents being used, with the Prime Minister facing a significant rebellion on the issue. The move on vaccine passports came after official statistics showed Covid cases in the UK are continuing to climb ahead of the return of many schools on Monday. The Department of Health recorded a further 37,578 infections yesterday, up from the 32,406 from the previous Saturday. It is the biggest week-on-week jump in new cases since August 22, when they rose by 20.2 per cent to 32,253. Hospital admissions are also creeping up, jumping to 985 on August 31 but deaths with the virus have fallen, dropping 9.8 per cent from the 133 recorded last Saturday to 120 yesterday. Mr Johnson is expected to face a considerable Conservative rebellion if he does push ahead with his vaccine passports plan. The Prime Minister announced back in July that they would be required in nightclubs. He said at the time: 'I don't want to have to close nightclubs again as they have elsewhere. But it does mean nightclubs need to do the socially responsible thing. 'As we said last week, we do reserve the right to mandate certification at any point if it's necessary to reduce transmission. 'And I should serve notice now that by the end of September, when all over 18s have had their chance to be double jabbed we're planning to make full vaccination the condition of entry to nightclubs and other venues where large crowds gather.' The Government has faced mounting Tory backbench anger over the vaccine passports plan, with critics arguing the documents are unnecessary and infringe on individual freedoms. Mr Zahawi was asked this morning if the Government had made up its mind on the issue. He told Sky News: 'We are looking at by the end of September, when everyone has had the opportunity to be fully vaccinated for the large venues, venues that could end up causing a real spike in infections, where we need to use the certification process. 'You look at what the FA have done, have done so brilliantly, in terms of checking vaccine status to reopen football, that is the sort of right thing to do and we are absolutely on track to continue to make sure that we do that. 'There is a reason for that, the reason being that I, as does the Prime Minister, want to make sure the whole economy remains open. 'The worst thing we can do for those venues is to have a sort of open shut, open shut strategy because we see infection rates rise because of the close interaction of people, that is how the virus spreads, if people are in close spaces in large numbers, we see spikes appearing. 'The best thing to do then is to work with the industry to make sure that they can open safely and sustainably in the long term and the best way to do that is to check vaccine status.' The boss of NATO has criticised EU proposals to set up a European military force, warning it could overstretch already 'scarce resources'. The Afghanistan crisis has reignited calls from some officials in Brussels for the bloc to set up its own rapid response force. But Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO Secretary General, said such a move would 'weaken our joint capability to work together'. The boss of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, has criticised EU proposals to set up a European military force, warning it could overstretch already 'scarce resources'. The US withdrawal from Afghanistan has raised fresh questions about the ability of other NATO nations to act unilaterally on the world stage. A seeming over-reliance on Washington has prompted some in the EU to step up their calls for a European defence force. Reports suggest such a force could have up to 20,000 troops who would be able to be deployed anywhere in the world at a moment's notice. It is thought formal proposals could be tabled in Brussels before the end of this year. In an interview with the Sunday Telegraph, Mr Stoltenberg welcomed the idea of greater European focus on defence capabilities. But he warned against going down the path of setting up an EU force as he said it could damage links with the US. The former prime minister of Norway said 'specific proposals' have not yet been shared with NATO. 'Any attempt to establish parallel structures, duplicate the command structure, that will weaken our joint capability to work together because with scarce resources we need to prevent duplication and overlapping efforts,' he said. Mr Stoltenberg said increased European efforts could 'never replace Nato and we need to make sure that Europe and North America band together'. He warned that weakening the bond between the US and Europe would 'not only weaken NATO, it will divide Europe'. An overwhelmed paramedic has warned New South Wales hospitals are 'hurtling towards a cliff' and being overwhelmed by patients, as he revealed medics have been asking the government for additional support for weeks. Brett Simpson is a delegate of the Australian Paramedics Association and works on the front lines treating patients as an intensive care paramedic. The already tough job has been made significantly harder during NSW's relentless Covid outbreak, with hospitals nearing capacity and ambulances forced to treat patients outside - with no more beds left for urgent care. 'With all respect to the premier, we've been begging the government for weeks if not months. It's taking people dying in their homes to spur them into action,' Mr Simpson told The Project on Sunday. Paramedics are being forced to treat patients outside ERs in car park and in the rain because Covid case loads are causing delays in the system (pictured: RPA hospital on August 1) As Sydney heads into its 11th week of lockdown, premier Gladys Berejiklian admitted that case numbers will keep going up for the next few weeks, with 1,030 patients already in hospital battling the virus. Of those, 175 are fighting for life in ICU with 72 breathing through a ventilator. But with hospitalisations set to peak in October and paramedics and emergency medical staff already being stretched to breaking point, Mr Simpson warned patients may not be able to receive care. 'The resources we've been given to fight this pandemic are like trying to take out a rhino with a Nerf gun. It just doesn't work and we really need some genuine action to help steer us out of this crisis,' he said. He said the rapid rise in Covid case numbers as Sydney battles a second wave caused by the Delta variant - on top of their regular workload and people putting off treatment of chronic health conditions - was causing significant delays. 'People still have heart attacks and car accidents... We're seeing a lot of closed front doors to emergency departments because out staff literally can't get in,' he added. 'Being left outside to care for patients in the freezing rain for eight or nine hours is just such a struggle.' 'And then to finally get in and see the pressure the nursing staff and the medical staff are under - it's unrelenting.' He added that he doubted there would be a paramedic or health care worker who wouldn't have a story about the extra strain they are under or about not being able to get the best treatment to a patient fast enough. A Sydney paramedic attends to a patient on August 8 (pictured) with hospitals struggling under the strain of the extra admissions of Covid patients In mid-August at Westmead Hospital there was more than a dozen ambulances with Covid patients which had to wait more than five hours in the car park as the ER was packed with doctors even bringing down equipment to run tests (pictured) Earlier this week the Ms Berejiklian claimed about 5.5 per cent of Delta cases went to hospital but official figures from Sunday show it's really 11 per cent - or more than one in every ten Covid cases. Along with their regular use in hospitals, Covid is pushing the 855 staffed ICU beds across NSW to 80 per cent capacity - with the forecast peak of the second wave a month away. Victoria is pushed even more with 90 per cent of ICU beds occupied. 'The modelling indicates to us that the peak is likely to be here in the next week or two,' the premier said on Sunday. 'The peak in hospitalisation and intensive care is likely to be with us in October.' But she also insisted the state's health system was coping with the added pressure. 'I don't know who's advising the premier or the health minister... but you've only got to be on the street or on the front line in an ambulance or emergency department to know the crises is here the time for action was months ago.' Mr Simpson said. 'People aren't stupid, when they call triple zero and it takes an hour for their ambulance... We just hope whatever they've got planned for the next few weeks just eases some of the pressure on us.' Mr Simpson told The Project host Lisa Wilkinson (pictured) he hoped the NSW government had support lined up for struggling paramedics Mr Simpson added for those treating patients, the caseload would not drop as lockdown were lifted. 'This is not a crises that's going to end in six or eight weeks we anticipate this to be going for months and months and months especially as we start to open up.' He added he would like to see - as a start - 30 graduate paramedics hired as ambulance assistants to be reclassed as trainee paramedics, trained up on the job, and given access to sick leave and carers leave. NSW reported 1.485 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 and three deaths on Sunday as authorities battle to contain the spread of the virulent Delta strain through the locked down state. In some welcome news, the premier said 40 per cent of the state's population was now fully vaccinated. 'That is an incredible milestone to have reached given where we were a few months ago,' she said. The head of the UK's armed forces today took a swipe at Dominic Raab as he denied there was a failure of military intelligence in Afghanistan. General Sir Nick Carter, the Chief of the Defence Staff, said 'everybody got it wrong' over the pace of the Taliban takeover in the country. But he said 'many of the assessments' suggested the Afghan government 'wouldn't last the course of the year'. His comments will be seen as a rebuke to the Foreign Secretary who told MPs last week that the Government's central assessment was that it was 'unlikely' Kabul would fall in 2021. Mr Raab has faced criticism over his handling of the Afghanistan crisis, with his political opponents having claimed he was 'missing in action'. A new Conservative Home poll of Tory party members has now suggested his popularity has taken a major hit. The Foreign Secretary was third from top in the website's Cabinet League Table last month, with a net satisfaction rating of 73 per cent. But he has now dropped 21 places to fourth from bottom, with a rating of just plus six per cent. General Sir Nick Carter, the Chief of the Defence Staff, said 'everybody got it wrong' over the pace of the Taliban takeover in the country but denied military intelligence had failed Dominic Raab told MPs last week that the Government's central assessment was that it was 'unlikely' Kabul would fall in 2021 Former MI6 boss says UK exit from Afghanistan was 'unnecessarily messy' A former MI6 chief has described the withdrawal from Afghanistan as 'unnecessarily messy' and 'unnecessarily self-harming'. Sir Alex Younger, who left the UK's foreign intelligence service last year, said he did not question the broader strategy of withdrawal, which he described as 'inevitable', but was critical of how it was done. He also said having no physical presence in Afghanistan is a 'blow' to intelligence networks. Speaking on Times Radio, Sir Alex said: 'The execution was unnecessarily self-harming.' He added: 'I would just say a couple of things. 'One, the idea that an abrupt departure is the same thing as a clean break seems to me at best naive and at worst wildly reckless, and I frankly can't get my head around it. 'And I think (former US president Donald) Trump's administration also does have a degree of responsibility, where unaccountably they began their negotiations with the Taliban two years ago with the relinquishment of our most important bargaining chip, which was our presence in Afghanistan, by setting a time for our departure.' Advertisement Under questioning from MPs last week, Mr Raab suggested the intelligence was wrong on how quickly the Taliban would take Kabul, which fell on August 15. He told an emergency session of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee that the 'central assessment' from the military was a 'steady deterioration' after troops withdrew in August and 'it was unlikely Kabul would fall this year'. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace countered the remarks by claiming that he had argued in July that the 'game is up' in Afghanistan and suggested 'it's not about failure of intelligence, it's about the limits of intelligence'. Sir Nick was asked during an interview on the BBC's Andrew Marr Show if he believed the military intelligence was wrong. Referring to an interview he gave in July, he replied: 'No. I think the first scenario I think I also would have said that it was entirely possible that the government wouldn't hold on for that much longer and indeed many of the assessments suggested that it wouldn't last the course of the year and of course that has proven to be correct.' Asked if he believed Mr Raab was therefore wrong in his suggestion, Sir Nick said: 'The fact of the matter is is that it is not purely about military intelligence. 'The way it works in this country is we have the joint intelligence committee which sits inside the Cabinet Office so what they do is pull together the sources from the Ministry of Defence and of course from the Foreign Office, the inter-agencies and the secret intelligence services and of course wider open source material. 'So it is really a much broader thing than just strictly military intelligence.' Sir Nick said 'everybody got it wrong' on the speed of the Taliban advance and 'even the Taliban didn't expect things to change as quickly as they did'. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace had claimed he argued in July that the 'game is up' in Afghanistan He said: 'I think there has been a lot of talk about a failure of intelligence and all of that. 'The plain fact is, and I said to you on that programme when you interviewed me on July 11, that there are a number of scenarios that could play out and one of them certainly would be a collapse and state fracture. 'It was the pace of it that surprised us and I don't think we realised quite what the Taliban were up to. They were weren't really fighting for the cities they eventually captured, they were negotiating for them and I think you'll find a lot of money changed hands as they managed to buy off those who might have fought them.' Sir Nick said the Taliban is now the victim of 'catastrophic success' because the group was 'not expecting to be in government as quickly as they have appeared' and now must figure out how to run a country. Israel is set to begin preparations to administer fourth doses of the coronavirus vaccines as the country deals with soaring cases despite its trail-blazing roll-out of jabs. The country's national coronavirus czar Salman Zarka said the country needs to prepare for a fourth injection, which could be modified to better protect against new variants of the virus. 'Given that that the virus is here and will continue to be here, we also need to prepare for a fourth injection,' he told Kan public radio. 'This is our life from now on, in waves.' Salman Zarka (pictured) said the country needs to prepare for a fourth injection, which could be modified to better protect against new variants of the virus Last month, he told The Times of Israel that people should expect to receive more vaccines to deal with new variants. 'It seems that if we learn the lessons from the fourth wave, we must consider the [possibility of subsequent] waves with the new variants, such as the new one from South America,' he said at the time. 'Thinking about this and the waning of the vaccines and the antibodies, it seems every few months it could be once a year or five or six months we'll need another shot.' He added that he expects Israel to be given out vaccines that had been specially adapted to cope with different variants of the virus by late 2021 or early 2022. While Israel is seeing record case numbers in its fourth wave, the jabs are still protecting against severe illness with Covid deaths running at about half of the level of its second wave. Stats compiled by Oxford University-backed research team Our World in Data shows there were a record 1,892 Covid cases per million people in Israel on Wednesday nearly 0.2 per cent of the entire population in a single day. That was significantly higher than second worst-hit Mongolia, where the rate was 1,119 per million, and double the figures for Kosovo (980), Georgia (976) and Montenegro (909), which rounded out the top five. Israel has become the Covid capital of the world just months after leading the charge on vaccines, according to data that shows jab protection is waning While Israel is seeing record case numbers, the jab is still offering protection against severe illness with Covid deaths running at about half of the level of the second wave, even though fatalities have been rising sharply since last month. There is now growing pressure for Britain to roll out a booster vaccine programme like Israel is doing The figure only looks at one day's worth of tests and Israel's high rate is thought to have been driven up by a huge testing push ahead of schools reopening there. But the country has consistently reported some of the highest infection rates in the world since mid-August amid an unprecedented third wave, despite being one of the most vaccinated nations in the world. Serious cases peaked at 753 last Sunday, with the Health Ministry reporting that 654 people were in a serious condition as of Friday (September 3) afternoon. The positive test rate was recorded at 8.43 per cent on Thursday - the highest it has been during the current wave. Israel has been offering booster jabs to people over the age of 60 since July, and data suggests the scheme has helped to curb rising hospital admissions. The country has since expanded the top-up drive to everyone over 12 who has already had two doses. As of Friday, more than 2.5m people in the country had received a third dose. Britain's independent vaccine advisory panel, said it was waiting on more evidence that these people would benefit from another dose and claimed that the 'vast majority' of Britons still had high protection despite the UK's cases trending in the same direction as Israel's Israel has been offering booster jabs to people over the age of 60 since July and has managed to curb rising hospital admissions in the age group as a result. Professor Eran Segal, a mathematician at the country's Weizmann Institute, tweeted today that hospitalisations had started to fall just two weeks after the top-up campaign started. This graph shows how Covid hospitalisations have started to level off in Israel just two weeks after its booster programme began. When the drive was started hospitalisations were doubling every week. Predictions suggested this would continue (green line). But just two weeks after the jabs were given out actual hospitalisations have slowed (blue line) It comes after the Health Ministry in Israel announced their 'Green Pass' system will expire six months after the holder receives their second or third dose, hinting that a fourth dose may be administered in the next six months. The green pass system encompasses a document which allows the holder entry into certain gatherings and public places, once they have received their coronavirus vaccination, or have recovered from the virus. As of Thursday, the death toll in the country stood at 7,129. A former FBI agent who worked on an investigation into the 9/11 attacks says two of the hijackers likely had help in the US. Danny Gonzalez was involved in the still-classified FBI investigation 'Operation Encore,' which looked into two of the hijackers living in San Diego before the attacks, and whether they had help. He says he believes the attackers had relied on a US-based support network. The revelation comes on the heels of an executive order signed Friday by President Joe Biden, directing the Department of Justice to declassify some documents related to the attacks at the behest of families and survivors affected by the tragedy on the eve of its 20th anniversary. The families are suing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for what they believe was the country's official involvement in the attacks, and say the documents could provide evidence in the suit. The kingdom has denied it had anything to do with the attacks. Fifteen of the 19 September 11 hijackers were Saudi citizens. Some of the records flagged for release include those pertaining to 'Encore.' Former FBI agent Danny Gonzalez (pictured) says two of the 9/11 hijackers he had helped investigate likely had help in the US from a support network of Saudi citizens. The pair were the subject of an investigation called 'Operation Encore.' Nawaf al-Hazmi (left,) and Khalid al-Mihdhar were the 9/11 hijackers living in San Diego in the leadup to the attacks, and were investigated by the FBI after the attacks as part of 'Operation Encore.' '19 hijackers cannot commit 3,000 mass murders by themselves,' Gonzalez told CBS News. 'Operation Encore' investigated Saudis Nawaf al-Hazmi and Khlaid al-Mihdhar, who moved to San Diego in January 2001. They were two of the five hijackers who flew planes into the Pentagon. Gonzales says he believes the pair were helped by a US-based network of Saudis, including Omar al-Bayoumi. Bayoumi was working for the Saudi government when he said he randomly ran into the two at a restaurant in LA, and helped them move to San Diego, where he aided them in finding an apartment and opening a bank account. Al-Hazmi and al-Mihdhar also started flight school nearby. Bayoumi was the subject of a previous FBI investigation which had been closed at that point. The two were among the five hijackers who helped fly planes into the Pentagon (pictured) on September 11 President Joe Biden signed an executive order Friday that ordered a review of the classified documents related to the 9/11 terror attacks. Some of the documents pertain to 'Operation Encore' He had been noted in the 9/11 Commission Report, as an 'unlikely candidate for clandestine involvement with Islamist extremists,' which also said that there was 'no credible evidence that he believed in violent extremism or knowingly aided extremist groups.' The report, released in 2004, found no official connection between the hijackers and the Saudi government. Gonzalez, however, says documents from 'Operation Encore' which began two years after the 9/11 Commission's report, would shed some light on the kind of help al-Hazmi and al-Mihdhar had while in the US. He said he can't get into specifics, per orders from the FBI about revealing certain information related to the operation. The same goes for Ken Williams, also a former FBI agent, who had written a memo warning of potential terrorists taking flight lessons in Arizona before the attacks. Former FBI agent Ken Williams, (pictured) who had issued a memo warning of potential hijackers training at flight school in Arizona before the attacks says he shares Gonzalez' belief, but is unable to reveal more as per FBI orders al-Mihdhar (foreground in the yellow shirt) seen passing through Dulles International Airport in Virginia, shortly before ha boarded American Airlines Flight 77, which crashed into the Pentagon on September 11, 2001 'The evidence is there. I've seen it. But I can't get into specifics because of the protective order,' Williams told CBS. 'I can't sit on the sidelines when I know the truth,' Gonzalez said. Biden's executive order gives a timeline of up to six months for the release of the documents. His decision came after he had been told last month by nearly 1,800 Americans impacted by the terror attacks - including victims' family members, first responders and survivors - not to come to any of the 20th anniversary events unless he declassified documents that potentially show Saudi government links to the September 11, 2001 hijackers. His order makes no mention of Saudi Arabia. 'When I ran for president, I made a commitment to ensuring transparency regarding the declassification of documents on the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on America,' Biden said in a statement. 'As we approach the 20th anniversary of that tragic day, I am honoring that commitment.' The Twin Towers are seen on fire minutes after commercial airplanes were crashed into them. Some families and survivors affected by the attack are suing Saudi Arabia, saying the country had official involvement in 9/11, and are seeking more evidence that could aid them in the suit Biden's move could spare him the embarrassment of being snubbed by victims' family members at memorial events, which will take place next Saturday in New York, D.C. and Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Biden is expected to go to New York, but the White House hasn't made those plans official. Brett Eagleson, who lost his father Bruce in the Twin Towers attacks, and has been an advocate for the families, indicated they would stay skeptical until the documents are released. 'We think President Biden deserves credit where credit is due. He's the first president to publicly embrace and acknowledge the 9/11 community's struggle. We are cautiously optimistic that we will get the documents we need, however our guard is still up,' Eagleson told DailyMail.com Friday by phone. 'The Biden administration is asking that we trust that they will do the right thing. We are hopeful that come 9/11 we will see meaningful document production. If that is not the case, the families will be enraged,' Eagleson added. The executive order cites a specific set of documents that are to be released by the 20th anniversary of the attacks, while other documents could be released within six months. A harrowing statistic has revealed one in ten Covid-infected residents in NSW will end up in hospital, as 20 new venues are revealed as high-risk exposure sites. NSW recorded 1,485 new cases of Covid-19 and three deaths on Sunday as a staggering 1,030 patients battle the deadly virus in hospitals across the state. The latest NSW Health figures have revealed the hospitalisation rate of people infected with coronavirus is 11 per cent, around one in ten people infected. It comes as Premier Gladys Berejiklian warned hospitalisations are only going to increase, amid reports case numbers could skyrocket to beyond 2,000 a day. The figures come as 20 new exposure sites in regional NSW were revealed on Sunday night, including Wyong Hospital Emergency Department waiting room and several supermarkets. A harrowing statistic has revealed one in ten Covid-infected residents in NSW will end up in hospital with the hospitalisation rate hitting 11 per cent (pictured, a worker enters an aged care facility in Baulkham Hills in July) Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) last week said the state's hospitalisation rate was at a significantly lower 5.5 per cent, however recent figures tell a different story PERCENTAGE OF HOSPITALISATIONS BY AGE GROUP 0-4: 4 per cent 5-11: 2 per cent 12-17: 3 per cent 18-29: 6 per cent 30-39: 8 per cent 40-49: 11 per cent 50-59: 16 per cent 60-69: 21 per cent 70-79: 30 per cent 80+: 51 per cent Source: NSW Health Advertisement In the previous NSW Health Covid-19 report in the period up to August 14, hospitalisation rates were at 12 per cent. Ms Berejiklian last week said the state's hospitalisation rate was at a significantly lower 5.5 per cent, however the latest figures tell a different story. The report stated that the greater figure was due to the delay between a person becoming ill with the virus and becoming sick enough to require hospitalisation. The report explained that because cases in the current outbreak have a median of 11 days between the onset of the virus and death, hospitalisations and subsequent deaths are under-represented. That rate is significantly higher for those in older age brackets. The premier said her priority for the immediate future was ensuring health services didn't collapse under increasing hospitalisations and intensive care requirements. 'In the first instance I want to make sure that every single citizen understands the plans we have in place for the next few weeks when the hospitalisation numbers are going to increase and when ICU capacity will also need to be stretched,' Ms Berejiklian said during her Covid update on Sunday. The state leader said she would provide further information and modelling on the soaring hospitalisation rate as soon as she had acquired it. In the previous NSW Health Covid-19 report in the period up to August 14, hospitalisation rates were at 12 per cent, around one in ten infected with the virus (pictured, an ambulance leaves an aged care home in Kingswood in May 2020) The premier said on Sunday her priority for the immediate future was ensuring health services didn't collapse under increasing hospitalisations and intensive care requirements (pictured, a nurse administers a Covid vaccine in Redfern on Saturday) 'I want to stress that when these figures come out they are only as good as that day. It will give people a good indication of what we are expecting, what we are prepared for,' she said. Residents have been warned daily Covid cases were likely to peak within the 'next week or two' while health services will bear the brunt of hospitalisations and intensive care requirements in October. It was announced on Sunday that three children under 12 are fighting for their lives in Sydney hospitals - including a baby on a ventilator. The infant who requires ventilation is believed to be the youngest person to ever be placed in ICU with Covid in Australia. A nine-year-old child also requires ventilation while a third, believed to be under 12, is being treated with a hi-flow CPAP machine to help them breathe. All three children have underlying health conditions which may strongly contribute to the severity of the virus. Covid generally does not cause serious illness in young children. The worrying statistic comes as twenty new venues were added to the state's ever-expanding list of Covid-19 exposure sites. Dubbo, a regional city nearly 400km from Sydney's CBD, was hardest-hit by the new list with eleven new venues announced as high-risk sites. A Coles in Dubbo (pictured), a regional city nearly 400km from Sydney's CBD was attended by a positive case of Covid-19 on twelve occasions in the last month Ted's Milk Bar (pictured) a takeaway in Dubbo has been deemed a high-risk site after it was attended by a positive case on Sunday 29 August from 8am to 8pm Anyone who visited a popular Aldi, Big W, Coles, petrol station and pharmacy in the area have been deemed casual contacts of the virus and ordered to get tested and isolate until a negative result is received. The Dubbo Square has also been traversed by a positive Covid case over three days, as well as a Centrelink just 200 metres away. A busy Coles in Liverpool in Sydney's western suburbs was attended by a Covid-infected person for eight hours last weekend. In South Nowra, on the state's south coast, a Bunnings has been deemed a high-risk site with the listed time classified as 'undefined' by NSW Health. FIND THE LATEST EXPOSURE SITES NEAR YOU A branch of the same hardware store in Taylors Beach, in the coastal town of Port Stephens has also been flagged by NSW Health. Anyone who visited either of the Bunnings on the times listed has been advised to get tested immediately and isolate until a negative test result is received. NSW Health has deemed any person who visited the Cellarbrations bottle shop in Shoal Bay, more than a two hour drive from Sydney, a casual contact of the virus. The popular bottle shop in the NSW Hunter region was attended by a positive case of the virus on two occasions last week. The waiting room at the Wyong Hospital Emergency Room in Hamlyn Terrace was also attended by a person infected with coronavirus. A Big W (pictured) in the Orana shopping mall in Dubbo has been added to a late-night list of high-risk sites by NSW Health In South Nowra, on the state's south coast, a Bunnings (pictured) has been deemed a high-risk site with the listed time classified as 'undefined' by health authorities Those who were in the waiting room on the night of September 2 is now considered a close contact of the virus and must get tested and isolate for 14 days. A Subway in Thornton, 20 kilometres from Newcastle, has also been put on high alert after it was attended by a Covid-positive person. There are 1,030 people hospitalised with coronavirus across the state, with 175 people in intensive care and 72 people who require ventilators. There are 11,000 patients receiving Covid treatment at home. The victims of Covid in the 24 hours to Sunday included a woman in her 50s from western Sydney, a western Sydney woman in her 70s with significant comorbidities and a man in his 70s who died at Liverpool hospital, also with underlying health conditions. This is the moment Boris Johnson told Tory activists in 2019 that he wanted to exclude Nicola Sturgeon from the Cop26 climate change summit. Speaking at an event at the Conservative Party conference, the Prime Minister said: 'I don't mind seeing a Saltire or two but I want to see the Union flag and I don't want to see Nicola Sturgeon anywhere near it.' Video footage of the PM's remarks resurfaced as it was claimed Downing Street is seeking to cut Ms Sturgeon out of the summit to prevent her using it as an advert for her Scottish independence campaign. Leaked messages suggested advisers at Number 10 and the Cabinet Office have been plotting to sideline the role of Scotland's First Minster at the global gathering which is set to take place in Glasgow in November. According to meeting notes and WhatsApp messages, strategists have been trying to work out how to prevent the summit from becoming an 'advert' for Scottish independence. Advisers at No 10 and the Cabinet Office have been seeking to side-line Ms Sturgeon at this year's climate change conference, according to leaked messages Mocked up versions of the messages sent by advisers at No10 and the Cabinet Office Mr Johnson told the BBC last month that he wanted Ms Sturgeon to play a role at the summit. He said: 'It's a huge undertaking by the whole of the UK. I hope very much that the First Minister, along with all her colleagues around the UK, at whatever level in government, will evangelise, will exhort everybody she represents to do the needful.' But one adviser's message referring to Ms Sturgeon, seen by The Independent, read: 'This can be labelled as a role for her [as one of the UK's leaders] but avoids her taking centre stage.' Another said: 'We can't let this be used as an advert for an independence campaign.' The notes also document efforts to ensure that the Union flag is displayed as much as possible at the summit. Responding to the reports, Ms Sturgeon said anyone who allows politics to get in the way of tackling climate change would be abdicating responsibility. She wrote on Twitter: 'All that matters is that COP26 delivers an outcome to meet the Paris Agreement of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees. 'We must work together and maximise contributions towards that. 'Anyone - me or PM - who allowed politics to get in way would be abdicating that responsibility.' Boris Johnson's convoy was pictured this afternoon making its way to Balmoral Castle to visit the Queen Mr Johnson should 'neutralise' the First Minster by including other devolved leaders where possible, the aides said Cop26 is due to take place in Glasgow for two weeks from October 31, and will see global leaders descend on the city. But the leaked messages suggest advisers are planning to ensure Mr Johnson does not share a platform with Ms Sturgeon during the event. Mr Johnson should 'neutralise' the First Minster by including other devolved leaders where possible, they reportedly said. A New Jersey labor union has apologized for 'poor judgment' after it left a coffin with a picture of a toe-tagged dead body outside of an elementary school last week - causing the furious school superintendent to knock it over and cover it up. Liuna Local 77, which represents construction workers, was protesting the Edison Township school district's decision to hire a contractor that would 'only hire workers of Macedonian and Serbian decent' for a $9 million job, the union said Friday. They left a coffin right next to Lincoln Elementary School's welcome sign with a banner featuring a photo of a dead body's toe-tagged feet and the words, 'Irresponsible contractors are killing our middle class wages.' In video captured by Edison mayoral candidate Keith Hahn, school Superintendent Bernard Bragen walks toward the coffin and topples it onto the grass. Liuna Local 77 left a coffin with a banner of a toe-tagged dead body outside of Lincoln Elementary in Edison Township, New Jersey in protest of a contracting firm hired by the school In video captured by Edison mayoral candidate Keith Hahn, school Superintendent Bernard Bragen walks toward the coffin and topples it onto the grass Bragen says he tried to get the union to remove it. 'They said, 'tough s***,''' he told NJ Advance Media. 'It's inappropriate for children to have a casket, especially 5 and 6-year-olds who are returning to school after probably some of the most traumatic times we've had in the last 18 months,' Bragen added, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hahn said he also had a hard time reasoning with the union. 'They didn't want to hear it. They insisted on leaving it there,' Hahn said. 'Parents were very angry.' The union had previously installed a giant inflatable rat outside of the elementary school on Wednesday, the first day of classes, but they say students were never exposed to the rat or to the coffin. (Scabby the Rat is a popular symbol used by labor unions engaged in feuds with businesses.) 'All of these things were set up before school had started and the coffin and banner were down before students arrived. How do we know this? Because at 8.21 a school official actually knocked down the display which was never put back up before its removal,' union business manager Carl E. Styles wrote on Facebook. Union business manager Carl E. Styles apologized Friday on Facebook, saying they exercised 'poor judgement' and that he agrees the coffin was inappropriate for a school setting The union says it was protesting the hiring of Pal-Pro Builders for a $9 million expansion of Lincoln Elementary. The union claims the firm doesn't hire local workers 'Regarding the coffin's use as part of the protest. Some have argued that its use was inappropriate for an elementary school setting. We agree and have begun a review of the process and will work to ensure we don't make this mistake again.' The union was protesting the district's hiring of Pal-Pro Builders for a $9 million expansion at the school. The union claims Pal-Pro does not hire local workers. 'I don't know that Pal-Pro did or didn't hire anybody,' Bragen said. 'They never afforded me the opportunity to have a conversation.' School Board President Jerry Shi told Patch that the expansion project for the school 'went through the legally required open public bidding process,' and by law, the school district is required to hire the lowest bidder. 'The Board Attorney reviewed all of the bids and found the Pal Pro Builder's bid was the lowest valid bid and hence the contract was awarded,' Shi said. Liuna Local 77 has received a slew of negative reviews on Facebook after the incident. 'One of the most disgusting acts out "adults" I have ever observed. Placing a coffin in front of an elementary school because you do not understand how to compete,' said Jack McPherson in a review left Saturday afternoon. Liuna Local 77 has received a slew of negative reviews on Facebook after Friday's stunt 'Leadership should step down and members should publicly denounce what happened. Whether the kids were there is irrelevant. The "reverend" who leads this group of animals is a disgrace to the cloth.' 'UNION LOSERS INTIMIDATING CHILDREN FOR NOT GETTING YOUR WAY,' wrote Rich Konopka on Sunday morning. Hahn, the mayoral candidate, said he's not necessarily against the union's efforts, but that he was worried about the stunt's effect on students. 'I'm a retired law enforcement officer. I'm not anti-labor union. But someone needs to stand up and tell them that what they are doing is wrong,' he said In its apology, the union added: 'We think it is not good to expose young children to the imagery and we also think it distracts from the issue-at-hand - that a contractor hired in Edison is using what appears to be discriminatory hiring practices. We believe workers should not be discriminated against based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or any other arbitrary standards and we are willing to fight to ensure workers are protected.' Lauren Boebert could lose her seat in the House of Representative as a new proposed Colorado district map moves the congresswoman's home into a more liberal district currently represented by Democratic Representative Joe Neguse. The nonpartisan Colorado Independent Redistricting Commissions released its first map outlining the new congressional districts based on the 2020 Census Bureau data. It previously released a sketch in June based off population estimates. The new map would lump in the entire northern part of the current 3rd district, represented by Boebert, into Neguse's 2nd district. Not only would this move a huge group of Boebert's constituents into a blue district, it would also mean Boebert's home is now located in the 2nd district. The Constitution only requires House members to live in the state they represent, not the exact district, so Boebert could decide to run again in the 3rd District. If she plans to run in 2022 for the 2nd district seat, however, Boebert would now face a tough race in a solidly-Democratic district. Boebert, a 34-year-old mother of four boys, lives in Silt, Colorado, which is in Garfield county a district currently in the more northern section of the 3rd congressional district that would be swallowed into the 2nd district if the new proposal is accepted. The version of the redistricted map splits the state into four safe Democratic seats, three safe Republican seats and a new swing seat just north of Denver where Democratic voters outnumbered Republicans by just 1.9 percentage points in the 2020 Senate election. A proposed redistricted map in Colorado would move GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert's home into Democratic Rep. Joe Neguse's district - likely leading to a head-to-head in a blue district. Shown above are the current districts represented by the two lawmakers The new map based on the 2020 census results would take a large chunk of the northern part of Boebert's district and lump it into the 2nd district, represented by Neguse Boebert, a staunch Trump ally and 2nd Amendment defender, was elected to Congress in November 2020 to represent Colorado's 3rd Congressional District. Neguse, 37, who has served in Congress since 2019, was among the House Democrats who helped manage the second impeachment of former President Donald Trump. The Democrat also immediately began using the proposed redistricting map as a donation push as the potential grows for him to run against Boebert. 'So, if the redistricting map released tonight holds, looks like I may be running for re-election against . . . Lauren Boebert,' Neguse tweeted Friday along with a link to donate to his campaign with the prompt: 'Join our team today'. Boebert's team did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the proposed map and prospect of going up against Neguse. Neguse immediately used the prospect of the new map to fundraise off off potentially running against Boebert in 2022 The congresswoman and her husband Jayson own Shooter Grill in Rifle, Colorado also located in Garfield County. The restaurant was opened in 2013 and encourages staff members to openly carry firearms. Boebert claims she obtained a concealed carry permit after a man was 'beat to death by another man's hands ... outside of my restaurant', at which time she also began encouraging servers to open carry. Now that the Colorado panel has issued a redistricting plan, a series of hearings will take place to debate the proposal and collect suggestions for possible changes. Boebert isn't the only incumbent Republican facing complications with redistricting. Representative Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, a moderate Trump critic, could lose his district altogether as Democrats, who are in charge of the map drawing in the state, proposed a map that would swallow up his district into two surrounding blue districts. A first-time hunter caught an almost 800pounds alligator on Saturday in Warren County, Mississippi. Only 920 alligator possession permits are granted every year in the state of Mississippi, and Ty Powell, 28, of Columbia, was lucky enough to get the permit thousands apply for in his first year applying. But Powell's luck didn't end there, he was able to wrangle a 13-ft long 787-pound alligator with the help of other four experienced hunters. Once a person is drawn for alligator tags, they are allowed to hunt only two alligators in the season, and one has to be under 7ft. After a year, the permit is 'tagged out' and hunters need to apply - and hope they are drawn - again. Powell told DailyMail.com that he enjoyed his first time hunting alligators so much, that he will apply again for the permit next year. 'I believe the adrenaline rush kicked in so much I wasnt scared. 'Amazed would be a good word the first time he came up to the top of the water and I got a good look at him, and after over an hour battle with him dragging us up and down the river I was very worn out. 'It took five grown men to roll him into the boat, after that we just floated down the river a good ways to catch our breath, he had all five of us tired at that point,' Powell said about the experience. Ty Powell (pictured), a first-time hunter from Columbia, Mississippi, wrangled a nearly 800- pound alligator on his first hunting trip with fellow hunters Adam Steen, Bubba Steen, Kent Britton, and Eli Frierson The group believed the 787-pounds alligator was the smallest of the two they had chosen to hunt. They only realized how big it was when they took the animal to a processor He credited the other four men, who guided him through his first time hunting alligators. On Friday night, fellow hunters Kent Britton, Adam Steen and Bubba Steen had captured another beastly alligator - one that was 12ft8in and weighed over 500 pounds, USA Today reported. They were on the Yazoo River, in Redwood, where they had spotted more than 15 alligators. The group had had two beasts in their sights for over a month, and had already killed the one they thought was the bigger of the two. Powell and Eli Frierson, of Starkville, joined the hunters on their mission to capture the second alligator on Saturday night. When they were at the spot they had marked, however, they found three small gators, so they decided to go up the river and explore around where the other gator had been seen. Eventually, they found their target. One of the men in the group used a rod and reel to capture the alligator and gave it to Powell, who was inside the boat, but the alligator got off. 'It's a little bit of helplessness,' 'You don't know if you're going to get another chance at him. 'When you feel that line loosen up real quick, it's an 'Oh, no' feeling,' Powell told USA Today. But Bubba Steen was sure they would get a second chance, he had been in situations like that before. 'About four or five years ago, me and Eli were on the river and had one. 'He got off six times. We stayed after him all night. 'We've had them get away before, but usually if you just stay after them and eventually he'll make a mistake. I said, 'Let's stay after him and we'll get him,' Bubba Steen said. Eli Frierson (far left), Adam Steen (left), Bubba Steen (center), Kent Britton (right) and Ty Powell (far right) holding the 13ft2in alligator They got their second chance then, and they were hoping for one now too. Three of the men had the alligator hooked, but they had one broken rod, one broken reel, and only one good rod on it. After three hours of fighting, the hunters were able to move the gator closer to the boat, where they secured the animal. It took the five hunters another 30 minutes to move it inside the boat. They just then realized this was a much bigger alligator, and when they took it to the processor, they discovered it was 13ft2in and weighed 787 pounds. Its belly girth was 66in and its tail girth was 48in. He could have been even bigger, they told USA Today. 'We were all in shock,' 'He was also missing part of his tail. I know 13-2 is huge, but at one time he was bigger than that,' 'It was the hunt of a lifetime. These four guys that were with me, I can't thank them enough for helping me get that gator,' Powell said. Powell is an avid hunter and says he has loved the activity since a very young age. Adult film actor Ron Jeremy leveraged the novelty of his celebrity to meet and often isolate women who he raped and sexually assaulted, using the same tactics for years, according to grand jury testimony from 21 women that was unsealed Saturday. 'Wouldn't it be funny if we got a picture and an autograph from him?' one woman, identified only as Jane Doe 8, said she remembered telling her friend when they saw Jeremy in 2013 at a West Hollywood bar and grill. He would sexually assault her minutes later, testified the woman, one of several who said their attacks came in the same small bathroom. 'I was like, wow, you know, this is Ron Jeremy, I mean, I was kind of impressed. I'm like he's - I dont want to say 'celebrity,' but you know, he kind of was,' said another woman, Jane Doe 7, when Jeremy came to the door of the Hollywood hotel room she was sharing with friends, where the porn actor would rape her soon after, according to her testimony. A grand jury has indicted adult film actor Ron Jeremy on more than 30 counts of sexual assault involving 21 women and girls across more than two decades, authorities said. Jeremy is pictured in court in June 2020 when he was arraigned One woman, identified only as Jane Doe 8, said she remembered telling her friend when they saw Jeremy in 2013 at a West Hollywood bar, alleged to be Rainbow Bar and Grill Jeremy, 68, whose legal name is Ronald Jeremy Hyatt, pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of sexual assault, including 12 counts of rape, when the Los Angeles County grand jury returned an indictment against him on August 25. He has been in jail since his arrest in June 2020. His attorney, Stuart Goldfarb, has said he is 'innocent of all the charges' and they would prove it. An email seeking further comment from Goldfarb on Saturday was not immediately returned. Nicknamed 'The Hedgehog,' Jeremy has been among the best-known and most prolific performers in the porn industry for decades, and became a recognizable pop cultural novelty through reality shows, public appearances and music videos. He has long been a magnet for seekers of autographs and selfies, which is how most of the women and girls aged 15 to 51 he is accused of assaulting first met him. This is the filthy, cockroach-infested Hollywood apartment of accused serial rapist and former porn star Ron Jeremy, where another woman claimed Jeremy tried to grope her The woman who met Jeremy in September 2017 said she went to his apartment to use the restroom and was shocked by what she saw. The woman says she isn't surprised about the allegations against Jeremy because he was so sexually aggressive with her and tried to grope her in her car (pictured) Photos obtained by DailyMail.com show Jeremy's lounge filled with dozens of boxes, while the kitchen sides were filled with paperwork, used candles and empty bottles The woman said: 'There was trash piled up, old porn memorabilia stuffed in overflowing boxes. His kitchen table looked like an unkempt outside porch, there were plants that had grown around the table legs and into the floor' Some didn't even recognize him initially, but they came into his orbit because of the air of fame around him. A woman, now 33, who Jeremy is charged with sexually assaulting when she was 15 in 2004 said she approached him at a rave he was hosting in Santa Clarita, California. 'I didn't know who he was, but I just - everyone told me he was famous so I was excited to meet a celebrity,' said the woman, now 33, known as Jane Doe 5. After they met, he invited her backstage, where he asked her if she wanted to see 'something cool,' then lifted her in the air, put his hand under her skirt and molested her, she said. Many women described Jeremy using the same methods in the same places, including the restaurant and his filthy, cockroach-infested Hollywood apartment. The carpet in the lounge looks as old as Jeremy's early porn movies and the walls are not much cleaner The woman added: 'I honestly thought he was on that show Hoarders. It was disgusting, I was so shocked. You could hardly open the front door' There's barely enough room to move around in the apartment due to the junk left on the floor which is black with dirt. Pictured: Jeremy's apartment building Franklin Towers He was a popular regular at the Rainbow Bar and Grill on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, where he had permission to use the employee bathroom. He would allegedly lure women there by offering to show them the kitchen where the restaurant made its famous pizzas, or by telling them he knew a bathroom they could use when the public restrooms were closed after last call. He would follow them into the small space, lock the door behind them, use his considerable size to block them from leaving, then rape them or engage in other sexual assault, several women testified. Jane Doe 8 said before her assault she told Jeremy they were staying at the Loew's Hollywood Hotel, but did not tell him the room number. He appeared at the door the next day. 'I have connections all over this town,' she remembered him saying when she asked how she found them. She had not told her friend, Jane Doe 7, about the assault, and failed in her attempts to get her out of the room, where Jeremy would rape her, according to their testimony. Several women said Jeremy asked them to write a note about their experience on a napkin of scrap of paper in what prosecutors called an attempt to gain evidence of consent after the fact. The women, under duress and looking to get away, often complied. Jeremy also gave some victims cash after the attacks, for what prosecutors said was similar reasons. 'He just out of nowhere just tossed money at me,' said a woman who got a $100 bill from Jeremy after she said he raped her in 2019 the Rainbow Bar and Grill bathroom. Sabrina Alvarado, who has modeled for Playboy and is better known as Marcela Latinbabe, is one of the 21 women who said Jeremy groped her the Exxxotica Expo in New Jersey, in 2015, when they first met Two of the 21 women, Lianne Young (left) and Elle Hill (right) claim Jeremy either tried to attack or rape them According to Alana Evans, the head of the adult performers union, numerous women have complained of Jeremy running his hands up their skirt and trying to penetrate them without consent in the past Another woman, property Management worker Charity Carson-Hawke (right) told Rolling Stone that she had been friends with Jeremy for years before he allegedly attempted to grope her when she visited him at his hotel on May 4, 2020 The woman's boyfriend and brother had warned her to stay away from Jeremy earlier in the evening when she asked who he was, but she took a picture with him anyway when she saw several others doing it. She testified that she got into the car with them holding the cash and said, 'This came from that guy you guys told me to stay away from. He just raped me in the bathroom.' The woman went to the police about an hour later, becoming one of the few who reported their assaults immediately. Some said Jeremy's status as a porn performer kept them from going to authorities for years. 'He's a celebrity and what he's known for is having sex with people on camera for money,' said Jane Doe 7, who like many of the victims came forward years later only after Jeremy was arrested last year. 'I thought there is no way anyone is going to believe me, and I just wanted to get out of there and forget all about it.' However, a former bar manager at the legendary Rainbow Bar & Grill in West Hollywood has jumped to the defense of the accused sex predator, saying: 'Yes he's a groper but he's no rapist.' Eliot Preschutti, 46, was the bar manager at the legendary Rainbow Bar & Grill in West Hollywood where porn star Ron Jeremy would frequent. The men are pictured together at the bar in an undated photo Preschutti ran the famous rock bar on the Sunset Strip for two years from 2017-2019 and claims Jeremy came in four nights a week without fail Eliot Preschutti, 46, ran the famous rock bar on the Sunset Strip for two years from 2017-2019 and claims Jeremy came in four nights a week without fail. He said he spent hours with the adult star and witnessed first hand how he was mobbed by dozens of female fans almost every night. 'I saw all the people that come toward him, the people that flock around him,' he said. 'I know him a lot more than most people do and while I can't speak for any of the situations that he's being accused of, I would just assume it's just another transparent attempt to take him down. 'I'm not his best friend, but I've had hours and hours of conversation with him and seven to eight hours, four times a week watching his behavior. 'I've seen the guy in action, he just doesn't need to do this, to rape women. There's plenty of women making themselves available to him.' CNN anchor Jim Acosta blasted Fox News rival Tucker Carlson as a human manure spreader for floating a race baiting conspiracy theory that the Biden administration was relocating Afghan refugees in swing states in order to help Democrats win future elections. 'Over on Fox, human manure spreader Tucker Carlson has floated yet another race baiting conspiracy theory that tens of thousands of Afghan refugees are being sent over to this country in order to change the outcome of elections,' Acosta, who was CNN's chief White House correspondent during the Trump administration, said on Saturday. DailyMail.com has reached out to Fox News seeking a response. On Twitter, Carlson's defenders slammed Acosta. CNN anchor Jim Acosta (left) blasted Fox News rival Tucker Carlson (right) as a human manure spreader for floating a race baiting conspiracy theory that the Biden administration was relocating Afghan refugees in swing states in order to help Democrats win future elections An Afghan refugee holds her two-week-old son Ahmad before boarding a bus after her arrival at Dulles International Airport in Dulles, Virginia on Thursday Josh Mandel, who is running for the Republican nomination for a US Senate seat from Ohio, tweeted that Acosta 'cares more about bringing in Afghan men with child brides than he does taking care of homeless veterans who served OUR country.' Mandel commented that Carlson is 'spot on.' 'This ain't about humanity, it's about elections,' Mandel tweeted. Tim Young tweeted: 'Jim Acosta doesnt have Trump to try to leach cash off of anymore... so he's now trying to keep his career alive by calling Tucker Carlson names... pathetic.' Jay Caruso tweeted: 'Afghanistan is still a mess, the president has not "shut down the virus," and the economy is stalling but it's so good to know that Jim is on top of what really matters to Americans - what Tucker Carlson is saying.' Brigitte Gabriel tweeted: 'The reason Joe Biden supports bringing refugees from Afghanistan to America but not from Cuba to America, PROVES that it's all about votes. Jim @Acosta cares more about bringing in Afghan men with child brides than he does taking care of homeless veterans who served OUR country.@TuckerCarlson spot on. This aint about humanity, its about elections. https://t.co/uhEcXBKWSf Josh Mandel (@JoshMandelOhio) September 5, 2021 Jim Acosta doesnt have Trump to try to leach cash off of anymore... so he's now trying to keep his career alive by calling Tucker Carlson names... pathetic. Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) September 5, 2021 Afghanistan is still a mess, the president has not "shut down the virus," and the economy is stalling but it's so good to know that Jim is on top of what really matters to Americans what Tucker Carlson is saying. https://t.co/NT0RIK88RO Jay Caruso (@JayCaruso) September 5, 2021 The reason Joe Biden supports bringing refugees from Afghanistan to America but not from Cuba to America, PROVES that it's all about votes. Jim Acosta is lying and Tucker Carlson is telling the truth. It's about the future votes, not helping the people. Brigitte Gabriel (@ACTBrigitte) September 5, 2021 Jim @Acosta wishes he a fraction of a percentage of the audience Tucker has. He is jealous. Maybe if you stop lying people would watch you too Jim. Melissa Tate (@TheRightMelissa) September 5, 2021 'Jim Acosta is lying and Tucker Carlson is telling the truth. It's about the future votes, not helping the people.' Melissa Tate tweeted that Acosta 'wishes he a fraction of a percentage of the audience Tucker has. 'He is jealous. Maybe if you stop lying people would watch you too Jim.' During his monologue, Acosta accused Carlson and top Republican figures of posing a threat to American democracy, citing the MAGA riot at the US Capitol on January 6. Acosta also played comments by House Rep. Madison Cawthorn, the Republican from North Carolina, who warned of bloodshed if our election systems continue to be rigged. Many Republicans believe that former President Donald Trump was the real winner of the November election, though the courts have rejected claims of voter fraud. Acosta also hit out at the new heartbeat bill that became law in Texas, effectively banning abortions after the sixth week of pregnancy. Acosta said the Republican Party was 'sort of like an American Taliban.' 'It is starting to look like a combination of theocracy and thugocracy,' Acosta said. 'The leaders of this MAGAban movement, people Marjorie [Taylor Greene], Madison and Tucker, they're not counting on an intelligence failure or a lack of planning on your part. Carlson accused the Biden administration and Democrats of a partisan power play by directing newly arrived Afghan refugees to critical swing states that decide presidential elections, including Pennsylvania, Florida, and Georgia 'They're counting on a lack of courage to stand up for your rights in this country. Does that ring a bell?' Acosta added: The anti-immigration, anti-democratic, anti-women's rights forces have all sought these kinds of changes for years, even decades, in this country. Their operation to change America forever is well underway. Acosta was reacting to a monologue delivered by Carlson during Wednesday nights broadcast of his nightly talk show on the Fox News Channel. Carlson accused the Biden administration and Democrats of a partisan power play by directing newly arrived Afghan refugees to critical swing states that decide presidential elections, including Pennsylvania, Florida, and Georgia. The Fox News host said that the official State Department web site includes a list of communities that will welcome Afghan refugees who were airlifted out of the country during the recent evacuation of American forces. 'And if you look at that list long enough, you may notice something, especially if you cover politics,' Carlson said. 'You may notice that these communities include an awful lot of swing districts and swing states all over the United States. 'It's not just Virginia. Three of these communities are in Texas. The state the Democratic Party has tried to flip for years. 'Now it's their first priority. One of these cities is Austin, one is Dallas and another is Houston. 'The State Department has also urged Afghans to go to the state of Pennsylvania. Does Pennsylvania need more people? Probably not. 'A lot of unemployment between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. But Pennsylvania is also a state that Donald Trump won in 2016. 'So maybe they should go there.' Carlson named several other cities and states that are expected to absorb Afghans, including: 'Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Nevada; Colorado; they're also on the list. 'Are you surprised by this? Funny.' Refugees are led through the departure terminal to a bus that will take them from the Dulles International Airport to a refugee processing center on Tuesday Evacuees who fled Afghanistan walk through the terminal to board buses at Dulles International Airport on Tuesday Workers with the US State Department guide refugees to board a bus at Dulles International Airport on Tuesday Carlson also said he interviewed a Wisconsin congressman who claimed that some 2,000 Afghan nationals who arrived in his state were not special immigrant visa holders. A military base in Wisconsin is also being asked to host 13,000 Afghans, according to CBS News. 'Is the governor of Wisconsin aware of this, what are the people of Wisconsin think of it? Nobody cares what they think. It's not their country. 'Oh, but it is, and you should be nervous watching this.' Carlson added: 'In a truly democratic system, in a functioning democracy, the people who wrecked Afghanistan and humiliated the United States and sapped American power maybe forever would be punished badly in the midterms. 'They would lose power over this. They'd be held accountable. And they know that, so they're doing everything they can to avoid accountability, to avoid an election they will lose. 'They are flooding swing districts with refugees they know will become loyal Democratic Party voters. 'They're opening the southern border to more than two hundred thousand illegal migrants per month. That's the equivalent of nearly two Afghan airlifts every 30 days.' Australia is set to adopt a tough new strategy to combat China after withstanding an ongoing campaign of 'economic coercion' over the past 18 months. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, in a speech to the Australian National University's Crawford Leadership Forum on Monday, outlined what he calls the 'China-plus' strategy. It urged businesses to diversify into new markets and become less reliant on the country's largest trading partner. The strategic economic pivot away from the increasingly belligerent and authoritarian nation also urges Australian firms to find new supply chains outside of China. The once rosy bilateral relationship marked by Panda diplomacy and close business links has crumbled in the wake of the Covid pandemic, with China imposing increasingly punitive sanctions on Australian products. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg (pictured) outlined a new strategy to combat China after withstanding an ongoing campaign of economic coercion over the past 18 months The strategic economic pivot away from the increasingly belligerent and authoritarian nation also urges Australian firms to find new supply chains outside of China (pictured, Chinese military during war games in Moscow) Value of Australian agriculture exports to China: Beef: $2.8billion or 25 per cent Wool: $1.9billion or 77 per cent Lamb: $1.2billion or 30 per cent Fruit and nuts: $1billion or 40 per cent Seafood: $770million or 58 per cent Dairy: $661million or 26 percent Cotton: $611million or 64 per cent Wheat: $568million or 15 percent Barley: $550million or 54 per cent Hides and skins: $420million or 85 per cent Oilseeds: $374million or 16 per cent Live animals: $356million or 16 per cent Sugar: $46million or 3 per cent Vegetables: $39million or 3 per cent Total: $12.6billion or 32 percent Source: RaboBank Advertisement 'Going forward, businesses need to be aware that the world has changed and that this creates greater uncertainty and risk,' Mr Frydenberg said. 'In this respect, they should always be looking to diversify their markets, and not overly rely on any one country. Essentially adopting a "China plus" strategy.' 'And in the same way that governments are investing in economic resilience, so too, should Australian businesses from cyber risks to supply chains and everything in between.' The dramatic unravelling of Australia-China diplomatic ties came in April last year after the Scott Morrison government called for an independent international inquiry into the origins of the Covid-19 pandemic which first appeared in Wuhan at the end of 2019. The call for transparency infuriated Beijing's opaque communist leadership who quickly sought to punish Australia for speaking out and for banning Chinese 5G firm Huawei from participating in the national broadband network in 2018 over national security concerns. Arbitrary bans and trade tariffs were imposed on billions of dollars worth of key Australian exports to China including barley, wine, beef, cotton, seafood, coal, cobber and timber. Although Beijing's bully tactics have affected Australian exporters, many sectors have already managed to make up the lost revenue in other markets including India, Japan and Indonesia. Mr Frydenberg said the move to target Australia's economy has 'robbed Chinese consumers of premium Australian wine, seafood and other goods'. The 'China-plus' strategy urges Australian businesses to diversify into new markets and become less reliant on the country's largest trading partner, China (pictured, Fortescue Metals Group's Christmas Creek iron ore operations in the Pilbara region) Scott Morrison (pictured right) and the Australian government are locked in trade feud with Chinese President Xi Jinping (pictured left) and his Communist Party administration Arbitrary bans and trade tariffs were imposed on billions of dollars worth of key Australian exports to China including barley, wine, beef, cotton, seafood, coal, cobber and timber (pictured, a shelf full of Australia's Penfolds wine) 'We have faced increasing pressure to compromise on our core values. And when we have stood firm, as we always will, we have been subjected to economic coercion. 'Our task is to prepare for and manage this competition. And in this new world, economic resilience is key. Key to our strategic interests and key to our economic interests our economic and security interests increasingly overlap.' While he will acknowledge the rise of China has 'helped to lift more than 800 million people out of poverty' and been a major contributor to the global economy, he will say that Australians can no longer rely on the lucrative market. 'More recently China has also been defined by another feature,' Mr Frydenberg said. 'A more confident and assertive China. A China that is willing to use its economic weight as a source of political pressure. 'It offers economic "carrots" through initiatives such as the Belt and Road. And it threatens economic consequences for perceived misdeeds.' Beef exports to China are worth $2.8billion representing 25 per cent of all Australian overseas sales (pictured, an Australian farmer) Customers buy meat at a market in Shenyang, in China's northeastern Liaoning province on August 10 (pictured) with more than a third of Australian beef imports suspended to the nation in May The treasurer will also point out the parallels with the Soviet Union during the Cold War, but will add that in the modern world things are much more complicated because China is so heavily integrated into the global economy. 'During the Cold War, the Soviet Union was largely cut off from the rest of the world,' he said. 'It did not trade or invest much outside of its sphere of influence.' With heightened strategic competition the 'new reality' facing the globe, Mr Frydenberg said the role of government and businesses was to 'prepare for and manage this competition'. 'In this new world, economic resilience is key key to our strategic interests and key to our economic interests,' he said. Australia is one of almost 130 nations in the world that has China as its biggest trading partner. Seafood exports to China are worth $770million representing 58 per cent of all Australian overseas sales (pictured, fishing boats in Mooloolaba, Queensland) Wine exports to China are worth $1.1billion representing 42 per cent of all Australian overseas sales (pictured, a Cowra vineyard in central west New South Wales) The devastated family of a toddler who vanished without a trace from a rural property are convinced he was abducted as police desperately search for the missing child, seizing a white ute and CCTV from a service station. Anthony 'AJ' Elfalak, three, was with his family as they were getting ready for lunch on Friday morning at their 256ha rural property in Putty, about 150km north-west of Sydney in the Upper Hunter. AJ, who has autism and is non-verbal, was last seen playing on the porch - with his mother saying he was out of her sight for just a matter of seconds. His mother Kelly insisted AJ is 'not a wanderer' and 'never leaves her side', with his father Anthony adding 'a kid doesn't just up and disappear'. In a worrying development on Sunday, with police still scouring the area for clues, a white ute from a nearby property was taken by police as they searched an abandoned shack. Police also seized CCTV footage from a Colo Heights service station, which is a 40 minute drive south from Putty in the direction of Sydney, declaring it a 'site of interest'. The Elfalak family with father Anthony, mother Kelly, AJ (pictured centre) and two of his brothers Police investigate a shack (pictured) about 1km south of the Elfalak's family farm. The shack was derelict and full of rubbish, with police cordoning the property off on Sunday 'I'm his universe. He holds my hand, all day and all night we are together,' the boy's mother told The Australian. She and the boy's father joined the large search party, including police divers, the riot squad, trail bikes, drones and mounted officers, who were searching for the toddler over the weekend. His family even brought in a private helicopter to scour the area as police launched Strikeforce Jaylang to investigate the circumstances of AJ's disappearance. 'He's been taken. If he was around here, I would have found him by now,' Ms Elfalak said. 'I have searched the property... I'm still driving around and I cannot find him. If he was here, he'd be close to the property.' Despite a search party being set up 10 minutes after AJ went missing, with four vehicles soon covering a large radius around the farm, he was nowhere to be found. Ms Elfalak also said she noticed a suspicious white ute driving away from her house in the minutes after AJ vanished. More than 130 SES and police searchers scoured the property on Sunday (pictured) with drones, mounted police, the riot squad and trail bikes all being brought in to help Three-year-old 'AJ' Elfalak (pictured) disappeared from a rural property nearly 72 hours ago - with his family fearing he has been abducted 'I saw it, it was driving really slowly, I thought it was my neighbour's,' Ms Elfalak told The Daily Telegraph. 'He's not a wanderer... he never leaves my side.' She was in the kitchen as AJ played on the porch, while his father was nearby in the yard fixing the chain on his quad bike. AJ was dressed in a grey top and pants with sneakers and is described as being of Mediterranean or Middle Eastern appearance, with short brown hair. Officers on Sunday were seen talking to one of AJ's older brothers - he has three brothers Michael, Patrick and Alexander - in a paddock near the house, with one of the young boys taking detectives on a re-enactment of his brother's disappearance. Alan Hassam - a neighbour and family friend who was helping Mr Elfalak fix his bike also said he spotted the ute. SES search crews (pictured) spent the weekend searching the area for the boy and are set to Monday - with rescuers warning of harsh and unforgiving terrain The ute seized by police as a 'vehicle of interest' on Sunday night (pictured) as they ramped up the hunt for three-year-old AJ He also described the little boy's disappearance as 'out of character', saying he had never wandered off before. The neighbour recalled hearing AJ's mother raise the alarm and then stood up and spotted the vehicle - a white 1987 dual cab Toyota Hilux ute - driving down the road to the property. He said the ute drove along Yengo Drive, 100m from the family's house, before going out to Putty Road - something he found unusual. 'We didn't see it enter. We see every car that enters because it's a dead end... Something's not right. Something doesn't stack up,' he added. Anthony 'AJ' Elfalak (pictured) went missing on Friday leaving his desperate parents fearing he was taken as he had never 'wandered off' before and was always by his mother's side On Sunday evening police seized a white ute from a property about 1km south of the Elfalak house, labelling the car a 'vehicle of interest'. Pictures from the abandoned property show a dingy shack fitted out with old furniture, with the floors strewn with rubbish. Police cordoned off the area and are trying to ascertain if anyone had been staying there as part of their investigation, with 9News reporting it had been declared a crime scene. They have also seized a number of items from the property, amid reports someone had been sleeping rough there. CCTV was also pulled on Friday from a service station at Colo Heights 45km away towards Sydney which has been similarly labelled a 'site of interest'. A shack near where the white ute was found has been cordoned off as a crime scene (pictured) Anthony and Kelly Elfalak (pictured) have been out with the search crews over the weekend Fifteen dams on the property are a focus of the search with one being drained on Sunday morning. 'It's very stressful, a kid just doesn't pick up and disappear,' AJ's father Anthony told 9 News. 'Not from here, not from these parts... we're not doing too well,' he added. Despite the desperation of the nearly three-day-long hunt, officials have asked the public to stay at home to avoid breaking Covid restrictions. 'Police are absolutely looking into every angle possible in relation to AJ's disappearance,' Superintendent Tracy Chapman said. 'Obviously our focus is very much around the search and trying to locate AJ.' Police seized a white ute (pictured) near the area where AJ was last seen on Friday - with locals joining search teams to comb the unforgiving terrain in search of the three-year-old The search is set to continue on Monday with helicopters and drones searching from the air (pictured, rescue crews with police at the property on Sunday) 'Searchers hit the ground this morning with over 130 actively searching this large property. The terrain is very difficult. We're in a rural setting, there are various levels of elevation.' 'We have been searching some of the dams and waterways.' NSW Police said in a statement public assistance is not required in the search for the young boy and reminded people that Covid Public Health Order restrictions still apply in the region. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. Search crews are set to continue on Monday. Dame Hilary Mantel has compared Dominic Cummings and Thomas Cromwell as the Wolf Hall author said the former had 'created a picture of himself as an outsider'. Dame Hilary said that image was 'intrinsic' to Mr Cummings' 'self-created function'. But she said in contrast Cromwell had 'conquered the hierarchy' and 'understood where real power lay as opposed to status'. Dame Hilary made the comments after she risked fury by declaring that she is 'ashamed' of Britain and plans to take up Irish citizenship to 'become a European again'. The Booker Prize winner used an interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica to describe Boris Johnson as unfit for public office, to criticise the institution of monarchy and to ridicule the UK as an 'artificial and precarious construct'. But her broadside and assertion that she might be happier living in a republic could leave her vulnerable to allegations of hypocrisy for agreeing to become a Dame of the British Empire in 2014. Dame Hilary Mantel has compared Dominic Cummings and Thomas Cromwell as the Wolf Hall author said the former had 'created a picture of himself as an outsider' Dame Hilary said that image was 'intrinsic' to Mr Cummings' 'self-created function' Dame Hilary made the comparison between Mr Cummings and Cromwell during an appearance on the BBC's Andrew Marr Show. The novelist, 69, who has published a trilogy of books about the Tudor statesman and minister to Henry VIII, said: 'Dominic Cummings created a picture of himself as an outsider which was intrinsic to his self-created function. 'What Cromwell did was he conquered the hierarchy. He understood where real power lay as opposed to status and he worked his own way through the system, in a way that shouldn't have been possible in that very hierarchical world.' Actor Ben Miles, who plays Cromwell in the stage versions of Dame Hilary's books, told the programme there were 'parallels' between the two men. He said: 'There is an element of a man from outside, from perhaps a lower status background and origin, scaling the heights, as it were, and becoming indispensable.' Dame Hilary is the first woman to win the Booker Prize twice in 2009 for Wolf Hall, and for Bring Up The Bodies in 2012 the first two instalments of her trilogy. The works of historical fiction are set in the Tudor period and chronicle the rise to power of Cromwell while The Mirror And The Light tracks his fall and the last four years of his life from 1536 until his execution. Dame Hilary also suggested Cromwell would not have gone on holiday during an 'international crisis', in an apparent criticism of Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab who was in Crete as the situation in Afghanistan deteriorated. She said: 'He wouldn't have gone on holiday during an international crisis. Can you imagine Cardinal Wolsey going on holiday?' Donald Trump wouldn't say whether he agrees with the Supreme Court ruling upholding a new Texas heartbeat law that bans abortion after six weeks or when a fetal heartbeat can be detected. In his first on-camera interview since leaving office, Trump said the ruling is likely temporary. 'I know that the ruling was very complex and also probably temporary,' the former president told Sharyl Attkisson in an interview taped Saturday in Bedminster, New Jersey. 'I think other things will happen and that will be the big deal and the big picture.' The full interview will air next Sunday, September 12 on Full Measure. When asked if he supported the new ruling, Trump dodged the question instead taking credit for a series of conservative rulings due to his appointment of three Supreme Court justices during his four years in office. 'Both sides seem to agree that this ruling is largely your doing based on the Supreme Court picks that you made. Do you agree with the ruling?' Attkisson asked. 'Well, I will tell you this: We do have a Supreme Court that's a lot different than it was before, it was acting very strangely. And I think, probably not in the interests of our country,' Trump said. Of the new law, the former president said: 'I'm studying it right now.' Former President Donald Trump wouldn't say in an interview taped Saturday whether he agrees with the Supreme Court allowing a new Texas abortion bill to become law Trump told Full Measure host Sharyl Attkisson (right) that the ruling is 'very complex and also probably temporary' The Texas law has received a slew of criticism from progressive and pro-choice activists and has been lauded by the pro-life community. Progressive lawmakers even proposed a bill last week limiting the terms of Supreme Court justices in response to the ruling and the Senate launched a probe into the most restrictive law on abortions yet to be upheld. Trump's comments to Attkisson was his first reaction to the Supreme Court's decision last week to not stop new controversial abortion restrictions in Texas from becoming law. 'We'll see what would happen,' the former president said in a clip of the interview. 'But we're sending the ruling and we're studying also what they've done in Texas.' 'But we have great confidence in the governor and the attorney general and the lieutenant governor,' he added. 'There are a lot of great people in Texas and we have a lot of fans and a lot of support in Texas.' Trump previewed: 'So we'll be announcing something over the next week or two weeks.' The new law in Texas is the most restrictive abortion law and relys on private citizens to sue providers if they do terminate a pregnancy past when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which falls around six weeks after conception. In the frame of unplanned pregnancies, many women are still unaware they are pregnant by the six week mark. The ruling immediately led to a divide as progressives said this was proof a conservative majority Supreme Court would lead to reversals in abortion rights President Joe Biden's Chief of Staff Ron Klain said the administration is 'looking for legal remedies to protect women who are seeking' to get an abortion in Texas after six weeks into their pregnancy. When asked if there isn't a lot that the White House can do, Klain told CNN State of the Union host Dana Bash: 'I hope that's not the reality.' 'We have the best lawyers at the Justice Department looking for legal remedies to protect women who are seeking to exercise their constitutional rights,' he continued. 'We have the team at HHS looking at what means we can do to try to get women the health care services they need in the face of this Texas law. And we have the Gender Policy Council here at the White House, the first time a president's ever had a policy council devoted to gender issues, coordinating all this work to bring options forward for the president and the vice president to look at.' 'So, you think it's possible that you can do something at the federal level?' Bash pushed. 'We are going to find ways, if they're at all possible and I think they are possible,' he said. 'We are going to find ways to make a difference for the women of Texas to try to protect their constitutional rights, yes.' A pregnant California native still trapped in Afghanistan says the Taliban are going door to door hunting for Americans. Nasria, 25, who requested only her first name be used out of fear for her safety, is one of the roughly 100 Americans believed to still be stuck in the country, and trying to find a way out. She had flown there in June to visit family, and get married to her longtime boyfriend, who is an Afghan national. 'There's been days where I think to myself, "am I going to make it home? am I going to end up living here? Am I going to end up dying here?" What's going to happen?' she told Voice of America. Now, with American presence in the country gone, she says, 'Apparently they're [the Taliban] going door-to-door now. Trying to see if anyone has a blue passport.' Her tale came as Texas Rep. Mike McCaul said on Sunday that he believes the Taliban are continuing to block Americans from leaving the country, and have stopped passengers aboard six planes at Mazar-iSharif International Airport while making demands of the US. California native Nasria, 25, (pictured) is among the 100 to 200 Americans still trapped in Afghanistan trying to escape Nasria had traveled to the country in June to get married, but, now pregnant, became trapped when Afghanistan fell to the Taliban 'In fact, we have six airplanes at Mazar-i-Sharif airport, six airplanes, with American citizens on them as I speak, also with these interpreters, and the Taliban is holding them hostage for demands right now,' he told Fox News Sunday host Chris Wallace. While he did not specify what demands the Taliban were making, he said it appeared to have become a hostage situation. 'We know the reason why is because the Taliban want something in exchange. This is really, Chris, turning into a hostage situation where theyre not going to allow American citizens to leave until they get full recognition from the United States of America,' McCaul said. Nasria was among the thousands of people trying to escape the country at Kabul's airport after the country had fallen to the Taliban in the chaotic leadup to the US and its allies' full withdrawal deadline from Afghanistan on August 31. McCaul added that he believed not a single American had been successfully evacuated from the country since the deadline. Also on Sunday White House Chief of Staff Ron Klain said the US was in contact with around 100 US citizens still left in the country, some of whom he said were seeking to stay there. 'We are going to find ways to get them, the ones that want to leave, to get them out of Afghanistan,' he told CNN's Dana Bash. 'We know many of them have family members, many of them want to stay, but the ones that want to leave, were going to get them out.' Nasria described the scene outside of Kabul's airport (pictured) where she was among the thousands of people there trying to escape the country Last week, California Rep. Darryl Issa said he had been working with Nasria and other trapped Americans, to work out an escape. He revealed that she had been kicked in the stomach during her ordeal at the airport. 'She was kicked in the stomach, but she was kicked in the stomach well after - as she got through the first checkpoint for hours, waiting for those people at the south point to supposedly come and get her,' the Republican lawmaker told Fox News. Nasria described filmed her self waving her passport to the guards outside the airport, but was unable to make it past the Taliban security forces there Nasria described the scene in which Taliban fighters blocked access to the airport entrances amid a crush of people trying to escape 'It was so hard to just get on a flight,' she said adding that there were a few days when they were forced to sleep on the streets. 'People were literally stepping over people, that's how bad it was,' she recalled. After her flight home was cancelled, Nasria said she contacted the State Department for help, and officials there told her to go to a set location outside the airport and wait to get picked up. No one came, however. 'We were waiting an extra 12 to 13 hours, with no food, no water, nothing,' she said. She stood there waving her passport to no avail, and recounted her frustration seeing US troops guarding the airport entrance just feet away from where she was standing, unable to reach them. With the failed attempt to get out of the country, she says she is losing hope she will ever return home Taliban security forces were blocking her from moving forward, at times pointing guns at her head, she said. 'Our troops were literally at the gate just waiting for us to continue walking, and they had blocked us,' she said. At one point Nasria said she decided to walk quickly past the guards, but they began shooting the ground around her feet. 'That's how it was,' she said. 'Never in my life had I ever experienced anything like this. It was like a movie scene, she said. Literally like a movie scene' Her husband even begged the Taliban guards to let her into the airport without him, but she refused. 'My child is going to need a father and Im going to need a husband by my side,' she said adding that she did not anticipate returning to the country again. State Department officials, she said, have told her to stay where she was as they find a way to get her out of the country. Rep. Darrell Issa is trying to help her out of the Taliban-controlled country But in light of her experience at the airport, she said she is increasingly doubtful the US government will be able to help her. 'If I was only 15 steps away from the airport, and I was told, "people are going to come out of the airport to get me," what kind of hope am I supposed to have now?' she said. For now, Issa said, she will stay in hiding. 'We've agreed that she's going to stay sheltered in place, hiding her identity and hoping that her friends will continue to bring her food and keep her secret until frankly we can come up with something new,' he said. He blasted the Biden administration, saying it broke its promises to the US citizens trying to escape the country. 'Anyone that says that they didn't break a promise to the American people and leave people behind is wrong,' he said. 'Anyone who says that there aren't people stranded is wrong. These people were stranded, they did everything they were supposed to do and they simply were not a priority at the end.' Bryan Riley, 33, was identified on Sunday as the man who killed three adults and a three-year-old baby in their home in North Lakeland, Florida A man who shot and killed three adults and a baby at a home before ambushing police while wearing body armor has been identified as a former Marine sharpshooter turned 'survivalist' who allegedly told his girlfriend that he could speak with God. Bryan Riley, 33, was arrested for the massacre of the family in Lakeland, Florida, in the early hours of Sunday morning. Riley told his victims he wanted to save their daughter from a suicide attempt, before killing them, police have said. He later told police the family begged for their lives, but he shot them anyway, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said. He was so aggressive that he tried to wrestle a gun from police from his hospital gurney after being captured. In a news conference on Sunday afternoon, announced that has been taken into custody after fatally shooting Justice Gleason, 40; a white female whose family does not want her name released; a three-month-old baby girl; her 62-year-old grandmother and their family dog in their Florida home. He also injured an 11-year-old girl who suffered from seven bullet wounds, and was taken to Tampa General Hospital for surgery. Sheriff Judd said 33-year-old Riley appeared to be suffering from mental health issues and had been slowly unravelling for weeks, repeatedly telling his girlfriend that he could communicate directly with God. After a gunfight with police and deputies where dozens 'if not hundreds of rounds' were exchanged outside the Lakeland home, Judd said, authorities found an 11-year-old girl shot multiple times, as well as the deceased victims. When officers arrived on the scene, Judd said, they saw a truck on fire A backdoor, which a deputy used to gain entrance into the home, was completely shattered Gunshots are seen in the window of the North Lakeland home where the shooting occurred There were also bullet holes on the side of the house Riley, a United States Marine who served as a sharp-shooter for four years in active service in Afghanistan and Iraq before being honorably discharged, reportedly suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and had a job as a security guard. He described himself as a 'survivalist' and told police that he was high on methamphetamines at the time of the shooting. He had a concealed weapons license and 'virtually no criminal history,' according to the sheriff. He turned himself into authorities following the shooting. 'This guy, prior to this morning, was a war hero,' Judd said, adding that he is not a 'traditional criminal.' As of now, he said, 'We find zero connection between our shooter and our victims.' Charges against Riley are pending. His girlfriend of four years reportedly told authorities he has PTSD, and was working as a security guard. Last week, she said, he was working security at a church in Orlando and said God spoke directly to him and he could speak back to God. He reportedly said God told him to help out with Hurricane Ida relief, but as the week went on, his girlfriend said, he became more erratic. She reportedly told authorities that he returned to their home in Brandon, Florida and told her he saw a man on a lawnmower, and that God gave him a vision that his daughter was going to commit suicide. That man appeared to be Gleason, police said. At that point, the girlfriend reportedly told him he could not speak to God, to which he replied: 'There's no room for doubters in my life.' The girlfriend said she then went to bed, and he was gone by the time she woke up. She said he had never been violent before, but authorities said on Sunday his actions appeared to have been premeditated. In a news conference Sunday afternoon, Sheriff Grady Judd said Riley is an Iraq and Afghanistan war veteran Authorities do not believe there was a connection between him and the victims Judd said his office first received a call at around 7:30 Saturday night of a suspicious car parked on the side of the road in North Lakeland, Florida. By the time officials arrived on the scene six minutes later, the car and the suspect were no longer there, but a woman told a deputy who responded to the call that the driver told her: 'God sent me here to speak to one of your daughters, Amber.' He allegedly saw a man on his lawnmower in the front lawn, about 33 miles away from his home in Brandon, and told him he needed to speak to Amber because God gave him a vision she was going to commit suicide. The man, now believed to be Gleason, replied that there was nobody by the name of Amber at the house, but Riley allegedly refused to leave, so Gleason got another one of the future victims to confirm to him they did not have a daughter named Amber. They reportedly told him that if he didn't leave, they would call the cops, to which Riley responded: 'I'm the cops for God.' Riley was no longer on the scene when officers arrived at 7:36 p.m., and Judd said, they spent more than 20 minutes scouring the area for him and his vehicle, but did not find him. Judd announced earlier on Sunday that three adults and a baby were fatally shot in two homes north of Lakeland, Florida early in the morning About nine hours later, though, at around 4:23 a.m. on Sunday, a lieutenant responding to another call about two minutes away heard two volleys of automatic gunfire coming from the area, and notified deputies. Within a few seconds, Judd said, the sheriff's office started to also get some phone calls about an active shooter. When officers and officials from the Lakeland Police Department arrived on the scene, they saw a truck on fire and heard it popping as it burned. They also reportedly found glow sticks forming a path up to the entrance to the house. They then noticed a man outfitted in body armor who, Judd said, 'looked like he was ready to engage us all in an active shooter situation, but we didn't see a firearm,' and he went back inside the house. Judd noted that it is not unusual to see someone wearing camouflage in the highly-rural area, and they 'didn't know who he was.' But soon, they heard another round of gunshots, a woman scream and a baby whimper. The lieutenant tried to get into the front of the house, Judd said, but it was barricaded. He then made his way to the back of the house, gained entrance and was immediately shot at by the suspect, who was now wearing head protection and a bulletproof vest. The officer fired back before retreating, and other officers responded with gunfire to free three deputies who were pinned down in the shootout. No officers were injured, according to WFLA , and Judd said, dozens if not hundreds of rounds were fired in the shootout. Soon though, Judd said, everything went silent, and a helicopter saw a suspect coming out with his hands raised. Police shot at him one time before handcuffing him and taking him to Lakeland Regional Hospital for treatment. While there, Judd said, Riley jumped up and tried to grab one of the Lakeland Police Officers guns, and they had to fight with him once again in the emergency room before subduing him. It came about nine hours after officers responded to a call about a suspicious vehicle The shooting occurred at around 4:30 Sunday morning in a residential area Meanwhile, Judd said, officers on the scene found an 11-year-old girl shot multiple times who could barely walk out of the house. One of the sergeants, Judd said, rushed into the house and took her to emergency medical service workers on the scene before they airlifted her to Tampa General Hospital where she was treated for surgery. The girl reportedly told authorities there were three more dead people in the house. The officers feared there would be booby traps, though, and sent robots into the house first to ensure there were no explosive devices. When they were given the all-clear, the officers entered the house and found a man, a woman and an infant in the woman's arms all shot to death, along with their family dog, ironically named after a police dog who was fatally shot in the line of duty. They then went to the small apartment behind the house, and found the 62-year-old grandmother also fatally shot. 'This man killed four people this morning, tried to kill our deputy and then gave up,' Judd said. The 11-year-old girl, though, he said, is alive and doing well. She was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital for surgery. Another 10-year-old who was connected to the scene was found alive and well, after spending the night away from the house, where authorities found at least two guns. Riley reportedly told police later he was very 'in tune' with what he was doing. 'He played word games with us in the interview to set a defense.' But, Riley reportedly told authorities the victims 'begged for their lives and I killed them anyways.' 'He's evil in the flesh,' Judd said. 'He's a rabid animal.' 'It would've been nice if he came out with a firearm,' Judd said earlier in the day. 'If he'd given us the opportunity, we'd have shot him up a lot, but he didn't because he was a coward. 'You see, it's easy to shoot innocent children and babies and people in the middle of the night when you've got the gun and they don't,' he said, 'but he was not much of a man.' Judd concluded the news conference Sunday morning by saying: 'Crazy people with guns are dangerous - good people with guns keep crazy people with guns at bay. 'Our deputies and police officers were the good people with guns tonight.' Boris Johnson's convoy has today been seen arriving at Balmoral ahead of the Prime Minister's scheduled meeting with the Queen. The Conservative leader, along with wife Carrie and their son Wilfred, are due to visit the Scottish royal estate this weekend. The meeting will be the first time the Monarch has been introduced to the Prime Minister's 16-month-old son. It will also be the first time both Mr and Mrs Johnson have visited Balmoral in more than two years. The couple last visited the Queen's royal retreat in 2019. Their trip last year was cancelled due to Covid. Despite both Mr Johnson and the 95-year-old Monarch both being double vaccinated, courtiers reportedly raised concerns about the meeting. One royal source had said: 'The visit is still due to go ahead but, frankly, we'd rather it wasn't.' But a courtier later told the Daily Mail: 'They have taken all Covid precautions and it will be very safe. Boris Johnson's convoy has today been seen arriving at Balmoral ahead of the Prime Minister's meeting with the Queen The Conservative leader, along with wife Carrie (pictured) and their son Wilfred, are due to visit the Scottish royal estate this weekend It will be the first time the Monarch (pictured) has met the Prime Minister's 16-month-old son and the first time both Mr and Mrs Johnson have visited Balmoral in more than two years The Prime Minister met the Queen in June for their first face-to-face meeting since the start of the Covid pandemic. After their meeting at Buckingham Palace in June, a video was released of her telling him she had just seen poor man Matt Hancock and he was full of . . . before Boris interrupted her to say beans. The Queen has continued to carry out engagements this year, despite Covid and the death of her beloved husband Prince Phillip, aged 99, in April. She last met both Mr and Mrs Johnson in June when the pair greeted her for the G7 Summit. Her Majesty appeared in high-spirits - even cracking a joke with world leaders by asking 'Are you supposed to be looking as if youre enjoying yourself? as readied themselves for a photograph. The Prime Minister and his wife, whom he married in May, visited Scotland last summer despite not being able to go to Balmoral. They camped next to a remote cottage in the Applecross peninsula on the Scottish coast. However, they had to cut their holiday short after their location was revealed in the Press. At the time of their last meeting with the Queen, in 2019, there was consternation among more conservative courtiers as Carrie and Boris were not yet married. The Queen last met both Mr and Mrs Johnson in June when the pair greeted her for the G7 Summit, where Her Majesty was in high-spirits - even cracking a joke with world leaders After their meeting at Buckingham Palace in June, a video was released of her telling him she had just seen poor man Matt Hancock and he was full of . . . before Boris interrupted her to say beans Unmarried couples have traditionally been unable to share a room at the royal retreat in Scotland. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge did not visit Balmoral until months after they were married. Last year, the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh spent six weeks on the 50,000-acre estate. She has spent much of her time at Windsor Castle. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson declined to comment on the Prime Minister's visit to Balmoral when asked by MailOnline. A Planned Parenthood worker in Texas has told how 70 percent of women seeking abortions have had to be turned away since the state's strict new 'heartbeat' law came into effect on Wednesday. Texas' SB-8, also known as the Texas Heartbeat Act, is the strictest abortion law in the country, and bans women from having abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is usually around six weeks - before many women become aware of their pregnancy. Clinic worker Doris Dixon told how one Houston woman who found out she was five-and-a-half weeks pregnant - within the time limit - also tested positive for COVID-19 and will be banned from having her requested abortion when she ends her quarantine. Dixon, who has worked for 13 years at the Planned Parenthood where the unnamed woman was seen, said she felt she failed the women who went to her clinic and had to be turned away since the new abortion ban went into effect on September 1. 'To hear her beg for someone to help her was hard, she was begging,' 'For me, I was trying very hard not to cry but the tears were coming down, they were there,' Dixon told ABC News. At least 85% of Texans seeking abortion are six weeks pregnant or more, according to Planned Parenthood. Doris Dixon has worked at a Planned Parenthood for 13 years. At the clinic she works at, in Houston, 70percent of abortion had been denied since the Texas Heartbeat act went into effect on Wednesday Abortion rights supporters gather to protest Texas SB 8 in front of Edinburg City Hall. According to Planned Parenthood, at least 85% of Texans seeking abortions are already six weeks pregnant or more Barbie H. leads a protest against the six-week abortion ban at the Capitol in Austin, Texas. At six weeks, many women are not aware they are pregnant Dixon said that the unnamed woman had simply gone to the clinic for a check up, but she found out she was not only pregnant but also infected with COVID-19. While she was still eligible for an abortion on Wednesday, by the time her quarantine ends, she no longer will be able to have a legal abortion in the state. Pregnant women seeking an abortion after their sixth week will have to travel out of state to terminate their pregnancy - changing the average drive to get an abortion in Texas from 12 miles to 248 miles, according to the Guttmacher Institute. That is, if they have the financial support to do so. 'I feel like I take it personally. I have failed in my goal to help people,' Dixon added. The new law is unique in that it will not be enforced by police but by private citizens. Any individual can now sue a person suspected of aiding in an abortion in the state, even if it is a case or rape or incest. They could be awarded a minimum of $10,000 if they were to win the case, which will have to be paid for by the abortion provider. But Planned Parenthood scored a small victory on Saturday, after a Judge granted a temporary restraining order that bans anti-abortion group Texas Right to Life from suing health care providers under the new Texas law. 'I have failed in my goal to help people,' Dixon said. She was forced to deny an abortion to a woman who was five-and-a-half-weeks pregnant because she had COVID-19. By the time she ends her isolation, she will no longer be eligible for an abortion State District Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin granted Planned Parenthood a provisional restraining order against Texas Right to Life, its legislative director and 100 unidentified associates late Friday. Helene Krasnoff, vice president for public policy litigation and law at Planned Parenthood said: 'We are relieved that the Travis County district court has acted quickly to grant this restraining order... 'This restraining order offers protection to the brave health care providers and staff at Planned Parenthood health centers throughout Texas, who have continued to offer care as best they can within the law while facing surveillance, harassment, and threats from vigilantes eager to stop them.' Gamble ruled that the new law creates 'probable, irreparable, and imminent injury in the interim for which [Planned Parenthood] and their physicians, staff, and patients throughout Texas have no adequate remedy at law' if they are sued in private lawsuits. However, Elizabeth Graham, the vice president of Texas Right to Life, vowed to fight the judge's decision. 'We expect an impartial court will dismiss Planned Parenthood's lawsuit. Until then, we will continue our diligent efforts to ensure the abortion industry fully follows' the new law,' she said. Texas Right to Life's legislative director John Seago told Bloomberg Law around a dozen lawsuits have already been filed in state court attempting to block the abortion law. He said the group would continue to work to uphold the new law and appeal court decisions until it finds 'a court that takes this law seriously.' State District Judge Maya Guerra Gamble (above) granted Planned Parenthood a temporary restraining order against Texas Right to Life, its legislative director and 100 unidentified associates late Friday The order will remain in effect until September 17 when Planned Parenthood will need to prove the need for a permanent order. A hearing on a preliminary injunction request is set for September 13. Texas Right to Life is the state's largest anti-abortion group. It said this week it had legal teams ready to bring lawsuits and launched a tips website for private citizens to 'snitch' on women who have abortions and anyone that 'aids and abets' them. Planned Parenthood South Texas Surgical Center, Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas Surgical Health Services, Planned Parenthood Center for Choice and Planned Parenthood Center for Choice abortion provider Dr. Bhavik Kumar had filed a petition late Thursday asking the court to block suits from the anti-abortion group. It argued Texas Right to Life's 'threatened implementation of the six-week ban and its enforcement scheme' would cause 'imminent, irreparable injury' to its providers and staff. The abortion provider also said about 85 percent to 90 percent of people who obtain abortions in Texas are at least six weeks into pregnancy. The restrictive abortion bill was signed into law in May by Abbott and took effect Wednesday. Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The law, dubbed the Texas Heartbeat Act', bans abortions from when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is typically after six weeks of pregnancy - before many women even know they are expecting The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 just before midnight that night in favor of upholding the law, by declining a request from abortion providers to block it. By putting the onus on private citizens to enforce the ban, rather than state officials, the law is more difficult to contest through the courts. Pro-choice supporters and abortion rights groups have condemned it and warned it will disproportionately impact teenagers and people of color. Joe Biden slammed the law 'un-American' Friday, describing it as 'a vigilante system.' He said the law 'violates' Roe v. Wade - the landmark 1973 law that legalized abortion across the US. The Justice Department is now exploring ways to counter it and Democrat 'Squad' Rep. Rashida Tlaib introduced a bill to set an 18-year term limit on Supreme Court Justices. Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Stephen Breyer, Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Elena Kagan dissented. The other justices - all appointed by Republican presidents - allowed the law to stand. From left: Justices Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanaugh, Clarence Thomas, Elena Kagan, John Roberts, Neil Gorsuch, Stephen Breyer, Amy Coney Barrett, and Sonia Sotomayor A wave of COVID-19 vaccination doses is about to sweep Australia's states and territories, as a 'game-changing' batch of doses arrives from the UK. The 500,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine secured by the federal government from Singapore have been given the tick of approval by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and are being dispatched. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Sonya Bennett said the first instalment of four million Pfizer doses from the UK have arrived in Australia, with the rest due over the remainder of September. She said the initial shipment was supposed to be 290,000 doses, but fortunately that will be 450,000 doses. The vaccines arrived in Sydney on Sunday night. The vaccines arrived at Sydney Airport on Sunday night (pictured) after a stop-off in Darwin on the way from the UK 'So the additional supplies are really reassuring,' Dr Bennett said. 'We would just like to encourage all Australians, given the circumstances, to book in and go and get their first doses as soon as possible.' Scott Morrison last week said he owed his British counterpart, Prime Minister, Boris Johnson 'a beer', saying the deal had been done between 'mates'. The additional supplies will support the national COVID-19 response plan to get to 70 and 80 per cent vaccination targets to enable restrictions to be eased. So far, more than 35 per cent of the eligible population aged over 16 is fully vaccinated with two doses. However, it would appear that the boundaries laid out in the plan are not set in stone. Scott Morrison (pictured, left) has thanked British Prime Minister Boris Johnson (right) saying he owes him 'a beer' for the vaccine delivery 'The national plan is designed to give us a framework on which to operate from,' federal minister Stuart Robert told ABC's Insiders program on Sunday. But he conceded the plan may change with circumstances. 'Look at the last 12 months, things have been shifting on a daily and weekly basis. A plan is always a basis for change, it has to be,' he said. Shadow treasurer Jim Chalmers jumped on the remarks, saying they have left the prime minister's campaign in tatters. 'Scott Morrison has said that we should open up at 70 per cent and 80 per cent at all costs,' Dr Chalmers told reporters in Brisbane. '(Treasurer) Josh Frydenberg has said that states should be punished for not opening up by the withdrawal of support payments.' So far, more than 35 per cent of the eligible population aged over 16 is fully vaccinated with two doses (pictured, the Pfizer shipment being taken off a Qantas flight at Sydney Airport on Sunday night) But ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said flexibility has always been part of the plan that was agreed by the national cabinet, of which he is a member, and was pleased to see that Mr Robert had actually read the plan. 'At the bottom in a font larger than most other fonts in the plan is 'based on the current situation and is subject to change if required',' Mr Barr told reporters in Canberra. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian will release her own COVID-19 modelling this week on the looming peak in the state's case numbers and hospitalisations. 'All the modelling indicates to us that the peak is likely to be here in the next week or two,' the premier told reporters. 'The peak in hospitalisation and intensive care is likely to be with us in October.' The state reported 1485 new virus and three deaths on Sunday, bringing the toll in this outbreak to 126. The additional supplies will support the national COVID-19 response plan to get to 70 and 80 per cent vaccination targets to enable restrictions to be eased (pictured, the Pfizer shipment being taken off a Qantas flight at Sydney Airport on Sunday night) The three included a woman in her 50s and a man and a women in their 70s. Victoria recorded a further 183 new virus cases on Sunday, 101 of which are linked to known cases and outbreaks. The state's chief health officer Brett Sutton continues to urge more people to get vaccinated in order to hold back the 'tsunami' of potential cases. The third jurisdiction in lockdown, the ACT, reported 15 new cases, which was less than half of the record 32 reported the previous day. Queensland recorded one new case, the mother of a four-year-old girl who had already tested positive to the virus. President Joe Biden should stop invoking his late son Beau Biden as a way of deflecting criticism of his handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, a former speechwriter for George W. Bush wrote. Mr. Biden is not a Gold Star father and should stop playing one on TV, William McGurn wrote last week in an op-ed for The Wall Street Journal. McGurn wrote that Beau Biden was deployed to Iraq and worked as a military lawyer. Beau died of brain cancer that the president believes was caused by exposure to toxic chemicals at burn pits in Iraq. Bidens invoking of his late son to justify his decision to remove soldiers from Afghanistan was out of place because Beau Biden did not die in combat and was never deployed to the country, according to McGurn. 'Meantime, the president refuses to acknowledge any hint of failure, much less his own culpability,' McGurn wrote in the Journal. President Joe Biden (seen left with First Lady Jill Biden in Wilmington, Delaware on Saturday) should stop invoking his late son Beau Biden as a way of deflecting criticism of his handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, a former speechwriter for George W. Bush wrote Mr. Biden is not a Gold Star father and should stop playing one on TV, William McGurn wrote last week in an op-ed for The Wall Street Journal. McGurn wrote that Beau Biden was deployed to Iraq and worked as a military lawyer. Beau died of brain cancer that the president believes was caused by exposure to toxic chemicals at burn pits in Iraq 'He has variously denied making any mistakes, claimed he anticipated the entire mess, and wherever possible blamed Donald Trump. 'He also dodges the hard question by constantly insisting the issue in contention is his decision to leave rather than the deadly hash hes made of it. 'And he bizarrely keeps invoking his son, the late Maj. Beau Biden, a Delaware Army National Guard lawyer who served honorably in Baghdad and whose early death from brain cancer was tragic but has nothing to do with Afghanistan, much less the 11 Marines, Navy corpsman and Army soldier killed in Thursdays suicide bombing. 'Mr. Biden is not a Gold Star father and should stop playing one on TV.' McGurns criticism of Biden comes as The New York Times was blasted by Twitter users for a headline which read: Biden, Still Grieving His Son, Finds That Not Everyone Wants to Hear About It. In response to the online backlash, the Times ended up changing the headline to: In Invoking Beau, Biden Broaches a Loss Thats Guided His Presidency. The Times story quotes the father of Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, 20, a Marine who was one of 13 killed in a suicide bombing last week in Kabul. Schmitzs father, Mark, told the Times that he spoke to Biden at Dover Air Force Base to observe the dignified transfer of the remains. According to Mark Schmitz, Biden turned the conversation to Beau. Schmitz told the Times that the presidents reference to his late son was too much to bear. I respect anybody that lost somebody, but it wasnt an appropriate time, Schmitz said. Schmitz said that he was so alienated by Biden that when asked by the Times if he would be open to receiving a phone call from the president, he declined. Families of the fallen U.S. service members were left disappointed by Joe Biden at the dignified transfer last Sunday. One sister of a fallen Marine yelled at the president: 'I hope you burn in hell! That was my brother!' Last week, Schmitz and another Gold Star father, Darin Hoover, blasted Biden for repeatedly checking his watch at a ceremony marking the return of the 13 US servicemembers killed. Both claimed the commander in chief did not just check his watch once, but after every casket was removed from the plane. Hoover also told Sean Hannity of Fox News of how he refused to meet with the president at the event. Schmitz said his own meeting 'didn't go well', and Biden spent more time talking about his own son Beau than Jared Schmitz. Schmitz said Biden spoke of losing his son Beau Biden, an Iraq veteran, to cancer six years ago. But Schmitz said that he wanted to talk about Jared instead and that he and his wife took out a photo of their son to show the president. 'I said: "Don't you ever forget that name. Don't you ever forget that face. Don't you ever forget the names of the other 12",' Schmitz told The Post. '"And take some time to learn their stories". But according to Schmitz, the president didn't like that and bristled, replying: 'I do know their stories.' Both fathers said they were particularly upset when Biden repeatedly checked his watch during Sunday's ceremony, as their sons' bodies arrived back in the US. 'The checking of his watch, that didn't happen just once,' said Hoover. 'That happened on every single one that came out of that airplane. It happened on every single one of them. Jared Schmitz (left) and Taylor Hoover were among 13 members of the U.S. military to be killed by an ISIS-K suicide bomber on August 26 at Kabul airport Mark Schmitz (left) and Darin Hoover (center) appeared on Sean Hannity's show on Monday The president appeared to repeatedly check his watch during the ceremony on Sunday The US Marine Corps posted a photo to Twitter last Sunday evening of the flag flag-draped caskets of their fallen brethren killed in the August 26 suicide bomb attack in Kabul 'They would release the salute, and he would look down at his watch on every last one, all 13, he looked down at his watch. 'As a father, you know, seeing that and the disrespect...' Schmitz added: 'I leaned into my son's mother's ear and I said, I swear to God, if he checks his watch one more time - and that was probably only four times in. 'I couldn't look at him anymore after that. 'Considering especially the time and why we were there, I found it to be the most disrespectful thing I've ever seen.' The president made the unannounced trip to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Sunday morning as the caskets of the 13 service members killed in the attack were brought back to the United States. He stood in silence, his right hand to his chest, as a succession of flag draped transfer coffins were carried past him from a C-17 Globemaster plane. But during the ceremony, Biden appears to jerk his left arm up and look down at his watch. The 13 killed on August 26 were Navy corpsman Max Soviak, Army Staff Sergeant Ryan Knauss, and Marines Hunter Lopez, Rylee McCollum, David Lee Espinoza, Kareem Nikoui, Jared Schmitz, Daegan Page, Taylor Hoover, Humberto Sanchez, Johanny Rosario, Dylan Merola and Nicole Gee. McGurns criticism of Biden comes as The New York Times was blasted by Twitter users for a headline which read: Biden, Still Grieving His Son, Finds That Not Everyone Wants to Hear About It. Their remains arrived at Dover Air Force Base last week for a 'dignified transfer,' the solemn moment when fallen troops return to American soil. Hoover, from Utah, said their family decided to turn down the chance to meet Biden. 'We said absolutely not,' he told Hannity. 'We didn't want to deal with them, we didn't want to we didn't want him anywhere near us. 'We as a family decided that that was the way it was going to be.' Both fathers paid tribute to their sons, with Hoover - whose son was due home on September 15, to retire and marry his fiancee Nicole - describing them all as heroes. 'Every one of them is a hero. There's no doubt,' he said. 'Every last one of them. 'They died with their brothers and their sisters right next to them. 'Doing exactly what they all wanted to do. And that is defending this country.' During a period of less than two weeks, Biden invoked his late son Beau at least five times in public remarks about the withdrawal from Afghanistan. Last week, in Bidens address to the nation after the last American GI left the Central Asian country, the president once again referenced his late son. 'I don't think enough people understand how much we have asked of the 1% of this country who put that uniform on, willing to put their lives on the line in defense of our nation. Maybe it's because my deceased son Beau served in Iraq for a full year.' 'Let me be clear. Leaving August 31 is not due to an arbitrary deadline. It was designed to save American lives,' Biden said in his first public remarks since the final US soldier left Hamid Karzai International Airport on Monday night. Here are the times the president has called to mind his deceased son as he's dealt with the Afghanistan chaos: Aug. 31- Remarks after troop withdrawal 'I don't think enough people understand how much we have asked of the 1% of this country who put that uniform on, willing to put their lives on the line in defense of our nation. Maybe it's because my deceased son Beau served in Iraq for a full year.' Biden was speaking after the drawdown of troop presence in Afghanistan, as Americans and allies were still stuck on the ground. He defended his decision to pull out, even as he laid blame on a peace deal struck by President Trump. Aug. 29- Conversations with families of slain troops Mark Schmitz, father of 20-year-old Jared who died in the suicide bombing in Kabul, told the Washington Post that when he met with Biden he spent much time talking about Beau. 'When he just kept talking about his son so much it was just my interest was lost in that. I was more focused on my own son than what happened with him and his son,' Schmitz said. 'I'm not trying to insult the president, but it just didn't seem that appropriate to spend that much time on his own son.' 'I think it was all him trying to say he understands grief,' Schmitz added. 'But when you're the one responsible for ultimately the way things went down, you kind of feel like that person should own it a little bit more. Our son is now gone. Because of a direct decision or game plan or lack thereof that he put in place.' Aug. 29- Biden checks his wrist at dignified transfer ceremony As the bodies of slain US troops were delivered home in Dover, Delaware Sunday, the president was said to have 'checked his watch' each time a flag-draped casket was removed from the Air Force C-17. 'They would release the salute and he looked down at his watch on every last one,' Hoover said. 'All 13, he looked down at his watch.' Biden wear's his late son Beau's rosary on his wrist just above his watch, and the president's supporters have said he was looking at the rosary rather than checking the time. Aug. 26- Remarks after terror attack 'Being the father of an Army major who served for a year in Iraq and, before that, was in Kosovo as a U.S. attorney for the better part of six months in the middle of a war when he came home after a year in Iraq, he was diagnosed, like many, many coming home, with an aggressive and lethal cancer of the brain who we lost. We have some sense, like many of you do, what the families of these brave heroes are feeling today. You get this feeling like you're being sucked into a black hole in the middle of your chest; there's no way out. My heart aches for you. Biden was speaking after a terrorist attack in Kabul killed 170, including 13 US troops who were trying to help Americans and allies escape from Taliban rule. Aug. 20- Remarks on the evacuation 'Whenever I deploy our troops into harm's way, I take that responsibility seriously. I carry that burden every day, just as I did when I was Vice President and my son was deployed to Iraq for a year,' Biden said, explaining his decision to leave. Later, he pointed to the Trump-era peace deal that promised US troops would be out by May 1. 'The idea that if I had said on May the 2nd or 3rd, 'We are not leaving; we are staying' does anybody truly believe that I would not have had to put in significantly more American forces send your sons, your daughters like my son was sent to Iraq to maybe die? And for what? For what?' Aug. 19- Interview with ABC's George Stephanopoulos In Biden's first interview as chaos unfolded and the Taliban took over with lightning-fast speed, Stephanopoulos asked what the president would say to those who took issue with his strategy for withdrawal. 'I think a lot of Americans, and even a lot of veterans who served in Afghanistan agree with you on the big, strategic picture. They believe we had to get out. But I wonder how you respond to an Army Special Forces officer, Javier McKay (PH). He did seven tours. He was shot twice. He agrees with you. He says, 'We have to cut our losses in Afghanistan.' But he adds, 'I just wish we could've left with honor.'' Stephanopoulos said. 'Look, that's like askin' my deceased son Beau, who spent six months in Kosovo and a year in Iraq as a Navy captain and then major-- I mean, as an Army major. And, you know, I'm sure h-- he had regrets comin' out of Afganista-- I mean, out of Iraq. He had regrets to what's - how - how it's going. But the idea - what's the alternative? The alternative is why are we staying in Afghanistan? Why are we there? Don't you think that the one-- you know who's most disappointed in us getting out? Russia and China,' Biden replied. July 4- Independence Day celebration remarks On the July 4 holiday Biden was sure to reference his son as he thanked US troops for their service. 'Like so many military families, thinking of loved ones who served, we think of our son Beau today,' Biden said. 'You're all part of a long chain of patriots who pledged their lives and their sacred honor in defense of this nation and democracy around the world. For freedom and fair play, for peace and security and opportunity. For the cause of justice, for the soul of America itself.' The Taliban is blocking the take off of at least six planes chartered to evacuate hundreds of people seeking to flee Afghanistan, a top Republican revealed on Sunday. 'We have six airplanes at Mazar Sharif Airport, six airplanes with American citizens on them as I speak, also with these interpreters, and the Taliban is holding them hostage for demands right now,' Representative Michael McCaul of Texas told Fox News Sunday host Chris Wallace. 'The state has cleared these flights and the Taliban will not let them leave the airport,' he detailed. The airport in question is more than 260 miles from the Hamid Karzai International Airport in the capital city of Kabul, where military flights evacuated thousands of Americans and allies from the country amid the Taliban takeover. Senator Ted Cruz, who serves on the Committee on Foreign Relations, appeared to further substantiate that claim in a Sunday tweet. 'Joe Biden abandoned Americans in Afghanistan,' the Texas senator wrote. 'Members of Congress, including me and my office, have been working around the clock to get them out - and for days Biden's State Dept. couldn't even get out of its own way.' 'Now there are deeply disturbing reports of a hostage crisis,' he added. McCaul, the top Republican on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that since the total troop U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, no Americans have been evacuated from the country. 'Since we left the country on Friday, how many Americans have gotten out of Afghanistan?' Wallace asked. 'Since we pulled out, how many Afghan allies have gotten out since the Taliban was in complete control of the country?' 'Zero,' McCaul shot back. 'I'm sorry, the answer to your question is zero.' Texas Republican Representative Michael McCaul said on Sunday that there are at least six planes holding Americans that are being prevented by the Taliban from taking off from the Mazar Sharif Airport in Afghanistan Ted Cruz appeared to substantiate those claims and speak out against the 'hostage crisis' by slamming Biden again for 'abandoning Americans in Afghanistan' An Afghan official at the airport in the northern Afghani city of Mazar-e-Sharif said that the would-be passengers were Afghans, many of whom did not have passports or visas, and thus were unable to leave the country. He said they had left the airport while the situation was sorted out. McCaul said, however, that the group on the planes included Americans. He also said they were sitting on the planes, but the Taliban were not letting them take off, effectively 'holding them hostage.' The Republican congressman did not say where that information came from. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the accounts. The final days of America's 20-year war in Afghanistan were marked by a harrowing airlift at Kabul's airport to evacuate tens of thousands of people - Americans and their allies - who feared what the future would hold, given the Taliban's history of repression, particularly of women. When the last troops pulled out on August 30, though, many were left behind. After all U.S. troops left Afghanistan, the administration revealed that it left behind at least 100 American citizens who are now left without options to evacuate. The U.S. promised, however, to continue working with the new Taliban rulers to get those who want to leave out, and the militants pledged to allow anyone with the proper legal documents to leave. The Mazar Sharif Airport is located 260 miles northwest of the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, where military flights evacuated thousands of Americans and allies from the country amid the Taliban takeover last month McCaul told 'Fox News Sunday' that American citizens and Afghan interpreters were being kept on six planes. 'The Taliban will not let them leave the airport,' he said, adding that hes worried 'theyre going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan.' He did not offer more details. The Afghan official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said it was four planes, and their intended passengers were staying at hotels while authorities worked out whether they might be able to leave the country. The sticking point, he indicated, is that many did not have the right travel papers. Residents of Mazar-e-Sharif also said the passengers were no longer at the airport. At least 10 families were seen at a local hotel waiting, they said, for a decision on their fates. None of them had passports or visas but said they had worked for companies allied with the U.S. or German military. Others were seen at restaurants. The small airport at Mazar-e-Sharif only recently began to handle international flights and so far only to Turkey. The planes in question were bound for Doha, Qatar, the Afghan official said. It was not clear who chartered them or why they were waiting in the northern city. The massive airlift happened at Kabuls international airport, which initially closed after the U.S. withdrawal but where domestic flights have now resumed. Searing images of that chaotic evacuation - including people clinging to an airplane as it took off - came to define the final days of Americas longest war, just weeks after Taliban fighters retook the country in a lightning offensive. Since their takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast themselves as different from their 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and imposed repressive restrictions across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: Government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. A Taliban soldier stands guard at the gate of Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul A Taliban soldier patrols at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul Some signs of normalcy have also begun to return. Kabuls streets are again clogged with traffic, as Taliban fighters patrol in pickup trucks and police vehicles - brandishing their automatic weapons and flying the Talibans white flag. Schools have opened, and moneychangers work the street corners. Among the promises the Taliban have made is that once the country's airports are up and running, Afghans with passports and visas would be allowed to travel. More than 100 countries issued a statement saying they would be watching to see that the new rulers held to their commitment. Technical teams from Qatar and Turkey arrived in recent days and are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said official Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Meanwhile, the Taliban stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. Felisha Washington (pictured) had initially been released from jail on a $50,000 bond in December after she allegedly fatally stabbed Ramona Jones A murder suspect in Houston, Texas, has had her bond rescinded after she was arrested for allegedly stabbing a potential witness in the case. Felisha Washington, 27, was free after posting bond while awaiting a trial for a previous fatal stabbing last year. But she was returned to jail on Friday and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for the alleged stabbing of a woman involved in the case. The victim of the stabbing survived the attack but both her condition and identity remain unknown at this time. The attack came less than a year after Washington was accused of fatally stabbing her neighbor, Ramona Jones, 51, FOX 26 reported. Jones, who was a mother of three, was found dead in a drainage ditch by Houston Police on October 28 of last year. Investigators later learned that Washington and Jones were next-door neighbors and that the two had a long-running dispute, police said after Washingtons arrest on December 16, 2020. Speaking after Jones was returned to prison on Friday, Sean Teare, assistant district attorney for Harris County said: 'What we did in court today, we simply prove that this defendant, Ms. Washington, violated a number of her bond conditions.' He told Fox 26: 'This individual who was on bond for murder was outside of her residence, outside of her curfew hours, and had some pretty significant contact with a witness on that murder.' The attack came less than a year after Washington was accused of fatally stabbing her neighbor Ramona Jones (pictured) Washington's bond in the fatal stabbing had been set at $100,000 last year by Harris County last year, but District Court Judge Christ Morton reduced it to $50,000. Washington posted bond and got out of jail in December 2020. The oldest of Jones' three daughters spoke out about Washington's recent arrest on Friday. 'It's been hard on all of us,' Jazmine Jones, told FOX 26. 'She was a grandmother, mother, daughter, auntie.' She said that the stabbing of the witness makes Washington look 'guilty, guilty, guilty' ahead of the murder trial. Jones' eldest daughter Jazmine (pictured) said Washington's latest stabbing suggests that she is guilty for murder of her mother Ramona Jones (center) pictured with her three children 'It's not fair at all,' Jazmine Jones told KTRK_TV last week. 'We understand we have to have due process, but when is enough enough when you've taken someone's life?' Sydni Lavan said that it didn't surprise her to hear that Washington had been arrested over another stabbing. 'When is she going to be punished for her crimes? She's going to get out and stab someone else. This is her [modus operandi] stabbing people,' Lavan said. Violent defendants being temporarily released on bond while awaiting trial is a growing concern in Harris County, according to a 60-page report by the district attorney's office. The report claims that courts which release defendants held for multiple felonies on personal-recognizance bonds are contributing to the rise of the local crime rate, FOX 26 reported. An undated photo of Felisha Washington (pictured) appearing in court. Defendants on multiple felonies who have been released on PR bonds have contributed to the local crime rate in Texas Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) filed legislation back in February, known as Caitlynne's bill, to prohibit magistrates from releasing a defendant on a PR bond for offenses committed while out on an existing PR bond, or on a felony offense when two or more other felony charges are pending against the defendant. Teare said that when defendants violate the condition of their bond they should be returned to jail until their case is over 'for the safety of the community, for the safety of everyone involved.' Defendants who breach the condition of their bond should be going to jail 'for the safety of the community, for the safety of everyone involved,' until the outcome of their trial, according to Teares. Washington made her first court appearance Sunday afternoon on the assault charge. Her bond was set at $75,000 bond, but the state has filed a motion requesting a hearing to deny her bail. She will remain in jail until her trial for Jones' murder, FOX 26 reported. Melania Trump wants nothing more than to avoid another term as first lady, according to a Sunday report, as her husband inches closer and closer to another White House bid. 'Being first lady again is not what she wants,' a person who had a close relationship with Melania when she was first lady told CNN. 'For her, it was a chapter and it's over, and that's that.' Several people, according to the Sunday article, claim Melania has 'zero desire' to return to the White House or continue any public political life. Another person aware of the former first lady's disinterest in Trump's presidential and political ambitions said: 'You're not going to see her at rallies or campaign events, even if he 'officially' says he's running again.' Replacing Melania for these public appearances, the source said, would be the likes of Trump's son's partners Lara Trump, the wife of Eric Trump and Kimberly Giulfoyle, the girlfriend of Donald Trump Jr. Former First Lady Melania Trump has no interest in returning to the White House or getting involved in politics even if her husband does decide to run again 'Being first lady again is not what she wants,' a person who was close with Melania when she was first lady said. 'For her, it was a chapter and it's over, and that's that' Another person said if Trump were to run again, Melania would be replaced on the campaign trail with daughter-in-law Lara Trump (left), who is married to Eric Trump, and Kimberly Giulfoyle (right), the girlfriend of Don Jr. 'They have that same urge Trump has to (run) again; Melania absolutely does not,' the individual revealed. Unclear from the report is whether Trump's daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner, who both served in prominent roles in the administration, would join the former president on the campaign trail. A source who spoke with CNN said Melania view's Trump's continued interest in politics as his job and not hers. Melania Trump, 51, is considered by many one of the most private first ladies in modern history. The former first lady has only been spotted once this summer, while leaving Trump Tower in Manhattan in early July with son Barron Trump, 15. During the 2016 campaign, Melania so often refused to appear at events, a political operative who worked on Trump's team in the early days said they eventually 'just stopped asking altogether.' While serving as first last, Melania didn't even participate in five on-camera interviews and engaged in zero print media interviews. The Slovene-American former model returned to Mar-a-Lago in August where she will reside full time with Barron as he attends private school in the area. 'The Trump voter puts [Melania] on a pedestal,' an operative told CNN. 'They're awed by the way she looks or the way she basically doesn't express ideas or opinions, which they see as stoicism and loyalty.' 'For them, that's enough for fealty,' they added. Melania returned to Mar-a-Lago last month, where she will reside full time as Barron Trump, 15, (right) attends private school. The two are pictured leaving Trump Tower in Manhattan on July 7, 2021 A person who has been in Melania's social circle for more than a decade said her life is more private now than it could ever be in Washington, and 'that's how she likes it.' 'The more she can be private and not in the public eye, the better,' they added. 'And there's nothing wrong with that. I mean, if every single person in the world watched your every move for four or five years, and that wasn't comfortable for you -- just imagine how triggering that must have been.' In February, the former first lady announced in February she was opening her post-White House office, but the Twitter account has largely been void of any announcement of Melania's life after leaving Washington. South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma has been placed on medical parole just two months into his 15-month jail term for contempt of court, prison authorities announced. Zuma, 79, has been hospitalised since August 6 at a health facility outside the prison where he had been incarcerated for ignoring a court order to testify before a judicial panel probing corruption during his nine-year tenure, which lasted until 2018. The Department of Correctional Services said in a statement that Zuma's 'medical parole' took effect on Sunday and he will serve the rest of the 15-month prison sentence outside jail. Zuma 'will complete the remainder of the sentence in the system of community corrections, whereby he must comply with a specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires,' the statement said. The decision was motivated 'by a medical report' the department received, it said. Zuma was admitted to hospital for observation on August 6 for an undisclosed condition, and underwent a surgical procedure on August 14. He remains hospitalised. The prison authorities appealed to South Africans to 'afford Mr Zuma dignity as he continues to receive medical treatment'. Former South African president Jacob Zuma has been hospitalised since August 6 He started serving his sentence on July 8 at the Estcourt prison, around 180 kilometres (110 miles) northwest of Durban. Two weeks later, he was allowed to leave prison to attend his brother's funeral at his rural home in the town of Nkandla. His jailing sparked a spree of unprecedented violence and looting of businesses and shops in post-apartheid South Africa, resulting in millions of dollars worth of damage and losses. His successor Cyril Ramaphosa described the unrest as an orchestrated attempt to destabilise the country and vowed to crack down on alleged instigators. Earlier on Sunday a handful of veterans of the ruling ANC's armed struggle wing Umkhonto we Sizwe, who have staunchly stood behind Zuma in recent years, disrupted a eulogy by party chairman Gwede Mantashe at a funeral of one of group's leaders, chanting for Zuma to be freed from jail. Zuma's spokesman Mzwanele Manyi said that while he had not spoken to the former president since the news broke, 'he should have been relieved, anyone can only be elated when this happens'. He said Zuma's 'unconstitutional' imprisonment had worsened his health. 'It (has) had an exponential impact in terms of deteriorating his condition,' he said, while refusing to divulge the illness. Former South African president Jacob Zuma removes his eyeglasses as he addresses the media in his home in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, in July The largest opposition Democratic Alliance party slammed the parole as 'entirely unlawful and makes a mockery' of prison regulations. Meantime, Zuma's long-running corruption trial over an arms deal dating back more than two decades was last month postponed to September 9, pending a medical report on his fitness to stand trial. Proceedings have been repeatedly postponed for more than a decade as Zuma has fought to have the charges dropped. Zuma faces 16 counts of fraud, graft and racketeering related to the 1999 purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and equipment from five European arms firms when he was deputy president. He is accused of taking bribes from one of the firms, French defence giant Thales, which has been charged with corruption and money laundering. Sen. Bill Hagerty said the collapse of Afghanistan made it even more important for Washington to rebuild alliances damaged by President Biden's hasty withdrawal The shambolic withdrawal from Afghanistan and the increased risk of terror threats should be a wake-up call to Washington to rebuild trust with partners infuriated by President Biden's handling of the exit, said Senator Bill Hagerty on Sunday after returning from a visit to London and NATO headquarters. He said he heard a deep sense of anger during his meetings with British MPs and ministers, and with representatives of NATO allies, at the way Biden's Aug. 31 deadline put their citizens' lives at risk. 'The frustration was palpable,' he said after flying back at the weekend. 'You have a moment of reckoning like this ... sometimes it provides the opportunity to engage in a new manner, to bring new energy to a situation. 'And we've got new challenges that are going to emerge from this. 'A vacuum has been created in Afghanistan, a vacuum that jihadists and terrorists can flood into. 'This poses incredibly new and different sorts of threats that we've got to address and address together.' Sen Hagerty met with British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace (l) and Foreign Office minister James Cleverly during a visit to London to discuss the fall-out from the Afghan withdrawal Taliban fighters man checkpoints throughout Kabul since taking control of the capital and the rest of the country last month as U.S. troops withdrew and the Afghan army folded Taliban forces rally to celebrate the withdrawal of US forces in Kandahar, Afghanistan, 01 September 2021, showing off their military hardware The Taliban now have access to billions of dollars of US weaponry left behind by American troops or abandoned as the Afghan army collapsed. Al Qaeda retains a presence in Afghanistan. And the suicide attack on Kabul Airport, that killed 13 US service members, illustrates how other groups such as ISIS-K are active in the country. Then there is the broader, global challenge from rivals such as Iran, China, Russia and North Korea who will draw lessons from watching an American president withdraw troops after years of stalemate in Afghanistan. 'All of this emboldens our adversaries around the world that question our resolve,' said Hagerty. 'It's never been more important to work with our strategic allies.' Those relationships need rebuilding he said, after hearing how America's partners viewed Biden's handling of the withdrawal. 'I think that there is an extreme frustration with what they called a"calendar driven" - rather than a "conditions driven" - exit from Afghanistan,' he said. 'They felt that was folly. And the result was putting their citizens, their allies at risk.' He said he promised to use his position on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to delve into Biden's decision and the handling of the withdrawal. During the trip, he met with NATO ambassadors from Germany, Italy, Turkey, the UK and the US. In, London the Tennessee senator met with MPs from the governing Conservative Party. They are often the first to talk up the historic importance of the 'special relationship' between the UK and the US. Hagerty said rebuilding trust meant being honest about the crisis in Afghanistan. 'Rather than spinning this, which is what the world is seeing right now, this administration should have stood up and addressed it to head on,' he said before leaving for London A helicopter displaying a Taliban flag flew over Kandahar as supporters cheered. Hagerty has demanded the Biden administration take action to destroy, retrieve or immobilize billions of dollars in US military hardware left in Afghanistan after the withdrawal Taliban fighters atop Humvee vehicles captured from Afghanistan's government troops But Hagerty's meetings included Defense Secretary Ben Wallace, who last week offered a very public sense of how Biden's approach had undermined the relationship. In an interview with The Spectator magazine, he said the Afghanistan crisis had illustrated Britain's limited power in the world before he turned his anger on Washington. 'But a superpower that is also not prepared to stick at something isnt probably a superpower either. It is certainly not a global force, its just a big power,' he said. Two former prime ministers have blasted Biden's decision to leave in decidedly undiplomatic terms. Tony Blair said it was 'imbecilic' and John Major told the FT Weekend Festival it was 'strategically very stupid.' European leaders have expressed some of the same reservations, using the precipitous Afghan departure to reheat old ideas about forming a European Union rapid reaction force. 'The failure in this instance has created yet another opportunity for these sorts of questions about the value of our alliance to come to the fore in these sorts of theories,' said Hagerty. He came away from his meetings with a clear sense that politicians on the other side of the Atlantic feel they are on the front line of a decision made thousands of miles away. 'One thing they made very clear to me as well, is that the failed execution on the Afghan withdrawal has created significant domestic political problems for them,' he said. 'And by that, they feel that the threat of terror is much greater for them because of their proximity than it is for us.' The result, he added, was a generation of politicians rethinking how they would deal with Washington. 'We should be a nation in an alliance that keeps their promises, should be one that operates from a position of strength and we should never let a calendar dictate our policy,' he said. 'We should base it on practical conditions on the ground and we should be forward looking, in our policies.' European leaders, he added, had woken up to Biden's shortcomings as a president after initially welcoming him to the fold. 'Joe Biden portrayed himself as level headed as someone with four decades of experience in government, someone who's well known and trusted by our allies and our foreign leaders and that he'd be a steady hand in foreign relations,' he said. 'I think the American public and our allies were sold a bill of goods.' A pregnant policewoman has been shot dead by Taliban militants in front of her husband and children in a door-to-door execution, witnesses have said. Banu Negar was killed at her home in Firozkoh, the capital of central Ghor province, amid increasing violence in Afghanistan under the new regime. The mother, who worked in the local prison, was eight months pregnant at the time of the execution on Saturday. A pregnant policewoman has been shot dead by Taliban militants in front of her husband and children in a door-to-door execution The terror group told the BBC they had no involvement in her death and are investigating it. Spokesman Zabiullah Mujaheed said: 'We are aware of the incident and I am confirming that the Taliban have not killed her, our investigation is ongoing.' He added the Taliban has announced an amnesty for people who worked for the former administration. Mujaheed said her death was caused by 'personal enmity or something else'. Three gunmen arrived at the house and searched it before tying members of the family up and carrying out the killing. Pictures have circulated online showing blood spattered walls in the house and her disfigured corpse. The Taliban have been trying to project a more tolerant and moderate image of themselves since seizing power. Earlier this week, top Afghan female cop Gulafroz Ebtekar (pictured) went on the run after suffering a 'brutal beating' from the Taliban But a number of incidents of horrific violence have been reported in Afghanistan under the repressive regime. Fighters have been seen going door to door hunting former members of the Afghan security forces and Western allies. Earlier this week, a top Afghan female cop went on the run after suffering a 'brutal beating' from the Taliban. Gulafroz Ebtekar, believed to be 34, was a deputy head of criminal investigations in Afghanistan's Interior Ministry and is seen as a role model for Afghan women with a notable media presence. She was singled out by the Taliban as a target at the gates outside Hamid Karzai international airport in Kabul, where she spent five nights attempting to secure a place on an evacuation flight. She said: I sent messages to the embassies of many countries to save myself and my family, but all to no avail.' It comes after the Taliban attacked Afghan women protesters demanding equal rights as they fired shots into the air and 'let off tear gas' during a peaceful march yesterday. The Taliban have been trying to project a more tolerant and moderate image of themselves since seizing power The women's march - the second in as many days in the capital - began with demonstrators laying a wreath outside Afghanistan's defence ministry to honour soldiers who have died fighting the extremist group, before moving on to the presidential palace. But the peaceful protest descended into chaos and turned violent as Taliban special forces armed with assault rifles waded into the crowd, firing shots into the air and sending demonstrators fleeing. Witnesses said Taliban forces also used tear gas to stop the protest, with women seen coughing and clutching their throats in videos shared widely across social media. One prominent protester, 20-year-old Maryam Naiby, said of the campaign in the wake of the Taliban seizing power: 'We are here to gain human rights in Afghanistan. I love my country. I will always be here.' When the Taliban first gained hold of the country some two decades ago, women and girls were mostly denied education and employment. Burqas became mandatory in public, women could not leave home without a male companion, and street protests were unthinkable. While the group has promised a more inclusive government, many women in the country remain skeptical. One activist was seen with a bloody face after she was allegedly hit by a Taliban fighter Witnesses said Taliban forces also used tear gas to stop the protest, with women seen coughing and clutching their throats in videos The forces moved in as the women made their way towards the presidential palace The peaceful march descended into chaos as Taliban special forces waded into the crowd, firing shots into the air and sending demonstrators fleeing Video: A number of women rights activists and reporters protested for a second day in Kabul on Saturday, and said the protest turned violent as Taliban forces did not allow the protesters to march toward the Presidential Palace. #TOLOnews pic.twitter.com/X2HJpeALvA TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) September 4, 2021 There were chaotic scenes as the special forces marched into the protest A woman joins a group to demand their rights under the Taliban rule Taliban kill 17 and injure 41 with celebratory gunfire as false rumours spread that they had beaten rebels in Afghanistan's Panjshir valley Taliban and opposition forces were fighting on Saturday for control of the Panjshir valley north of Kabul, the last province in Afghanistan holding out against the Islamist militia, according to reports. Taliban sources had said on Friday the group had seized control of the valley, although the resistance denied it had fallen. The Taliban have so far issued no public declaration that they had taken the valley, which resisted their rule when they were last in power in Kabul in 1996-2001. A spokesman for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, which groups opposition forces loyal to local leader Ahmad Massoud, said Taliban forces reached the Darband heights on the border between Kapisa province and Panjshir but were pushed back. Advertisement As the protesters' shouts grew louder, several Taliban officials waded into the crowd to ask what they wanted to say. Flanked by fellow demonstrators, Sudaba Kabiri, a 24-year-old university student, told her Taliban interlocutor that Islam's Prophet gave women rights, and they wanted theirs. The Taliban official promised women would be given their rights, but the women, all in their early 20s, were skeptical. Taliban fighters quickly captured most of Afghanistan last month and celebrated the departure of the last US forces after 20 years of war. The insurgent group must now govern a war-ravaged country that is heavily reliant on international aid. The Taliban have promised an inclusive government and a more moderate form of Islamic rule than when they last ruled the country from 1996 to 2001. But many Afghans, especially women, are deeply skeptical and fear a rollback of rights gained over the last two decades. For much of the past two weeks, Taliban officials have been holding meetings among themselves, amid reports of differences between them. Yesterday, neighbouring Pakistan's powerful intelligence chief Gen Faiez Hameed made a surprise visit to Kabul. It was not immediately clear what he had to say to the Taliban leadership, but the Pakistani intelligence service has a strong influence on the Taliban. The Taliban leadership had its headquarters in Pakistan and were often said to be in direct contact with the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence agency. Although Pakistan routinely denies providing the Taliban with military aid, the accusation was often made by the Afghan government and Washington. Many Afghans, especially women, are deeply skeptical and fear a rollback of rights gained over the last two decades UN to hold aid summit in Geneva to avert 'looming humanitarian catastrophe' in Afghanistan The United Nations chief will convene a ministerial meeting in Geneva on September 13 to seek a swift scale-up in funding to address the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, where nearly half the country's 38 million people need assistance. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric made the announcement Friday and said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will also appeal 'for full and unimpeded humanitarian access to make sure Afghans continue to get the essential services they need.' Dujarric said the UN appeal for $1.3billion for 2021 to help more than 18 million people is just 40 per cent funded, leaving a $766million deficit. 'Afghanistan faces a looming humanitarian catastrophe,' the UN spokesman said. 'One in three Afghans do not know where their next meal will come from. Nearly half of all children under the age of 5 are predicted to be acutely malnourished in the next 12 months.' Earlier Friday, Dujarric said the secretary-general is 'very grateful for the generosity' of Denmark, Kazakhstan, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Poland, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and the United States for making available facilities and transport for the temporary relocation of UN staff in Afghanistan. Dujarric announced August 18 that about 100 of the UN's 300 international staff were being moved to Kazakhstan to work remotely because of security concerns. Advertisement Gen Faiez's visit comes as the world waits to see what kind of government the Taliban will eventually announce, seeking one that is inclusive and ensures protection of women's rights and the country's minorities. The Taliban have promised a broad-based government and have held talks with former president Hamid Karzai and the former government's negotiation chief Abdullah Abdullah. But the makeup of the new government is uncertain and it is unclear whether hard-line ideologues among the Taliban will win the day - and whether the rollbacks feared by the demonstrating women will occur. Taliban members whitewashed murals on Saturday, some of which promoted health care, warned of the dangers of HIV and even paid homage to foreign contributors, like anthropologist Nancy Dupree, who singlehandedly chronicled Afghanistan's rich cultural legacy. It is a worrying sign of attempts to erase reminders of the past 20 years. The murals were replaced with slogans congratulating Afghans on their victory. A Taliban cultural commission spokesman, Ahmadullah Muttaqi, tweeted that the murals were painted over 'because they are against our values. They were spoiling the minds of the mujahedeen, and instead we wrote slogans that will be useful to everyone'. The young women demonstrators said they have had to defy their worried families to press ahead with protests, even sneaking out of their homes to take their demands for equal rights. Farhat Popalzai, another 24-year-old university student, said she wanted to represent women too afraid to come out on the street. 'I am the voice of the women who are unable to speak,' she said. 'They think this is a man's country but it is not - it is a woman's country, too.' Ms Popalzai and her fellow demonstrators are too young to remember the Taliban rule that ended in 2001 with the US-led invasion. The say their fear is based on the stories they have heard of women not being allowed to go to school or to work. Ms Naiby has already operated a women's organisation and is a spokesperson for Afghanistan's Paralympics. Billionaires Jeff Bezos an Yuri Milner are reportedly funding a startup biotechnology firm with the aim of discovering a way to reverse aging. Altos Labs was incorporated in the US and the UK earlier this year, and has raised at least $270million to look into the potential of cell reprogramming technology to turn back the clock in animals, and potentially, humans. While little is known so far about Altos, early hires give an indication of the kinds of anti-aging techniques the lab might be looking into. They include Dr. Shinya Yamanaka, who pioneered researched into cell reprogramming, earning him the 2012 Nobel Prize for the research. He discovered that by adding just four specific proteins to cells, they can be instructed to revert back into an earlier state with the properties of embryonic stem cells that make up building blocks of new animal life. He will serve as an unpaid advisor on Altos' scientific advisory board, according to MIT Technology Review, which reported on Altos' formation. Jeff Bezos (left) along with Russian billionaire Yuri Milner are reportedly funding a biotechnology startup firm Alos Labs, that is looking into cell reprogramming to discover anti-aging techniques Other talent being brought on at Altos include Dr. Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte, a Spanish biologist working at the Salk Institute in California, who has pioneered research into cell switching. In 2016 he demonstrated Yamanaka's embryonic stem cell technique and applied it to mice, which exhibited signs of age reversal. After the experiment, Izpisua Belmonte dubbed the reprogramming technique as a potential 'elixer of life,' Technology Review reported. He also became known for his research into mixing monkey and human embryos. Also joining is Dr. Steve Horvath, who developed markers, which can accurately measure aging in humans and animals. Among the talent being brought on at Altos labs is Dr. Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte (pictured), who has performed experiments on cell switching as well as combining money and human embryos Any anti-aging research would need such a 'biological clock' to measure the effectiveness of the techniques. Neither Bezos nor Milner are strangers to investing in labs that are seeking anti-aging solutions. Bezos, 57, who valued at $200billion is believed to be the richest man in the world, has previously invested in anti-aging firm Unity Biotechnology. Milner, 59, who made his fortune, valued at around $4.8billion, investing in technology firms Facebook, and cofounding the internet company Mail.Ru, has over the past year been funding longevity research through the Milky Way Foundation. The foundation's advisory board also includes Yamanaka, as well as Dr. Jennifer Doudna. Doudna earned a Nobel in 2020 for her co-discovery of CRISPR gene editing, which Izpisua Belmonte along with a team at Salk applied to come up with another anti-aging technique in 2019. More recently, however, a plan emerged to speed up anti-aging research by forming a well-funded company, and to lure talent with salaries upwards of $1million a year, Technology Review reported. The plan turned into Altos, which is being headed up by CEO Richard Klausner, former chief of the National Cancer Institute. They will join competition in the cell reprogramming biotechnology space Life Biosciences, Turn Biotechnologies, AgeX Therapeutics and Shift Bioscience. Izpisua Belmonte (top right) had been part of a team looking into genome editing at the Salk Institute for use as part of an anti-aging technique, and has been long working in the anti-aging biotechnology space The team had been successful in slowing aging in a mouse using the gene editing technique Other talent being brought on include University of California research Dr. Peter Walter, who has looked into a molecule that affects memory, as well as cell reprogramming specialist Dr. Wolf Reik, formerly of the Babraham Insistute in the UK, according to Technology Review. Dr Manuel Serrano, from the Institute for Research in Biomedicine, will also be joining. He told the outlet that Altos would pay him up to 10 times what he currently makes. Altos is being formed without the expectation of revenue, although any anti-aging treatment it might discover would be worth billions. Cell reprogramming was first pioneered by Dr. Shinya Yamanaka (pictured), who will serve as an unpaid advisor for Altos 'The aim is to understand rejuvenation,' Serrano said. 'I would say the idea of having revenue in the future is there, but its not the immediate goal.' For now, some of the first goals of Altos will likely be to apply reprogramming in a way that doesn't kill the animal. In previous tests the technique could produce embryonic tumors called teratomas, and there has been little research published on it so far despite great interest and funding. 'I think the concept is strong, but there is a lot of hype. Its far away from translation,' said Dr. Alejandro Ocampo, who had previously worked on Izpisua Belemonte's team at Salk. 'Its risky and its a long way from a human therapy.' The technology doesn't just make cells younger, but by reverting them into stem cells, also changes their role. That means it is still far too dangerous to be tried out on people. Altos has not made an official announcement yet, but in addition to Bezos and Milner, the company may have investors from other wealthy Silicon Valley figures and venture capitalist firms. Anthony Fauci said Sunday that the Moderna booster shot may not be ready by September 20 as previously thought but said the booster for the Pfizer vaccine is on track to get the go-ahead later this month. He said the plan to begging administering booster shots for coronavirus vaccines on September 20 is still the plan 'in some respects,' but noted the Monderna booster will take longer to be ready than previously expected. 'We were hoping that we would get the, both the candidates, both products, Moderna and Pfizer, rolled out by the week of the 20th,' the nation's top immunologist told CBS Face the Nation guest host Weijia Jiang. 'It is conceivable that we will only have one of them out, but the other would likely follow soon thereafter,' Fauci added. 'And the reason for that is that we, as we've said right from the very beginning, we're not going to do anything unless it gets the appropriate FDA [Food and Drug Administration] regulatory approval and then the recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.' 'Looks like Pfizer has their data in and likely would meet the deadline,' he said. 'So the bottom line is very likely at least part of the plan will be implemented but ultimately the entire plan will be.' Dr. Anthony Fauci said the Monderna booster shot won't be ready by the goal date of September 20 but Pfizer should be ready for administration by then Goal was that both boosters would be ready for administration by September 20 as the Delta variant surges and more breakthrough cases of COVID pop up Fauci also recommended that people try to get the same booster shot associated with the original vaccine they received as studies are ongoing to determine if mixing vaccines provides an effective booster. Health officials originally planned to roll out both boosters for Pfizer and Moderna at the same time. Fauci said that Pfizer-BioNTech already submitted the necessary data on booster shots to the FDA, but Moderna has yet to complete the process. In a statement released Wednesday, Moderna said it had 'initiated its submission' of booster data to the FDA. Last month the Biden administration announced it would start offering boosters to Americans by Sept. 20, usurping the process by which the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention usually decide on such issues, current and former FDA scientists and CDC advisory panel members told Reuters. Scientists are still debating how much additional immunity boosters provide and whether all Americans should get another shot, rather than just those at high risk of severe illness. Vaccination rates began to plateau earlier this summer, but are on the rise against as the delta variant surges and more breakthrough cases in vaccinated individuals emerge Speaking Sunday, Fauci emphasized that both boosters were assumed to be safe, but that the FDA and other officials would study the data to make sure. 'When you're dealing with allowing the American public to receive an intervention, you want to make sure you're absolutely certain,' he said. Israel already started administering the first round of boosters and is set to begin preparations to administer fourth doses of the coronavirus vaccines as the country deals with soaring cases despite its trail-blazing roll-out of jabs. The country's national coronavirus czar Salman Zarka said the country needs to prepare for a fourth injection, which could be modified to better protect against new variants of the virus. 'Given that that the virus is here and will continue to be here, we also need to prepare for a fourth injection,' he told Kan public radio. 'This is our life from now on, in waves.' After first being detected in India earlier this summer, the Delta variant spread quickly. That fact, coupled with increases in breakthrough cases in vaccinated people, led to more research on the need for booster shots. The Delta variant is driving a surge in the U.S. with new daily cases four times higher than they were a year ago despite rising vaccination rates. On Friday, the national seven-day rolling average of daily new cases was nearly 163,000, an increase of more than 300 percent from Labor Day weekend 2020, according to a DailyMail.com analysis of Johns Hopkins data. Hospitalizations also doubled, and deaths were up 80 percent from last Labor Day. The figures came despite 62 percent of the total US population now having received at least one shot of COVID-19 vaccine. Fifty-three percent of the population is fully vaccinated, the CDC says. Vaccination does appear to be reducing deaths among the most vulnerable, however, with deaths and hospitalizations rising at a slower rate than overall cases. All three measures remain well below their US peak in early January, and there are signs that the latest wave might be cresting, with the CDC estimating that more than 80 percent of the population now has immunity either through recovering from infection or getting vaccinated. Firefighters have found two adults and two children dead of apparent gunshot wounds after extinguishing a blaze at a home in Houston. The victims were two adults - a woman and a man in their 50s - and two children - a girl and a boy between 10 to 13 years old. The bodies were found in a house in the 7500 block of Imogene in Southwest Houston. Houston Chief of Police Troy Finner said that he suspected the attack was related to domestic violence. He said there weren't any signs of forced entry at the house, and the fire may have been an attempt to destroy evidence or disguise something at the scene. Those killed have not been named by police, as officers are still notifying their family. The bodies were found after the Houston Fire Department got a call around 8am alerting them that there was a fire in the residence. Firefighters found the bodies after they had put out the fire. Neighbors alerted Houston Fire Department of a fire in 7518 Imogen Street shortly after 8am on Sunday. After firefighters put out the fire, they found the bodies Houston Chief of Police Troy Finner revealed that the four victims found in a house fire in Southwest Houston had gunshot wounds in their bodies. The two adults, a female and a male,, were in their 50s, and the children , a boy and a girl, seemed to be between 10 to 13 years old Residents in the area have provided video footage that is now being reviewed by police. Neighbors have also said that they saw a vehicle approaching the house but police have not confirmed that it is related to the incident. 'We want to ask for prayers for the family, we haven't even been able to reach next of kin, we are very early in the investigation. 'I don't feel its a random event, there is no forced entry from outside. 'Whoever is responsible for this, you rest assured we're going to find them,' said Finner. Chief Finner said that the fire might've been started to destroy evidence from the crime. 'Whoever is responsible for this, you rest assured we're going to find them,' said Finner Police said they are in a very early stage in the investigation but feel confident about the evidence left behind Chief Finner said they are in a very early stage in the investigation and will not make any speculations, but he did say that although the house was considerably damaged, they felt confident about the amount of evidence that was left in the crime scene. It is not known if the adults were husband and wife or their relationship to the children, and police declined to say where exactly in the house the bodies had been found. Finner asked anybody with information about the crime to call police. 'Nobody deserves that. I get emotional and everybody does,' 'Its real sad. When its innocent kids, its even more upsetting.' said Finner. Advertisement A firefighter has died while assigned to battle of California's largest ever wildfires, which has burned for nearly eight weeks and burned down 700 homes. The first responder suffered from a previous illness and their death was unrelated to the blaze, authorities said Sunday. The exact cause and manner of his death have not been released. It's the first fatality in a season of 7,000 fires that have destroyed thousands of buildings and forced entire towns to flee. The Dixie Fire, which the unnamed firefighter was working on, began on July 13 in the northern Sierra Nevada and is the second-largest wildfire in recorded state history. It has burned nearly 894,000 acres, or 1,400 sq mi, in five counties and three national parks and forests, according to Cal Fire. The Dixie Fire, above in August 21, has burned 700 homes and 1,300 buildings in total since it started spreading on July 13 It's being fought by 3,800 firefighters, who have kept it 56 percent contained as of Saturday. It has injured there firefighters A woman cries in front of the remains of her mother's home, burned by the Dixie Fire, in Greenville, California on Saturday Over 14,000 firefighters are fighting 13 active fires in California, with calmer wings and high humidity helping in recent days The Dixie Fire is the second-largest in state history, spanning five counties and three national parks and forests, officials say Three firefighters have been injured battling the blaze, which was 56 percent contained as of Saturday after destroying nearly 1,300 homes and other buildings, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The fire is being fought by 3,800 firefighters from various agencies. More than 14,480 firefighters are fighting 13 active large wildfires throughout the state. To date, more than 1.98 million acres have burned statewide, accordion to Cal Fire. Calmer winds and higher humidity in the past two days helped crews trying to surround the Dixie Fire, which at its peak raged through more than 100,000 acres of timber in a single day, fire officials said. Curtis (left) and Wendy Weight react to the remains of their burned home in Greenville, California Saturday. The couple had sold their home and were set to close on it in two weeks The blaze still was devouring 10,000 to 20,000 acres 'which seems huge, except when you compare it to the size of the whole fire,' said Robert Jones, a fire information officer. This is the first reported death among the more than 7,000 wildfires that have hit California this year in a season marked by drought and hot, dry weather that has turned timber, brush and grasslands into tinder throughout the U.S. West. California's fires have burned close to 2 million acres, or over 3,000 sq mi. Fire concerns have shut down all national forests in the state. California has experienced increasingly larger and deadlier wildfires in recent years as climate change has made the West much warmer and drier over the past 30 years. Scientists have said weather will continue to be more extreme and wildfires more frequent, destructive and unpredictable. The Caldor Fire, seen above raging in Sly Park, California on August 27, is close to the popular getaway of Lake Tahoe Firemen take a break while working on the Caldor Fire on Wednesday in South Lake Tahoe, burning below the Dixie Fire The Caldor Fire is 43 percent contained as evacuations in the Nevada border are lifted, though some areas are under warning South of the Dixie Fire, the Caldor Fire remained only a few miles from the popular resort of Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border. About 22,000 residents of South Lake Tahoe were ordered to evacuate last week. Overnight, crews working on the eastern edge of the blaze were able to hold the fire within current containment lines and the immense blaze was now 43 percent contained, according to Cal Fire. There was no immediate word on when residents might be allowed to return home, but in a Sunday morning briefing, Tim Ernst, a fire operations section chief, said crews would continue to quench embers and mop up hot spots to make it safe to repopulate some communities around South Lake Tahoe 'in the coming days.' Mandatory evacuation orders on the Nevada side of the state line were lifted Saturday, but some areas remained on a warning status. Douglas County authorities urged residents to stay alert, saying the fire still has the potential to threaten homes. The fire has injured five firefighters and civilians and burned more than 700 homes, Cal Fire reported. Nearly 28,000 homes, businesses and other buildings remained threatened, ranging from cabins to ski resorts. Doctors in America's least vaccinated state have shared their frustration after it was hit by yet another COVID spiral, which saw four unvaccinated pregnant women killed by the virus in just a week. Just 38 per cent of the three million people who live in Mississippi are now fully-vaccinated, far below the national average of 52.7 per cent. And now doctors and nurses battling the virus in Mississippi have shared harrowing tales from the frontline, in a bid to shine a light on the dangers of anti-vaccine propaganda, as well as to try and encourage hold-outs in their home state to get the shot. State health officer Dr Thomas Dobbs said one hospital in the state saw four pregnant women who hadn't had the shot killed by the virus. Three of those women underwent emergency cesarean sections to try and save their babies, with those infants born severely premature. The women's identities have not been released, and the hospital that has been treating them has not been identified. Dr Dobbs said: 'This is the reality that were looking at and, again, none of these individuals were vaccinated.' A temporary tent is erected at the University of Mississippi Medical Center's parking garage, amid yet another spike in COVID which has driven hospitalizations to record levels Patients receive treatment in this eerie temporary ward - with Mississippi's 38 per cent vaccination rate blamed for the state's latest COVID surge Meanwhile, the state's only level one trauma care center - the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson - has been inundated with patients, with staff there saying they're dealing with a 'logjam' of seriously-ill COVID sufferers. It has accepted help from charity group Samaritan's Purse, which has set up an overflow treatment tent in a parking lot. Samaritan's Purse nurses have printed scripture and stuck it to the front of their uniforms to read to patients, many of whom are too ill to speak. Emergency department executive vice chair Dr Risa Moriarty said visitors coming to the hospital are still trying to enter without masks. She said many have belatedly conceded that they should have been vaccinated, although some others still continue to share conspiracy theories about COVID. Dr Thomas Dobbs says four pregnant women who hadn't been vaccinated died of COVID in a single week, with three of their children delivered by C-section as a result Dr Risa Moriarty, who helps run UMMC's emergency unit, says she and her staff are tired and frustrated by the latest surge, which they say a higher vaccine update could have blunted Moriarty said: 'Theres no point in being judgmental in that situation. Theres no point in telling them, "You should have gotten the vaccine or you wouldnt be here". 'We dont do that. We try not to preach and lecture them. Some of them are so sick they can barely even speak to us.' Moriarty and others say they are 'angry and exhausted' by the latest COVID surge, which has seen an average of close to 2,750 new infections diagnosed each day over the last week. She said: 'Most of us still have enough emotional reserve to be compassionate, but you leave work at the end of the day just exhausted by the effort it takes to drug that compassion up for people who are not taking care of themselves and the people around them.' And during a recent news conference, UMMCs head, Dr. LouAnn Woodward, fought back tears as she described the toll on healthcare workers. 'We as a state, as a collective, have failed to respond in a unified way to a common threat,' Woodward said. This chart shows how infections, ICU admissions and ventilator patients have all spiked to record levels in Mississippi in recent weeks. Three quarters of all COVID patients in the state end up in hospital Mississippi COVID deaths have rocketed to more than 50 a day in recent weeks, although they haven't hit the heights of the winter 2020 peak COVID cases have spiked to record levels, with more than 5,000 a day recorded earlier this summer Mississippi's latest COVID spike is worse than the previous largest surge earlier this year, when Mississippi was recording an average of just under 2,400 new infections a day at the height of its second wave in January. While COVID cases have risen across the US, higher vaccination rates in other states have meant that hospitalization rates and death rates have stayed relatively low, with the shots offering considerable protection from the virus's most serious side effects. But ICU admissions in Mississippi have also rocketed to 486 in August, with up to 342 people on a ventilator at any one time, according to state data. That far exceeds the 360 in intensive care and 230 on ventilators during the peak of the previous wave in January. Around 7.5 per cent of all people diagnosed with COVID in Mississippi are in hospital, with daily deaths creeping as high as 82, also beating the previous spike recorded during winter 2020. As the virus surges, hospital officials are begging residents to get vaccinated. UMMC announced in July that it will mandate its 10,000 employees and 3,000 students be vaccinated, or wear a N95 mask on campus. By the end of August, leaders revised that policy, vaccination is the only option. Moriarity said this surge has taken a toll on morale more than previous peaks of the virus. Her team thought in May and June that despite Mississippis low vaccination rate, there was an end in sight. The hospitals ICUs were empty and they had few COVID patients. Then cases surged with the delta variant of the virus, swamping the hospital. Numbers of total coronavirus hospitalizations in Mississippi have dipped slightly, with just under 1,450 people hospitalized for coronavirus on September 1, compared with around 1,670 on August 19. But they are still higher than numbers during previous surges of the virus. In the medical centers childrens hospital, emergency room nurse Anne Sinclair said she is tired of the constant misinformation she hears, namely that children cant get very ill from COVID. 'Ive seen children die in my unit of COVID, complications of COVID, and thats just not something you can ever forget,' she said. 'Its very sobering,' continued Sinclair, who is the parent of a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old and worries for their safety. 'I just wish people could look past the politics and think about their families and their children.' To deal with overflow COVID patients, Christian relief charity Samaritans Purse set up an emergency field hospital in the parking garage of UMMCs childrens hospital. The hospital is treating an average of 15 patients a day, with the capacity for seven ICU patients. Nurse Kelly Sites, who has also treated COVID patients in hotspots like California and Italy, said its heartwrenching to know that some of the severe cases could have been prevented with the vaccine. Many patients are so sick they cant talk. Nurses walk around with scripture verses on duct tape on their scrubs and will recite them to their patients. Samaritan's Purse is an international disaster relief organization with missions spanning multiple continents. Sites has responded to 20 missions, in Haiti, the Philippines, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other places. 'To respond to the United States is quite surreal for us,' she said. 'Its a challenge because usually, home is stable. And so when we deploy, were just going to the disaster. This is the first time where home is a disaster.' Across the US, Delta continues to drive a spike in infections, although the number of new diagnoses appears to have peaked, sparking hopes that the latest wave of the virus could soon be in retreat. Figures from Johns Hopkins University show that the United States recorded 56,170 new cases on Saturday, and 527 new deaths. The seven day rolling average of new cases sits at 163,416, while an average of 1,550 people have died of COVID each day for the last seven days. Seven-day rolling average cases have dropped slightly from the 167,283 recorded on September 1, with average daily deaths at their highest since mid-March, when the United States' opened up its COVID vaccination rollout to most adults. Former President Donald Trump would beat President Joe Biden if a presidential election were held today, a poll has found, as Biden's approval rating continues to drop in the wake of the nation's withdrawal from Afghanistan. Released by Emerson College Polling, voters were asked which candidate they favor if Biden and Trump hypothetically became the eventual nominees in 2024. According to the poll - conducted between August 30 and September 1 - Trump is slightly favored with 47%, while Biden is favored at 46%. Released by Emerson College Polling , voters were asked which candidate they favored if Biden and Trump hypothetically became the eventual nominees in 2024 Among Democrats, 60% of voters said they would like to see Biden as the 2024 presidential nominee, while 39% said they would rather it be someone else. As for Republicans, 67% of voters said they would vote for Trump in a hypothetical Republican primary with 7 additional candidates, including Governor Ron DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence. When Trump was excluded from the race, Republican voters favored DeSantis at 32%, with Pence coming in second at 24%. According to the poll - conducted between August 30 and September 1 - Trump is slightly favored with 47%, while Biden is favored at 46%. Among Democrats, 60% of voters said they would like to see President Biden as the 2024 presidential nominee, while 39% said they would rather it be someone else. Voters were also asked who they believe held the most accountability for the war in Afghanistan, with 49% of voters choosing former President George W. Bush. Biden came in second at 24%, while 18% of voters chose Barack Obama. Only 10% of voters believe Trump held the most accountability for the war in Afghanistan. When comparing responsibility and the outcome of the war, 68% of voters who hold Biden responsible for the war believe the US lost the war, whereas 57% of those who hold Trump most responsible for the war believe the US won the war. According to a new poll, only 25 percent of Americans said they support President Joe Biden' s handling of the situation in Afghanistan , while a vast percent disapproved But just two weeks before Biden's withdrawal deadline, the Taliban seized near total control of Afghanistan last Sunday, taking the U.S completely off guard. In an NBC News poll conducted in August, only 25 percent of Americans said they support Biden's handling of the situation in Afghanistan, while a vast percent disapproved. The poll was conducted from August 14 to 17, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percent. Of the one thousand U.S. adults interviewed for the survey, 60 percent of individuals said they disapproved of the president's actions when it came to withdrawing troops from Afghanistan after two decades of conflict. According to the poll, the president's overall approval rating dipped to from 53% to 49%. Paired with the country's split views on COVID-19 vaccines, many believe it was a summer of discontent for the president. A Guinean army colonel has gone on state television to say that President Alpha Conde's government has been dissolved along with the constitution in a coup. Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya sat, draped in a Guinean flag with other soldiers by him, as he read a statement Sunday on the uprising on state television, vowing: 'The duty of a soldier is to save the country.' The group call themselves the National Committee of Gathering and Development vowed to restore democracy and also ordered the closure of the country's borders. The mutinous soldiers vowed to restore democracy and closed the country's borders. Members of the Armed Forces of Guinea are seen going through the central neighbourhood of Kaloum in Conakry on Sunday However, the Defense Ministry put out a statement of its own Sunday, saying that the attack on the presidential palace in the capital of Conakry had been repelled. President Alpha Conde, 83, who has been in power for more than a decade, has been seen today in the custody of army special forces. He had seen his popularity plummet since he sought a third term last year, saying that term limits did not apply to him. 'We will no longer entrust politics to one man; we will entrust it to the people,' Doumbouya said, adding that the constitution would also be dissolved and the country's borders would be closed for one week. Doumbouya, who has headed a special forces unit in the military, said he was acting in the best interests of the nation, since he said not enough economic progress has been made since the country became independent from France in 1958. Photos and video showing President Alpha Conde in the custody of soldiers circulated widely on social media 'If you see the state of our roads, if you see the state of our hospitals, you realize that after 72 years, it's time to wake up,' he said. 'We have to wake up.' Heavy gunfire had erupted early Sunday near the presidential palace and went on for hours, sparking fears in a nation that already has seen multiple coups and presidential assassination attempts. The Defense Ministry claimed that the attack had been stopped but uncertainty grew when there was no subsequent sign of Conde on state television or radio. It was not immediately known how broad Doumbouya's support was within the military's ranks. In Sunday's speech, he called on other soldiers 'to put themselves on the side of the people' and stay in their barracks. The president's reelection in October had prompted violent street demonstrations in which the opposition said dozens were killed. Sunday's developments underscored how he had also become vulnerable to dissenting elements within his military. Mr Conde, in power for more than a decade, had seen his popularity plummet since he sought a third term last year, saying that term limits did not apply to him Mr Conde came to power in 2010 in the country's first democratic election since independence from France. Many saw his presidency as a fresh start for the country, which has been mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule. Opponents, though, say he has failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the country's vast mineral riches, which include bauxite and gold. Guinea has had a long history of political instability since independence. In 1984, Lansana Conte took control of the country after the first post-independence leader died. He remained in power for a quarter century until his death in 2009. A second coup soon followed, leaving army Capt. Moussa 'Dadis' Camara in charge. He later went into exile after surviving an assassination attempt, and a transitional government later organized the landmark 2010 election won by Conde. The following year, Conde narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades also landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed. After the Supreme Court struck down an attempt to stop the new Texas abortion ban, even Republians expressed they feel the new law is 'extreme.' 'I happen to be personally opposed to abortion and I believe states do have rights to pass some reasonable restrictions,' Republican Maryland Govenor Larry Hogan told NBC's Meet the Press. 'But certainly in this case, this bill in Texas, seems to be a little bit extreme with this problem of bounties,' he continued. Representative Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, also a Republican, slammed the new law as a way to encourage citizens to 'tattle' on those performing abortions. 'I'm pro-life, but what I don't like to see is this idea of every citizen being able to tattle, sue an Uber driver, as you said, be deputized to enforce this abortion law to whatever they want,' Kizninger told CNN State of the Union host Dana Bash. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, a pro-life Republican, said Sunday that the new Texas abortion law is 'a little extreme' after the Supreme Court stopped it from being blocked Illinois Representative Adam Kinzinger, also a pro-life Republican, said Sunday that the law encourages people to 'tattle' on each other 'I think, if you're going to do something on abortion, it's a debate that we should have that's open and not just opening people up to be sued for any bit part in that process,' he added. The new law in Texas bans abortion when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, whch is usually around six weeks after conception. At this point in a pregnancy, many women who have unplanned pregnancies are still unaware that they are carrying a child. The law, upheld by the Supreme Court last week, also relies on citizens reporting those who assist women in getting abortions after that six-week mark like drivers who may transport them to an abortion clinic or doctors who perorm abortions after a heartbeat is detected. Both Kinzinger and Hogan say they are pro-life, but are still opposed to this law. 'I think any bill going forward should certainly not be set up so that it's enforced by people using private right of action to sue somebody, versus just actually having an open and honest law,' Kinzinger said Sunday on CNN. He also said there need to be exceptions, even to the most restrictive abortion laws like in cases of rape or incest, which the current Texas law does not include any exceptions for. The Texas bill does, however, allow an exception for abortions in the case of medical emergencies to the mother. Kinzinger wouldn't say, however, whether he would support Democratic legislation that would target the Texas abortion law as progressives decry the Supreme Court ruling and look for ways to challenge it. A group of lawmakers already proposed a bill that would impose term limits on Supreme Court justices as a string of recent rulings show the power the 6-3 conservative majority has had on major decisions lately, including on abortion and the COVID-era eviction moratorium. Also of note, Former President Donald Trump wouldn't say in an interview taped Saturday whether he agrees with the Supreme Court ruling upholding the new Texas heartbeat law. In his first on-camera interview since leaving office, which will air in full next Sunday, September 12, Trump said the ruling is likely a temporary thing. Former President Donald Trump wouldn't say in an interview taped Saturday whether he agrees with the Supreme Court ruling and said it's likely 'temporary' 'I know that the ruling was very complex and also probably temporary,' the former president told Sharyl Attkisson in an interview taped in Bedminster, New Jersey . 'I think other things will happen and that will be the big deal and the big picture.' When asked if he supported the new ruling, Trump dodged the question instead taking credit for a series of conservative rulings due to his appointment of three Supreme Court justices during his four years in office. 'Both sides seem to agree that this ruling is largely your doing based on the Supreme Court picks that you made. Do you agree with the ruling?' Attkisson asked. 'Well, I will tell you this: We do have a Supreme Court that's a lot different than it was before, it was acting very strangely. And I think, probably not in the interests of our country,' Trump said. Of the new law, the former president said: 'I'm studying it right now.' The Biden administration has shown a clear inability to communicate with the public about its rollout of vaccine booster shots, leaving people frustrated and feeling sort of jerked around, according to a CNN panel. Wall Street Journal national politics reporter Joshua Jamerson and TIME national political correspondent Molly Ball appeared on CNNs Inside Politics on Sunday to discuss the latest developments in the fight against COVID-19. They took the Biden administration to task for its conflicting messaging on the boosters. Last week, two officials with the Food and Drug Administration resigned in protest of the decision by the administration to allow people to be eligible for a third vaccine shot before it was given regulatory approval. The White House is being advised by some regulators to scale back plans to roll out COVID-19 booster shots this month. A panel of journalists on CNN's Inside Politics Sunday criticized the Biden administration's handling of the rollout of vaccine boosters. From left: CNN's Kaitlin Collins, TIME's Molly Ball, and The Wall Street Journal's Joshua Jamerson Jamerson (left) said the voters he's spoken with are frustrated by the conflicting directives. While the administration is having to grapple with ever-changing variants of the virus, it still has not been able to get its messaging straight, according to Ball (right) The latest poll numbers show growing dissatisfaction with Biden's handling of the pandemic. The president is seen above in LaPlace, Louisiana on Friday Leadership from the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told White House officials they would need more time to review data before they could make a decision, reports The Washington Post. The White House announced plans to make boosters available starting on September 20 - less than three weeks from now - last month. Dr Janet Woodcock, commissioner of the FDA, and Dr Rochelle Walensky, director of the CDC, met with White House Pandemic Coordinator Jeffrey Zients on Thursday. They told Zients that they would be unable to make an informed decision in time to meet the targeted roll out date. With the information they had, Woodcock and Walensky said they could only partially make a recommendation for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, and not make any recommendation for the Moderna jab yet. The delay may be minimal, but it is raising some concerns about the White House influence over scientific decisions, CNN's Kaitlan Collins said. Jamerson said the voters he's spoken with are frustrated by the conflicting directives. Dr Rochelle Walensky (left) and Dr Janet Woodcook (right) told While House officials during a meeting Thursday that they may not be prepared to fully green light vaccine booster shots by September 20 There is no question people feel jerked around, Ball said. While the administration is having to grapple with ever-changing variants of the virus, it still has not been able to get its messaging straight, according to Ball. There has been a clear inability to communicate clearly and consistently with the American people and particularly when so many peoplewere so excited to come out of this and that sort of jerked away, she said. And again, not the administration's fault. Were people prepared and did people know what they were supposed to do next was there a clear national standard set? She added: The administration had been scrambling to deal with all these unexpected situations in a way that did not inspire confidence. Moderna did not submit data on the booster shots to regulators until Wednesday, just 19 days before the third shot was supposed to become available. Pfizer and BioNTech were slightly ahead of their peer, submitting data on August 16. Jeffrey Zients (pictured) said that all available data in regards to booster shots is being reviewed 'We always said we would follow the science, and this is all part of a process that is now underway,' a White House spokesman told the Post about the report on Friday. Last month, the White House, together with the FDA and CDC, announced it would make booster shots available for Americans who received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. People would be eligible for the third shot eight months after they received their second shot. Officials cited the waning immunity the current crop of COVID-19 vaccines have offered, combined with the Delta variant's ability to cause breakthrough cases among vaccinated people as the reason why boosters are needed. The decision was pending approval from regulators, though. Making the announcement before approval was given angered some regulators, and two FDA officials even resigned in protest of the decision by the Biden Administration. Zients responded to the resignations and the controversy around the boosters on Wednesday. 'As our medical experts laid out, having reviewed all of the available data, it is in their clinical judgment that it is time to prepare Americans for a booster shot,' said Zients during a news conference. 'We announced our approach in order to stay ahead of the virus, give states and pharmacies time to plan, and to be transparent with the American people as to the latest data and expert clinical judgments from the team to give them time to do their own planning. 'We have been also been very clear throughout that this is pending FDA conducting an independent evaluation and CDC's panel of outside experts issuing a booster dose recommendation.' Booster shots for the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are set to roll out starting on September 20. Any American is eligible for the third shot eight months after they received their second. (File Photo) Dr. Anthony Fauci said the Monderna booster shot won't be ready by the goal date of September 20 but Pfizer should be ready for administration by then Anthony Fauci said Sunday that the Moderna booster shot may not be ready by September 20 as previously thought but said the booster for the Pfizer vaccine is on track to get the go-ahead later this month. He said the plan to begging administering booster shots for coronavirus vaccines on September 20 is still the plan 'in some respects,' but noted the Monderna booster will take longer to be ready than previously expected. 'We were hoping that we would get the, both the candidates, both products, Moderna and Pfizer, rolled out by the week of the 20th,' the nation's top immunologist told CBS Face the Nation guest host Weijia Jiang. 'It is conceivable that we will only have one of them out, but the other would likely follow soon thereafter,' Fauci added. 'And the reason for that is that we, as we've said right from the very beginning, we're not going to do anything unless it gets the appropriate FDA [Food and Drug Administration] regulatory approval and then the recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.' 'Looks like Pfizer has their data in and likely would meet the deadline,' he said. 'So the bottom line is very likely at least part of the plan will be implemented but ultimately the entire plan will be.' Biden is facing a summer slump, with Americans taking a notably less positive view of his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and his job approval rating ticking down. A new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds that 54 percent of Americans approve of Biden's job performance, down slightly from 59 percent last month. While that's still a relatively solid rating for a president during his first year in office, particularly given the nation's deep political polarization, it's a worrying sign for Biden as he faces the greatest domestic and foreign policy challenges of his presidency so far. The biggest warning sign for the president in the survey centers on his handling of the pandemic. Last month, 66 percent of Americans approved of his stewardship of the public health crisis; now, that number has fallen to 54 percent, driven by a drop in support from Republicans and independents. Portland city council is preparing to vote on an emergency resolution this week which will restrict goods, services and official travel to Texas in protest at the state's the new abortion law. Texas' SB-8 law, also known as the Texas Heartbeat Act, is the strictest abortion law in the country, and bans women from having abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is usually around six weeks - before many women become aware of their pregnancy. Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler says the City Council will hold a vote on the resolution on Wednesday, with the intent to ban Portland's 'future procurement of goods and services from, and City employee business travel to, the state of Texas.' Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler (pictured) says the City Council will hold a vote on the resolution on Wednesday, with the intent to ban Portland's 'future procurement of goods and services from, and City employee business travel to, the state of Texas.' A group of people are gathered at the Times Square of New York City, United States on September 4, 2021 to protest that a Texas law banned abortion Wheeler said that the City Council 'stands unified in its belief that all people should have the right to choose if and when they carry a pregnancy.' 'The ban will be in effect until the state of Texas withdraws its unconstitutional ban on abortion or until it is overturned in court. City legal counsel is currently evaluating the legal aspects of this proposed resolution,' Wheeler added . The new Texas law backpedals on the landmark Roe v. Wade law of 1973, which gave women across the country the right to choose to have an abortion. The act bans women from getting abortions from when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, and does not make exceptions for women who are victims of rape or incest, with the only exception being to save the life of the mother. Unusually, the law is not enforced by police, but by private citizens. Any individual can now sue a person suspected of aiding in an abortion in the state, even if it is a case or rape or incest. Pro-life protesters stand near the gate of the Texas state capitol at a protest outside the Texas state capitol on May 29, 2021 in Austin, Texas The new order blocks the anti-abortion group from bringing lawsuits against providers and staff at Planned Parenthood centers across the state under the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', which came into effect Wednesday They could be awarded a minimum of $10,000 if they were to win the case, which will have to be paid for by the abortion provider. On Friday, abortion providers and pro-choice supporters secured a minor victory in Texas after State District Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin granted Planned Parenthood a temporary restraining order against Texas Right to Life, its legislative director and 100 unidentified associates late Friday. The order blocks the anti-abortion group from bringing lawsuits against providers and staff at Planned Parenthood centers across the state under the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', which came into effect Wednesday. Helene Krasnoff, vice president for public policy litigation and law, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said the group was 'relieved' but said 'this is not enough relief for Texas'. 'Planned Parenthood will continue fighting for the millions of Texans affected by S.B. 8., doing everything we can under the law to restore Texans' federal constitutional right to access abortion,' she said in a statement. Mayor Wheeler said the new law 'violates the separation of church and state' and believes 'it will force people to carry pregnancies against their will.' 'We stand with Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Elena Kagan, Justice Stephen Breyer, and Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who fought to block this attack on the reproductive rights, freedom, and autonomy of people across the country,' the mayor's statement continued. 'We urge other leaders and elected bodies around the nation to join us in condemning the actions of the Texas state government. Portland City Council stands with the people who may one day face difficult decisions about pregnancy, and we respect their right to make the best decision for themselves.' REVEALED: Texas woman who went for abortion at five and half weeks tests positive for COVID and will be too late to have procedure when quarantine is over A Planned Parenthood worker in Texas has told how 70 percent of women seeking abortions have had to be turned away since the state's strict new 'heartbeat' law came into effect on Wednesday. Texas' SB-8, also known as the Texas Heartbeat Act, is the strictest abortion law in the country, and bans women from having abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is usually around six weeks - before many women become aware of their pregnancy. Clinic worker Doris Dixon told how one Houston woman who found out she was five-and-a-half weeks pregnant - within the time limit - also tested positive for COVID-19 and will be banned from having her requested abortion when she ends her quarantine. Dixon, who has worked for 13 years at the Planned Parenthood where the unnamed woman was seen, said she felt she failed the women who went to her clinic and had to be turned away since the new abortion ban went into effect on September 1. 'To hear her beg for someone to help her was hard, she was begging,' 'For me, I was trying very hard not to cry but the tears were coming down, they were there,' Dixon told ABC News. At least 85% of Texans seeking abortion are six weeks pregnant or more, according to Planned Parenthood. Doris Dixon has worked at a Planned Parenthood for 13 years. At the clinic she works at, in Houston, 70percent of abortion had been denied since the Texas Heartbeat act went into effect on Wednesday Dixon said that the unnamed woman had simply gone to the clinic for a check up, but she found out she was not only pregnant but also infected with COVID-19. While she was still eligible for an abortion on Wednesday, by the time her quarantine ends, she no longer will be able to have a legal abortion in the state. Pregnant women seeking an abortion after their sixth week will have to travel out of state to terminate their pregnancy - changing the average drive to get an abortion in Texas from 12 miles to 248 miles, according to the Guttmacher Institute. That is, if they have the financial support to do so. 'I feel like I take it personally. I have failed in my goal to help people,' Dixon added. A female RAF parachute instructor has died after her canopy failed to open on a training jump. The woman plummeted to her death at Weston-on-the-Green airfield in Oxfordshire. An investigation, led by the British Parachuting Association, has been launched into her death. An RAF servicewoman has died in a training accident at an Oxfordshire air base (pictured) after her parachute failed to open The woman, whose identity has not been released, fell to her death at RAF Weston-on-the-Green on Thursday Sources said there may have been issues with her Automatic Activation Device (AAD), which is supposed to ensure a parachute opens once the jumper reaches a low altitude. According to unconfirmed reports, the woman, believed to be in her early 30s, had jumped alongside tandem jumpers a novice parachutist attached to an instructor and may have been recording their descent with a camera. The investigation will include examination of the instructor's equipment, which was recovered from the scene, and interviews with those who jumped with her. Any recoverable footage from the camera will also prove crucial. It is understood Thursday's tragedy occurred during an adventurous training assignment rather than a military exercise and the victim and others had jumped from a light aircraft at an altitude exceeding 12,000ft. A source close to RAF Weston-on-the-Green said: 'Sometimes jumpers rely on an AAD to inform them when they have reached a pre-selected altitude to deploy their parachute. 'The investigation will seek to confirm whether or not the AAD was effective in this circumstance.' The airfield is used by the RAF's No 1 Parachute Training School. An RAF spokesman said: 'We can confirm that a service person has died at RAF Weston-on-the-Green. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and colleagues at this time. 'The incident is being investigated and it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.' In 2015 the British Parachuting Association investigated an incident involving experienced parachutist Victoria Cilliers who was seriously injured after a jump in Wiltshire. The BPA studied her parachute and found that vital parts had been sabotaged. This led to a police investigation into her husband Emile Cilliers who was found guilty in 2018 of attempting to murder her by tampering with her rigging. He was sentenced to at least 18 years in prison. Five people were treated in hospital following a suspected 'acid attack' on a busy Cardiff street this afternoon. South Wales Police were called to City Road at around 2.45pm on Sunday following reports of an assault. A cordon was put in place outside a row of businesses including Afro Barber Shop and Ponnuswamy Restaurant. Pictures from the scene show several half-empty milk cartons along with discarded water bottles on the ground. Witnesses have claimed on social media that the incident was an 'acid attack'. A cordon was put in place outside a row of businesses including Afro Barber Shop and Ponnuswamy Restaurant. South Wales Police were called to City Road at around 2.45pm on Sunday following reports of an assault Eyewitnesses said there was a major emergency service response to the incident. A spokesman for South Wales Police said: 'At around 2.44pm today emergency services attended an address on City Road, Cardiff, after reports of an assault. 'Five people attended hospital with superficial injuries. Officers are appealing for anyone with mobile phone or dash-cam footage of the incident or the aftermath to please contact us quoting ref 2100312749.' Police have not yet commented on the acid attack claims. Pictures from the scene show several half-empty milk cartons along with discarded water bottles on the ground South Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that firefighters were 'assisting' but said it was a 'police matter'. A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We were called shortly before 3.00pm this afternoon, Sunday 05 September, to reports of an incident in the City Road area of Cardiff. 'Ambulance crews, including the Trust's Hazardous Area Response Team, attended the scene and two people were taken to hospital.' Police officers who threw an office party for LGBTQIA awareness in a Covid-19 hotspot during lockdown won't face any punishment for the celebration. NSW Police launched an internal investigation into the celebrations held at a western Sydney station on August 27 after photos from the event were posted online. More than a dozen employees at Mount Druitt Police gathered together in a brightly decorated common room to share buffet platters of food. The photos post to the local area command's Facebook page showed staff around a party table at the station, located in one of the 12 Covid-hit LGAs of concern, as they celebrated Wear It Purple Day to support the LGBTQIA+ community. No further action will be taken after the investigation concluded attendees had complied with public health orders. Mt Druitt Police Area Command posted a pictured on Friday of an office function where more than a dozen staff gathered in a common room (pictured) 'Following an internal review, no breaches of the Public Health Order were detected,' a police spokesman told the Daily Telegraph. Investigators had found the size of the room where the party was held was large enough for the group, police sources told the publication. The Facebook post by police was later deleted after it sparked public outrage. One of the officers pictured wasn't wearing a mask, which are mandatory in indoor venues. While emergency services are exempt from the no gathering and one person per 4sq rules, the exemption was designed so they can carry out their work. Office functions, however, are discouraged under public health orders and the state's chief health officer has repeatedly said office workers should not gather in lunchrooms or tearooms. One officer was pictured not wearing a mask which is required in public indoor venues 'It is important that all workplaces consider their Covid-safe plans,' Dr Kerry Chant said last week. 'Make sure you are not sharing the tea room, you are wearing masks, you have four-metre density and make sure you do not attend when you have symptoms.' Mount Druitt is in the Blacktown local government area, which is one of the highest rates of Covid cases since Sydney's second wave Delta outbreak began in mid-June. In the last four weeks there have been 2,159 Covid cases in Blacktown LGA, with 1,439 not linked to a known case or cluster. NSW recorded 1,485 new cases on Sunday as Sydneysiders entered their 12th week in lockdown. As the chauffeur-driven Mercedes-Maybach purred to a halt, the genial offering of a lift came from the open back window. The voice belonged to Michael Fawcett, Prince Charles's closest aide, who was reclining in the cosseted walnut and leather luxury of the rear passenger seat. The scene was Tokyo where almost two years ago Fawcett, now 58, had accompanied his royal boss, representing the Queen at the enthronement of Japan's new emperor, Naruhito. Old friends: Prince Charles and Michael Fawcett at the Christmas Shoot at Sandringham in 1992 But while the prince was an esteemed guest at the traditional tea ceremony and other solemn rituals of the coronation, his indispensable 'Mr Fixit' had other business to attend to. Yet the fact that the prince's one-time manservant was being chauffeured around the Japanese capital in one of the world's most exclusive and expensive production cars, prompted barely a raised eyebrow. Such has been the rise (and rise) of the man of whom Charles once said: 'I can manage without just about anyone, except for Michael.' Now that unique bond is facing its greatest test after Fawcett's dramatic resignation as chief executive of the Prince's Foundation following claims he had offered to help secure a knighthood and British citizenship for a Saudi tycoon who had bankrolled Charles's charities. And although it was announced that the former valet was stepping down 'temporarily' after being confronted with evidence in which he offered the royal charity's influence in helping the businessman, many inside and outside the Palace were wondering if the man once dubbed 'Fawcett the Fence' for selling royal gifts had finally, by resigning, provided his last princely service. For, as all-important as he undoubtedly is to the Prince of Wales, Fawcett has also at times been a liability upsetting courtiers and being accused of bullying staff both senior and junior. But whatever the past accusations, he has remained serenely impervious to them all. Will that be the case now? Master and servant: Michael Fawcett (right) with Charles on royal duties in Scotland in 2019 with Lord Thurso (left) We understand that the prince was both 'shocked' and 'surprised' by the weekend's developments. Initially, after being told of the existence of a letter in which Fawcett set out that the charity would be 'happy and willing' to use its influence to help Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz, the prince simply didn't believe it. 'His first reaction was that he thought it was fake,' I was told. 'He was totally surprised, shocked even. He didn't know anything about it.' While this may demonstrate the extraordinary authority with which Fawcett has operated since becoming the de-facto head of Charles's charity empire three years ago, it also reveals how reliant the prince is on him and therefore his judgment. Inevitably for someone who has survived so long and risen so high in royal circles, Fawcett has made enemies, many of them envious at both his proximity to the prince and his relationship with him. Twice before Fawcett has resigned only to swim smilingly back into his royal role after the dust has settled. This time, however, questions are being asked whether even if he is cleared of any wrongdoing the prince may make his resignation permanent. There is the issue of Fawcett's serious lack of judgment in his grandiose offer to Dr bin Mahfouz coupled with Charles's growing proximity to the throne. Charles has become one of the most successful charity fundraisers in the world. As Prince of Wales, he has largely been able to ignore the clamour over how and where some of the money has come from. As monarch he simply would not be able to. 'Maybe it is time, however unpleasant he finds it, for Charles to make a clean break with Fawcett,' says one long-standing adviser. 'It would send out a message that he was serious about preparing for his role as king and that he understands that Michael represents a point of conflict. The question is, will he do it?' For the best part of four decades Fawcett has been an unwavering constant in the prince's life as 'non-negotiable as Camilla used to be', observes a palace aide while others in his household have come and gone. Quit charity role: The former aide is pictured with his wife Debbie near their home on Sunday 'No one understands the prince's moods and eccentricities quite like Michael and no one has his skill in dealing with them,' says a close friend. 'We are not just talking about his petty foibles, how he likes his napkins folded or just how little vermouth should go in to his dry martini, Michael has trained others to do that. It's that he gets his sensibilities and understands him aesthetically, philosophically and commercially. They are powerful assets and it is easy to see why the prince is so reliant on him.' Certainly there was no clearer indication of that dependence than when Charles put the man who had once squeezed paste on to his toothbrush (after the heir to the throne broke his arm playing polo in 1990) in charge of his beloved Dumfries House, the Palladian mansion in Scotland which he saved for the nation. The costly restoration has been a labour of love for the prince, who had taken a gamble on being able to secure the fundraising to make it all happen. Fawcett's role in turning the historic house into a busy venue for weddings and conferences while employing as many local people as possible was crucial. From the beginning he was there three or four days a week. 'It was the next best thing to having the Prince of Wales do the job himself,' one figure from those days recalled. One of Scotland's finest homes, Dumfries House belonged to the 7th Marquess of Bute, former racing driver Johnny Dumfries, and had been built for his ancestor, the 5th Earl of Dumfries, in the 1750s. But some 250 years later the Marquess put it on the market, planning to auction its priceless furniture and other treasures. Charles raised the 45million needed to save the property in the nick of time, at one stage describing how the house's irreplaceable Chippendales were heading by lorry for auction in London when the deal was done in the middle of the night and the drivers were dramatically instructed to turn around. Originally he had hoped to recoup his costs by building a model eco village close by a 'Poundbury of the North' as it was dubbed. But plummeting land and property values left a gaping hole in the figures. Which is where Fawcett stepped in. Using the same silky skills he once used to sell off unwanted royal gifts from foreign dignitaries on the prince's behalf (a practice which led to him earning the 'Fence' nickname), he was the vital link between the prince and wealthy donors. The truth is he was pushing at an open door: Fawcett discovered there were many rich men and women prepared to pay towards this princely project in return for royal access. 'Michael was not just securing the money but he was also the impresario arranging all the extravagant events where the pampered guests would get out their cheque books,' says a former aide. 'He's also persuasive in a very charming manner.' It helped that he looked the part spit-and-polished tasselled loafers, Turnbull & Asser shirts and silk ties and hand-tailored suits. It was a style, of course, that was epitomised by the royal prince he served with such devotion, right down to the silk handkerchief poking out of his breast pocket. He also fiddles with his cuffs, just like his royal boss, and stands with his hands clasped behind his back. Indeed when Fawcett, who these days has a well-trimmed grey beard, is in the company of Charles, it is often hard to remember that their relationship is meant to be of master and servant. At home in Hampton, west London, where he lives with wife Debbie, a former palace housemaid, the father of two even has a portrait of himself by the royal artist Peter Kuhfeld, whose other commissions included William and Harry as small boys and a canvas of the scene inside Westminster Abbey at William and Kate's wedding. All in all it has been an extraordinarily meteoric rise for someone who not so long ago supplemented his meagre royal income with a Saturday job in a menswear shop in Jermyn Street. There are scarcely any below-stairs retainers still around who can recall Michael David Fawcett's arrival at Buckingham Palace, straight out of catering college to work as one of the Queen's footmen in 1981, wearing a polyester pullover. But former staff remember him as a 'bit of a Billy Liar' who embellished a modest background. The teenage boy from Bexley, south-east London, talked of a wealthy accountant father. In fact his father was a company cashier and his mother Joan, who died when he was young, a district nurse. At one point he grandly styled himself 'Buxton-Fawcett'. Buxton was his mother's maiden name but fellow staff were unimpressed and took to addressing him as 'Sir Michael'. Taken under the patronage of the Queen Mother's staff at Clarence House, he was a fast learner and rose to become Sergeant Footman. This gave him authority over the very people who had been mocking him and it also caught the eye of the Prince of Wales, who asked him to become his assistant valet. When the newly married Charles and Diana set up home in Kensington Palace, Fawcett went too. He and Diana, just a year his senior, got on well and were often to be found in the palace kitchen chatting over bowls of yoghurt. This easy friendship did not last. As the royal marriage disintegrated Fawcett was firmly on Team Charles. When the couple separated in 1992, Diana had the locks of the marital apartment changed. Not to keep out Charles but the interfering Fawcett. In the years of the royal separation Fawcett's influence grew. By now increasingly overbearing, Fawcett who had been promoted from valet to personal assistant was the subject of a complaint from other servants. He resigned only to be reinstated after Camilla intervened. Five years later he stepped down again after an internal inquiry found he had broken regulations by accepting and selling gifts that Charles did not want. Crucially, the investigation cleared him of any financial wrongdoing. In resigning Fawcett took the heat from Charles, a move that endeared him even more to the prince. Charles rewarded him with a 500,000 payoff and the unswerving loyalty that exists to this day. Fawcett set up Premier Mode, an events company with the prince as number one client, organising all his social gatherings, including the wedding party when Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall married in 2005. According to its latest figures the company in which his wife, son and daughter are all directors had healthy assets of more than 141,000. With Camilla he later oversaw the renovations of Clarence House and Birkhall near Balmoral, the two homes Charles inherited on the death of his grandmother the Queen Mother. But it is as fundraiser extraordinaire that Fawcett has come into his own. On one occasion he was introduced to a wealthy Arab businessman who said he would be honoured to present the prince with a traditional and valuable gold sword. A message went back that what the prince would really appreciate were some carpets. Not long afterwards 40,000 of new carpet was being laid at Dumfries House. 'Only Michael can do something like this,' says a colleague admiringly. 'The prince is constantly amazed by what he does.' Recently Fawcett, who will be 60 next year, has been talking about retirement. Once this seemed unlikely as he was said to be in line for a major role when Charles becomes king. Some of the details of Charles's coronation were expected to be in Fawcett's hands which might explain his presence in Japan picking up tips as the crown passed to a new emperor. There has even been talk of him becoming Master of the Household in the new reign. Today, thanks to the revelations about cash for honours, that looks uncertain. Once again Michael Fawcett's future is in Charles's hands. The question is, does the prince have the resolve to finally part from him? Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak are still haggling over the detail of their social care overhaul today as they prepare to defy a huge Tory revolt to push through a 10billion tax raid. The PM looks determined to push ahead with hiking national insurance contributions by at least 1 per cent, in spite of a rising clamour that it would flout a manifesto pledge and hit working age people hardest. Amid a welter of criticism before the policy has even been formally unveiled, former party leaders and three ex-chancellors have joined 'Red Wall' MPs urging a rethink. Cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg has issued a thinly-veiled warning by pointing to George Bush's famous broken promise: 'Read my lips, no new taxes.' Meanwhile, Keir Starmer has signalled that Labour will oppose the long-awaited blueprint for tackling the social care crisis - raising the possibility that the government will struggle to get the measures through Parliament. Mr Johnson has been wrangling through the weekend with Rishi Sunak to finalise the details of the proposals, after the Chancellor demanded more revenue to foot the costs of the new system. Downing Street is hoping to announce the results tomorrow, with agreement already having been reached on pumping another 5billion into propping up the NHS after the pandemic. But there is disquiet about how parts of the package have been allowed to leak. 'We seem to be spending a lot more time talking about how we are paying for it than what we are doing,' one senior source told MailOnline. The 2019 Tory manifesto committed to a 'triple lock' on taxes, with no rise in income tax, VAT or national insurance. No10 has been talking up rumours of an imminent reshuffle in a bid to quell unrest among ministers, and the platform is expected to be rubber-stamped tomorrow at the first Cabinet meeting since the summer break. 'I've seen it reported that five Cabinet ministers are opposed to the idea,' an insider told the Mail. 'The truth is you would struggle to find five of us who are in favour. We made a promise not to raise taxes and we have to honour it. 'If we go down this road it will come back and bite us, whatever No 10's polling might tell them. People are very unforgiving when it comes to tax.' A Treasury source said: 'The PM is in invincible mode in meetings. Rishi's team has proposed a series of cheaper alternatives but none works for the PM.' Another said: 'They're still haggling over the cap.' Mr Johnson will have been reassured by a YouGov poll showing strong public support for raising national insurance. There is speculation that a 1.25 per cent rise will be used to set a lifetime cap on care costs of around 80,000. Boris Johnson (pictured in the Commons today) faces a mounting Cabinet revolt over plans for a 10billion tax raid to fund social care The PM has been locked in talks with Chancellor Rishi Sunak (pictured) and signed off an immediate 5.5billion funding boost for the NHS to help it through the winter At the end of last year, some 88 per cent of employees were participating in the workplace scheme, the highest level of provision in the UK's history Top Tory backs suspending state pension triple lock The state pension triple lock is unsustainable in its current form, according to the chairman of the Treasury Committee. Mel Stride suggested that the wages measure used to calculate the triple lock should be temporarily suspended meaning it would be replaced with a double lock. Reports suggest that a decision to temporarily introduce a double lock could be announced imminently. The pensions promise guarantees that the state pension will increase in line with inflation, earnings or 2.5 per cent, whichever is higher. But distortions to wages during the coronavirus crisis could mean pensioners receive a rise of as much as 8 per cent an extra 3billion while many workers have been dealing with job losses, salary cuts and pay freezes in the tough economy. Mr Stride said: 'Over the last decade, the pensions triple lock has successfully protected the incomes of older people, who often have limited opportunities to increase their earnings. 'However, the triple lock is unsustainable in its current form. A potential almost double-digit percentage rise is unrealistic and unfair, with knock-on effects for the public finances. 'Given that average wage levels have been skewed by the unprecedented events of the past 18 months, the Chancellor should temporarily suspend the wages element of the lock. 'This is a sensible approach which will aid our recovery from the pandemic.' Advertisement Lord Hammond, who had fought a fierce rebellion when he tried to increase National Insurance for the self-employed, warned he would vote it down in the House of Lords. Mr Rees-Mogg also warned Mr Johnson he risked losing the next election if he went ahead with the plans. He quoted former US President George Bush Sr, who had promised 'no new taxes' and later lost to Bill Clinton in 1992 after breaking that pledge. Mr Rees-Mogg added: 'Voters remembered these words after President Bush had forgotten them.' Jake Berry, leader of the Northern Research Group of Tory MPs, warned against a policy which appeared aimed at elderly voters in affluent southern seats. Rossendale and Darwen MP Mr Berry said: 'It doesn't really seem to me reasonable that people who are going to work in my own constituency in east Lancashire, probably on lower wages than many other areas of the country, will pay tax to support people to keep hold of their houses in other parts of the country where house prices may be much higher.' He told BBC Radio 4's Today that as National Insurance was not paid by people who are retired there was also a question of intergenerational fairness. 'It doesn't seem fair to me particularly following this pandemic where so many people have taken great sacrifices to keep people safe, it's particularly hit the youngest, particularly hit those in work that we then ask those in work to pay for people to have protection in care.' He suggested income tax may be a fairer way to raise revenue rather than the 'jobs tax' of increased National Insurance contributions. 'When I was sat round that Cabinet table and Sajid Javid was the chancellor of the exchequer writing the Conservative Party manifesto, he was a great believer in not racking up the jobs tax and I just wonder why he's had a sort of Damascene conversion when becoming the Health Secretary to seeing the jobs tax as the way forward.' A Downing Street spokesman said: 'We are committed to setting out long-term sustainable reform of the sector and that is what we will do, but beyond that I am not going to be getting into any more speculation. 'The challenges that face the social care sector are long-standing and have successively not been addressed, and that is something the Prime Minister is committed to doing.' Earlier a minister acknowledged there were no easy solutions but insisted that they had to take advantage of the opportunity offered by Mr Johnson's 2019 general election win. James Heappey told LBC: 'This is going to be hard, there will be no consensus, but we have to try, because if you can't do it with a majority of 80, when can you?' Shadow Foreign Secretary Lisa Nandy said 'those with broader shoulders should take some of the burden' rather than hitting the less well-off. Mr Johnson is expected to open a second front with Tory MPs this week by suspending the pension triple lock for a year in another manifesto-busting move. Talks are still believed to be going on with Chancellor Rishi Sunak and Health Secretary Sajid Javid about the final details of the social care plan. But last night they signed off an immediate 5.5billion funding boost for the NHS to help it through the winter. Whitehall sources said the national insurance rise, which could be imposed next April, will also initially be used to help the NHS deal with a backlog that Mr Javid has warned could hit 13million. After three years it would then be switched to fund the PM's pledge to end the scandal that forces thousands to sell their homes to pay for care in later life. Mr Sunak is said to be insisting on guarantees that the money will not be swallowed up permanently by the NHS. The tax hike would be paid by 25million workers, as well as businesses and the self-employed. The trio of ministers are also debating whether to extend national insurance to working pensioners to help defuse criticism that the plan is unfair on younger people. Senior Tories expect Mr Johnson to defy his Cabinet and press ahead with the plan, possibly as early as tomorrow. Wavering ministers have been warned that they could face an imminent reshuffle, although No 10 played down reports it would take place this week. Former chancellor Philip Hammond said the idea of asking young people to 'subsidise older people who've accumulated wealth during their lifetime and have a property... has got to be wrong'. Lord Hammond told Times Radio he would 'vote against' the proposal, adding: 'I think that if the Government were to go ahead with the proposed increase in national insurance contributions, breaking a manifesto commitment in order to underwrite the care costs of older people with homes, I think that would provoke a very significant backlash. 'I think it would cause the Government the Conservative Party significant damage.' Lord Clarke, another former chancellor, said there were 'problems' with using national insurance. He said the tax was 'too heavily weighted on the lower paid' and said there was 'no reason' why the exemption for working pensioners should continue. Lord Lamont, chancellor from 1990 to 1993, told the Telegraph a rise in NI would hit employment whereas increasing income tax could be 'more widely spread'. 'I think it was a foolish promise to make in the manifesto,' he said. Former prime minister Sir John Major warned against the move targeting workers and employers by arguing it is 'regressive'. The PM's plans will place a cap on the amount people have to pay for social care, expected to be between 50,000 and 80,000 (stock image used) The PM was still locked in talks yesterday with Health Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured) about the final details of the social care plan There were also signs that opposition is growing among so-called red wall Tories in the north of England, where lower house prices mean people stand to gain less from the cap on care costs planned by the PM. Bishop Auckland MP Dehenna Davison said: 'We know it has been really difficult times because of Covid. But my view is we absolutely cannot go against this election-winning manifesto.' Former Cabinet minister Esther McVey said national insurance was 'a tax on work, which also hits the poorest hardest.' Business leaders also stepped up calls against the idea, branding it a tax on jobs. Mike Cherry, chairman of the Federation of Small Businesses, said it would 'unquestionably mean fewer jobs and economic damage'. Cabinet ministers thought to be opposed to the tax raid include Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, Trade Secretary Liz Truss, Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey and Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg. The PM's plans will place a cap on the amount people have to pay for social care, expected to be between 50,000 and 80,000. The idea, based on proposals by the economist Sir Andrew Dilnot, are designed to end the scandal which forces thousands to have to sell their homes to pay for care each year. Ministers will also bring in a big increase in the so-called 'floor' when state funding for care kicks in. Currently anyone with assets of more than 23,250 is not eligible for any state help with costs. The proposal is also expected to equalise the costs paid by private and state-funded care home residents. Ministers are considering an idea of rebranding the tax rise as a new 'health and social care levy'. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer last night ruled out supporting the tax increase, meaning that the Government's majority would be in danger if the Tory rebellion tops 40 MPs. Prince Charles faced mounting pressure to cut ties with his closest aide after extraordinary allegations that he offered to help secure a knighthood for a Saudi tycoon. Michael Fawcett Charless former valet was forced to step down as chief of the Princes Foundation at the weekend amid a string of claims about his conduct while running the charity. It was alleged that Mr Fawcett, 58, had offered to support a major Saudi donor to Charless charities Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz in his efforts to secure both an honour and British citizenship. Mr Fawcett at his own suggestion has agreed to temporarily step down from his 95,000-a-year role with the Foundation while an investigation is carried out A letter on headed notepaper made clear that Mr Fawcett was prepared to assist in bumping up the tycoons honorary CBE to a knighthood. Dr bin Mahfouz has been one of the most prolific donors to the princes charities, giving more than 1.5million to help fund renovations of residences used by Charles. The prince is understood to have known nothing of either Mr Fawcetts letter or of emails from fixers about the prospect of an honour. Indeed, the Mail understands that he was so surprised by the claims that he couldnt believe them at first. However, the revelations in The Mail on Sunday and The Sunday Times represented the third time the future king has found himself facing a scandal involving Mr Fawcett who has twice before been forced to resign from royal service. Mr Fawcett at his own suggestion has agreed to temporarily step down from his 95,000-a-year role with the Foundation while an investigation is carried out. The future king, crucially, is said to be supportive of this. But last night he faced pressure to finally cut ties with his former valet if allegations of wrongdoing are found to be proven, with one source suggesting there should be a timely parting of ways. The Princes Foundation is also facing the threat of a possible police inquiry. Former minister Norman Baker, a respected author on royal finances, said the sale of honours was an offence and he would be writing to Met Commissioner Cressida Dick today to ask her to investigate. The prince is understood to have known nothing of either Mr Fawcetts letter or of emails from fixers about the prospect of an honour He said: The letter from Michael Fawcett seems to show there is a prima facie link being made between the donor getting an honour for money coming into Prince Charless charity, which is an offence. Mr Baker questioned whether an internal inquiry by the charity would be conducted with significant rigour, given Mr Fawcetts elevated position. Mr Fawcett has twice bounced back from scandals once over bullying claims and again over the sale of royal gifts because of the princes reliance on him. Charles, who prides loyalty and discretion above anything, once said he could manage without just about anyone, except for Michael. One source said: What we have seen so far is the tip of the iceberg. Just because these are charities championed by the Prince of Wales doesnt mean they shouldnt be subject to the same checks, balances and scrutiny as any other charity. Last week the Princes Foundation launched an investigation following other cash for access claims. Society fixer Michael Wynne-Parker was accused of offering a dinner with Charles and an overnight stay at Dumfries House for 100,000. Mr Wynne-Parker, an adviser to Dr bin Mahfouz, allegedly wrote an email saying fixers would pocket up to 25 per cent of the fees. Last night the Princes Foundation said it had beefed up its investigation by arranging for a senior forensic accountant from a big four firm to carry out an independent review But the latest disclosures pose far more serious questions about the conduct of those close to the prince. They will also prompt renewed scrutiny of the honours system and whether it is open to monetary influence. Last night the Princes Foundation said it had beefed up its investigation by arranging for a senior forensic accountant from a big four firm to carry out an independent review. The bombshell letter was allegedly written by Mr Fawcett on August 18, 2017, to Dr bin Mahfouzs aide Busief Lamlum. It says: In light of the ongoing and most recent generosity of His Excellency... I am happy to confirm to you, in confidence, that we are willing and happy to support and contribute to the application for Citizenship. I can further confirm that we are willing to make [an] application to increase His Excellencys honour from Honorary CBE to that of KBE in accordance with Her Majestys Honours Committee. The letter makes no effort to disguise that support for any knighthood and citizenship application depends on Dr bin Mahfouzs financial support. Writing in his then capacity as chief executive of the Dumfries House Trust, Mr Fawcett added: I hope that this confirmation is sufficient in allowing us to go forward. A year later, Mr Fawcett was put in charge of Charless entire charitable empire as chief executive of the Foundation. One of his main tasks was securing donations for Dumfries House, which Charles saved for the nation in 2007 in part through a 20million loan from his then charitable trust. Last night Clarence House said it was taking the matter very seriously. Mr Fawcett declined to comment. A spokesman for Dr bin Mahfouz said he had not had personal or direct communication to either request, influence or make any arrangements regarding citizenship or knighthood with Mr Fawcett, or anyone connected to HRH The Prince of Wales or the Princes Foundation. Hundreds of thousands of workers are expected to be back in the office today in a watershed moment for Britain's workplaces. After 18 months of employees working at home during the pandemic, some of the nation's biggest employers have told staff they are now expected to turn up for work even if it is just for one day a week. But there was dismay as civil service chiefs and the Bank of England again delayed plans to force their staff to return to the workplace. Hundreds of thousands of workers are expected to be back in the office today in a watershed moment for Britain's workplaces A Daily Mail audit of 18 of the UK's biggest firms, which together employ more than half a million staff, found that half of their office workers are expected to return this week. Nine of the companies have targeted today, while a further three have demanded a return by the end of September. Tens of thousands of employees working for Sainsbury's, British Petroleum and a slew of banks and investment houses will return to the office for at least one day from today, while Vodafone and Deloitte will fully open their offices for the first time. The drive to bring Britain back to the office came amid growing frustration among ministers that the Civil Service has failed to take the lead. Official 'work from home' Whitehall guidance was removed on July 19 and businesses have been told that the Government 'expects and recommends a gradual return over the summer'. But insiders said Whitehall had only seen a slight increase in staff back at their desks, with the numbers in the office still 'pretty low'. One source suggested ministers were waiting to see what impact the return of children to the classroom this month has on coronavirus case numbers before starting a push. 'The Government doesn't want another rollercoaster like last year,' they said. Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith warned thousands of low-paid staff in the hospitality sector would be left unemployed 50 shops went to the wall every day for six months Nearly 50 shops shut every day in the first half of the year as lockdowns and the shift online ravaged high streets. The country lost 8,739 stores between January and June, according to research compiled by PwC and the Local Data Company. Exit from lockdown gave shops a reprieve but the number of customers heading out to high streets and shopping centres is a fifth below pre-pandemic levels. Cities and high streets have been the hardest hit. Suburban areas benefited from families spending close to home while retail parks were insulated from the worst of the crisis. Lisa Hooker, of PwC, said: The next six months will be a make or break for many chains. Advertisement Private sector businesses believe the end of the school holidays and the fact everyone has been offered two vaccinations gives them a mandate to demand a return to the office. Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith warned thousands of low-paid staff in the hospitality sector would be left unemployed within weeks if office staff do not return to their desks. He urged civil servants to 'set an example', adding: 'If we are going to spend our whole lives scared stiff of Covid then this economy will go down the plughole.' The Centre for Cities think-tank also raised the alarm saying September was a 'crunch month' for city centres. A government spokesman said: 'The Civil Service continues to follow the latest government guidance. 'By taking appropriate steps to reduce the risk of transmission of Covid, we are gradually increasing the numbers of staff in the workplace, while ensuring we retain the flexibility of home-based working where appropriate.' Despite today's push for workers to return, many companies will not see all of their staff return until well into the autumn. NatWest, which has 34,000 office staff, said a 'very small' number were currently coming into the office, but that it was pushing for a 'gradual return' from September 13. Every firm surveyed by the Mail said hybrid working a mix of office and home working was the future. The Holiday Guru is always on hand to answer your questions. This week he helps one reader with a query about the entry requirements for Portugal - and advises another on whether they need to take a PCR test to visit France. Q. We are travelling to Portugal on September 22. When we checked the FCDO advice, it wasnt entirely clear whether a negative test certificate is required before travel, as the wording was vague. Can you help? Mrs Janet Dunbar, via email. Get on track: Tourists need proof of a negative test to enjoy Portugals sights, such as Lisbon A. This week Portugal changed its rules. Now you must show a negative PCR (taken up to 72 hours before travel) or antigen/lateral flow test (up to 48 hours before) but you do not need to be fully vaccinated. Those aged 11 and under do not need tests or vaccines. Q. My wife and I fly to France with Ryanair next week. I understand we do not need a PCR test to enter France, as we are fully vaccinated. However, I have been told that Ryanair requires a test. Is this true? J Peers, via email. A. Follow the advice found at Frances Entry requirements page at gov.uk, which says fully vaccinated people do not need a test. Ryanair does not have its own rules. See ryanair.com/ie/en/useful-info/map-page. The Holiday Guru answers questions from two travellers who are visiting France this month Q. We are due to travel to France at the end of September. The rules state we will need to take a PCR test on or before day two of our return. But I had Covid in August and understand that I should not have another PCR for 90 days, as it may give a false positive result. Can you advise? J. Nicholls, via email. A. Even though you are technically exempt, you will still need to book the test. This is because you will need to be given a code from the test supplier for your return Passenger Locator Form. You will then need to take the test. If its positive, call the NHS Test and Trace line on 119. Q. We are taking a cruise from Dover to six ports in Spain. We shall only stay in each for a few hours. Will we need to take a PCR test on return to the UK? Jean Farrell, via email. A. Yes, you will need to follow the rules for returning from an amber-list country. See the travel traffic light rules at gov.uk, gov.scot, gov.wales and nidirect.gov.uk. Q. We plan to drive to Italy. If we have to take a PCR test 48 hours before returning to England, we would take it in Italy, but we would be returning by ferry from France. Is this OK? Derek Passmore, via email. The Guru provides advice about PCR testing for a reader who is planning to drive to Italy A. Such a test can be taken up to 72 hours before coming back. Tests done at authorised clinics in Italy should be accepted in France and Britain. Q. I have been told I could enter the U.S. from Bermuda after isolating for two weeks. Is this so? My family lives in America and I havent seen them since before the first lockdown, when my husband died of Covid. I turn 90 in October and I have yet to see my nine-month-old great-grandson. Jean Ham, via email. A. Condolences on your loss. It is possible to visit the U.S. from any country other than the UK, those in the Schengen zone, Ireland, Iran, India, Brazil, China or South Africa as long as you have not been in any of these places within the past 14 days. You will need to take a Covid test in Bermuda 72 hours before departure, plus another test between days three and five of your arrival in America. WERE HERE TO HELP If you need advice, the Holiday Guru is here to answer your questions. Email us at holidayplanner@dailymail.co.uk. Bette Midler has taken to her Twitter account to protest Texas' recently-enacted abortion bill. The 75-year-old actress has been very active on the social media platform over the past few days and has made several statements to express her dissatisfaction over the highly controversial political action. The Primetime Emmy-winning performer notably remarked that women should withhold sex until the bill is overturned. Speaking out: Bette Midler suggested that women should withhold sex from men in protest of Texas' recently-enacted abortion bill; she is seen in 2019 'I suggest that all women refuse to have sex with men until they are guaranteed the right to choose by Congress,' she wrote. Midler also expressed that the controversial bill was passed in an effort to control the female population in Texas. 'This isn't about guns, speech, money or war. It's about women, their lives, their bodies and their autonomy. That's what allowed the court to do shoddy work, with careless disregard, because who's going to stop it?' She also decried the speedy manner in which the bill was passed and expressed that she saw the actions as being done in complete disregard for women in Texas. Letting everyone know: The Primetime Emmy-winning actress made the bold statement, as well as various others, through her Twitter account Opinion: The actress pointed out that the decision to pass the bill was made in an effort to limit the rights of 'women, their lives, their bodies and their autonomy' Pointing the finger: Midler placed much of the blame on Texas' Republican Party and expressed that they passed the bill 'in the dead of night without care or effort' 'They only did the thing in the dead of night, without care or effort, because they believe women are so used to being gaslit that of course, they'll just tolerate it.' Milder noted that Texas' Republican Party drafted and passed the bill 'without care or effort because they genuinely believe that they're only women, and they deserve what they get.' The Grammy-winning artist then remarked that, in her opinion, there was a glaring racial component to the bill. She wrote that 'the #GOP's plot is to keep certain people back on their heels for life. All women, but Black women especially. Because if nobody held Black women back, what would happen then?' Another look: Midler went on to remark that she saw a racial component to the bill itself The For the Boys star then noted that the majority of Republican officials in Congress would likely be voted out if African-American women were treated equally. 'If Black women were given their full power, old white men would be over,' she noted. Midler pointed out that, despite the various ongoing crises currently plaguing the United States, Texas' Republican Party passed the bill in a tone-deaf manner. 'The cruelty of the #GOP is endless. We are suffering COVID-19, hurricanes, apocalyptic flooding, wildfires from hell, joblessness, homelessness, evictions, racial strife,' she wrote. Bad timing: She also blasted the decision to pass the bill despite various other crises occurring all over the United States The performer expressed that now was a 'hideous time to pile on yet another shock to women, by taking away their right to choose.' Midler then decried the difference between individuals who chose to turn a blind eye to the COVID-19 pandemic and the situation in which Texas' female residents have been placed. She wrote, 'Why do #antivaxxers and #antimaskers get to live the "my body, my choice" life, but pregnant women are not allowed to? How is this fair?' The performer also opined that the state's legislators were attempting to create a Caucasian majority in the state in addition to ensuring that communities of minorities stayed in poverty. Looking to the future: Midler also expressed that, if racial equality existed in the United States, 'old white men would be over' 'Some say it's Texas' way of keeping black and brown women poor. I say it's also because they want WHITE women to keep replenishing the stock,' she wrote. Earlier this year, the state's governor, Greg Abbott, signed a bill that prohibits women from ending pregnancies after just six weeks at the earliest. Private citizens will be able to sue abortion providers after what is described as a 'heartbeat' is formally detected. The highly restrictive law was passed this past May and took effect this month. Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have taken the backlash that they received over their kids' unorthodox bathing habits in stride. And the 43-year-old No Strings Attached star and the 38-year-old Black Swan actress continued to show their commitment to their children's hygiene as they took their daughter Wyatt six, and son Dimitri, four, to get haircuts. The family was spotted leaving The Yellow Balloon Hair Salon in Sherman Oaks on Saturday. Shaking it off: Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have taken the backlash that they received over their kids' unorthodox bathing habits in stride Mila donned wide leg distressed jeans and a vintage crop top that bared a sliver of her toned midriff. She sported white sneakers and shielded her eyes from the sun with a pair of purple-tinted aviator shades. Kunis accessorized with long yellow and pink beaded necklaces and a gold bangle bracelet. The brunette beauty wore her long locks down and covered her face with a black mask. Aptly named: The family was spotted leaving The Yellow Balloon Hair Salon in Sherman Oaks in Saturday with the kids carrying yellow balloons on their way out Cleaning up: And the 43-year-old No Strings Attached star and the 38-year-old Black Swan actress continued to show their commitment to their children's hygiene as they took their daughter Wyatt six, and son Dimitri, four, to get haircuts Ashton was also casually attired in blue jeans with a blue and red flannel shirt that he left unbuttoned over a gray t-shirt. Kutcher wore black sneakers and a red face mask. Wyatt donned denim overalls with an aqua blue shirt and purple sneakers. Her freshly-cut hair was pinned with back with pink bows. Dimitri was clad in a gray t-shirt and jeans. The children held yellow balloons as they walked out of the salon with Mila and Ashton. Last month, Kutcher and Kunis sparked a buzz after revealing they only bathed their children once they became physically dirty. Following the outcry, Ashton hilariously poked fun at himself and his wife as they bathed their children. 'Are you trying to melt them!?' Ashton hilariously poked fun at himself and his wife as they bathed their children on Wednesday evening In a video posted to his Instagram account, an incredulous Kutcher joked over how 'ridiculous' it was that they were cleaning their kids. The video begins with an incredulous Ashton asking his giggling wife as their children bathed, 'What's going on?' 'It's water,' Mila replied, amused by her husband's reaction. Ashton could not believe his ears as he joked about his wife attempting to 'melt' their two children. 'You're putting water on the children!?' he exclaimed. 'Are you trying to melt them!? Are you trying to injure them with water!? This is ridiculous!' Ashton said. 'What's going on!?' 'It's water': Kunis was obviously amused by her husband's over-the-top reaction 'This is ridiculous!' The That 70's Show actor could not believe that his children were taking a bath 'We're bathing our children,' Mila replied, laughing. 'That's like the fourth time this week!' Ashton replied with an incredulous tone. 'Four times this week!' he shouted at the camera. 'Their body oils are going to be destroyed!' he continued. The video was hilariously captioned, 'This bathing thing is out of hand #KutcherBathroomTalks.' 'We're bathing our children': Ashton's reaction to the spectacle left his wife in stitches 'That's like the fourth time this week!' The actor was certain to have fans laughing with his hilarious commentary Ashton and Mila are among a growing list of celebrities revealing their lax washing routines. The couple kicked off the public conversation about celebrity hygiene during a podcast appearance last month, with Ashton telling Armchair Expert host Dax Shephard: 'I wash my armpits and crotch daily and nothing else ever.' Mila said she washes her 'slits and t**s' and also revealed that she did not bathe her children 'everyday' when they were infants. Meanwhile Jake Gyllenhaal, 40, shocked fans when he told Vanity Fair: 'More and more I find bathing to be less necessary.' Keeping it clean for once: Cardi B admitted she's baffled by the trend of celebrities who say they don't shower often Confused: The X-Rated rapper took to Twitter to join in on the debate about washing habits Not impressed: Cardi appears to be a fan of showering regularly after taking to Twitter to share her concern for her peers that have been speaking out against daily washing He noted: 'I do also think that there's a whole world of not bathing that is also really helpful for skin maintenance, and we naturally clean ourselves.' Dax Shepard's wife Kristen Bell also said she doesn't shower often for environmental reasons, explaining: 'California has been in a drought forever. It's just like, responsibility for your environment.' 'We don't have a ton of water, so when I shower, I'll grab the girls and push them in there with me so we all use the same shower water.' 'Slits and t**s': Ashton and Mila kicked off the public conversation about celebrity hygiene during a podcast appearance last month Meanwhile: Dax and his wife Kristen Bell then went on The View where she revealed she would 'wait for the stink' before bathing their daughters Lincoln, eight, and Delta, six 'We naturally clean ourselves': Jake Gyllenhaal joined the choir in a recent Vanity Fair interview saying: 'More and more I find bathing to be less necessary, at times' But not everyone is a fan of the hygiene trend, with Cardi B expressing her confusion over the movement of celebrities refusing to keep things clean. The X-Rated rapper seemed as mystified as everyone on Tuesday, when she tweeted 'Wassup with people saying they dont shower?' alongside a emoji with a raised eyebrow, adding: 'It's giving itchy.' Joining Cardi in her thoughts about the situation was Game of Thrones star Jason Momoa. The actor told Access Hollywood earlier this week that he is not part of the club, saying: 'I'm not starting any trends. I shower, trust me,.' He added: 'I'm Aquaman. I'm in the f****** water. Dont worry about it. I'm Hawaiian. We got saltwater on me. We good.' Dwayne Johnson has also assured his fans he is not in the same category. Details: When a Twitter user brought up the subject Dwayne, 49, wrote: 'Nope, Im the opposite of a "not washing themselves" celeb' When a Twitter user brought up the subject this week, Dwayne, 49, wrote: 'Nope, Im the opposite of a "not washing themselves" celeb.' In fact the fighter turned movie star, who goes by the nickname The Rock, revealed that he showers three times a day. 'Shower (cold) when I roll outta bed to get my day rollin. Shower (warm) after my workout before work. Shower (hot) after I get home from work. Face wash, body wash, exfoliate and I sing (off key) in the shower,' he shared. They met at pantomime rehearsals for Jack And The Beanstalk in 2018 in Darlington and have been inseparable ever since. And twice-married Shirley Ballas, 60, has revealed she's discussed tying the knot with her younger lover Daniel Taylor, 47, in a candid new interview. The Strictly Come Dancing star told how it doesn't bother her that he is always referred to as her 'toyboy' and gushed that lockdown together made them 'stronger'. Sweet: Twice-married Shirley Ballas, 60, has revealed she's discussed tying the knot with her younger lover Daniel Taylor, 47, in a candid new interview She told The Sun: 'First of all, I look younger than him. It might be there in numbers, but I give Danny a run for his money! 'Do we ever have ups and downs? Absolutely, we spent time together in lockdown and that was like 10 years' work but it made us stronger, if you came through lockdown, you can come through anything. 'We do talk about marriage. Come on, Daniel, where is the ring? If I married him, I think I would be Shirley Ballas-Taylor it sounds a bit like Elizabeth Taylor and I could collect husbands like she does. Lovers: The Strictly Come Dancing star told how it doesn't bother her that he is always referred to as her 'toyboy' and gushed that lockdown together made them 'stronger' 'After all, you can always get a divorce! She had eight marriages didn't she? No, I'll just stick with my Danny, but I do think it has a nice ring to it.' English-American actress Elizabeth Taylor famously had eight marriages in total. The beauty also spoke about the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing which starts in less than two weeks time. She said she gets 'emotional' even thinking about the new show and is 'so excited' that there will be a full 13 episodes this year. The judge added that having former Great British Bake Off star John Whaite competing in the first all-male pairing is a 'great step forward in representation and inclusion'. Loved up: She told The Sun: 'We do talk about marriage. Come on, Daniel, where is the ring?' (pictured in January) Earlier this year Shirley and Daniel revealed that they have discussed adopting a child together. The ballroom dancing champion told the Loose Women panel she wouldn't rule out expanding her family with her hunky beau, and she thinks it's 'important' to explore the option of bringing a child into her home. Shirley also praised her boyfriend for supporting her when she decided to have her breast implants removed last year, having learned they increased her chances of contracting cancer. Shirley told how she thinks it's 'important' to think about the prospect of adopting a child, but she and Daniel have made any official plans. She said: 'We have talked about that. it's quite important. It doesn't matter who has the home. If you can give a home to someone who's been in care, that's quite important.' The Strictly head judge first went public with her relationship with Daniel in March 2019, after the couple met doing panto in November 2018. Romance: The Strictly head judge first went public with her relationship with Daniel in March 2019, after the couple met doing panto in November 2018 Shirley also revealed that Daniel fully supported her decision to have her breast implants removed to significantly reduce her chances of having breast cancer. She said: 'He's been a massive support. I couldn't have done this journey without him. 'It's quite a tough decision to make and it took me a few years to do it. It's definitely something that's running through the family. 'This is the first run into winter that I haven't got sick. I made a decision that I would take them out. They had separated, they were uncomfortable, they felt heavy.' When asked if going back to her natural chest size has affected her body confidence in any way, Shirley said that while she's always struggled with insecurities about her curves, she feels happier than ever. She said: 'Well I think you can't always go by what you see. I have struggled with body issues all my life. Since I can remember. I have a curvy figure. I'm not stick thin. 'What I'm learning now is to love yourself and how you are and how you're made.' Rhian Sugden looked incredible as she headed to The Lowry Theatre in Manchester in time to catch the Everyone's Talking About Jamie press night on Saturday. Holding hands with her actor husband Oliver Mellor, 40, the model, 34, showcased her svelte waist in a white crop, which she combined with black joggers featuring white polka dots. She kept her arms warm in a co-ordinating blazer and had styled her beautiful blonde tresses into a tousled side parting. Hot stuff: Rhian Sugden showcased her svelte waist in a white crop and black polka dot joggers as she headed to the theatre with her husband Oliver Mellor on Saturday Slipping her feet into a casual pair of white trainers, the former Celebrity Big Brother housemate looked gorgeous having flawlessly applied a full face of makeup. Her beau appeared to be in high spirits as he donned a cream-and-brown polo shirt, which he teamed up with an onyx leather jacket. The Coronation Street star cut a matching pair of trousers, along with white-soled black trainers. He had styled his jet black tresses into a sleek quiff. Rhian revealed on Thursday that her fourth round of IVF has failed while admitting that she is struggling to put on a 'brave face'. Looking good: Her Coronation Street beau cut a matching pair of trousers, along with white-soled black trainers The influencer showed her vulnerable side as she candidly discussed feeling down on Instagram amid her challenging fertility journey. She announced her decision to start the in-vitro fertilisation process in 2019 after she was told by doctors that she has an egg count of someone at least 13 years older. And sharing a glamorous photo clad in lingerie, Rhian provided an update: 'Been feeling blue [blue heart emoji]. Had a hell of a tough few weeks 'For those that have been following my journey IVF round 4 failed but its now time for me to pick myself up and carry on! Loved up: Holding hands with her actor husband Oliver Mellor, 40, the model, 34, appeared to be in high spirits 'Being in the public eye and trying to keep a brave face on his harder than it looks but Ive done it many times before and I will do it again. 'Its time to stick on my best undies, get myself back to normal and get back behind that camera doing what makes me happy! Big shout out to my support network. Youre the best! #ivfwarrior [pineapple emoji].' [sic] In April 2019, Rhian discussed her plans to have IVF after being told she has an egg count of 'a woman over 45' but added that the procedure carries only a 'two per cent' success rate. Rhian explained: 'I was told that I may never be a mum and Im heartbroken. 'Had a hell of a tough few weeks': Rhian told her Instagram followers on Thursday that her fourth round of IVF has failed while admitting that she is struggling to put on a 'brave face' Knock back: She said: 'Been feeling blue [blue heart emoji]. Had a hell of a tough few weeks For those that have been following my journey IVF round 4 failed' 'Doctors said I have the egg count of a woman over 45, meaning it's unlikely I would ever conceive naturally. 'It also means the odds of getting pregnant by IVF have gone down from 30 per cent to two per cent which was pretty devastating to hear.' And in October last year, Rhian revealed her third round of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) was 'looming' in a candid Instagram post shared. The glamour model told how she was left feeling 'embarrassed' as she suffered from hyperpigmentation during her second attempt of the treatment, which she claimed caused her 'freckles to quadruple'. Beginning: In April 2019, Rhian discussed her plans to start IVF after being told she has an egg count of 'a woman over 45' Alongside her detailed message, the former CBB star caught the eye as she slipped into a sheer black lingerie by Pour Moi for a typically racy photo. She said: 'Keep calm and freckle on.. I always used to love my freckles and always been happy to wear minimal makeup to show them off. 'However during my second (failed) round of IVF last year my freckles quadrupled and took over my face. It now looks like I have awful sun damage and I've been so embarrassed by it. 'Little did I know that hyperpigmentation is a side affect of the IVF and the hormones that I injected.' The following month she expressed heartache and confirmed her third attempt had failed In-vitro fertilisation, known as IVF, is a medical procedure in which a woman has an already-fertilised egg inserted into her womb to become pregnant. It is used when couples are unable to conceive naturally, and a sperm and egg are removed from their bodies and combined in a laboratory before the embryo is inserted into the woman. Once the embryo is in the womb, the pregnancy should continue as normal. The procedure can be done using eggs and sperm from a couple or those from donors. Anticipation: And in October last year, Rhian revealed her third round of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) was 'looming' in a candid Instagram post shared Production of Love Island Australia's upcoming third season isn't going to plan thanks to Covid-19. Just days after it was revealed the ITV program had been forced to change locations from Queensland to Northern NSW due to border closures, new reports have emerged that filming has been halted due to a breach of Council regulations. TV Tonight reported on Saturday that construction of Love Island's famous villa was shut down, after producers failed to submit a Covid safety plan to the local council. Another spanner in the works: Love Island Australia has hit another snag after construction of the show's new villa was halted due to a breach of Covid rules - after filming was shifted from Queensland to NSW. Pictured: host Sophie Monk The production, which is taking place at a small town called Federal, west of Byron Bay, also failed to submit details of cast and crew's travel plans, the report claims. 'The production had gone ahead with some early works. As soon as we were advised that the works were actually non-compliant, we stopped. ITV has apologised to Council and is taking steps to rectify the mistake,' An ITV Studios spokesperson told TV Tonight. ITV assured the publication that a 'comprehensive CovidSAFE plan' has now been enacted on-set. Halted: TV Tonight reported on Saturday that construction of Love Island's famous villa was shut down, after producers failed to submit a Covid safety plan to the local council. Pictured: Love Island Australia season 1 cast 'In addition to the mandatory government requirements, we have implemented additional Covid protocols,' the company said in an official statement. 'These include a rigorous Covid testing regime for all cast and crew and we have engaged an extensive safety team including Covid marshalls.' It is believed production will recommence soon. Change of plans: It comes after the reality dating program was forced to shift production from the Sunshine State's Port Douglas to Northern NSW last month It comes after the reality dating program was forced to shift production from the Sunshine State's Port Douglas to Northern NSW last month. 'As a result of the current COVID-19 situation and fluctuating border restrictions, we have decided to move the filming location of the upcoming third season of Love Island Australia to Federal, northern NSW,' ITV Studios Australia CEO & Managing Director, David Mott told Nine.com.au. 'This decision has been made with the best interests and safety of all cast and crew involved. We have found a brilliant location and can't wait to get started. Love Island Australia returns to Channel Nine later this year. Chrissy Teigen announced she was 50 days sober from alcohol in a Saturday post. The 35-year-old Cravings founder confessed that it was her 'longest streak yet' without booze after first experimenting with sobriety back in November following her tragic pregnancy loss. Teigen had been open about her complicated relationship with alcohol in the past and also has a history of alcohol abuse in her family, but confessed to the possibility of drinking again some day. Sober streak: The 35-year-old Cravings founder announced she was 50 days sober which was her 'longest streak yet' and talked about the her journey to sobriety and relationship with alcohol in a post; pictured May 2021 Announcement: 'Today is my 50 day sobriety streak! it should be nearly a year but I had a few (wine) hiccups in the road. this is my longest streak yet!,' her caption began Teigen shared a video of her laying on the floor with she and husband John Legend's two kids Luna, five, and Miles, three. 'Today is my 50 day sobriety streak! it should be nearly a year but I had a few (wine) hiccups in the road. this is my longest streak yet!,' she began. 'I still dunno if I'll never drink again but I do know it no longer serves me in ANY way. I don't get more fun, I don't dance, I don't get relaxed. I get sick, fall asleep and wake up sick, having missed what was probably a fun night. 'I had my fun with it and appreciate anyone that can enjoy it responsibly!!!!,' she continued to say and also confessed that she had worked out three days this week which 'is unheard of for me.' Attempted workout: Teigen shared a video of her laying on the floor with her two kids Luna, five, and Miles, three Confession: 'I still dunno if I'll never drink again but I do know it no longer serves me in ANY way,' the model confessed Teigen first got sober in late November and announced just days ahead of the new year that she had reached four weeks. She embarked on the journey as a way to help herself heal following the loss of she and Legend's son 'Jack' due to partial placenta abruption in late September at just 20 weeks. The Chrissy's Court star credited a book she had received (Holly Whitaker's Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice to Not Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol) as the reason for her lifestyle change. She told her followers at the time: 'I was done with making an a** of myself in front of people (I'm still embarrassed), tired of day drinking and feeling like s**t by 6, not being able to sleep.' Giving it up: Teigen first got sober in late November and announced just days ahead of the new year that she had reached four weeks; pictured November 1, 2020 Done: 'I was done with making an a** of myself in front of people (I'm still embarrassed), tired of day drinking and feeling like s**t by 6, not being able to sleep,' she told her followers; pictured August 20 Chrissy has been open about her relationship with alcohol in the past and has poked fun at herself when she's been 'drunk' on social media at several points. In a 2017 Interview with Cosmopolitan, she said: 'I was, point blank, just drinking too much. 'I got used to being in hair and make-up and having a glass of wine. Then that glass of wine would carry over into me having one before the awards show... And then a bunch at the awards show.' She continued: 'And then I felt bad for making an a** of myself to people that I really respected. 'And that feeling, there's just nothing like that. You feel horrible. It's not a good look for me, for John, for anybody.' 'Drunk crying': In February she shared a photo of herself 'drunk crying' at Beyonce Memorable moment: Teigen also shared a photo of herself crying at the Golden Globes several years back as she wished 'this drunk dumb***' a happy anniversary In 2018 she spoke to Women's Health Magazine and said that postpartum depression after having Luna also caused her to drink to cope with the pain before she was prescribed an antidepressant. 'After Luna, I was drinking too much. I wasn't eating as much because I was full from drinking. I wasn't being good to my body.' In February 2019 after overindulging at the Oscars, Teigen tweeted in the wee hours of the morning: 'Oh my god I feel like absolute s**t. I hereby go sober for at least the week. Booze is poison.' A history of alcohol abuse in her family, she said having 'just 'one drink' was hard for her. 'I don't know how to go to an awards show and not drink,' she said at the time. Over indulging: In February 2019 after overindulging at the Oscars, Teigen tweeted in the wee hours of the morning: 'Oh my god I feel like absolute s**t. I hereby go sober for at least the week. Booze is poison'; pictured at the 2019 Oscars In an August 22 Instagram post she reflected on her days living in NYC with Legend and referred to herself as a 'functioning alcoholic' at the time. 'I'd sit there with my multiple double vodka sodas and get day drunk by myself (this is not a brag lol I was basically a functioning alcoholic),' her caption read in excerpt. Teigen continued to speak on her September miscarriage and confessed that she had turned to alcohol at one point to numb the pain away. 'I don't really feel like I fully processed jack and now that I don't have the alcohol to numb it away, things are justthere, waiting to be acknowledged,' she shared. She had spoken about the heartbreak of knowing she'd never be pregnant again and continues to heal with the help of horseback riding for therapy, grief counseling and cooking. One of the many brands for which Nadia Bartel has served as an ambassador has come back to bite her. In the wake of the WAG's snorting scandal, social media users have gone wild upon learning the very unfortunate name of one of the 36-year-old's business affiliations. Nadia currently serves as a model for the aptly named 'Fine Lines' lingerie brand. Fine lines indeed: In the wake of Nadia Bartel's snorting scandal, social media users have gone wild upon learning the very unfortunate name of one of the 36-year-old's business affiliations. Pictured: Nadia modelling lingerie And many couldn't fail to connect the dots between the name and the lines of white powder disappearing up Nadia's nose in last week's infamous leaked video. Billing themselves as 'Australia's most trusted bra brand,' the Fine Lines website puts Bartel front and centre on their website. In an unfortunate bit of website layout, the brand name 'Fine Lines' is almost immediately followed by 'Loved by Nadia'. Whoops! Nadia currently serves as a model for the aptly named 'Fine Lines' lingerie brand Ambassador: Billing themselves as 'Australia's most trusted bra brand,' the Fine Lines website puts Bartel front and centre on their website LOL: Many couldn't fail to connect the dots between the name and the lines of white powder disappearing up Nadia's nose in last week's infamous leaked video Colourful commentary: Another expressed disbelief, Tweeting 'Nadia Bartel modelling a lingerie brand called Fine Lines?? You really couldnt make this s**t up' Taking to the brand's Facebook page, one commenter suggested to the lingerie company: 'Make sure to add the plate of 'fine lines' at the next photo shoot, the possibilities and angles are endless...' Meanwhile, on Twitter users revelled in the unfortunate coincidence, with one writing, 'The fact that Nadia Bartel is an ambassador for fine lines lingerie is just so fitting and lovely.' Another expressed disbelief, Tweeting 'Nadia Bartel modelling a lingerie brand called Fine Lines?? You really couldnt make this s**t up'. While another added, 'Goodness. Lots to unpack here.' It is not suggested that Fine Lines condones the snorting of cocaine or breaching of lockdown, nor did it have any knowledge of Nadia's shameful activities before it became public knowledge. The social media pile-on follows the unfortunate release of a video of Nadia snorting what appeared to be lines of white powder off a $1.50 Kmart dinner plate at a gathering last week. On Sunday, an a source close to the high-profile star claimed that Nadia was betrayed by a member of her own inner circle who leaked her sensational 'cocaine' video to the media. Video: Nadia (pictured) was filmed breaking Melbourne's strict lockdown and snorting what is believed to be cocaine at a party on Thursday night 'The cocaine video was deliberately leaked by someone within Nadia's elite Melbourne social circle,' the source said. 'This is someone who for all intents and purposes seems to be Nadia's friend on Instagram but they are secretly jealous,' they added. The source went on to say that the video being posted by Ellie in the first instance was a genuine mistake, 'but Nadia's nemesis pounced on it and immediately sent it to people they knew could get it to the press quickly'. Leaking the video was part of 'a campaign of revenge someone wants to shut her down,' they added. Video: The clip begins with the fashion and beauty influencer appearing to lean over the plate with a rolled-up banknote in her left nostril as she presses her right nostril. She then snorts the substance as one of the women watches on The source made it clear that Bartel's good friends like Bec Judd and Jessie Murphy did not leak the video, and that while the person is 'well known in the social group' they are not a fellow WAG. There is sympathy for Bartel's plight among her A-list pals, the source added, as the video leaker 'broke the code' about keeping such activity private within tight glitterati circles. 'Nadia is genuinely apologetic but a lot of people in the upper echelons of Melbourne society feel genuinely bad for her,' the source said. 'These sorts of videos of celebrities behaving badly are doing the rounds everywhere in private WhatsApp groups and Facebook chats. The fact this video leaked to the press and went public broke the code.' Pearson, who filmed and published the now-viral clip entirely by mistake, revealed she was remorseful over the incident. Heartbroken: Ellie Pearson (L) who filmed and published the now-viral clip entirely by mistake, revealed she was remorseful over the incident. 'I'm just devastated,' she told The Herald Sun on Friday evening 'I'm just devastated,' she told The Herald Sun on Friday evening. A new report alleges the video first found its way online due to Pearson having a cracked phone screen. The Sydney Morning Herald claimed on Saturday that Pearson was attempting to send the video to her sister. However, because her phone screen was damaged, she hit the wrong buttons. As a result, the clip was posted to both Instagram and Facebook, and was online for about ten minutes before being deleted, the paper claims. Scandal: Bartel was visited by police after she was filmed breaking Melbourne's strict lockdown and snorting what is believed to be cocaine at a party on Thursday night. Victorian police attended her $3million inner-city residence on Friday evening, hours after the video was accidently uploaded But it was quickly copied by others and shared around, going viral on Friday. Bartel was visited by police after she was filmed breaking Melbourne's strict lockdown and snorting what is believed to be cocaine at a party on Thursday night. Victorian police attended her $3million inner-city residence on Friday evening, hours after the video was accidentally uploaded. Two plainclothes police officers were seen arriving at Bartel's home but were reportedly unable to make contact with her. Police have since confirmed that Bartel has spoken with them, and no fines have been issued as of Saturday. 'Victoria Police is aware of a video currently on social media depicting alleged illicit drug use and an alleged breach of CHO directions,' a spokeswoman told The Herald Sun on Saturday. 'Victoria Police has made contact with a 36-year-old Windsor woman who is assisting with inquiries. As the investigation is ongoing it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,' the spokesperson added. Apology: Breaking her silence in a post shared to Instagram on Friday afternoon, the 36-year-old mum of two wrote: 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future' Bartel broke her silence and issued an apology over the incident on Friday evening. 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future,' she wrote in an Instagram post on Friday evening. 'To my family and friends, my business partners and the public health workers trying to keep us all safe, I am embarrassed and remorseful. 'I am truly and deeply sorry. I hope I can earn your forgiveness and, in time, your trust.' Bartel is a mother of two and entrepreneur who runs the fake-tan company Spray Aus and clothing label Henne. She is the ex-wife of retired AFL star Jimmy Bartel, a Brownlow Medallist who spent his career with the Geelong Cats. The couple split in 2019 after five years of marriage. Taryn Manning confessed she anticipated she would be criticized for playing the role of a racist White woman who terrorizes her new Black neighbors in the new BET film Karen. And with some critics labeling Karen as 'damaging and irresponsible' and 'just a tactic to further divide us', the Orange Is The New Black alum is now opening up about the depths of the backlash, especially on social media. 'I was, kind of, taking it on head first and, like, responding to people, you know, 'I'm so sorry you feel that way,'' she said in an interview with Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo for Mr. Warburton magazine. 'I was attacked a lot by white women who felt that I had betrayed my own race.' Controversies: Taryn Manning, 42, opened up about the backlash she's received for playing the role of Karen White: a racist White woman who terrorizes her new Black neighbors Despite the backlash and cyberbullying, Manning maintains that the film, and its topics and issues, needed to be told in order to kick start a change for the better in the U.S. and around the world. 'I know when a subject is so active, it's like an active nerve right now, a lot of people aren't taking it well. But the point was to illuminate something that needs to be brought to the forefront so we can start to change humanity,' she shared, before elaborating on the origins that motivate people like her character Karen. 'Some people are hard-wired, maybe they grew up in a household where they never even really had a chance to think for themselves. It's just this repetitive generational cycle that they're in there's that. There's maybe an experience with someone like that, that scarred their frontal lobes, or it's just a bad day.' Backlash: 'I was attacked a lot by white women who felt that I had betrayed my own race,' Manning revealed about the social media backlash to playing a racist in an interview with Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo for Mr. Warburton magazine Sensitive subjects: Manning's character Karen appears to be friendly when she greets them upon their arrival. However, Karen's facade slowly reveals a bitter, jealous, angry, and racist woman who wants to remove the couple at any cost. Cory Hardrict and Jasmine Burke play the couple terrorized by Manning's character The film centers of Malik and Imani, a young Black couple who move into a new home in the suburbs. Seemingly being neighborly, Karen Drexler (played by Manning), a White woman, appears to be friendly when she greets them upon their arrival. However, Karen's facade slowly reveals a bitter, jealous, angry, and racist woman who wants to remove the couple at any cost. Along with Manning, the cast includes Cory Hardrict, Jasmine Burke, Brandon Sklenar, Gregory Alan Williams, Veronika Bozeman and Dawn Halfkenny. When asked how she could portray such a vile character in Karen, Manning credited the director and her castmates. 'The only way that I could play this character was by having my director and writer Coke Daniels as well as my costars Jasmin and Cory by my side, and that they knew that this is no depiction of who I am as a person.' High praise: Manning credited director Coke Daniels (pictured) and co-stars Cory Hardrict and Jasmine Burke with helping her portray such a vile character in Karen; they are seen at screening of the film on Atlanta, Georgia on August 11 While preparing for the film, Manning had to get into the 'Red Zone,' which Dr. Lombardo described as the mindset 'where high levels of stress when fear takes over rational thinking'; and that a Red Zone is something we all have but have to 'learn how to keep it in check.' During the conversation, Manning revealed that her character 'needed to get out of the red zone.' She added, 'I think that if she could be looking outside of herself and if she had any type of a higher conscious level or a friend, perhaps who actually cared about her, she would be able to have the skill set to say, 'This is just a bad moment, it's not really about him or them, this is just my stuff.'' Red Zone: Manning revealed that her character 'needed to get out of the red zone', which is a mindset 'where high levels of stress when fear takes over rational thinking' Not long after the initial Karen trailer was released, fans took to social media and bashed writer-director Coke Daniels, calling Karen a blatant rip-off of Jordan Peele's hit thriller film Get Out (2017). 'I don't agree with the narrative that we ripped anything from Get Out; they're two totally different films,' Daniels told TMZ. 'Ours is about an entitled racist neighbor who tries to run the Black family out [of] the neighborhood [and] is about a mixed-race couple that goes to visit and meet the family.' Along with her role of Tiffany 'Pennsatucky' Doggett in Orange Is The New Black (2013-2019), Manning has also gained recognition for her roles as Cherry in Sons of Anarchy (2008-2010), Nola in Hustle & Flow (2005) and Janeane in 8 Miles (2002). He married his boyfriend Fernando Casablancas in an intimate ceremony in Ibiza on August 12. And on Saturday, Jordan Barrett and his new husband appeared in high spirits as they returned home to New York City, just weeks after tying the knot. The 24-year-old Australian model appeared comfortable as he flashed his wedding band while chatting to Fernando and a mystery female pal. That newlywed glow! Jordan Barrett (L) and his new husband Fernando Casablancas (R) looked so loved-up as they took a stroll around New York City on Saturday with a mystery brunette pal Jordan looked chic in a black rain coat, baggy trousers and some simple slides. His husband looked equally as casual in a matching rain coat, a pair of shorts and some black sneakers. Fernando raised a slight smile as he spoke to the pair's beaming female pal, who rode between the duo on a bicycle. Casual: Jordan looked chic in a black rain coat, baggy trousers and some simple slides - as he showed off his wedding band in all its glory Happy in love: Jordan and Fernando married in an intimate ceremony in Ibiza on August 12 The couple's Ibiza ceremony was attended by no more than 15 of their closet friends including models Kate Moss, Georgia May Jagger and American playwright Jeremy O. Harris. 'It was very spontaneous, but his wedding planner Serena Cook was able to pull some strings to make sure it was very special since his Aussie family couldn't attend,' a source told Daily Mail Australia. 'Champagne and cocktail drinks were flowing, it was very relaxed. Kate (Moss) brought out the rings, and really made sure it was special for him,' they added. Special day: A source told Daily Mail Australia, 'It was very spontaneous, but his wedding planner Serena Cook was able to pull some strings to make sure it was very special since his Aussie family couldn't attend' 'Champagne and cocktail drinks were flowing, it was very relaxed. Kate (Moss) brought out the rings, and really made sure it was special for him,' they added Photos from the festivities show that guests enjoyed Casamigos tequila and RUMOR Rose. Jordan looked suave dressed in a black sleeveless silk top, which he wore unbuttoned paired with a matching pants. His beau Fernando meanwhile opted for a black mesh sleeveless top with matching pants. The handsome model completed his look wearing a gold head chain from Messika by Kate Moss. Barrett announced his engagement on Instagram on July 20, writing: 'I believe in love not the traditional kind, so I guess I just commit new chapter of my life. 'Also... did I also just get engaged on this date. Yes,' he added, without any reference to his fiance. Dog The Bounty Hunter looked the picture of marital bliss with his sixth wife Francie Frane on Saturday. The 68-year-old reality star was seen enjoying a morning cigarette with his newly-minted wife, 52, at The Antlers Hotel in Colorado Springs. The sighting comes just two days after the pair of a year-and-a-half tied the knot at a Tuscan-style estate, and they have been shacked up at the hotel since. Married bliss: The newlyweds were seen enjoying a morning cigarette at The Antlers Hotel in Colorado Springs where they've been shacked up since marrying on September 2 Dog real name Duane Lee Chapman was seen sitting in a chair opposite his bride as he donned a bandana printed blouse and a pair of blue jeans with sneakers. He rocked his usual sunglasses and feathered bleached hair while chatting with Frane who he gazed at lovingly. The Colorado based rancher was seen showing off her arsenal of tattoos in a Blondie T-shirt and jean shorts with a studded belt. Her blonde curly hair was half clipped back and after spending time chatting with her husband she was seen entering back into the building. The couple, first began dating in March 2020 just 10 months after late wife Beth (who he married in 2006) passed after a battle with Stage 4 lung cancer in June 2019. Wedding weekend: The duo, who first began dating in March 2020, married on September 2 in Colorado Springs Blushing bride: His rancher bride was seen showing off her arsenal of tattoos in jean shorts and a Blondie T-shirt Dog popped the question just months later and the pair married on September 2 surrounded by friends and family with the exception of daughters Bonnie and Cecily Chapman who were uninvited amid ongoing family drama. The duo exchanged vows (which they wrote) at The Sweet Water Chapel and the reception was held at The Pinery At The Hill, with DailyMail.com obtaining exclusive photos of the night. Ahead of the wedding Dog told ET: 'This is going to be the celebrity wedding of 2021, scoot over Blake Shelton.' At the reception they each picked their own flavor of wedding cake: 'I don't like his part and he doesn't like mine,' Frane said of their different tastes. After marrying Dog gushed: 'I'm a married man and I feel great,' adding 'Francie and I are thrilled to be husband and wife.' Getting ready: He had joked he would wear an orange suit but actually wore a patterned black suit Chapman had been married five times before and he has 13 children. His ex-wives include Debbie White, La Fonda Sue Darnell, Ann Tegnell, Lyssa Rae Brittain and the late Beth Chapman. His daughter Bonnie and stepdaughter Cecily were uninvited to the most recent nuptials and a wave of family drama ensued. Both girls had initially theorized that it may have been because they may have 'reminded him a little bit too much of their mom [Beth],' in conversation with TMZ before things turned ugly. At the time Cecily had reached out to her stepfather Dog about not getting invited to the wedding but she alleged she never received a text back, and Bonnie had yet to confront him. Bonnie had later followed up with the publication about a second theory and said that her involvement with Black Lives Matter fractured she and Dog's relationship. Whirlwind: The pair who both lost their last spouses to cancer bonded over their shared grief and experiences; pictured August 2021 Following her statements, Bonnie received a text message from Francie allegedly confirming she had not been invited to their wedding due to her activism work and failure to condemn the streaming platform that allegedly fired her father over the use of 'epithets'. Following the message, Bonnie took to Facebook to blast her father in a lengthy statement where she accused him of racism, homophobia, and cheating on his late wife 'all the time,' even when she was 'sick in the hospital.' In the post she also brandished him as having 'racist ways,' said he sat idly by when her life was 'threatened on several occasions by QAnon wackos,' and said she felt inclined to speak out to honor her mom's legacy as she would have not 'stand for this.' Bonnie also claimed Francie traveled on a plane 'knowing' she was infected with COVID-19 and attended events as she wrote: 'She didn't seem to care about the thousands of people she could have infected.' Dog's representative told E!: 'Bonnie's allegations are false and a misguided attempt to derail our wedding,' and said that though they were 'saddened' by the family rift, they were looking forward to getting married. Nadia Bartel has been dumped by a vitamin brand for 'not sharing its values'. The former WAG, 36, was been at the centre of a scandal after video leaked online showing her snorting a white powder, believed to be cocaine, and breaking lockdown at a gathering in Melbourne on Thursday night. On Sunday, JSHealth, a company who sell vitamins and supplements and are popular in Instagram circles, dumped Nadia as an ambassador after she had previously endorsed the brand on her social media. Dumped: Nadia Bartel (pictured) has been dumped by a popular vitamin brand for 'not sharing its values' However, in a post shared to JSHealth founder Jessica Sepel's Instagram page on Sunday, the vitamin merchant went out of her way not to call Nadia by name - instead bizarrely rereferring to her as 'this individual'. Sepel wrote: 'Today I've had to make a hard decision as the founder and face of my brand, and let go of a brand endorser. I have to stand for what's right. 'We are a health brand who is very serious about aligning with individuals who share the same values.' Ditched: On Sunday, JSHealth, a company who sell vitamins and supplements and are popular in Instagram circles, dumped Nadia as an ambassador after she had previously endorsed the brand on her social media Was a fan: Nadia had previously promoted the trendy vitamin and wellness company, having spruiked the brand as recently as on August 4 She added: 'In saying that, I'm human and compassion is what the brand has always represented. Mental health is the number one priority here. 'I truly wish this individual strength and peace during this time and although I do not condone what happened, I am a believer that humans make mistakes and we are not a brand who wishes to beat anyone when they are down.' She concluded: 'I stand for compassion and kindness, regardless of a situation. From female to fellow females - I wish you only peace and strength during this time. May we all find peace, always.' Update: In a post shared to JSHealth founder Jessica Sepel's (pictured) Instagram page on Sunday, the vitamin merchant went out of her way not to call Nadia by name - instead bizarrely rereferring to her as 'this individual' Sepel wrote: 'Today I've had to make a hard decision as the founder and face of my brand, and let go of a brand endorser. I have to stand for what's right. We are a health brand who is very serious about aligning with individuals who share the same values' She added: 'In saying that, I'm human and compassion is what the brand has always represented. Mental health is the number one priority here'. Pictured: JSHealth Vitamins Nadia had previously promoted the trendy vitamin and wellness company, having spruiked the brand as recently as on August 4. Earlier on Sunday, JSHealth called out 'an individual who has endorsed our products' in an Instagram post shared on the official JSHealth Vitamins page. Again without explicitly naming Bartel, the brand announced it was severing ties with the 'individual'. Over: Earlier on Sunday, JSHealth called out 'an individual who has endorsed our products' in an Instagram post shared on the official JSHealth Vitamins page. Again without explicitly naming Bartel, the brand announced it was severing ties with the 'individual' Disappointed: 'We, like many of you, are shocked and disappointed by the recent actions of an individual who has endorsed our products... We do not tolerate illicit behaviour,' the company said in a statement 'We, like many of you, are shocked and disappointed by the recent actions of an individual who has endorsed our products,' the company said in a statement. 'JSHealth fundamentally supports all public health orders in place to keep us safe in this hugely difficult time for so many. We do not tolerate illicit behaviour. The statement concluded: 'Please know we have taken immediate action and will no longer be working with this individual - or anyone who does not align with our values.' Video: The snub follows the unfortunate release of a video showing Nadia snorting lines of white powder off a $1.50 Kmart dinner plate at a gathering on Thursday The snub follows the unfortunate release of a video showing Nadia snorting lines of white powder off a $1.50 Kmart dinner plate at a gathering last week. On Sunday, a source close to the high-profile star claimed that Nadia was betrayed by a member of her own inner circle who leaked her sensational 'cocaine' video to the media. 'The cocaine video was deliberately leaked by someone within Nadia's elite Melbourne social circle,' the source told Daily Mail Australia. Clip: The clip begins with the fashion and beauty influencer appearing to lean over the plate with a rolled-up banknote in her left nostril as she presses her right nostril. She then snorts the substance as one of the women watches on 'This is someone who for all intents and purposes seems to be Nadia's friend on Instagram but they are secretly jealous,' they added. The source went on to say that the video being posted by Ellie in the first instance was a genuine mistake, 'but Nadia's nemesis pounced on it and immediately sent it to people they knew could get it to the press quickly'. Leaking the video was part of 'a campaign of revenge someone wants to shut her down,' they added. Inside job? On Sunday, a source close to the high-profile star claimed that Nadia was betrayed by a member of her own inner circle. 'The cocaine video was deliberately leaked by someone within Nadia's elite Melbourne social circle,' the source told Daily Mail Australia Pearson, who filmed and published the now-viral clip entirely by mistake, revealed she was remorseful over the incident. 'I'm just devastated,' she told The Herald Sun on Friday evening. Nadia, who is a popular influencer endorsing numerous brands, broke her silence and issued an apology over the incident on Friday evening. Heartbroken: Ellie Pearson (left) who filmed and published the now-viral clip entirely by mistake, revealed she was remorseful over the incident. 'I'm just devastated,' she told The Herald Sun on Friday evening 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future,' she wrote in an Instagram post on Friday evening. 'To my family and friends, my business partners and the public health workers trying to keep us all safe, I am embarrassed and remorseful. 'I am truly and deeply sorry. I hope I can earn your forgiveness and, in time, your trust.' Victorian police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter and that Nadia is assisting them with their enquiries. Apology: Breaking her silence in a post shared to Instagram on Friday afternoon, the 36-year-old mum of two wrote: 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future' She faces as much as a $5500 fine for the lockdown breach, however no fine has been issued as of Sunday. Bartel is a mother of two and entrepreneur who runs the fake-tan company Spray Aus and clothing label Henne. She is the ex-wife of retired AFL star Jimmy Bartel. The couple split in 2019 after five years of marriage. Alessandra Ambrosio made jaws drop as she arrived to a Labor Day celebration in Malibu on Saturday afternoon. The 40-year-old supermodel slipped her impressively toned figure into an eye-catching number, consisting of a sexy off-the-shoulder top and wrap skirt. As she strolled up to the party's entrance, Ambrosio gave passersby a clear look at her runway-worthy legs through the dramatic slit in her skirt. Stunning: Alessandra Ambrosio made jaws drop as she arrived to a Labor Day celebration in Malibu on Saturday afternoon Alessandra's top had two diamond cut-outs in the front and a set of puff sleeves that rested mid-arm. She showcased her bright white pedicure in a pair of chunky lucite heels with clear straps. The Brazilian Beauty accessorized with several gold chains, as well as with a pair of hoop earrings and matching bangles. She wore her lightened brunette hair down and styled in sleek strands that flowed down her back and chest. Ethereal: The 40-year-old supermodel slipped her impressively toned figure into an eye-catching number, consisting of a sexy off-the-shoulder top and wrap skirt Peek-a-boo: Alessandra's top had two angular cut-outs in the front and a set of puff sleeves that rested mid-arm As for makeup, the former Victoria's Secret Angel enhanced her already gorgeous features with a few swipes of mascara and a touch of color on the lips. She also appeared to be rocking a generous amount of blush, bringing an overall youthful look to the model. Alessandra carried her essentials in a white designer handbag with a chainlink strap. Full view: As she strolled up to the party's entrance, Ambrosio gave passersby a clear look at her runway-worthy legs through the dramatic slit in her lengthy skirt Jovial: The supermodel appeared to be in an extra jovial mood, often letting out a laugh and cracking a smile as she strolled The supermodel appeared to be in an extra jovial mood, often letting out a laugh and cracking a smile as she strolled. Once she made it to a shady area, Ambrosio removed her stylish gold-framed shades from her eyes. Missing from the action was Alessandra's model boyfriend Richard Lee, who she started dating in February after the pair were spotted on several dinner dates together in LA. Golden girl: The Brazilian Beauty accessorized with several gold chains, as well as with a pair of hoop earrings and matching bangles Natural glow: As for makeup, the former Victoria's Secret Angel enhanced her already gorgeous features with a few swipes of mascara and a touch of color on the lips The couple were spotted shopping in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles with Alessandra's nine-year-old son Noah. She shares Noah, as well as 13-year-old daughter Anja, with ex fiance Jamie Mazur. The former pair were together from 2005 until their split in 2018. Prior to taking things to a romantic level with her current boyfriend Richard, Alessandra dated Italian businessman Nicolo Oddi. Errands: Earlier in the day, Alessandra was spotted in a more casual ensemble as she ran errands in LA Lovebirds: Missing from the action was Alessandra's model boyfriend Richard Lee, who she started dating in February after the pair were spotted on several dinner dates together in LA The pair dated for approximately two years before splitting sometime in the latter end of 2020. When she is not in relationship bliss, Alessandra is hard at work on her swimwear company GAL Floripa, which she started with her sister Aline and their friend Gisele Coria over two years ago. Her brand is named partly after Florianopolis which is the city in southern Brazil where she gave birth to both of her children. Last year Alessandra was spotted emerging from an immigration office in Los Angeles reportedly having just become a U.S. citizen. Megan Thee Stallion was seen performing at day one of the Made In America festival in Philadelphia on Saturday night. The 26-year-old songstress appeared to be enjoying the spotlight as she rapped several of her biggest hits with a crew of dancers behind her. Numerous other rappers, including Bobby Shmurda, Rowdy Rebel and Young Thug, made appearances at the event, which marked the festival's tenth anniversary. Doing her thing: Megan Thee Stallion was seen performing during the first day of the Made In American festival in Philadelphia on Saturday Megan sported an eye-catching purple-and-black vest that featured several chains hanging from her waistline. The WAP co-songwriter also wore a matching bra that left little to the imagination as she performed. The hitmaker, born Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, added a bit of texture to her ensemble with a pair of fishnet tights that clung tightly to her curvy thighs and legs. She also donned a pair of sparkly hoop earrings that reflected the stage lights. Dressed for success: The performer sported an eye-catching black-and-purple outfit that featured several chains that were attached to her waistline Coordinating colors: She also sported a matching bra underneath her eye-catching top. The performer wore a pair of form-hugging fishnet leggings while rapping for the crowd Megan's lengthy black hair was worn straight and gracefully cascaded down her backside as she rapped. The performer tied off her stage outfit with a small cap that matched the dominant colors of her clothing. At one point during her set, Megan was spotted sticking out her tongue and performing some of her signature ad-libs. The Grammy-winning artist was also seen showing off her rear end to her fans as they cheered her on. Sparkle: The Grammy winner also sported a pair of shining hoop earrings as she spent time on stage Tying it off: Megan wore a small cap that matched the dominant colors of her clothing. She was also spotted sticking her tongue out and performing her usual ad-lib during various parts of her set Megan recently teased that she was planning for the debut of her forthcoming second album. The rapper's very first studio effort, entitled Good News, was released this past November to much critical acclaim. The album went on to reach the second-highest spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart after it was made available to the public. Its lead single, Girls in the Hood, was certified platinum following its release. Looking forward: Megan recently revealed that she was working on her second full-length album Moving fast: Her first album, Good News, was released to much critical acclaim this past November. The studio effort made it to the second-highest spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart Megan initially teased that she was working on a new album during a recent interview with Essence, where she noted that she would be much more bombastic on her forthcoming record. She specifically expressed: 'I feel like [my new album] will be aggressive.' The performer then remarked that she would also be going back to her roots after finding wider exposure in the rap world. 'I feel like this project is definitely something very well thought out. This project is me talking my s***, getting back comfortable with myself, getting back to the Megan that was on the come-up,' she said. High expectations: The performer recently told Essence that her new album would be much more 'aggressive' Planning it out: She also expressed that her new album would see her 'getting back comfortable with myself, getting back to the Megan that was on the come-up' The rapper also noted that, despite her interest in looking to her past, she was still committed to improving her skills as a songwriter. She said, 'Every time I make a move, I'm like, "Okay, how can we be better than Megan last month?" she says. "How can we be better than Megan last year?" The songstress then pointed out that she has been limiting her social circle in an effort to center her energy on her creative output. 'I don't see a lot of people. I don't talk to a lot of people because I feel like its not good for me. I figured out that my personal space is what keeps me balanced and its what keeps me centered,' she stated. Working hard: Megan went on to note that she was always looking to improve her musical output and stage personality Staying humble: She also pointed out that she was not a very social person and remarked that 'my personal space is what keeps me balanced and its what keeps me centered' Numerous other performers were seen enjoying the spotlight during the festival. A$AP Ferg was spotted performing earlier in the day, and he appeared to be soaking up his fans' affections while flashing a wide smile. Meek Mill notably made a surprise appearance and was pictured grabbing the crowd's attention during his stage time. The rapper was dressed in a multicolored jacket and a pair of patterned Louis Vuitton jeans, and he sported numerous articles of jewelry that added a bit of shine to his heavily textured outfit. Feeling good: A$AP Ferg was seen flashing a wide smile while performing for his adoring fans Showing up; Meek Mill performed a surprise set at the event, which marked the tenth anniversary of the festival Kehlani was also seen serenading the crowd while rocking an interestingly textured top and a pair of loose-fitting pants. Latto performed earlier in the day and wore a form-accentuating purple outfit that exposed her sculpted thighs. Her gorgeous jet-black hair fell onto her shoulders and added an element of darkness to her colorful ensemble. Serenading the masses: Kehlani appeared to be immersed in her performance while singing for the crowd Interesting ensemble: Latto was seen wearing a light purple outfit that was contrasted by the jet black shade of her hair Bobby Shmurda and Rowdy Rebel shared the stage and put on a particularly energetic performance for their fans. The pair appeared to be enjoying themselves as they near-duetted on a track. Lil Baby put on an electrifying show, as he performed while standing in front of a screen with large projections of lightning flashing. The rapper dressed for the late summertime weather, as he sported a white undershirt and light blue shots, as well as numerous pieces of jewelry. Time for two: Bobby Shmurda and Rowdy Rebel were spotted sharing the stage during the annual event Electrifying: Lil Baby was seen performing in front of an eye-catching lightning display at the event Young Thug also performed during the festival's first day and was seen looking out at the crowd that had amassed to see him play. The musician sported a vibrant pink puffy jacket that featured a patterned left arm. The Go Crazy rapper also wore a pair of polka-dotted pants in a much brighter shade that made him stand out. The performer made sure that his clothing ensemble was reflected by his equipment, as he used a bright pink microphone stand. Bindi Irwin has shared an emotional tribute to her late father Steve on the 15th anniversary of his death. The Crocodile Hunter died on September 4 2006 at the age of 44, after he was pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a documentary in Queensland. On Saturday - a day before Father's Day - Bindi, 23, shared a photo of her five-month-old daughter Grace alongside a poignant caption celebrating the life of her dad. Adorable: Bindi Irwin (R) has shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late father Steve (L) on the 15th anniversary of his death 'This sweetheart has been watching her "Grandpa Crocodile" on the projector at our camp here on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve,' Bindi began. 'She lights up when she sees him on screen. I wish with all my heart that Dad could hug my beautiful girl. 'Its been 15 years since he passed away. I hold on to the thought that hes her guardian angel now, watching over the most special part of my life, Grace Warrior.' Alongside a cute picture of little Grace, Bindi also shared a photograph of her with her dad when she was just a toddler. Daughter: On Saturday - a day before Father's Day - Bindi, 23, shared a photo of her five-month-old daughter Grace (pictured) alongside a poignant caption celebrating the life of her dad Bindi's husband Chandler Powell also shared a picture with little Grace to celebrate his first Father's Day, writing: 'Being Graces dad is the greatest gift of all. Love my girl!' Bindi first met Chandler in 2013, when the American ex-wakeboarder went on a guided tour of Australia Zoo in Queensland. The pair married in a makeshift ceremony at Australia Zoo in March last year. They welcomed daughter Grace Warrior in March 2021. Love: Bindi's husband Chandler Powell also shared a picture with little Grace to celebrate his first Father's Day, writing: 'Being Graces dad is the greatest gift of all. Love my girl!' Sharing stories: 'I cannot wait to be able to tell beautiful Grace all of these stories about dad, and share with her what an amazing father he was,' Bindi recently said On their show Crikey! It's a Baby!, Bindi broke down as she revealed her sadness over the fact her daughter Grace will never get to meet Steve. 'It's hard knowing she'll never get to actually meet him, and it's devastating as I'll never get to watch that connection,' Bindi said tearfully. 'But I cannot wait to be able to tell beautiful Grace all of these stories about dad, and share with her what an amazing father he was.' Advertisement Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan and Kristen Stewart were just a few of Hollywood's bright stars who came out for the 2021 Telluride Film Festival. On September 4 day three of the five-day event held in the popular ski town of Telluride, Colorado a handful of actors made appearances to promote their latest films. The festival was held in person for the first time since 2019, after the 2020 event had to be cancelled on account of the Coronavirus pandemic. Telluride Film Festival: The 2021 Telluride Film Festival saw stars such as Dakota Fanning, Jamie Dornan and Kristen Stewart flocking to the event to promote their latest projects Dakota and Jamie who famously starred in the Fifty Shades Of Grey trilogy together from 2015 to 2018 reunited at the festival. Johnson, 31, showed off an elevated mountain style as she donned blue jeans and a lacy button down with a brown suede jacket. She wore her brown locks down and was seen wearing stylish orange lensed glasses as she cozied up to her former co-star, while promoting her new film The Lost Daughter Maggie Gyllenhaal's directorial debut. And Jamie, 39, looked to be enjoying the festivities as he posed for a few photos while wearing a black T-shirt and grey jeans. Back together! The duo famously acted on screen together in the very steamy trilogy from 2015 to 2018 Fan frenzy: Naturally the reunion caused excitement from festival goers Belfast: The UK born actor was in town for the premiere of his fim Belfast which was predominantly filmed in black and white His film Belfast premiered at the festival on September 2 to rave reviews and also stars Judi Dench. Set in the 1960s, writer-director Kenneth Branagh looks back on his childhood in Northern Ireland during a period of intense political and religious conflict. Stewart who stars as Princess Diana in the psychological biopicture Spencer, was also in attendance. The 31-year-old actress was seen with platinum blonde locks, days after the film first premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Keeping it casual: Fresh from the Venice Film Festival she donned a much chiller look at the Telluride premiere Transformation: The Twilight stars performance as the Princess of Wales has been widely acclaimed Oscar buzz: Ahead of the Colorado premiere she took the stage to speak about the film and her performance has already generated Oscar buzz from many critics The Twilight star kept it casual in blue jeans with a black and white bowling-style shirt layered over a white tank top. Stewart, who makes an absolute transformation into the Princess of Wales on screen, was seen posing with the film's director Pablo Larrain. Ahead of the Colorado premiere she took the stage to speak about the film and her performance has already generated Oscar buzz from many critics. Others in attendance included Helen Mirren who was promoting The Duke, Benedict Cumberbatch promoting The Electrical Life of Louis Wain, and The Power of the Dog with Kirsten Dunst. Chat: Kristen Dunst and Jamie caught up at the event Animated: The actors caught up and put on a chatty display Promotional tour: The Virgin Suicides star was promoting The Power Of The Dog Buddies: Kirsten buddied up to Peter Sarsgaard at the event Trio: Cumberbatch, Kodi Smit-McPhee and Sarsgaard were seen posing together Two movies: The 45-year-old Sherlock star had two movies premiering at the five day event Directorial debut: The Lost Daughter is Gyllenhaal's directorial debut Gyllenhaal was also in attendance to promote her directorial debut The Lost Daughter which also stars husband Peter Sarsgaard. She posed for a snap with both he and Johnson. Based on the novel by Elena Ferrante the 43-year-old Donnie Darko actress was inspired to turn it into a movie as she wanted to bring the 'secret truths' of the 'feminine experience' to light. The film tells a tale of obsession after a professor becomes infatuated with a woman and her young daughter while on vacation in Italy which launches her into her own past. Speaking about the book she told Deadline: 'I thought "Oh my god this woman is so f***ed up. Then a millisecond later I thought, "Oh no, I really relate to her, does that make me f***ed up?"...I realized that many people have this experience and nobody talks about it.' Team: Maggie directed both Sarsgaard and Johnson on screen in the film which tells a tale of obsession Showing support: Belfast director Branagh was seen alongside Mirren The daughter of slain underworld figure Carl Williams has shared a heartfelt Instagram post 'sending love' to her late dad on Father's Day. On Sunday, Dhakota Williams, 20, shared a picture cuddling her late father in his prison overalls, and a second of herself alongside her stepfather Rob - who she says has 'treated me like his own' for 16 years. She explained that Rob and her dad were the 'best of friends' and that he 'visited her father in prison regularly', before Carl was brutally killed by a prisoner armed with a steel pipe from an exercise bike in 2010. 'Sending my love, always': The daughter of slain underworld figure Carl Williams (L), Dhakota (R), has posted a loving tribute to her late dad to celebrate Father's Day Speaking to her 36,000 followers, Dhakota began: 'The first picture is my dad and I who I love and miss dearly, the second picture is my stepdad I call Rob. 'Rob has been around for 16 years now and if you dont know him personally he has a heart made of gold.' She added that her dad was incarcerated 'since I can remember', saying that Rob had taken on the father role from the outside and 'still does to this day'. 'Rob and my dad grew a friendship like no other,' she added. 'He would visit my dad regularly and they were the best friends. Step-father: Dhakota also shared a picture of her stepfather Rob, who she says has 'treated me like his own' for 16 years. She explained her father and Rob were 'the best of friends', adding he would 'visit him regularly' in prison 'My dad wanted my mum happy and didnt want anyone besides Rob raising his daughter because he knew he was such an amazing soul with our best interests at heart.' She continued: 'Rob and my dad sincerely loved one another and that makes me so content to know my dad was genuinely happy with whos raising his daughter and even happier that they had an amazing friendship. 'I was blessed twice with the two of you. Happy Fathers Day to the dads, the stepdads, those without a dad and anything in between. Sending my love always.' Dhakota spoke fondly about her father on Channel Seven's Sunday Night program in 2016. Love: 'I was blessed twice with the two of you. Happy Fathers Day to the dads, the stepdads, those without a dad and anything in between. Sending my love always,' she concluded 'We know our dad as our dad, not what he's described as in the newspapers... so we know him as fun and loving and caring for us, and always made us happy,' she said. 'If you spoke to him and got to know him, you'd think he's not that sort of person, like, and you can tell he did it for his family 'cause he was all for us, all for us family.' 'It was just normal for me, that's all I really knew.' Carl Williams was a key figure in Melbourne's infamous gangland war, which claimed the lives of 36 criminal figures between 1998 and 2010. Williams was jailed for 35 years in 2007 for ordering the murders of three rivals, and more time for conspiring to kill a fourth. Family: 'We know our dad as our dad, not what he's described as in the newspapers... so we know him as fun and loving and caring for us, and always made us happy,' Dhakota said in 2016 But he was beaten to death three years later in 2010, in a jail-yard stoush at Barwon Prison near Geelong by another inmate - Matthew Johnson. His death followed an investigation revealing Victoria Police was paying $8,000 per year for his daughter's school fees. It was later revealed Carl was an informant and had given information regarding a handful of unsolved murder investigations. Carl wrote several long letters to his wife and others from jail in the months before he was murdered, that have since been made into a book Life Sentence. Had he been alive today, Mr Williams would be 50 years old. Chris and Liam Hemsworth are two of Hollywood's most genetically blessed stars. And the Australian actors shared heartfelt tributes for their very youthful-looking dad Craig Hemsworth for Father's Day on Sunday. The buff brothers posted shirtless photos of the 66-year-old Hemsworth patriarch to their Instagram accounts, describing him as a 'champion'. Hemsworth patriarch: Chris and Liam Hemsworth shared heartfelt tributes for their youthful-looking dad Craig Hemsworth (pictured), 66, on Father's Day on Sunday Chris, 38, shared throwback photos of Craig with his brothers and their mother Leonie Hemsworth, 60, during what appeared to be a camping trip in their youth. The Thor star also posted a sweet current-day shot of the pair in matching black ensembles at what looked to be his multi-million dollar Byron Bay home. 'Happy Father's Day you big bloody champion!! Thanks for always being there. Love ya dad,' Chris captioned the heartfelt post. Good genes: Chris (left), 38, shared a current-day shot of the pair in matching black ensembles at what looked to be his multi-million dollar Byron Bay home Memories: The Thor star also posted throwback photos of Craig with his brothers and their mother Leonie Hemsworth (right), 60, during what appeared to be a camping trip Liam, 31, also posted two present-day photos of a very youthful-looking Craig at the beach. The ex-husband of American pop star Miley Cyrus let the photos take centre stage, simply captioning the post: 'Happy Father's day Craigas!' Craig, a social services counsellor shares sons Chris, Liam and Luke, 40, with equally youthful wife Leonie, 60. Proud son: 'Happy Father's Day you big bloody champion!! Thanks for always being there. Love ya dad,' Chris captioned the heartfelt post Sweet tribute: Liam (pictured), 31, also posted two current-day photos of a very youthful-looking Craig at the beach Despite his mega wealth, Chris has always remembered his beginnings, having paid off his father's lifelong debts. During an interview with Independent in 2015, Liam reportedly became teary when he recalled Chris calling his father and telling him to check his bank balance. 'He [his father] called my brother Chris back and said, "I don't know how to feel. Since I left home I have had debts and I thought I'd be paying them off until I died and have this weight hanging over me, and now to have them completely cleared".' Great imagery: The ex-husband of American pop star Miley Cyrus let the photos take centre stage, simply captioning the post: 'Happy Father's day Craigas!' (pictured: Craig) Liam went on to say of his parents: 'They are so happy now and able to spend more time with us. I would love to be able to do something for my parents like that.' The Hunger Games star also revealed why he's chosen to become an ambassador for charities, in particular the Australian Childhood Foundation. 'If you want to be a good person who adds to society, you have responsibility. That is something I take very seriously,' he said. Liam's role with the Australian Childhood Foundation is a cause close to his heart, with his parents having devoted their time to supporting children living with trauma. Close family: Craig, a social services counsellor shares sons Chris, Liam and Luke, 40, with equally youthful wife Leonie, 60. Leonie (centre) is pictured with Chris' wife Elsa Pataky, 45 Lady Victroria Hervey made sure all eyes were on her as she enjoyed a beach day on Saturday wearing a skimpy bikini in a Malibu. The former socialite, 44, looked stunning in the glittery two-piece which showed off her gym-honed physique. She paired the look with bohemian beaded jewellery which sat on her neck and wrists. Wow: Lady Victoria Hervey, 44, made sure all eyes were on her as she enjoyed a beach day on Saturday wearing a skimpy bikini in a Malibu Victoria looked sensational as she waded through the water on the idyllic bright white beach. The model covered her head with a patterned headscarf which sat on top of her highlighted blonde wavy locks. She later took to Instagram to share a filtered selfie which saw the 'It' girl looking fresh faced with the azure blue sea behind her. Day out: The former socialite looked stunning in the glittery two-piece which showed off her gym-honed physique while frolicking along the sand The outing comes after Victoria admitted earlier this year she doesn't agree with wearing face masks. 'I'm not going to lie, I never wear one,' she told The Daily Mail, adding that she 'storms out' of any shops that ask her to put one on. Even so, she went into business supplying PPE at the start of the pandemic but insisted that she isn't a hypocrite. 'I did a little bit of a pivot,' she said. 'But no, it doesn't! I was selling it to hospitals, not to people out walking their dogs or shopping.' Asked if she would ever take the Covid vaccine, she scoffed: 'No way! It's a personal thing, and my mother's had hers, but at my age I really believe in natural immunity.' She admitted that Project Baby had also influenced her thinking as she has a prospective sperm donor/father lined up. Six of her eggs were frozen and stored three years ago, at a cost of 11,000, and she spent the time afterwards looking for a donor. 'I had a friend who was going to be my sperm donor. He was going to be involved in my child's life, but as a friend, not a partner,' she explained. 'And I was supposed to be pregnant now. But then Covid happened, which was a big blow, but looking back I'm really grateful I didn't do it with that person. He just wasn't right.' Victoria revealed she has since found someone, but is keeping their identity secret. She's newly single after ending her relationship with Emilio Vitolo Jr. And Katie Holmes showed her ex Emilio what he's missing as she cut a chic figure in a blue button-down shirt and black mom jeans on Saturday. The actress, 42, looked carefree and happy as she sipped on her detox juice while out and about in New York on the weekend. Happier than ever: Katie Holmes, 42, showed Emilio what he's missing as she cut a chic figure in a blue button-down shirt and black mom jeans on Saturday The Batman Begins star embraced off-duty fashion in her relaxed ensemble, which boasted a loose-fitting shirt and slim-fitting jeans. Katie shrugged a cream leather shopper over one shoulder and talked on the phone as she strolled through The Big Apple. The actress tucked her brunette tresses back into a low bun and sported a natural visage during her daytime walk. Carefree: The actress looked carefree and happy as she sipped on her detox juice while out and about in New York on the weekend In May, the star ended her relationship with chef Emilio, who heads the popular ItalianAmerican restaurant Emilio's Ballato in New York with his father, Emilio Vitolo Sr. Although she and the restaurateur were nearly inseparable in late 2020 and early 2021, they decided to go their separate ways. A spokesperson for Katie told Us Weekly that the two had parted 'amicably' and were 'still friends.' Another insider who spoke to the publication added that their 'relationship fizzled.' 'They figured out theyre better off as friends. Theres no drama that went down with the breakup,' the source said. Focused: According to the publication, Katie is now focused on prioritising her private and professional life at the moment According to the publication, Katie is now focused on prioritising her private and professional life at the moment. The romance reportedly faded after she left for Connecticut to film her second feature as a director, The Watergate Girl. According to ET, Katie took a 'wait and see' approach to her relationship while she was out of the state filming. 'Before she left, [Katie and Emilio] were inseparable, but their relationship was existing in a bubble,' said an insider. 'Because of the pandemic, she wasn't jet setting around the country for jobs and he wasn't tied up every night working at his family's restaurant.' But once their regular social lives resumed, the couple found they were not 'as compatible anymore. Nick Knowles made his first public appearance with new girlfriend Katie Dadzie on Saturday, little more than a month after being romantically linked with the mother-of-two. The DIY SOS star - who split from his wife Jessica Rose Moor in 2016 - was joined by Katie, 31, ahead of a quiet lunch date at the Hurlingham Club in Fulham, west London. Knowles, 58, looked relaxed as the couple made their way inside the private members club, where annual fees cost more than 1,000. New couple: Nick Knowles made his first public appearance with new girlfriend Katie Dadzie on Saturday, little more than a month after being romantically linked with the mother-of-two Nick is understood to be in the 'early days' of a romance with Katie after meeting her at his children's playgroup. It comes after Nick revealed in February 2020 that he was single again after splitting from his girlfriend, PR guru Emily Hallinan, 27, insisting at the time it 'wasn't the end of the world' and announcing the news on Valentine's Day. Having made something of a reputation for himself with his love of younger ladies, Nick was also romantically involved with TOWIE star and stuntwoman Pascal Craymer, 34, back in 2017. Side by side: The DIY SOS star - who split from his wife Jessica Rose Moor in 2016 - was joined by Katie, 31, ahead of a quiet lunch date at the Hurlingham Club in Fulham, west London Don't mind me: Knowles, 58, looked relaxed as the couple made their way inside the private members club According to The Sun, Nick and Katie made their public debut as a couple at a restaurant in Bath last week, after being friends for several years. The presenter allegedly met his new girlfriend at a playgroup attended by his youngest son Eddie, seven. A source said: 'Nick and Katie have known each other for a couple of years, but it's always been platonic. 'They actually met through their youngest offspring and went on a few playdates as pals, before romance blossomed. Katie is a beautiful woman, fiercely independent and just Nick's type. Here they come: Saturday's appearance all but confirmed the presenter's latest romance Smoking hot: Katie lit a cigarette as the couple made their way across an adjacent carpark 'They've met one another's friends and, although it's early days, everyone is hopeful this might be for keeps.' MailOnline has contacted representatives for Nick Knowles for comment. In February 2020 Nick confirmed that he was single again following his split from girlfriend Emily. Plenty to talk about: There was no shortage of conversation as the couple stepped out on Saturday Casual: Katie dressed down in a khaki jacket, skinny jeans a Converse trainers for her appearance with Nick He wrote on Instagram: 'Happy Valentine's. And if you're single like me don't worry, we don't have to join in everything every year. I missed national prune day too. Because it's not the end of the world to be single for a while.' The pair reportedly began dating in 2019, after exchanging a series of messages about a work opportunity on Twitter, with Nick telling Emily to get in touch. New romance? Nick Knowles is reportedly dating a mother-of-two who is 27 years his junior, after revealing in February 2020 (pictured at the time) that he was single again New love: The DIY SOS presenter is reportedly in the 'early days' of a romance with Katie Dadzie, 31, after meeting her at his children's playgroup (Katie, pictured) Coupled up: According to The Sun , Nick and Katie made their public debut as a couple at a restaurant in Bath last week, after being friends for several years They had been spotted together several times since, once in London's West End where they went to see musical Everybody's Talking About Jamie, days after Nick was pictured kissing a mystery blonde in the back of a black cab. A source told The Sun at the time that the pair looked cosy during the West End show, saying: 'They arrived pretty incognito but were definitely on a date inside. 'She was cosying up to him during the show and they shared a couple of tender moments during the emotional parts.' The source added: 'It didn't appear to be a serious relationship but it's clear that they were into each other.' Old flame: It comes after Nick revealed that he was single again after splitting from his girlfriend, PR guru Emily Hallinan, 27, insisting at the time it 'wasn't the end of the world (Nick and Emily pictured in 2019) Nick's Extensive Dating Life Nick and Suzi Perry in 2003 1995-2000: Gillian Knowles Nick had two children with his first wife before their split in 2000. They share son Charlie, 27, and daughter Tuesday, 26. UNKNOWN: Paula Beckett-Vass Little is known of his romance with beauty therapist Paula, although the couple share son Tyrian-J, 23. 2000-2003: Suzi Perry The two presenters met on the set of BBC's City Hospital soon after his split from his first wife and went on to date for three years. 2009-2016: Jessica Rose Moor Nick began dating Jessica in 2009 before they tied the knot in 2012 and welcomed their son Eddie in 2014. Nick and Jessica in 2013 They split in 2016 - initially amicably, as he supported her through her battle with cervical cancer. Following her recovery, they debated reuniting but split for good in December 2016. Things later turned nasty, with a war of words between the pair. Jessica accused the star of abuse in an explosive open letter on Twitter. They also became locked in financial wars when she asked for more money to provide for their son which led to further heartache for the pair however they later resolved their issues. Pascal pictured in 2019 2017: Pascal Craymer Nick hit headlines with TOWIE star Pascal following a fleeting romance. Things turned sour however, when model Pascal claimed she blocked Nick after he reportedly bragged about his 'revolving' bed' and 'dating younger women'. She alleged that the twice-married DIY SOS host was 'desperate to get his leg over' when they went on a few of lavish dates last year. She also claimed 'forward' Nick tried to kiss her before the starters during a 600 meal and embarrassed her with his 'dad dancing' in a nightclub. 2019-2020: Emily Hallinan Nick and Emily in 2019 Emily and Nick began dating in 2019, after exchanging a series of messages about a work opportunity on Twitter, with Nick telling Emily to get in touch. Sadly, one year later, in February 2020 Nick confirmed the pair had split. He took to Twitter to reveal he is single and urged his followers not to worry about Valentine's Day as he too was spending the day alone. Advertisement Prior to his romance with Emily, he was reported to have dated Pascal. Things turned sour however, when model Pascal claimed she blocked Nick after he reportedly bragged about his 'revolving' bed' and 'dating younger women'. She alleged that the twice-married DIY SOS host was 'desperate to get his leg over' when they went on a few of lavish dates in 2017. He tried to kiss her before the starters during a 600 meal and embarrassed her with his 'dad dancing' in a nightclub. Nick later hit back - branding the one-time TOWIE star a 'sad fame-hungry nobody', with his pals issuing a scathing statement about the brunette beauty, who later hit back. Pascal strongly denied the claims, saying: 'I dont take too kindly being referred to as a sad fame-hungry nobody.' She insisted the allegations were incorrect. Prior to his Pascal fling, Nick and Jessica's romance and marriage was also widely publicised, with emphasis on their age gap. Nick began dating Jessica in 2009 before they tied the knot in 2012 and welcomed their son Eddie in 2014. They split in 2016 - initially amicably, as he supported her through her battle with cervical cancer. Shock: Prior to his romance with Emily, he was reported to have dated Pascal (pictured in 2017) Despite a bitter divorce battle surrounding the custody of their then three-year-old son Eddie, the pair are now back on good terms with one another, with Nick recently admitting he still cared about his former wife. Speaking to The Mirror in 2018 Nick said: 'It took me a while to figure stuff out. I'm really proud of the fact that Jess and I are really good. 'She's a great mother. Coming out of a marriage is hard, so I just want to make sure it stays respectful. I really care about my ex. She's got a new chap and I'm really pleased. They seem really happy.' It was revealed at the time that Jessica asked for 48,000 a year from him in light of their bitter divorce battle. Back then: Things turned sour however, when model Pascal claimed she blocked Nick after he reportedly bragged about his 'revolving' bed' and 'dating younger women' (pictured in 2018) According to The Sun, Jessica who was receiving 4,000 a month as part of their settlement, is demanding an extra 2,000 a month in order to fund their three-year-old son Eddie's education. 'Nick is distraught that Jessica has made these claims. She already gets 4,000 a month from him and hes funded her life for years,' a source told the publication. It came after Jessica posted an 'open letter about my divorce' in which she alleged 'years of emotional cruelty, physical abuse' by her husband as well as reportedly withdrawing their son Eddie from private education. However, sources close to the DIY SOS presenter denied the allegations - saying he 'only wants the best for his son'. In a statement on the micro-blogging site, she denounced his denials of 'cruelty' and continued to suggest that he has withdrawn his financial support for their son. Ex: Nick began dating Jessica in 2009 before they tied the knot in 2012 and welcomed their son Eddie in 2014 (Nick and Jessica, pictured in 2016) In the equally emotional letter captioned: 'In response', Jessica responded to Nick's apparent shock at the 'horrendous' allegations made, saying: 'Nick may be intelligent but he is not smart. He is now denying that he withdrew his promise to send Eddie to private school but it was sent by his solicitor to mine. 'He as also denied years of cruelty but I do have diaries and photographic proof'. Jessica then alleged that the presenter 'abandoned' her with young son Eddie in Spain for a 'string of girlfriends', and that she wants Nick to 'keep his promises' or she may publish 'witness statements' that could confirm her allegations. Drama: Nick previously said of his relationship patterns: 'My relationships have pretty much followed a pattern. They last six months and start off with me explaining that I work a lot, so will have commitment issues Following the couple's split, Jessica entered a new relationship with RAF engineer William Babbage. Nick previously said of his relationship patterns: 'My relationships have pretty much followed a pattern. They last six months and start off with me explaining that I work a lot, so will have commitment issues. 'The women involved agree that that is fine, then after a month I get a phone call saying, 'This isn't on.' After three months, we split up, then get back together. After five, there's another tussle. At six, it's all off.' Farmer Wants a Wife star Hayley Love showed off her blossoming baby bump at 28 weeks pregnant in a candid Instagram photo on Sunday. Hayley, who recently made headlines when she revealed she's expecting a child with co-star and ex-boyfriend Will Dwyer, went makeup free for the stunning photo. The 25-year-old told fans in the caption that she will have to adapt to her new life as a 'single mum'. Growing and glowing: Farmer Wants a Wife's Hayley Love (pictured), 25, showed off her bare baby bump at 28 weeks pregnant in an Instagram photo on Sunday, as she prepares for her new life as a 'single mum' following split from co-star Will Dwyer Hayley wore a black bra and an unbuttoned white shirt, placing an affectionate hand on her bare baby bump. She went makeup free, allowing her natural beauty to shine through, and allowed her blonde locks to fall loosely around her shoulders. '28 weeks - going to have to get used to no makeup and dirty hair,' the reality star captioned the photo, alongside the hashtag 'single mum' and a tired face emoji. Last Sunday, Hayley, who was originally paired with farmer Matt Trewin on the show, shared private details about her pregnancy during an Instagram Q&A with fans. Father of her unborn child: Hayley told fans in the caption that she will have to adapt to her new life as a 'single mum'. Pictured is co-star and farmer Will who she briefly had a romance with Hayley revealed she had two negative tests prior to falling pregnant just a week later, when asked how she discovered she was expecting. Alongside an image of herself holding a positive pregnancy test, Hayley wrote: 'I actually had two negative tests prior to getting a positive one week later,' alongside an exploding head emoji. Also during the Q&A session, Hayley said she 'won't be discussing it again' when asked by a follower to 'please clear [up] rumours' surrounding her child's paternity. Pregnancy journey: Last Sunday, Hayley, who was originally paired with farmer Matt Trewin on the show, shared private details about her pregnancy during an Instagram Q&A with fans Wasn't expecting it: Hayley revealed she had two negative tests prior to falling pregnant just a week later, when asked how she discovered she was expecting 'This has come up a lot in the questions. I made a statement on @newscomauhq when this all came out. I wouldn't say someone was the father if I wasn't certain. I won't be discussing it again,' she stated online. Hayley was also asked whether she has reunited with farmer Matt, and said that while they are not together she hopes he finds the 'right gal'. Alongside a photo of the former lovers beaming in a car, she wrote: 'No I'm not. We speak everyday on the phone but I've got a little bubba on the way and all my focus is on being the best mother I can be.' 'I won't be discussing it again': Also during the Q&A session, the reality star said she 'won't be discussing it again' when asked by a follower to 'please clear [up] rumours' surrounding her child's paternity Setting the record straight: Hayley made her thoughts clear when a follower asked, 'Who's the dad? Please clear rumours!!' The blonde beauty, who previously revealed her former co-star Will Dwyer to be the father, said she 'wouldn't say someone was the father' if she wasn't certain Hayley continued: '@farmermattau has known since I was 12 weeks pregnant and has been super supportive. I do hope Matt finds the right gal though.' Hayley recently revealed she and Will were no longer together. She was originally matched with farmer Matt on the Channel Seven show, but he broke up with her shortly before the finale. On good terms: Hayley was also asked whether she has reunited with farmer Matt Trewin (pictured), and said that while they are not together she hopes he finds the 'right gal' Not back together: Alongside a photo of the former lovers beaming in a car, she wrote: 'No I'm not. We speak everyday on the phone but I've got a little bubba on the way and all my focus is on being the best mother I can be' Hayley went on to briefly date Will and became pregnant with his child, but they broke up after she told him she was expecting. Hayley and Will had a short-lived romance after the FWAW finale was filmed in December - and after he'd split from his winner, Jaimee. Will recently released a statement finally addressing Hayley's pregnancy news. In it, he vowed to be 'the best dad I can be... when the time comes'. Cyrell Paule showed no mercy for her boyfriend Eden Dally on Father's Day. The former Married At First Sight bride, 32, shared a video of her Love Island Australia star partner scooping up dog poo on Sunday. Despite the special occasion, the 29-year-old was recruited to clean up droppings, with the results of his efforts shared to Instagram. Fun? Cyrell Paule showed no mercy for her boyfriend Eden Dally (pictured) on Father's Day. The former Married At First Sight bride, 32, shared a video of her Love Island Australia star partner scooping up dog poo on Sunday Eden had some fun with the chore, threatening to consume the fecal matter by raising the doggy-doo bag to his face. Cyrell wrote in her caption: 'Here's a video of @dallyeden spending Father's Day picking up dog s**t. Happy Father's Day my love. 'Here's to putting up with all the s**t I put you through and taking it like a champ. I love you and appreciate everything you do for @bostonejdally and I! Eww! Eden had some fun with the chore, threatening to consume the fecal matter by raising the doggy-doo bag to his face Cyrell wrote in her caption: 'Here's a video of @dallyeden spending Father's Day picking up dog s**t. Happy Father's Day my love. Here's to putting up with all the s**t I put you through and taking it like a champ'. Eden is pictured with Cyrell and their son Boston 'You will always be my favourite sh**head,' the former reality star concluded her cheeky post. The couple share a toddler son called Boston who celebrated his first birthday in February. They marked their two year anniversary in March this year. Eden wrote on Instagram: 'Two years with my partner in crime love this fiery girl who never holds back always speaks her mind and is always there for me.' Sweet: The couple share a toddler son called Boston who celebrated his first birthday in February. They marked their two year anniversary in March this year 'I'm lucky to call you my best friend, love you. Even though you leave BBQ sauce stains everywhere around our house,' he added. The couple met in March 2019 after Cyrell's 'marriage' to Nic Jovanovic on Married At First Sight ended when they decided they were better off as friends. Cyrell and Eden began dating officially within a matter of weeks, and she later moved into his Sydney home. They announced they were expecting their first child together in August 2019. Ruth Wilson looked chic as she arrived by boat for another day at Venice Film Festival on Sunday. The actress, 39, looked effortlessly stylish as she docked at the pier in a plunging grey Giorgio Armani pantsuit and a boater hat. She donned classic shades and carried an off-white purse and casual white shoes. Style: Ruth Wilson looked chic as she arrived by boat for another day at Venice Film Festival on Sunday She added a long gold medallion and matching bracelet to complete the look. Her russet locks hung around her shoulders and she emphasised her natural beauty with a subtle hint of eye liner and a slick of nude lipstick. The 2021 Venice Film Festival is taking place between the 1st and 11th of September, and is considered one of the world's oldest awards ceremonies and one of the 'Big Five' events. Beauty: The actress, 39, looked effortlessly stylish as she docked at the pier in a plunging grey Giorgio Armani pantsuit and a boater hat Team: Ruth later posed with her co-star Tom Burke and the film's director Harry Wootliff New film: The drama follows a young woman (Ruth) who lives on the fringes of society before becoming intoxicated with a man (Tom) who takes over her life Ruth later posed with her True Things co-star Tom Burke and the film's director Harry Wootliff. The drama follows a young woman (Ruth) who lives on the fringes of society before becoming intoxicated with a man (Tom) who takes over her life. The film has been produced by the Jane Eyre star, beside Jude Law. It is based on the book True Things About Me by the Welsh poet Deborah Kay Davies. Fashionable: She donned classic shades and carried an off-white purse and casual white shoes Elsewhere at the festival, two Afgan filmmakers, Sahraa Karimi and Sahra Mani, are to discuss the Taliban's takeover of the country, with 'particular attention to the situation of filmmakers and artists'. This year's jury is headed by Parasite frontman Bong Joon Ho, who said he is 'honoured to be woven into its beautiful cinematic tradition. 'As president of the jury and more importantly as a perpetual cinephile I'm ready to admire and applaud all the great films selected by the festival. I'm filled with genuine hope and excitement.' The jury is also comprised of director Saverio Costanzo, actress Virginie Efira, star Cynthia Erivo, actress Sarah Gadon, documentarian Alexander Nanau, and director Chloe Zhao. Hiya! Ruth waved to those on the dock as she arrived in the sunshine There she is: Ruth later donned a cream suit and navy sweater for another chic ensemble Radiant: The beauty pulled off the business chic look in Venice Arrivals: Hollywood star Josh Brolin also arrived at the event Family man: He rolled up with his loved ones on a water taxi This year's festival has also seen the grand return of its star-studded red carpet premieres, after last year's event was drastically scaled back due to the Covid pandemic. Last year's occasion saw a significantly smaller number of guests in attendance, will all red carpet arrivals required to adhere to social distancing, with temperature checks and mask wearing mandatory at the event. Despite its return, this year's festival is still adhering to strict Covid guidelines, following a rise in cases in Italy. Public access to the red carpet is banned, and more than 10 testing stations have been set up. All attendees must show proof of a negative test or vaccination to enter a screen, and masks are required indoors. Double-denim: Charlotte Gainsbourg arrived looking chic Ant McPartlin and new bride Anne-Marie Corbett got married life off to a flier on Saturday evening as they made their first public appearance since exchanging vows in August. The couple were amongst guests as Britain's Got Talent panelist David Walliams threw a belated 50th birthday party at Mayfair hotel Claridges. Both Ant, 45, and Anne-Marie, 43, looked relaxed and tanned following their recent romantic honeymoon in Portugal. Stepping out: Ant McPartlin and new bride Anne-Marie Corbett got married life off to a flier on Saturday evening as they made their first public appearance since exchanging vows in August Walliams - who attended the couple's wedding in Hampshire - threw a late birthday party after turning 50 on August 20th. Other guests on the night included close friends Amanda Holden, Elizabeth Hurley, Holly Valance, Ant's TV partner Declan Donnelly and his wife Ali Astall. Ant tied the knot for a second time with former PA Anne-Marie in early August. He was previously married to make-up artist Lisa Armstrong, who he divorced in 2018. In attendance: The couple were amongst guests as Britain's Got Talent panelist David Walliams threw a belated 50th birthday party at Mayfair hotel Claridges Held at St Michael's Church in Hampshire, Ant and Anne-Marie's star-studded guest list included Best Man Declan Donnelly, Phillip Schofield, Stephen Mulhern and Alesha Dixon. Emotional Ant told how he 'fought to hold it together' when his new wife walked down the aisle during their nuptials. The TV star spoke candidly about the moment, and said: 'When Anne-Marie walked into the church, I had to fight to hold it together as she looked so beautiful,' reported The Sun. Main man: Walliams - who attended the couple's wedding in Hampshire - threw a late birthday party after turning 50 on August 20th Following rehab, Ant took a year out from TV and he and Lisa parted ways, with their divorce being finalised in April 2020. According to reports, during his heartfelt monologue, he also thanked Anne-Marie's mother for allowing him to marry her daughter, as well as honouring his own mum. TV co-host Dec told guests how Ant was the 'best friend a man could have', and also read aloud a prayer. Ant was married to Lisa Armstrong for 12 years. The pair, who were together for 23 years, confirmed their split in 2018, following Ant's stint in rehab the previous year where he sought treatment for his painkiller addiction. Blushing bride: Ant tied the knot for a second time with former PA Anne-Marie in early August Isla Fisher is currently in Western Australia with husband Sacha Baron Cohen. On Sunday, the 45-year-old Australian actress dropped into a local animal sanctuary. Sharing a photo to Instagram, the Wedding Crashers star posed alongside a grumpy kangaroo. Sweet: Isla Fisher (pictured) is currently in Western Australia. On Sunday, the 45-year-old Australian actress dropped into a local animal sanctuary. Sharing a photo to Instagram, the Wedding Crashers star posed alongside a grumpy kangaroo she joked was her brother She joked in her caption: 'It's so nice to catch up with my brother Jerome. We haven't seen each other for years, but it was great to spend time with him face to face. 'We don't have the same connection over zoom. I know we look different and people often can't believe that we are related, which annoys him. 'He's very sensitive and insecure and I was always the 'cute' one growing up,' she added. Local: Isla is in Perth with husband Sacha Baron Cohen (right) In the photo, Isla beamed as she posed in a striped shirt with a colourful scarf around her neck. She carried a Fendi purse and had a pair of sunglasses hanging off the collar of her shirt, as well as wearing a hat. It comes after the Confessions of a Shopaholic star admitted she would take a McDonald's birthday party with a Happy Meal in Australia over any star-studded Hollywood party. Fan: It comes after the Confessions of a Shopaholic star admitted she would take a McDonald's birthday party with a Happy Meal in Australia over any star-studded Hollywood party Isla made the admission to Perth 96FM host Dean Clairs on the red carpet of Cinefest Oz. 'For me, someone from Perth, to come home it feels really good,' she said, before revealing her simple tastes, which include jelly snakes and a Happy Meal. 'I usually like to swim at Cottesloe Beach and eat a bag of Killer Pythons, but nothing will beat when I was a kid having my birthday in the plane at McDonald's.' Isla and Sacha moved to Australia late last year with their two children. The Morning Show host Kylie Gillies shared a precious throwback photo to Instagram of her beloved dad Ron Mills for Father's Day on Sunday - five days after his passing. In the picture, Kylie, 54, and her sister Stacy looked adorable as youngsters as they enjoyed a picnic with their father, who read a newspaper while laying on a blanket. The Channel Seven star told fans in the post's caption how her friend's text message, 'Happy Heavenly Father's Day to your Dad,' 'beautifully articulated' her thoughts. 'Happy Heavenly Father's Day': The Morning Show host Kylie Gillies shared this precious throwback photo of her beloved dad Ron Mills to Instagram on Sunday for Father's Day - five days after his death at age 91. Ron is pictured with Kylie and her sister Stacy 'Five days since losing Dad, it was a beautiful way to articulate it. (Thanks Pauline x),' Kylie wrote online. 'We've found so many old photos of Dad these last few days. My sister Stacy and I love this one,' she said, referencing the precious throwback photo. 'Dad's rubber thong in the foreground, the paisley blanket we used for EVERY picnic and the newspapers - look how thick they are - which Dad read from cover to cover his entire life.' Kylie also shared a sweet photo of husband Tony Gillies with their sons Gus and Archie for Father's Day. Sweet sentiment: The Channel Seven star (pictured), 54, told fans in the post's caption how her friend's text message, 'Happy Heavenly Father's Day to your Dad,' 'beautifully articulated' her thoughts. Kylie is pictured with her father 'To Tony... the boys and I love you today and everyday': Kylie also shared a sweet photo within the post of husband Tony Gillies with their sons Gus and Archie for Father's Day (all pictured) 'And to Tony... the boys and I love you today and everyday,' Kylie penned alongside the image of the trio enjoying time together at a picturesque outdoor location. On Thursday, Kylie announced her father Ron's passing, just weeks after celebrating his 91st birthday. Revealing the news of his passing on Instagram, the TV personality said that the entire family was 'heartbroken' alongside a picture montage of happy memories. 'Our darling Dad,' Kylie began. 'A much-loved husband to my Mum for 57 years, and a Grandpa to four grandchildren who adored him. Loss: On Thursday, Kylie announced her father Ron's passing, just weeks after celebrating his 91st birthday. Revealing the news of his passing on Instagram, the TV personality said that the entire family was 'heartbroken' alongside a picture montage of happy memories 'We are heartbroken but thankful. You looked after us all for so long. Ron Mills 10.8.1930 - 31.8.2021.' The devastating announcement came just weeks after Sydney-based Kylie was forced to miss her father's birthday celebrations, after being unable to fly to Hervey Bay in Queensland amid lockdown. Kylie had instead acknowledged the day with a sweet throwback photo of her with her dad. The TV anchor captioned the post: 'Happy 91st dearest Daddy. Not long now 'til we get you that telegram from the Queen.' Devastated: 'We are heartbroken but thankful,' Kylie added. 'You looked after us all for so long. Ron Mills 10.8.1930 - 31.8.2021' She continued: 'Not socially distanced here in this pic ..but, yet again, border lockdowns are keeping us from all being together. 'I know Mum, Stacy and Julia spoiled you on your special dayas you deserve to be. Xxx from us all down south. Xx.' While they hadn't been able to reunite on his birthday, Kylie luckily had been able to travel over to Queensland to spend time with him over the Christmas holidays. She documented her nightmare last-minute rush to exit Sydney on December 20, as the New South Wales borders slammed shut. Love: Kylie added that Ron had been married to her mum (pictured) for almost 60 years Reunited: Kylie jetted out of Sydney at Christmas due to border closures, and caught 'the last flight' to Brisbane to be with her mum, dad and sister Kylie said she had 'never packed so fast in her life' as she scrambled for a flight to Queensland to be with her mum, dad and sister, after an eruption of COVID-19 cases in Sydney meant state borders were closing rapidly. Sadly, her husband Tony and their teenage sons couldn't make it in time. 'As the border shuts in a few hours, I scrambled to get a flight into QLD,' she said, adding: 'I reckon I got the last ticket, on the last flight out tonight to Brisbane.' Bindi Irwin has shared a sweet tribute to her husband, Chandler Powell, on his first-ever Father's Day. The conservationist, 23, shared a photo to Instagram showing the former wakeboarder, 24, cuddling the couple's five-month-old daughter, Grace Warrior. She wrote at length in the caption: 'Watching my husband become a Dad has been extraordinary.' Baby love: Bindi Irwin has shared a sweet tribute to her husband, Chandler Powell (pictured), on his first-ever Father's Day. The conservationist, 23, shared a photo to Instagram showing the former wakeboarder, 24, cuddling the couple's five-month-old daughter, Grace Warrior 'Grace adores her Dadda, and I treasure every moment watching them laugh and play together. Chandler does a million things for us every day,' she added. 'I love that he takes Grace on daily dad-ventures and watches the sunrise with her almost every morning. Your girls love you so much, sweetheart.' On Saturday, Bindi shared another emotional tribute - to her late father Steve, on the 15th anniversary of his death. She wrote in the caption: 'Watching my husband become a Dad has been extraordinary' The Crocodile Hunter died on September 4, 2006 at the age of 44, after he was pierced in the chest by a stingray barb while filming a documentary in Queensland. A day before Father's Day - Bindi posted a photo of baby Grace alongside a poignant caption celebrating the life of her dad. 'This sweetheart has been watching her 'Grandpa Crocodile' on the projector at our camp here on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve,' Bindi began. Love: Chandler also shared a picture with little Grace to celebrate his first Father's Day, writing: 'Being Grace's dad is the greatest gift of all. Love my girl!' 'She lights up when she sees him on screen. I wish with all my heart that Dad could hug my beautiful girl. 'It's been 15 years since he passed away. I hold on to the thought that he's her guardian angel now, watching over the most special part of my life, Grace Warrior.' Alongside a cute picture of little Grace, Bindi also shared a photograph of her with her dad when she was just a toddler. Memories: On Saturday, Bindi shared another emotional tribute - to her late father Steve, on the 15th anniversary of his death. The Crocodile Hunter died on September 4 2006 at the age of 44. Pictured with her father as a child Bindi's husband Chandler Powell also shared a picture with little Grace to celebrate his first Father's Day, writing: 'Being Grace's dad is the greatest gift of all. Love my girl!' She first met Chandler in 2013, when the American ex-wakeboarder went on a guided tour of Australia Zoo in Queensland. The pair married in a makeshift ceremony at Australia Zoo in March last year. They welcomed daughter Grace Warrior in March 2021. He recently made an appearance at the 55th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in Czech Republic. And Johnny Depp, 58, was jetsetting once again as he arrived in France for the 47th Deauville American Film Festival on Sunday. The actor donned a pinstripe jacket and black flat cap for the 'Conversation with Johnny Depp' press conference, which he sparked up a cigarette for. Busy: Johnny Depp , 58, was jet setting once again as he arrived in France for the 47th Deauville American Film Festival on Sunday The star sported a slightly-open white shirt with a thin blue and grey scarf, he accessorised with black sunglasses. He paired the look with distressed denim jeans and casual brown sued shoes. The Deauville American Film Festival is a yearly film festival devoted to American cinema, taking place since 1975 in Deauville, France. During the festival Depp presented his new film City of Lies, in which he stars alongside Forest Whitaker. Quirky: The actor donned a pinstripe jacket and black flat cap for the 'Conversation with Johnny Depp' press conference which he sparked up a cigarette for Pose: The star sported a slightly-open white shirt with a thin blue and grey scarf, he accessorised with black sunglasses Casual: He paired the look with distressed denim jeans and casual brown sued shoes Later in the evening, Johnny looked dapper as he walked the red carpet before the screening of his flick. The Pirates of the Caribbean star oozed with confidence as he posed for photographers before the event. The actor wore a navy tailored suit which donned a stylish black lapel and a white pocket square. He paired the swanky suit with a white shirt which was slightly unbuttoned in typical Depp style. Grateful: The father-of-two was keen to show his enthusiasts his appreciation by waves and clapping with the crowd Press: The actor casually smoked a cigarette while answering questions at the public press conference A-lister: The star looked comfortable and confident in front of the large crowds on the red carpet The actor paired his outfit with a chic navy sued fedora hat and quirky blue tinted glasses. He accessorised with a statement necklace which donned a white skull and a turquoise blue emerald stone. He added a bit more glamour with silver hooping earrings and wore his signature rings on both hands. Johnny completed his look with formal burgundy and black leather shoes. The actor greeted awaiting fans on the red carpet and signed autographs before entering the venue. The film was screened out of competition meaning it is not officially part of the festival competition. It first premiered in 2018, out of competition, at the Noir in Festival in Italy. Swanky: Later in the evening, Johnny looked dapper as he walked the red carpet before the screening of his flick Looking good: The Pirates of the Caribbean star oozed with confidence as he posed for photographers before the event Style: The actor wore a navy tailored suit which donned a stylish black lapel and a white pocket square It received a limited release in Italy and was initially intended to be released in the US in September 2018. It was later delayed and was released in March 2021, and on streaming platforms in April. The film offers its own version of events into the murder Christopher Wallace -better known as the Notorious B.I.G. Depp plays a retired detective who is convinced the crooked Los Angeles Police Department played a part in the rappers murder. Pose: He paired the swanky suit with a white shirt which was slightly unbuttoned in typical Depp style Dapper: He accessorised with a statement necklace which donned a white skull and a turquoise blue emerald stone Quirky: The actor paired his outfit with a chic navy sued fedora hat and quirky blue tinted glasses The flick is directed by Brad Furman and based on the book, LAByrinth, by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Randall Sullivan. The appearance comes after Johnny has been cleared by a court to proceed with a $50 million defamation suit against Amber Heard. Last month, a Virginia judge ruled that Johnny can proceed with the litigation, based on a 2018 Washington Post op-ed she penned saying she was a domestic violence survivor. She did not mention Johnny in the story, though she publicly accused him of abusing her in their 2016 split. Looking good: Johnny completed his look with formal burgundy and black leather shoes Screening: Depp's film was screened out of competition meaning it is not officially part of the festival competition Movie: City of Lies first premiered in 2018, out of competition, at the Noir in Festival in Italy Exciting: The actor greeted awaiting fans on the red carpet and signed autographs before entering the venue The actor is trying to clear his name after losing a defamation suit against The Sun after the paper branded him a 'wife-beater' amid allegations of domestic abuse. Johnny's suit, filed in Fairfax County, Virginia, accuses Heard of creating a 'hoax' account; Amber had requested the libel suit against her, filed in March 2019, be thrown out, claiming the ruling in the UK case should swing any new cases in her favour because they both relate to domestic abuse allegations against Johnny. But Judge Penny Azcarate ruled the statements made by The Sun and Amber were 'inherently different.' City of Lies: Depp plays a retired detective who is convinced the crooked Los Angeles Police Department played a part in the rappers murder New flick: During the festival Depp presented his new film City of Lies, in which he stars alongside Forest Whitaker The ruling stated: 'The Sun's interests were based on whether the statements the newspaper published were false. '[Heard's] interests relate to whether the statements she published were false.' The ruling also noted that Johnny filed the defamation suit against The Sun before Amber's op-Ed was published - and that she was not named in the case against the British paper. In the December 2018 op-Ed, the actress wrote: 'I became a public figure representing domestic abuse, and I felt the full force of our culture's wrath for women who speak out.' The UK's High Court ruled against Johnny following an explosive three-week trial last July, finding allegations the actor was a 'wife beater' were 'substantially true.' The judge ruled that Johnny assaulted Amber on a dozen occasions and put her in 'fear of her life' three times often while on drink and drugs binges, which he said turned the actor into a 'monster' in one of the most high-profile libel clashes in recent years. Sue: On Tuesday, Johnny won the right to sue Amber Heard (pictured in November 2011) in a $50 million libel case after a Virginia judge threw out the actress's plea to dismiss the suit Filed: Johnny's suit, filed in Fairfax County, Virginia, accuses Heard of creating a 'hoax' account Lawyers for The Pirates of the Caribbean star had asked two Court of Appeal judges to grant permission for him to challenge the ruling, with the aim of having its findings overturned and a second trial ordered. They claimed the judge in Johnny's initial libel trial had not 'factually' considered all the allegations of violence against him and that they had 'fresh evidence' Amber had 'lied' about giving her entire $7 million divorce settlement to charity. They said that the charity claim influenced how her testimony was viewed, but the Court of Appeal ruled that it did not have an impact on the judge and that he would have reached the same conclusion on Heard being the victim of domestic violence. Johnny lost his role in Warner Bros Fantastic Beasts following the High Court judgment, and the damage to his reputation risks him losing out on more roles in the future. Olivia Williams looked radiant when she stepped onto the Kineo Award red carpet on Sunday alongside her actor husband Rhashan Stone. Slipping into a sweeping yellow gown for day five of the Venice Film Festival, the actress, 52, beamed for photographers while posing by her 51-year-old husband's side. Olivia - who will be taking over the role of Camilla Parker Bowles in the fifth season of The Crown - wore her hair swept back and accessorised with chic drop earrings, while Rashan cut a dapper figure in a smart black suit. Radiant: Olivia Williams, 52, looked radiant when she stepped onto the Kineo Award red carpet on Sunday alongside her actor husband Rhashan Stone, 51 Yellow: Slipping into a sweeping yellow gown for day five of the Venice Film Festival, the actress beamed for photographers The brunette beauty's sweeping gown boasted high neck detailing and a wraparound waist showcased doting mother Olivia's trim waist. She carried her belongings in a small sequined tote and was also sporting an immaculate mocha-hued manicure. The Kineo award has been handed out at the festival for the past nineteen years and its mission is to promote and celebrate Italian cinema. The 2021 Venice Film Festival will take place from 1-11 September, and is considered one of the world's oldest awards ceremonies and one of the 'Big Five' events. Hair up: Olivia wore her hair swept back and accessorised with chic drop earrings, while Rashan cut a dapper figure in a smart black suit All in the details: The brunette beauty's sweeping gown boasted high neck detailing and a wraparound waist showcased doting mother Olivia's trim waist The jury is headed by Parasite frontman Bong Joon Ho, who said he is 'honoured to be woven into its beautiful cinematic tradition. 'As president of the jury and more importantly as a perpetual cinephile I'm ready to admire and applaud all the great films selected by the festival. I'm filled with genuine hope and excitement.' The jury is also comprised of director Saverio Costanzo, actress Virginie Efira, star Cynthia Erivo, actress Sarah Gadon, documentarian Alexander Nanau, and director Chloe Zhao. Immaculate: She carried her belongings in a small sequined tote and was also sporting an immaculate mocha-hued manicure This year's festival also invited two Afgan filmmakers, Sahraa Karimi and Sahra Mani, to discuss the Taliban's takeover of the country, with 'particular attention to the situation of filmmakers and artists'. The topic of the panel will be 'the dramatic situation of Afghan filmmakers and artists in general, the need for the creation of humanitarian corridors and the guarantee of the granting of political refugee status, as well as concern for their future and the need to provide for their accommodation once they arrive in Europe.' Oscar-winning Italian director Roberto Benigni, who helmed the acclaimed Life is Beautiful, will also be honoured with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. Festival: The 2021 Venice Film Festival will take place from 1-11 September, and is considered one of the world's oldest awards ceremonies and one of the 'Big Five' events In a statement he said: 'My heart is full of joy and gratitude. It is an immense honour to receive such an important recognition of my work from the Venice International Film Festival.' This year's festival has also seen the grand return of its star-studded red carpet premieres, after last year's event was drastically scaled back due to the Covid pandemic. Last year's occasion saw a significantly smaller number of guests in attendance, will all red carpet arrivals required to adhere to social distancing, with temperature checks and mask wearing mandatory at the event. Despite its return, this year's festival is still adhering to strict Covid guidelines, following a rise in cases in Italy. Public access to the red carpet is banned, and more than 10 testing stations have been set up. All attendees must show proof of a negative test or vaccination to enter a screen, and masks are required indoors. Zara McDermott has touched down in Greece, and the Love Island star, 24, wasted no time topping up her tan. Posing on Instagram in a cut-out swimsuit, the TV personality showed off her jaw-dropping physique and perky derriere, telling fans that she was enjoying a 'quick dip' in the pool. It comes hours after her boyfriend Sam Thompson was spotted getting close to a group of girls during a night out with Pete Wicks on Saturday, before sweetly presenting a brunette beauty with a rose. Wow: Zara McDermott has touched down in Greece, and the Love Island star, 24, wasted no time topping up her tan Sweeping her hair from her face, Zara gazed off to the left of the camera and made sure all eyes were on her enviable physique. Facing away from the camera in a second snap, the star showed off her peachy derriere while teetering on the pool's edge. Bright blue skies loomed above Zara, who has yet to speak publicly about last night's photos of her boyfriend. MailOnline has reached out to Zara's representatives for comment. Meanwhile, Sam's boys' night out began at 9pm in the exclusive Mayfair district of London, where they dined out at Latin American restaurant Amazonico on Saturday. Boys' night: It comes after her boyfriend Sam Thompson was spotted getting close to a group of girls during a night out on Saturday, presenting a brunette beauty with a rose Over the next few hours, the reality stars were seen directing their attention towards three bombshell beauties, who they chatted to in the smoking area. Influencers Alisha Lemay, 28, and Freya Killin, 28, confirmed their identities by taking to Instagram while downing tequila shots at London's Sexy Fish with the famous lads at another point in the night. TOWIE's Pete, 32, repeatedly hugged and kissed two of the girls, according to onlookers, before the group of five took a taxi to Raffles in Chelsea. Perky: Facing away from the camera in a second snap, the star showed off her peachy derriere while teetering on the pool's edge Zara must have been on 28-year-old Sam's mind as he left the private members' club alone while his Essex boy pal continued the party at a nearby strip club. It comes after the former Celebrity Big Brother housemate revealed he wants a baby with Zara in the near future. Sam told MailOnline that Zara cheating on him had actually brought them 'closer together' and he didn't want to be a 'really old dad' so wasn't far off starting a family. Sam gushed the Love Island star was the girl of his dreams and they were nearly ready to become parents but he did 'need to grow up a bit first'. Sam said: 'I've hit a stage where I'm doing my house up at the moment, I want to make it into a really nice adult home, I'm nearly 30 and I'm with the girl of my dreams.' 'Not in the next year... but not in the too distant future. I don't want to be a really old dad. But I do need to grow up a little bit first.' The Block star Tanya Guccione has come out swinging after having two points docked from her and husband Vito's latest room reveal due to their involvement in a cheating scandal. The Melbourne makeup artist, 39, said that while she was 'super apologetic' for using a leaked photo of the show's production schedule to gain an unfair advantage, she stressed that she and Vito were not the only cheaters in the competition. In a bombshell interview with Woman's Day on Monday, Tanya claimed 'everybody cheats' at some stage during this season, and the fact some teams were unwilling to 'own up' to it led to tension on the building site. Defiant: The Block star Tanya Guccione has come out swinging after having two points docked from her and husband Vito's latest room reveal due to their involvement in a cheating scandal Without naming names, she said: 'A lot of people weren't willing to own up to stuff and that's where the conflict lies. 'It's hard to point the finger, when some people will probably deny it to their dying day. At some point, everyone cheats. 'Kirsty [Lee Akers] cheated because she took the furniture, the boys [twins Luke and Josh Packham] cheated because they were using their builder to paint...' She also pointed out that the returning 'Faves' teams - including Mitch Edwards and Mark McKie, and Ronnie and Georgia Caceres - had the ultimate advantage because they'd taken part in The Block before. Claims: The Melbourne makeup artist, 39, said that while she was 'super apologetic' for using a leaked photo of the show's production schedule to gain an unfair advantage, she stressed that she and Vito (right) were not the only cheaters in the competition In the aftermath of the leaked production schedule scandal, the Gucciones and the Packhams were each docked two points for the latest room reveal on Sunday. This effectively ruled both teams out of winning the challenge. During the episode, furious host Shelley Craft said: 'I'm upset for all of you because this is not what The Block is about. [I've got] this ill feeling.' When Vito protested that he was the victim, the interior design guru snapped: 'Yeah but you were the cause of it, Vito! Pointing the finger: In an interview with Woman's Day on Monday, Tanya claimed 'everybody cheats' at some stage during this season, and the fact some teams were unwilling to 'own up' to it led to tension on the building site. Pictured with Mitch Edwards and Mark McKie Angry: In the aftermath of the leaked production schedule scandal, the Gucciones and the Packhams were each docked two points for the latest room reveal on Sunday. Host Shelley Craft (pictured) also said: 'I'm upset for all of you because this is not what The Block is about' 'So you've got to take some responsibility for that, mate.' The cheating scandal unravelled last week after it emerged someone had taken a photo of the production schedule and leaked it to the contestants in week one. After suspicion initially fell on Love Island twins Josh and Luke, Tanya finally confessed to producers she was the first person to see the photo. Controversy: The cheating scandal unravelled last week after it emerged someone had taken a photo of the production schedule and leaked it to the contestants in week one. Pictured: Tanya (left) and Luke Packham (right) The saga began when someone allegedly broke into Scott's office and took a photo of the whiteboard which showed the series' filming schedule - including the dates of each challenge, private tours and furniture consults. Anyone who saw the photo would have the advantage of being able to plan their specifications weeks in advance or pre-order something for a specific room. Ronnie and Georgia brought the scandal to light last week, confirming the Packhams had previously shown them a photo of the schedule in question. Blame game: After suspicion initially fell on Love Island twins Josh and Luke (pictured), Tanya finally confessed to producers she was the first person to see the photo The brothers admitted to seeing the photo, but wouldn't reveal the source until last Tuesday's episode, when Tanya finally confessed her involvement. She sat alongside Luke and admitted to a producer that an 'ex-tradie' had sent her the image during the first week of filming. Tanya first explained it was sent to her Block phone number, before she backtracked and corrected herself, saying it was sent to her 'personal number'. Fuming: Ronnie (left) and Georgia Caceres (right) brought the scandal to light last week, confirming Josh and Luke had previously shown them a photo of the schedule in question She told producers she'd shown the photo to her husband, who did not want anything to do with it. Tanya continued: 'I sent it to Luke, and said, "Hey, do you know about this? A tradie sent it to me. Is it common knowledge?" 'So that is the truth, Luke got it from me. I got it from an ex-tradie from The Block.' Luke chimed in: 'Yeah, and then with the information, obviously I hadn't seen it, and then I've passed it on.' The photo in question: The whiteboard revealed the dates each challenge was scheduled for, what times the judges would arrive for a tour, and when furniture consults would occur Unfair: Anyone who saw the photo would have the advantage of being able to plan their specifications weeks in advance or pre-order something for a specific room Tanya later appeared relieved to have shared 'her truth', but a hidden camera recording her conversation with Vito earlier in the day exposed a flaw in the story. She said: 'I'm going to tell the camera what happened about the tradie sending me the photo. It was a number I didnt know, and I deleted it straight away.' 'The thing is it was my Block number, yeah... Youve got to always have the same consistent story,' she quietly told her husband. The impact of Tanya's confession caused an almighty clash between the contestants during a meeting on Wednesday's episode, and culminated in the Gucciones and the Packhams each having two points docked for Sunday's room reveal. The Crown. Bridgerton. The Queen's Gambit. What do they all have in common? Not only are they shows on which the whole world binged over lockdown, they're also all 'Netflix Originals'. They were created by the streaming service that broke the mould of how film and TV is made creating a brutal bidding war over A-list talent. Until recently, paydays on the big and small screen had begun to shrink, but the popularity of streaming is fast reversing that trend. From The Handmaid's Tale (Hulu) to House Of Cards (Netflix), many of the biggest recent hits have been created not by traditional production houses but by streaming companies, including Amazon and Apple TV. And they're all willing to invest heavily in order to win the battle for viewers. Many of the biggest recent hits including The Crown (pictured) have been created not by traditional production houses but by streaming companies That means buying up the best writers, directors and actors on both sides of the pond. Jaws dropped in 2019 when Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge landed a reported 14.5 million ($20 million)-a-year production deal with Amazon Prime Video. And, this year, Bond star Daniel Craig became the highest paid actor in the world when it was revealed he'll pocket 72 million ($100 million) for starring in the next two Knives Out films for Netflix. And they're not the only Brits prospering from streaming millions. Others to gain mega paydays include Black Mirror creator Charlie Brooker and, of course, Prince Harry with his multi-million-dollar deals with Netflix, Spotify and Apple TV (he's got to pay the mortgage on that mansion somehow!). That's not to mention Jeremy Clarkson's wild success with Amazon Prime Video. His 160 million deal for The Grand Tour and surprise hit Clarkson's Farm on his Diddly Squat smallholding far outstrip anything he used to earn at the BBC. Syndicating big hits such as Friends and The Office may have drawn in millions of viewers for the streaming companies, but it meant they had to pay huge amounts to the production houses who own the rights to those shows. By making their own content, however, streamers own it for ever. And because they're not tied to traditional models of production or payment, they can offer huge sums to attract the best creators and A-list actors. So who exactly are the stars of the big screen, small screen and behind the screen raking in the streaming millions? BETH HALE and LIBBY GALVIN take a look... The name's Blanc, Benoit Blanc His long-delayed final outing as 007, No Time To Die, is due for release later this month. But it's his mega-bucks deal with Netflix that has made Daniel Craig the highest-paid actor of 2021. Daniel Craig reportedly getting paid a whopping $100 million (72 million) to reprise his role as detective Benoit Blanc (pictured) He is reportedly getting paid a whopping $100 million (72 million) to reprise his role as detective Benoit Blanc in two sequels to the 2019 whodunit Knives Out, somewhat dwarfing the 18 million he was apparently due to land for playing Bond. What he plans to do with all his earnings is unknown. But Craig, 53, who is married to actress Rachel Weisz, recently said he would rather 'get rid' of his money than leave it to his children, because he finds inheritance 'quite distasteful'. Hardly Diddly Squat for farmer Clarkson Petrolhead-turned-farmer Jeremy Clarkson and his erstwhile Top Gear cohorts Richard Hammond and James May were snapped up by Amazon Prime Video in 2015, in a deal thought to be worth around 160 million. Petrolhead-turned-farmer Jeremy Clarkson and his erstwhile Top Gear cohorts Richard Hammond and James May were snapped up by Amazon Prime Video in 2015 As part of the arrangement, each got a deal for a solo TV format in addition to their contracted Grand Tour episodes, hence Clarkson's recent outing on Clarkson's Farm. The trio are definitely making more than diddly squat... Fleabag creator with deal that's anything but shabby She may have made her name playing a troubled young woman in Fleabag, which she also wrote, but Phoebe Waller-Bridge is now streaming giant royalty. The Killing Eve writer signed an exclusive deal to create and produce new television shows with Amazon in 2019, reported to be netting her 14.5 million a year over three years. Phoebe Waller-Bridge signed an exclusive deal to create and produce new television shows with Amazon in 2019 She's certainly killing it on the earnings; only this week it emerged that her production company, PMWB, had turned over 22 million in the past 20 months. It's not been all work and no play though. Waller-Bridge, 36, who was drafted in to help script the upcoming Bond film No Time To Die, was able to splash out on a 5.2 million London home earlier this year, complete with four bathrooms, gym and a bar. A right royal money-maker Proving you don't have to have a cabinet full of awards to rule the streaming scene, Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, landed the deal to crown all deals when they created a production company and signed on the dotted line with Netflix. The deal, announced last year, will see the Duke and Duchess of Sussex produce documentaries, feature films, scripted television programmes and children's shows designed to 'inform and give hope'. Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, landed the deal to crown all deals when they created a production company and signed on the dotted line with Netflix Precise details of the deal and its size haven't been disclosed, but it's reckoned to be worth in the region of 75 million, a sum that would certainly go some way to helping the couple who quit the UK to forge a new life in California establish the financial independence they claimed they seek. They also have a deal with Spotify, said to be worth 18 million, to produce and host podcasts, as well as one with Apple TV (alongside their pal Oprah, with whom Harry filmed documentary The Me You Can't See). Ricky's richer After Life Comedian Ricky Gervais was rumoured to have been paid 32 million by Netflix in 2018 for a deal that included stand-up shows and writing. Comedian Ricky Gervais was rumoured to have been paid 32 million by Netflix in 2018 for a deal that included stand-up shows and writing He apparently landed a further 5 million to pen and star in a third series of his hit show After Life. The co-creator of The Office, 60, who once lived in a flat above a King's Cross brothel, is now estimated to be worth 100 million. Golden deal for Black Mirror creator Last year Black Mirror writer Charlie Brooker said he feared the world was getting a little too much like his hit dystopian series. But there's nothing dystopian about the deal he, co-creator Annabel Jones and their production outfit, Broke And Bones, signed with Netflix a first-of-its-kind deal for the service in the UK, which reportedly could see Netflix eventually take control of the company for around $100 million (72 million). Charlie Brooker, pictured with wife Konnie Huq, signed a deal with Netflix for his production company There's no word yet on Brooker's biggest creation, with rights for Black Mirror remaining with Endemol Shine. He is married to former Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq, who once said if she ruled the world she would put a cap on earnings of the richest and distribute the money to 'good causes' instead. P.S. It's payday in the U.S. too Mega producer Ryan Murphy (he of Glee and American Horror Story fame) landed the richest Netflix deal of all when he signed up to a $300 million (217 million) five-year contract with the streaming giant in 2018. It was the biggest deal in television history, with Netflix coaxing the 55-year-old creator of countless hit shows away from Fox TV. It's no wonder they wanted him Murphy, 55, has created, co-created or produced such shows as Nip/Tuck and The Assassination Of Gianni Versace. His shows for Netflix so far have included Halston and Ratched. Now that's a pretty sum Pretty Woman star Julia Roberts has been pretty savvy with her streaming deals, partnering with Amazon, Apple and Netflix. She's said to be banking $25 million (18 million) for her role, alongside Denzel Washington, in upcoming Netflix film Leave The World Behind. Pretty Woman star Julia Roberts has been pretty savvy with her streaming deals, partnering with Amazon, Apple and Netflix She also banked 450,000 per half-hour episode of ten-part Amazon series Homecoming. She's due to team up with fellow stream queen Reece Witherspoon to star in The Last Thing He Told Me for Apple TV+. The man with the Netflix crown He's got two Oscar nominations for his films, but Peter Morgan creator and writer of smash-hit The Crown landed what was probably his biggest payday when he signed a multi-year contract with Netflix to create and develop shows and films for them. Peter Morgan signed a multi-year contract with Netflix to create and develop shows and films for them The sum involved was not revealed when he signed on the dotted line in 2019, but it was said to be 'well into the eight-figure' range (probably in the region of Phoebe Waller-Bridge's $20 million deal). It means Morgan, who had an on-off relationship with Gillian Anderson (Margaret Thatcher in The Crown), is royally minted. Making a killing Luther star Idris Elba was last year rumoured to be poised to earn 5 million to make shows and films for streaming service Apple TV+. Luther star Idris Elba was last year rumoured to be poised to earn 5 million to make shows and films for streaming service Apple TV+ The deal with Elba and his production company Green Door Pictures was led by Jay Hunt, who commissioned Luther while at the BBC and is now Apple's European content chief. It was a big win for East Londoner Idris, 48, who made his acting debut in the Channel 5 soap Family Affairs. Bridgerton's a real gem Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes was one of the first big-money signings by Netflix. With her production company, Shondaland, she signed a multi-year deal in 2017 for a reported $100 million (72 million). Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes was one of the first big-money signings by Netflix Period drama Bridgerton starring British actress Phoebe Dynevor (pictured) has had one series and three more on order The 51-year-old has proved she's still the woman with the golden touch, delivering yet another smash-hit in the shape of period drama Bridgerton starring British actress Phoebe Dynevor with one series already under her belt and three more on order. Star having biggest laugh Comedy actor Adam Sandler, 54, is box-office gold as far as Netflix is concerned. The comedian and his Happy Madison production company signed a four-picture $250 million (180 million) deal back in 2014. He then signed a new deal in 2017 and another last year. Sandler himself is said to be worth more than 300 million. From White House to Netflix In 2018, former U.S. president Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, signed a $50 million (35 million) deal to produce films and documentaries for Netflix. Netflix said that the first slate of releases through the Obamas production company, Higher Ground, would feature a wide range of fiction and non-fiction productions . . . including documentaries. The Rock and his millions U.S. movie star and former WWE wrestler Dwayne The Rock Johnson, has been raking in a fortune from deals with streaming giants, including $50 million (36 million) with Amazon and $22 million (15.9 million) with Netflix. South Sudanese-Australian model Adut Akech has splashed out $3.7million (US$2.8million) on a sprawling four-bedroom property in Los Angeles. The 21-year-old, who grew up in a refugee camp in Kenya before moving to Adelaide with her family, unveiled her new home in a video shared to Instagram on Sunday. Adut said she was 'so bloody proud' of herself to own the mansion in LA's Studio City neighbourhood, in what is now her fifth property. Home sweet home! South Sudanese-Australian model Adut Akech has splashed out $3.7million (US$2.8million) on a sprawling four-bedroom property in Los Angeles The 3,000-square-foot home boasts five bathrooms, an open-plan living area and an outdoor space with an infinity pool and spa. The house is decorated in shades of brown and cream, with a large marble island as the centrepiece in the kitchen. The property also has floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop entertaining area and a walk-in wardrobe in the en-suite master bedroom. 'I did it. I bought my first house in America!' Adut excitedly wrote in the caption, before showing fans around in an MTV Cribs-style video. How delightful! Adut said she was 'so bloody proud' of herself to own the mansion in LA 's Studio City neighbourhood, in what is now her fifth property Elegant: The house is decorated in shades of brown and cream, with a large marble kitchen island as a centrepiece, which Adut proudly posed on as she showed fans around her new pad Lovely: The 3,000-square-foot mansion boasts five bathrooms, an open-plan living area and an outdoor space with an infinity pool and spa Proud: Adut was beyond excited to show off the incredible property on Instagram, posing in every room as she gave fans an MTV Cribs-inspired tour 'Im usually quiet about personal things like this, I just be moving in silence but this one is too big of an achievement and proud moment for me to not share with the world,' she added. 'I cannot believe that at 21 years old Im a proud owner of five houses! 'I sit back reflect on my life and the things I have achieved within my career and personal life.... and damn Im so bloody proud of myself for staying focused and working my a** off to get here.' She said she was 'beyond grateful to God, my family and the people in my life that encourage me to keep pushing'. Stunning: The bedroom features a rooftop balcony just steps away from the bed Necessary! The fashion icon showed off her walk-in wardrobe next to the master bedroom Happy: 'I did it. I bought my first house in America!' she wrote alongside the short video Pride: 'Im usually quiet about personal things like this, I just be moving in silence but this one is too big of an achievement and proud moment for me to not share with the world,' she added Perfect for guests! Adut showed off her private rooftop area - ideal for entertaining friends 'To the people who have given me the opportunities that have led to moments like this. Im grateful to my supporters who motivate me everyday. Thank you! Cheers to new beginnings!' she said. Adut was born in South Sudan and raised in a refugee camp in Kenya, and arrived in Adelaide with her family when she was seven years old. She caught a taste for modelling when she was 16, and was later snapped up by Chadwick Models on a chance trip to Melbourne in 2016. Since then Adut has soared to international fame, walking the runway for the likes of Alexander McQueen, Prada, Tom Ford, Calvin Klein and Versace. She has also featured on the cover of Vogue. While Nadia Bartel faces a wave of backlash after a video of her snorting what was believed to be cocaine and breaking lockdown rules went viral, her best friend Bec Judd's career as a social media influencer is thriving. Just hours after Nadia, 36, was dumped by vitamin brand JSHealth for 'not sharing the company's values', Bec uploaded a skincare tutorial as part of a sponsored post for popular beauty brand, The Skincare company, on Sunday. Bec, who is considered the 'Queen Bee' of the AFL WAGs, thrilled her fans as she shared the secret behind her glowing and youthful skin - a dermal roller and sheet mask. A tale of two WAGs: While Nadia Bartel faces a wave of backlash after a video of her snorting of what was believed to be cocaine breaking lockdown rules went viral, her BFF Bec Judd's career as an influencer is thriving. Just hours after Nadia was dumped by JSHealth, Bec uploaded a skincare tutorial as part of a sponsored post for beauty brand, The Skincare company The mother-of-four, 38, has a lucrative deal with The Skincare Company and has partnered with the business for years. The post flies in the face of Nadia's fall from grace, after a video leaked online showing her snorting a white powder, believed to be cocaine, and breaking lockdown at a gathering in Melbourne on Thursday night. On Sunday, JSHealth, a company who sell vitamins and supplements and are popular in Instagram circles, dumped Nadia as an ambassador after she had previously endorsed the brand on her social media. Dumped: Nadia (pictured) was dumped by the popular vitamin brand for 'not sharing its values' on Sunday In a post shared to JSHealth founder Jessica Sepel's Instagram page on Sunday, the vitamin merchant went out of her way not to call Nadia by name - instead bizarrely rereferring to her as 'this individual'. Sepel wrote: 'Today I've had to make a hard decision as the founder and face of my brand, and let go of a brand endorser. I have to stand for what's right. 'We are a health brand who is very serious about aligning with individuals who share the same values.' Sponsored post: Bec, who is considered the 'Queen Bee' of the AFL WAGs, thrilled her fans as she shared the secret behind her glowing and youthful skin - a dermal roller and sheet mask Ditched: On Sunday, JSHealth, a company who sell vitamins and supplements and are popular in Instagram circles, dumped Nadia as an ambassador after she had previously endorsed the brand on her social media Was a fan: Nadia had previously promoted the trendy vitamin and wellness company, having spruiked the brand as recently as on August 4 She added: 'In saying that, I'm human and compassion is what the brand has always represented. Mental health is the number one priority here. 'I truly wish this individual strength and peace during this time and although I do not condone what happened, I am a believer that humans make mistakes and we are not a brand who wishes to beat anyone when they are down.' She concluded: 'I stand for compassion and kindness, regardless of a situation. From female to fellow females - I wish you only peace and strength during this time. May we all find peace, always.' Update: In a post shared to JSHealth founder Jessica Sepel's (pictured) Instagram page on Sunday, the vitamin merchant went out of her way not to call Nadia by name - instead bizarrely rereferring to her as 'this individual' Sepel wrote: 'Today I've had to make a hard decision as the founder and face of my brand, and let go of a brand endorser. I have to stand for what's right. We are a health brand who is very serious about aligning with individuals who share the same values' She added: 'In saying that, I'm human and compassion is what the brand has always represented. Mental health is the number one priority here'. Pictured: JSHealth Vitamins Nadia had previously promoted the trendy vitamin and wellness company, having spruiked the brand as recently as on August 4. Earlier on Sunday, JSHealth called out 'an individual who has endorsed our products' in an Instagram post shared on the official JSHealth Vitamins page. Again without explicitly naming Bartel, the brand announced it was severing ties with the 'individual'. Over: Earlier on Sunday, JSHealth called out 'an individual who has endorsed our products' in an Instagram post shared on the official JSHealth Vitamins page. Again without explicitly naming Bartel, the brand announced it was severing ties with the 'individual' Disappointed: 'We, like many of you, are shocked and disappointed by the recent actions of an individual who has endorsed our products... We do not tolerate illicit behaviour,' the company said in a statement 'We, like many of you, are shocked and disappointed by the recent actions of an individual who has endorsed our products,' the company said in a statement. 'JSHealth fundamentally supports all public health orders in place to keep us safe in this hugely difficult time for so many. We do not tolerate illicit behaviour. The statement concluded: 'Please know we have taken immediate action and will no longer be working with this individual - or anyone who does not align with our values.' Video: The snub follows the unfortunate release of a video showing Nadia snorting lines of white powder off a $1.50 Kmart dinner plate at a gathering on Thursday The snub follows the release of a video showing Nadia snorting lines of white powder off a $1.50 Kmart dinner plate at a gathering last week. On Sunday, a source close to the high-profile star claimed that Nadia was betrayed by a member of her own inner circle who leaked her sensational 'cocaine' video to the media. 'The cocaine video was deliberately leaked by someone within Nadia's elite Melbourne social circle,' the source told Daily Mail Australia. Clip: The clip begins with the fashion and beauty influencer appearing to lean over the plate with a rolled-up banknote in her left nostril as she presses her right nostril. She then snorts the substance as one of the women watches on 'This is someone who for all intents and purposes seems to be Nadia's friend on Instagram but they are secretly jealous,' they added. The source went on to say that the video being posted by Ellie in the first instance was a genuine mistake, 'but Nadia's nemesis pounced on it and immediately sent it to people they knew could get it to the press quickly'. Leaking the video was part of 'a campaign of revenge someone wants to shut her down,' they added. Inside job? On Sunday, a source close to the high-profile star claimed that Nadia was betrayed by a member of her own inner circle. 'The cocaine video was deliberately leaked by someone within Nadia's elite Melbourne social circle,' the source told Daily Mail Australia Pearson, who filmed and published the now-viral clip entirely by mistake, revealed she was remorseful over the incident. 'I'm just devastated,' she told The Herald Sun on Friday evening. Nadia, who is a popular influencer endorsing numerous brands, broke her silence and issued an apology over the incident on Friday evening. Heartbroken: Ellie Pearson (left) who filmed and published the now-viral clip entirely by mistake, revealed she was remorseful over the incident. 'I'm just devastated,' she told The Herald Sun on Friday evening 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future,' she wrote in an Instagram post on Friday evening. 'To my family and friends, my business partners and the public health workers trying to keep us all safe, I am embarrassed and remorseful. 'I am truly and deeply sorry. I hope I can earn your forgiveness and, in time, your trust.' Victorian police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter and that Nadia is assisting them with their enquiries. Apology: Breaking her silence in a post shared to Instagram on Friday afternoon, the 36-year-old mum of two wrote: 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future' She faces as much as a $5500 fine for the lockdown breach, however no fine has been issued as of Sunday. Bartel is a mother of two and entrepreneur who runs the fake-tan company Spray Aus and clothing label Henne. She is the ex-wife of retired AFL star Jimmy Bartel. The couple split in 2019 after five years of marriage. Treading lightly on Tanna We go on a new ecotourism adventure tour in North Tanna Call for Urgent Review and Amendment to Article 38 of The Constitution of The Republic of Vanuatu Big Yard artist Christopher Martin unveiled a plaque for his Billboard Reggae Albums chart-topping sophomore album And Then, in an Instagram video on Saturday, to the delight of his fans. Thrilled about the delivery, Martin could be heard saying, Its a good feeling as he unwrapped the package. In his caption, he reminisced about a time when such triumphs were a hopeful dream and thanked his team for making his dream come true. Remember up a country when mi did a climb treenow Im climbing charts!!! God good eeh . This one is for all of those whove been with me from the jump!!! Couldnt have done it without you all!!! Love unuh from mi HEART!!!! Martin wrote. He thanked VP Records, Big Yards CEO Robert Livingston, his manager Kingy Lettman and music producer/song writer Kamal along with others who, he said stay at the studio and vibe with me til all hours a night!!! God bless all of u!!!! The 15-track album was released by VP Records on May 3, 2019 and debuted at No. 1 on the Reggae albums chart, after which it descended to 22 before rising back up the charts to No. 2 by the end of that month. And Thens songs were produced by various producers including Robert Livingston, Llamar Riff Raff Brown, Kingyard Productions, Fabrice Frenchie Allegre of Maximum Sound, White Gad Productions, and Jordan McClures Chimney Records. The album tracks consisted of the songs Life, Come Back, Bun Fi Bun, Cant Dweet Again, Im About It, To Be With You, Still Got Feeling, Is It Love, True Love, Happy Youre Mine, Mirror Mirror, Dont Tell, Tears In Her Eyes, Im Tired and I Do It All. Martin had also submitted And Then to the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for consideration for the prestigious Grammy Awards Best Reggae Album category. Since he became a household name in 2005 after being crowned the Digicel Rising Stars competition winner at age 18, the Back Pasture native has released several hit songs including Big Deal, Cheaters Prayer, Fi Mi Fren, Dem, and Under The Influence, after joining Shaggy and Robert Livingstons Big Yard label. Martin, who signed with VP Records in 2013, saw his Steppin Razor EP going on to peak at number 15 in 2015, while his debut album Big Deal reached number three in 2017. In the meantime, the St. Jago High School old boy is also celebrating the success of his new song Youll Never Find which was released recently. Very happy with the first week results . Thanks to everyone who watched and commentedyoure a big part of the success of this record. To everyone who calls their favorite radio stations and request it I thank uthe djs who keep it in constant rotationI salute unuh To the ones who alwayssssz turn up the radio when it comes onI got love for yall! To my thousands of new subscribers and those whove been there from day onemi love unuh!!! I couldnt have done this without you all!!! Martin said. And lastly to the ones who said LOVE SONGS arent in right nowits a pleasure to prove you wrongthe people have proved u wrong . I thank you for the drive and the push just the same #YoullNeverFind #LoveIsAlwaysIn, he added. During an interview with DancehallMag last month, Martin described his teams global market approach with Youll Never Find. We had our Diaspora in mind and Jamaica in mind, something that would hit home with the masses, he while when asked about the track. We definitely wanted something weh can stand up on the world market and thats why we love to say Youll Never Find is something like world music. So, its definitely coming from Jamaica and it is Jamaican but it can stand up wid dem out deh man. It was definitely intentional. Theres nothing wrong with competition, and if you want to compete on that level you have to try and be on that level. Jamaican American rapper and Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta (LHHATL) star Safaree Samuels announced in a tweet that he will be starting his own label, with focus on Reggae, Dancehall and Soca. Emphasizing his vision, he wrote Im gonna start my own label!! But I only want REGGAE DANCEHALL & SOCA!!!! I dont know how long it will take to do this but this is what I want to do!! before closing off the tweet with an array of Caribbean flags. Resharing his tweet on Instagram, Safaree captioned the post, Teamwork makes the Dreamwork Im gonna start my own label!! But I only want REGGAE DANCEHALL & SOCA!!!! I dont know how long it will take to do this but this is what I want to do!! @IAMSAFAREE (@IAMSAFAREE) September 3, 2021 The rapper was supported by thousands of fans as well as Dancehall deejay and producer Red Rat who responded, Its only right for you to do it bro. Safaree, who started his musical career as a member of the group, the Hoodstars, alongside, the then-unknown, Nicki Minaj, Lou$tar and Seven Up, gained traction from his writing credits on several of Nicki Minajs songs and his role on the reality tv series, LHHATL. While dating Minaj, in the early 2000s, Safaree co-wrote the single Did It Onem which appeared on Nickis debut album, Pink Friday. He also appeared in Nickis music video Stupid Hoe and was credited for the writing of six songs on her second album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded. However, after their 2014 breakup, Safaree attempted to sue Minaj and accused her of not crediting him on her third album, The Pinkprint. Safarees controversial character on LHHATL surrounds his family life with his now-estranged wife, TV personality and actress, Erica Mena. The union which led to two children may be coming to an end, as Mena has officially filed for a divorce from Safaree according to TMZ, in May of this year. In August, Safaree, who was born in the US to Jamaican parents, also announced that after working with the Jamaica Tourist Board, hes very much interested in becoming an ambassador for Jamaica. Celebrating Jamaicas Independence in 2018, Safaree shared a picture of his Jamaican Passport on Instagram, making it clear that he is a Jamaican citizen. How do you explain 9/11 to a new generation? Its yet another challenge that falls upon our teachers. As we arrive at the 20th anniversary of one of the darkest days in modern history, young students will be exposed this week to images of the collapsing towers on websites, social media, perhaps even televisions. Educators, ever on the front lines, strive to offer context. On this solemn commemoration, witnesses to Sept. 11, 2001, who can share oral histories with a new generation should consider doing so as well. No podcast can capture the anxiety that roiled through Americans on 9/11. That level of national disquiet had not really been felt since that date of infamy, Dec. 7, 1941, when Pearl Harbor was attacked and 2,335 military personnel were killed. The feeling of anticipating the next blow. Of seeing a section of New York drained of vibrant colors as gray dust peppered death over the landscape. After that first air strike two decades ago, Americans were drawn together to broadcasts. Just 102 minutes later, they witnessed the world change with the televised collapse of both World Trade Center towers. Todays students are living through an equally epic time in world history. Two decades ago, we braced for more attacks. Anxiety seized everyone. COVID-19, though, strikes again and again. And no, the end is not in sight. This is a different sort of war, as we face an unseen enemy with only masks for uniforms and vaccines for weapons. During the pandemic, personal affronts can distract from the remarkable generosity occurring every day. Such good will in the days after 9/11 linger only in memory, all the more reason to document and share them. Any oral history would surely summon memories of paper postings of the missing, the faintest of hopes to locate the fallen. Just short of 3,000 people died in the attacks, a figure dwarfed by the 650,000 victims of COVID in the United States. Some 161 victims of the 9/11 attacks had ties to Connecticut communities. So many more were injured, physically and emotionally, while first-responders suffered over the ensuing years from exposure to toxins released at ground zero. Any oral history should also reflect on acts of kindness in the days following 9/11, including donations of food, clothing and blood to strangers. For some time, colors were blurred particularly red and blue. It would not last. As Americans, we are not where we hoped to be 20 years on. We are overdue to declare a truce, to ponder what the United States looks like from the outside. Between these cracks of life and death is the manner of how we live. Even 20 years later, we are still healing. The legacy of 9/11 should not be of politics or our nations longest war, but of demonstrations of inclusion, tolerance and empathy. It still can be. This oral history is still being written. remaining of SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription and are still unable to access our content, please link your digital account to your print subscription If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. You have permission to edit this poll. Edit Close Angelina Jolie recently opened up about her life experiences during an interview with The Guardian while promoting her new book Know Your Rights and Claim Them: A Guide for Youth. During The Guardian interview, however, Jolie was also asked about her experience of being disrespected in Hollywood. Well, no surprise, Harvey Weinstein. I worked with him when I was young, she replied. Angelina was apparently 21 years old when she acted in Playing by Heart, the 1988-movie whose executive producer was Weinstein, the filmmaker who was accused by numerous women of sexual assault and misconduct in 2017. Following the multiple accusations, Weinstein was fired by his own company. Weinstein is currently in prison after a New York jury convicted him for the rape and sexual assault of two women. Incidentally, Angelina had even previously said, in an article in The New York Times, that she had had a bad experience. If you get yourself out of the room, you think he attempted but didnt, right? The truth is that the attempt and the experience of the attempt is an assault, the Oscar-winning actor said in the new interview. It was beyond a pass. It was something I had to escape. I stayed away and warned people about him. I remember telling Jonny (Lee Miller), my first husband, who was great about it, to spread the word to other guys dont let girls go alone with him, she added. The actress revealed that she had declined to do a Martin Scorsese project in 2004 because Weinstein was involved in it. I was asked to do The Aviator, but I said no because he was involved. I never associated or worked with him again. It was hard for me when Brad did, she said. Angelina and Brad had started dating soon after they worked on the 2005 movie Mr and Mrs Smith. The couple got married in 2014 although in 2016, Angelina filed for divorce, which was finalized in 2019. In The Guardian interview, Angelina alleged that Pitt approached Weinstein, against her wishes, to produce his 2012 film Killing Them Softly. The Weinstein Company ended up distributing the film. We fought about it. Of course it hurt, the actress added. The Secunderabad-headquartered College of Defence Management (CDM) has started research on ancient Indian texts that are relevant to modern warfare and military statecraft and have recommended two ancient scripts Bhagwad Gita and Arthashastra. (Representational Photo: AFP) Hyderabad: The Indian Armed forces are considering introducing Bhagwad Gita and Kautilyas Arthashastra as part of the curriculum for officers, Army and Air Force sources confirmed on Saturday. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modis call, the Secunderabad-headquartered College of Defence Management (CDM) has started research on ancient Indian texts that are relevant to modern warfare and military statecraft and have recommended two ancient scripts Bhagwad Gita and Arthashastra. Bhagwad Gita is a treasure trove of wisdom and insight into military doctrine, strategies and morality of war and life. They will give an indigenous perspective to our officers and jawans to apply in complex modern warfare, said a senior officer based in the Army headquarters in Delhi. Arthashastra is one of many wonderful texts of ancient India that brings insight into the complex interplay of politics, military thinking and intelligence. Two senior officers, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that the broad conceptual and research work is ongoing but refused to give specific details. It is an ongoing project. We cannot confirm either when this curriculum will go live, or if it would be initiated in which academy or course or for whom, they said. Air Vice-Marshal Pawan Mohey, the commandant of CDM, when reached out to, was not willing to speak to the media. Lt. Gen. Anil Bhatt, PVSM, who formerly served as general officer commanding (GOC) XV Corps and director-general of military operations (DGMO), speaking with The Asian Age, said that eventually, this rich training framework must extend to all levels from entry officer level at the NDA or IMA to higher-levels of warfare training. In select armed forces circles, both serving and retired, the issue has started getting discussed, largely with a welcoming outlook despite some doubts outside the Indian military about the motivation and implications of the move. It is a right move, and long overdue. The Indian armed forces largely operate on war doctrines and philosophies of the Western world, like the Carl von Clausewitz doctrines. We even study Sun Tzus Art of War. This shift in military thinking, to incorporate ancient Indian thinking on state craft, doctrinal military warfare, discipline of espionage and spycraft, as well as administration and other aspects should give us a unique edge, said a decorated retired colonel who is one of the many Kargil war heroes. A few retired offices expressed doubts about the impact of the move. As Pakistan learnt in 1971, it was defeated because it was a secular Indian Army they faced. The Indian Army had a Parsi chief in Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, a Sikh army commander in J.S. Aurora, a Hindu general who captured Dhaka in Sagat Singh, a Jewish general who steered the famous surrender of Pakistan in J.F.R. Jacob. Arthashastra is fine, but a religious text like Gita leaves me a little unconcerted, said a retired colonel, who also served in imparting training to young officers. Lt. Gen. Bhatt dismissed the fears, saying, The secularism and humanity of the Indian Army, both before Independence and after, is one of culture, mutual respect, ability to comprehend diversity in thought and faith. We are strong because we respect everyone and we are proud of it. This is Eastern thinking and philosophy we are bringing in to further strengthen our forces. Chinese ship M.T. QIAN TAI-1 has now remained stranded at Kakinada Anchorage Port for more than 50 days. (DC File Image) Kakinada: International agency Protection and Indemnity Insurance (PII) has entered the scene to amicably resolve the issue of Chinese ship M.T. QIAN TAI-1, which has been stranded off Kakinada Port. It is expected that PII, a Singapore-based organisation, will take about a week to deal with the Chinese crew of the currently off-limits ship. According to sources, the cargo ship has now remained stranded at Kakinada Anchorage Port for more than 50 days. This is because the ships captain Wang Zeyan, a Chinese national, has not been allowing Indian crew members into the ship. The stand-off started following a change in technical ownership of the vessel from Seacon Ships Management of China to Singapores Oka Ship Management. Oka Ship wants to change the crew of the vessel with Indian staff. But, the ships Chinese captain is not agreeable to this, it is said. Representatives of Seacon Ships and Oka Ship held several discussions in Singapore regarding the issue on Saturday. Following this, PII will take the initiative to sort out the matter amicably. PII and Seacon Ships Management officials are holding discussions with the vessels Chinese captain in this regard. Meanwhile, local agents have made it clear that they are in no way troubling the stranded ships crew. They ordered food all the way from Chennai. We made every arrangement for the purpose. But the ships captain has launched a false propaganda, said an agent of the Singapore company. It is said the vessels Chinese crew, particularly the captain, fear that they may lose their jobs along with handover of the ship. That is why the captain has been refusing to let the new Indian crew board the vessel. Chennai: State BJPs most popular face on television, K T Raghavan, was forced to make a hasty exit from the party, hours after a clandestinely captured visual of him, behaving inappropriately during a video call with a woman party colleague, started making its rounds on social media on Tuesday early morning, exposing a deep fissure in the party. Termed a sting operation by the makers of the video and as a honey trap and an instance of Me Too by social media users, the video that went viral within minutes of its release on YouTube threw up a kaleidoscope of speculations, emotions and hidden truths. As the troll army unleashed memes, mocking and challenging the BJP to respond to the repulsive behavior of its leader Raghavan was party State general secretary and spokesman the resignation came in quickly, so did a clarification from the State president K Annamalai. Since the video maker, a rabble rouser on social media and a self-confessed member of the BJP, alleged in his longish spiel - the offending visuals formed just a part of the narrative - that Annamalai knew about the video, the speculation was that the group opposed to Raghavan in the party, or Annamalai himself, had masterminded the entire operation. That Annamalai did not make any mention of taking action against the video maker who could have been accused of besmirching the image of the party in the statement made many believe that it was nothing but a sign of factionalism in the party assuming diabolical contours. To put it otherwise, an earlier article on salacious happenings and rampant instances of Me Too in the state unit that appeared in a Tamil newspaper, known to be an unofficial mouthpiece of BJP, was rumoured to been published at the behest of Raghavan, who wanted show some colleagues in bad light. Has that affected group now got even with the latest video? The visuals show Raghavan, with a bare chest, indulging in indecent behavior even as he converses with the woman, identified as a district office bearer of the party. The inference is that the woman, whose face has been morphed, was being subjected to sexual harassment by the powerful general secretary. The video maker acknowledges the compliance of the woman in his sting operation and says the purpose was to save women from the clutches such lechers. He talks a lot about his social consciousness and also about having more such videos of other leaders in his quiver that would be shot into the public domain at the right time. Some social media users, however, suggested that Raghavan could have been honey trapped by the woman as the video maker himself had said that his partner in the operation had spoken to the woman and convinced her to help expose the party bigwigs obnoxious attitude. The sudden fall of Raghavan from grace made an extraordinary impact in media circles for he had been a regular in media discussions and coordinating friendly media persons meetings with Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and many others for quite some time. His clout in the media industry and the party was such that he took a select band of top editors and media company owners on a secret trip to New Delhi to meet Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on August 2, 2018. Interestingly after the news of the meeting leaked, some editors justified it as an off-the record interaction. It was on June 10, 2015, that the state government issued orders bringing the 2015.44 sq. km under the single jurisdiction of the reserves field director, saying that it had become essential to reorganise the jurisdiction of the reserve in such a way that the entire area of of Kawal Tiger Reserve consisting of core and buffer area, is brought under the administrative control of the field director, project tiger (FDPT), Kawal. DC file photo HYDERABAD: Absence of a centralised command that controls all aspects of the Kawal Tiger Reserve in Telangana, that extends over 2,015 sq km, has not only led to a plethora of proposals for roads through the reserve, but also poses a great challenge in the days to come when an expected surge in tigers moving south from the tiger reserves in Maharashtra make their way to Telangana. The Kawal Tiger Reserve was formed primarily to act as a sink for increasing tigers in Maharashtra, which at present, is reported to have more than 100 cubs in its reserves. As these cubs grow up, they will begin seeking their own territories. All the tigers currently in northern Telangana districts are the ones that came from Maharashtra, with some of them settling down in Telangana and giving birth to cubs of their own. The Kawal Tiger Reserve is one of the largest tiger reserves in India. It is also one with the fewest number of tigers, and the only one without a unified command and control over the vast forest area that comprises the reserve and is spread over Adilabad, Nirmal, Mancherial, and Komaram Bheem-Asifabad districts. Though KTR does have a Field Director, at least on paper, this officials direct jurisdiction covers just about half of the reserve that falls in Adilabad and Mancherial districts. The rest of the reserve is under the command and control of district level forest officials in the other two districts. Incidentally, forests in Asifabad district where influx of tigers from Mahrashtra takes place, is under the control of Adilabad territorial circle, which is not controlled by KTRs Field Director. While senior officials of the Telangana state forest department maintain that this does not pose any problem in terms of management of the reserve, sources say that this fragmented approach was forced upon the reserve as back as in 2015 with some political leaders stepping in to prevent formation of a unified command for the reserve. Despite the forest department maintaining that this dividing of control over tiger reserve into different geographical units has had no impact on the reserves management, sources say that this has led to uncontrolled development works, and proposals to lay roads through the reserve that will fragment the habitat. Every road is a hurdle for animals to cross. And there are proposals for 24 road stretches that are coming up for discussion at a mandatory meeting of the State Wildlife Board seeking approvals for these projects. Many of these fall in the tiger reserve, a source said. Though the proposals include underpasses for wildlife to cross the roads, there is no evidence of any thorough study to actually identify the points where such underpasses need to be placed, according to sources. Multizonal system might lead to further mess It was on June 10, 2015, that the state government issued orders bringing the 2015.44 sq. km under the single jurisdiction of the reserves field director, saying that it had become essential to reorganise the jurisdiction of the reserve in such a way that the entire area of of Kawal Tiger Reserve consisting of core and buffer area, is brought under the administrative control of the field director, project tiger (FDPT), Kawal. However, in just about four months, on October 23 the same year, the state government issued fresh orders in suppression of its June 10 orders, which effectively cut the Kawal FDPTs control over the reserve. This decision was taken following objections from some officials over their postings and transfers in the reserve under a new district based jurisdictional system that the forest department put in place. The real problem, according to a source well versed with the challenges of not having a unified command, will arise soon with the multizonal system that governs transfers and postings in the state. There will be a mess when the issue of transfers comes to the fore, the source said, adding that this would make the tiger reserves overall management even more challenging. Kawal villagers cry foul as reserve deprives them of benefits Nine years after the Kawal Tiger Reserve was established in what was then a unified Adilabad district, there appears to be a change in the mood of people in and around the villages around the tiger reserve that could bode ill for the reserve. Kawal is the second one in Telangana after Amrabad Tiger Reserve spread over Nagarkurnool and Nalgonda districts. Sources said there was an increasing mood of despondency that employment or income generation from the reserve under wildlife tourism did not materialise despite Kawal Tiger Reserve existing since 2012. The tiger reserve, according to Chandravas, sarpanch of Gangapur village, had prevented development of villages inside the reserve. We cannot lay roads, or take up any activity even inside the villages without getting a lot of clearances. If a village happens to be inside the core area of the reserve, then it is impossible to get anything done. If it is in the buffer area, then at least the gram panchayats can do something about things such as laying of roads, he said. If we cannot have any income from the reserve, and if it also prevents us from improving lives in the villages, then what good is the tiger reserve for the people? he asked. Sources explained that after Kawal Tiger Reserve was established, there were hopes among villages in and around the reserve that the move would lead to tourism on the lines that is practiced in neighbouring Maharashtras Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, or Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, the latter barely a few kilometres away from the Telangana border. Wildlife tourism in Maharashtra is a money spinner for both the state and for people living near the tiger reserves as they benefit from direct and indirect employment. Fadnavis alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao ignored the governance and was seriously trying to make his son K. T. Rama Rao as the next Chief Minister. (PTI) Hyderabad: Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday asserted that the Praja Sangram Yatra launched by state BJP president Bandi Sanjay Kumar would definitely change the fate of Telangana. He appealed to the people to bless the BJP and the yatra to form a democratic, pro-poor and farmers government in Telangana. Addressing a public meeting in Vikarabad district headquarters after participating in padyatra along with Sanjay Kumar, Fadnavis said the way the yatra was getting overwhelming support from people from all walks of life clearly indicated that they wanted a change in Telanganas politics as they were not happy with the KCR government. Fadnavis alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao ignored the governance and was seriously trying to make his son K. T. Rama Rao as the next Chief Minister. Alleging that Rao formulated new schemes sitting in his farmhouse, Fadnavis said Rao had duped people by not fulfilling his promises. The TRS government even failed in waiving farmers' loans as promised and in providing double bedroom houses to the poor, he lamented. Instead of taking care of the welfare of people, Rao always was strengthening his family financially, he alleged. Fadnavis alleged that the AIMIM was ruling Telangana on behalf of the TRS, adding that Chandrashekar Rao had no guts to conduct Hyderabad Liberation Day on September 17 as an official programme. There is a debate in political circles that the Dalit population constitutes over 20 crore in India as per the 2011 Census with most belonging to Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar and Tamil Nadu. By taking up Dalit issues and Dalit Bandhu scheme, he can garner the support of dalits at the national level. Twitter HYDERABAD: Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao's hour-long speech while launching Dalit Bandhu in Huzurabad on Monday triggered a debate in political circles about his attempts to take dalit issues and the scheme to the centre-stage of national politics. Rao said that he would invite Dalit leaders and intellectuals from different states and hold a workshop on measures to be taken to make them socially and economically stronger. Rao, who usually ends all his speeches with "Jai Telangana", raised "Jai Bhim", "Jai Hind" slogans triggering speculations of his national moves in the coming days. He also raised the Jai Bheem slogan at the conclusion of the meeting. The said the success of Dalit Bandhu will ignite similar demands from Dalits in other states, who would want to know why their state cannot do if Telangana could achieve it. "Dalit Bandhu is not a scheme that I have launched today. I have launched a movement for empowerment of Dalits. I launched this in Karimnagar district from where I had launched Telangana statehood agitation in 2001. I am sure Dalit Bandhu will become a success and spread to other states where people would demand Dalit Bandhu," Rao remarked. The Chief Minister stated that his mission will not end with the launch of the scheme. He will soon hold workshops with government and private employees, intellectuals and prominent leaders from Dalits from other states and seek their suggestions, feedback on what more should be done to improve their social and economic conditions. There is a debate in political circles that the Dalit population constitutes over 20 crore in India as per the 2011 Census with most belonging to Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar and Tamil Nadu. By taking up Dalit issues and Dalit Bandhu scheme, he can garner the support of dalits at the national level. Rao's earlier attempts to create an impact on national politics by forging a Federal Front against BJP and Congress early 2018 and 2019 just before Lok Sabha polls came a cropper. He later announced a conclave of non-BJP parties in Hyderabad during last years GHMC polls, which also did not take off. Hollywood star Angelina Jolie has revealed that she once "fought" with her former husband Brad Pitt for working with disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein. Jolie recently opened up her life and experience during an interview with The Guardian in support of her new book, Know Your Rights and Claim Them: A Guide for Youth Written in partnership with child rights lawyer Geraldine Van Bueren QC and Amnesty International, the book is dedicated to ensuring the rights of children around the world. During the interview, Jolie was asked about her experience of being disrespected in Hollywood. "Well, no surprise, Harvey Weinstein. I worked with him when I was young," she said. Jolie was 21 when she featured in Playing By Heart, the 1988 movie executive produced by Weinstein. In 2017, the producer was accused by numerous women of sexual assault and misconduct. Following the multiple accusations, Weinstein was fired by his own company. He is currently in prison after a New York jury convicted him for the rape and sexual assault of two women. Jolie had previously said in a New York Times piece that she had a "bad experience". "If you get yourself out of the room, you think he attempted but didn't, right? The truth is that the attempt and the experience of the attempt is an assault," the Oscar-winning actor said in the new interview. "It was beyond a pass. It was something I had to escape. I stayed away and warned people about him. I remember telling Jonny (Lee Miller), my first husband, who was great about it, to spread the word to other guys dont let girls go alone with him," she added. Jolie revealed that she was offered to star in Martin Scorsese's 2004 movie The Aviator but she declined as Weinstein was involved in the project. "I was asked to do The Aviator, but I said no because he was involved. I never associated or worked with him again. It was hard for me when Brad did," she said. Jolie and Pitt started dating soon after they worked on the 2005 movie Mr and Mrs Smith. The couple got married in 2014 but in 2016, Jolie filed for divorce, which was finalised in 2019. Pitt's 2009 film Inglourious Basterds was distributed and co-financed by the Weinstein Company. Jolie alleged in the interview that against her wishes, Pitt approached Weinstein to produce his 2012 film Killing Them Softly. The Weinstein Company ended up distributing the film. "We fought about it. Of course it hurt," the actor said. In a 2017 report by The New York Times that led to the downfall of Weinstein in Hollywood, actor Gwyneth Paltrow had said she was sexually harassed by him. Paltrow had revealed that she told Pitt, her then boyfriend, about the incident and he later confronted Weinstein. The first song from the eagerly-awaited movie Radhe Shyam is likely to be released on actor Prabhas' birthday (October 23), according to a report carried by Tollywood.Net. The video has been shot in Italy and may appeal to the 'Gen Y' audience. The song has been composed by Justin Prabhakaran and it is likely to cater to those fond of romantic numbers. The buzz is that the release date of the first single will be formally announced next month. Radhe Shyam is touted to be a 'classy' romantic drama that revolves around the love story of a palmist and a princess. It has been directed by Radha Krishna Kumar, who previously wielded the microphone for the Gopichand-starrer Jil, and marks his first collaboration with the Baahubali hero. The film stars Pooja Hegde as the female protagonist Prerna and is one of the most important releases of her career. The cast includes Kunaal Roy Kapur, Malayalam actor Jayaram and Bhagyashree. Radhe Shyam was to hit the screens in July but that did not happen due to the increase in Covid-19 cases in the country. It is slated to release in theatres this Sankranti. Prabhas, meanwhile, is going through a busy phase on the work front. The mass hero will be seen playing Lord Ram in the mythological drama Adipurush, directed by Om Raut of Tanhaji fame. The biggie has a star-studded cast that includes Kriti Sanon, Saif Ali Khan and Sunny Singh. He is part of KGF helmer Prashanth Neel's latest magnum opus Salaar, co-starring Shruti Haasan. He will also be seen in Project K, directed by Mahanati helmer Nag Ashwin. There have been talks of him teaming up with Bollywood director Siddharth Anand for a spy-thriller. Pooja, on the other hand, is awaiting the release of the romantic comedy drama Most Eligible Bachelor. She also has the Bollywood biggie Cirkus and Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali in her kitty. Tamil star Vikram is likely to team up with maverick filmmaker Pa Ranjith for a high-profile film to be backed by Studio Green, according to reports. 'Chiyaan' has apparently already heard the script and may sign the dotted line in the coming days. The film might go on the floors in 2022, if the two are able to wrap up their current commitments on time. Pa Ranjith had reportedly finalised the script for the film a long time ago but it was put on hold once he bagged Kabali and Kaala in quick succession.The filmmaker, meanwhile, is going through a busy phase on the work front. He recently garnered attention when the Sarpatta Parambarai emerged as a digital blockbuster. The film was set in North Chennai and featured Arya in the lead. It received rave reviews with most critics praising the sincere performances. He is working on Natchathiram Nagargirathu, touted to be a 'different' romantic drama. Also Read | 'Sarpatta Parambarai' movie review: Arya shines in watchable sports drama Vikram, on the other hand, was last seen in the Kamal Haasan-backed Kadaram Kondan, which exceeded expectations at the box office. It was an adaptation of the French film Point Blank and featured him in a striking new avatar. The mass hero will soon be seen in Cobra, a thriller with plenty of commercial elements. It has been directed by R Ajay Gnanamuthu and marks his first collaboration with the I actor. Vikram plays the lead role in Ponniyin Selvan, which is based on a book of the same name. The film is directed by Mani Ratnam and has a stellar cast that includes Jayam Ravi, Rahman, Karthi, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Kishore. It will be released in theatres in two parts. Vikram will be seen alongside his son Dhruv in Mahaan, helmed by the maverick filmmaker Karthik Subbaraj. He is also part of ace filmmaker Gautam Menon's delayed movie Dhruva Natchathiram. A suicide bomber of the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan blew himself up in the countrys restive Balochistan province on Sunday, killing at least four security personnel and injuring 20 people, a top police official said. The attack targeted a Frontier Corps (FC) check post on the Mastung road in Quetta, the provincial capital, Deputy Inspector General of Quetta police Azhar Akram said. Akram told reporters that an initial investigations suggested that the suicide bomber drove an explosives laden motorcycle into a vehicle carrying Frontier Corps. Also Read | Taliban push deep into Afghanistan's holdout Panjshir Valley The bomb disposal squad has estimated that the motorcycle was laden with six kilogrammes of explosives, he said. Akram confirmed that four people were killed in the blast while 20 others, 18 soldiers and 2 bystanders, were injured in the attack. "Condition of some of the injured is critical and the casualties could rise, he said. According to the Counter-Terrorism Department of Balochistan, the blast was a "suicide attack" and was carried out near the Sona Khan check post. The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack, sending a grim signal that the change of government in Kabul might not end the woes of Pakistan as the country looks towards the Taliban to rein in the TTP rebels who are hiding in Afghanistan. According to security forces, the vehicle targeted in the attack was providing security to vegetable sellers belonging to the Hazara community of the province. Condemning the attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan took to Twitter to offer condolences to the families of those killed. Condemn the TTP suicide attack on FC checkpost, Mastung road, Quetta. My condolences go to the families of the martyrs & prayers for the recovery of the injured. Salute our security forces & their sacrifices to keep us safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorists' designs, he said in a tweet. Condemn the TTP suicide attack on FC checkpost, Mastung road, Quetta. My condolences go to the families of the martyrs & prayers for the recovery of the injured. Salute our security forces & their sacrifices to keep us safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorists' designs. Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 5, 2021 Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove also condemned the attack and sought a report. "Security forces have given countless sacrifices in the war against terrorism. The whole nation is indebted to the martyrs. We are fighting the terrorists with our full strength and will continue to do so. These violent attacks will not lower the morale of the forces," he said, adding that the war would continue until total peace was achieved. Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari said: Condemnable TTP attack today on FC checkpost in Quetta today. Condolences and prayers go to the families of the martyrs. President of the Opposition Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack and said that the deterioration of law and order was a cause of concern. Balochistan has been facing low-level violence by the TTP rebels and Baloch nationalists. The suicide attack took place less than two weeks after three Levies police personnel were killed and as many injured when their vehicle hit a landmine in the province's Ziarat district. Leader of the anti-Taliban resistance forces in Panjshir province, Ahmad Massoud said that he will never stop his resistance for the sake of God, justice, and freedom. Massoud said that the resistance in Panjshir and protest for the rights of women by women in Afghanistan indicate that people never give up when it comes to standing for their legitimate rights, Khaama News reported. On Friday night, the war in Panhshir province intensified and there were reports of its collapse which were then denied. Read | Afghanistan crisis cements Qatari global influence Massoud in his Facebook post wrote that the people of Afghanistan never get tired of resistance and fight for their rights and will strive for a developed and independent Afghanistan. "The defeat only happens when you give up the fight for your legitimate rights and when you get tired." Massoud and Amrullah Saleh were reported to have fled to Tajikistan after a heavy conflict between the Taliban and resistance forces in Panjshir but the latter in a video clip said that he is still in the province. The former Vice President and one of the commanders of Panjshir resistance accused the Taliban of denying humanitarian assistance to the province. He asked the UN to watch the situation closely and press the Taliban to allow humanitarian aid to the province. A wary China is seeking to strike a common position with Afghanistans key neighbour Iran to firm up its growing role in the war-torn country as it waits for the Taliban to form an open and inclusive government that makes a "clean break" from all terrorist groups. China is already coordinating its evolving policy on Afghanistan with its all-weather ally Pakistan and Russia which also share borders with Afghanistan. Beijing, which has kept its Embassy open in Kabul along with Pakistan and Russia, is awaiting the formation of a government by the Taliban to decide on recognising it amidst firm indications by the US, the UK and other western countries that they will not be in a hurry to endorse the new government. Read | China is our most important partner, says Taliban China is also keeping a close watch on the Panjshir Valley fighting between the Taliban and the militias of Ahmad Massoud-led National Resistance Front (NRF) which has reportedly delayed the formation of the new government in Afghanistan. On Saturday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. Iran, which is struggling under the US sanctions over its nuclear policy, has warmed up to China in recent years with Beijing steadily expanding its investments in the oil-rich nation which shares its borders with Pakistan. In his talks with Amir-Abdollahian, Wang said China has noted that the Taliban might announce the formation of a new government in the coming days. He hoped that the the new government will be open and inclusive, make a clean break with terrorist organisations, and establish and develop good relations with other countries, especially neighbouring countries, according to a press release issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Read | Taliban battle for Panjshir as US warns of Afghanistan civil war As common neighbours of Afghanistan, China and Iran need to strengthen communication and coordination to play a constructive role in achieving a smooth transition and peaceful reconstruction of Afghanistan, he said. Wang has also lashed out at the US, saying that the claim of the United States that the withdrawal from Afghanistan allows it to shift its focus to China and Russia not only serves as an excuse for its own failure, but also reveals the nature of its pushing for power politics in the world. If the US is unable to learn due lessons, it is bound to make mistakes more serious than those in Afghanistan, Wang warned. Amir-Abdollahian said that the root cause of the chaos in Afghanistan is the irresponsibility of the US. Iran also holds that Afghanistan should establish a broad and inclusive government reflecting the interests of all ethnic groups in the country, the press release quoted him as saying. The Iranian side calls on the international community to spare no effort to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and prevent any turmoil in Afghanistan from triggering a wave of refugees, he said, adding that Iran is ready to strengthen coordination with China to help Afghanistan get out of difficulties at an early date. Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan, China has been vocal in expressing its concern over the Uighur militants of the East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) fighting for the independence of Xinjiang, regrouping in Afghanistan under the rule of the Afghan militant group as the volatile province shares a narrow border with the war-ravaged country. Beijing has already extracted a firm commitment from a Taliban delegation headed by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar during a visit to China in July that they will not permit the ETIM to operate from its soil. China, at the same time, is eyeing the extension of its $60 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan besides exploiting the mineral-rich mines there. The Taliban has already said that China has a big role to play in Afghanistan in the reconstruction of the war-raved country. China is a big country with a huge economy and capacity. They can play a big role in rebuilding, reconstruction of Afghanistan, Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told Chinas state-run China Global Television Network in an interview recently. We have relationship with China and Russia during the past years. We have told them they should not have any concern from Afghanistan, he added. Novak Djokovic says he's in "good position" to complete the first men's singles calendar-year Grand Slam in 52 years by winning four more matches to capture the US Open. World number one Djokovic rallied past Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-3, 6-2 in three hours and 32 minutes on Saturday to reach the fourth round on the New York hardcourts. The 34-year-old Serbian star said it was his winning his second French Open title this year, his "Mount Everest" of Slam crowns, that convinced him a one-year Slam sweep was possible. "After I won in Paris this year, I felt like, 'OK, I like my chances on grass, I won two Wimbledons in a row, I've improved over the years on grass -- it did not seem impossible anymore to go for all four in a row in the same year," Djokovic said. "So here I am. I'm in a good position to do that. Still in the tournament. But I've got to take one match at a time." With a fourth career US Open trophy, Djokovic would complete the first men's singles sweep of major titles in the same year since Rod Laver in 1969. Djokovic also chases history in quest of his 21st career Grand Slam title, which would break the deadlock for the men's record he shares with Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, both absent with injuries. Read | Djokovic moves four matches from Grand Slam with US Open win Nishikori, who fell to 2-18 against Djokovic with a 17th consecutive loss, said he saw no sign the pressure of the Grand Slam quest had changed how his rival played. "I'd say he was the same," Nishikori said. "Maybe he's feeling that inside, a lot of pressure, but I couldn't see during the match." Next up for Djokovic will be a first meeting with 99th-ranked US wildcard Jenson Brooksby, who outlasted Russian 21st seed Aslan Karatsev 6-2, 3-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. Brooksby, 20, eliminated Karatsev on the Russian's 28th birthday, becoming the youngest American in the US Open last 16 since Andy Roddick in 2002. "(Brooksby) is one of the players the locker room talks about quite often because of his talent," Djokovic said. "Hopefully I can be at my best." Djokovic could face a Wimbledon final rematch with Italian sixth seed Matteo Berrettini in the quarter-finals, Olympic champion and fourth seed Alexander Zverev of Germany in the semi-finals and an Australian Open final rematch with Russian second seed Daniil Medvedev in the final. Djokovic, who has won eight of the past 12 Slams, completed a career Grand Slam by winning the 2016 French Open, which also gave him all four Slam titles at the same time, though not in a calendar year. "Probably the greatest Grand Slam career satisfaction I had is when I won four in a row back in 2016 when I crowned it with the first Roland Garros trophy," Djokovic said. "Even though I grew up playing on clay, I feel like Roland Garros has always been probably the Mount Everest for me. Out of all four Slams, that was the toughest for me to win. "Both 2016 and this year's win on French Open feel kind of similar. I felt if I win Roland Garros in that year, I have a good chance to maybe do it all in same year, calendar Slam." Saudi authorities said Saturday they intercepted three ballistic missiles fired from neighbouring Yemen that had targeted civilians in the Eastern Province as well as the southern cities of Najran and Jazan. Debris from the interception scattered across the eastern city Dammam, injuring two children and damaging 14 homes, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense. The severity of the injuries was unclear. "Saudi Air Defense has intercepted and destroyed (3) ballistic missiles and (3) bomb-laden drones launched by the Iran-backed Houthi militia," spokesperson Brigadier General Turki Al-Malki said in a statement, calling it "brutal, irresponsible behavior" by the Huthi rebels in Yemen. The Saudi-led coalition fighting the rebels told state-run television it would take "strict measures" to protect civilians. While there was no immediate comment from the Huthis, the Iran-allied insurgents have repeatedly targeted the kingdom in cross-border attacks. In August, the rebels escalated operations using unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles, and Saturday's interception comes four days after a drone hit Abha International Airport in the south, wounding eight people and damaging a civilian plane. It also comes a few hours before Hans Grundberg, the UN's new envoy for Yemen, officially assumes his duties Sunday. In Dammam, Twitter users reported hearing a loud explosion. Eastern Saudi Arabia is home to major oil infrastructure. A previous attack in September 2019 temporarily halted half of the kingdom's oil production. Saudi Arabia intervened in the Yemen war on behalf of the internationally recognised government in 2015, shortly after the Huthis seized the capital of Sanaa. Yemen's grinding conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions, resulting in what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. While the UN is pushing for an end to the war, the Huthis have demanded the reopening of Sanaa airport, closed under a Saudi blockade since 2016, before any ceasefire or negotiations. It took years for Women for Afghan Women to build up Afghanistans largest network of womens protection services 32 safe houses, family guidance centers and childrens homes in 14 provinces, growing by word-of-mouth and driven by the intense need for their services. They started closing their doors in a matter of days as the Taliban began their lightning advance through Afghan cities on Aug. 6. Most of the shelter directors grabbed or burned records, packed a few belongings and fled with their clients as word arrived that the Taliban were coming. A very few safe-house directors not only those affiliated with Women for Afghan Women, but also with a handful of other long-established shelters opted to stay where they were, but went silent, fearful that anything they said could bring harm to the women in their care. No one is accepting new cases. Our shelters, our womens protection centers, are gone. It is highly unlikely that most of the work we do for women, we will be able to do as we have done it, said Sunita Viswanath, the co-founder of Women for Afghan Women. Read | The Afghans reality, the Americans dream Even before the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan placed near the bottom of every list when it came to protections for women, and at the top in terms of the need for safe houses, counseling and courts that could help keep women safe. More than half of all Afghan women reported physical abuse and 17 per cent reported sexual violence, while almost 60 per cent were in forced marriages as opposed to arranged marriages, according to studies cited by the Afghan Ministry of Womens Affairs and underreporting is rampant. Honor killings, child marriages, the payment of a bride price for a woman, and the practice of baad the trading of young girls to pay the debts of the elders, which is tantamount to selling a child into slavery still occur in rural areas. Everywhere, harassment of women in workplaces and in public is a constant, as is psychological abuse, according to recent studies. As the insurgency advanced, the first concern of the staff of Women for Afghan Women and others running similar shelters was what the Taliban might do to punish them. As the countrys rulers in the 1990s, the Taliban strenuously opposed women traveling on their own or gathering together. Relatively recent examples of Taliban conduct have been worrying. When the Taliban briefly took over the city of Kunduz in 2015, the Women for Afghan Women shelter operators and clients all fled as threatening calls flooded in from the insurgents. The shelter director described being actively hunted, and said she was getting calls from the Taliban saying they would capture her and hang her in the village square as an example. But it is not just fear of the Taliban that has frightened the shelter operators and their clients this time. Taliban fighters have come to some of the shelters in recent weeks. Sometimes they have vandalized the premises and taken over the buildings, but there have been no reports of their harming anyone yet, said Viswanath, the groups co-founder. None of our staff has been beaten, attacked, killed, as far as I know, she said. Much of the concern has come from the waves of prisoners set free during the Taliban advance. Among them were men imprisoned under womens protections laws that were enacted with Western support over the past 20 years. The former prisoners have a grudge to bear not just against the female relative who spoke out against them and humiliated them publicly, but also against all those who supported that effort the safe house directors, counselors and lawyers. A woman from rural Baghlan province, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because she has been receiving death threats, described how she is now changing where she sleeps every few nights. Earlier, she had worked with prosecutors to help gather evidence of abuse in cases involving women. Read | Taliban special forces bring abrupt end to women's protest After capturing cities, the Taliban released all prisoners. Among these prisoners were some who were sentenced as a result of my work, she said. Now they are threatening me, and there is no government or system to go to and seek shelter. I am just hiding in one place or another. The shelters have long been targets. For many in Afghanistans harshly patriarchal society not just the Taliban a woman who is on her own or who leaves her family is often viewed as a prostitute. Some see shelters for battered women as thin disguises for brothels. Over the past 15 years, however, despite the societal antagonism toward protections for women, more began seeking out shelters. Often bearing ghastly injuries broken bones or internal injuries from being severely beaten women would again and again knock at the unmarked gates or ordinary homes where womens aid groups took people in. Whether those operations will continue is firmly in the hands of the Taliban, who are expected to announce their own laws to govern womens conduct. That will leave the former Afghan governments Elimination of Violence Against Women Act, and other protections, on uncertain footing. For now, Taliban officials have offered assurances that women would be allowed to work and in some cases travel without a male relatives escort as allowed for under Shariah, or Islamic law. The Talibans spokesman, Zabiullah Mujahid, surprised some when he acknowledged, after other Taliban officials urged Afghan women to stay home temporarily for their own safety, that many within the Taliban ranks could not be trusted to treat women civilly, and would need to be educated. But the Taliban made similar statements after taking control of the capital and most of the country in 1996. The explanation was that the security was not good, and they were waiting for security to be better, and then women would be able to have more freedom, said Heather Barr, the associate director of womens rights at Human Rights Watch. But of course in those years they were in power, that moment never arrived and I can promise you Afghan women hearing this today are thinking it will never arrive this time, either. Read | US building 'small cities' at bases for Afghans For Mahbouba, a longtime activist who has worked to protect Afghan women for much of her life, the picture is not yet clear. But she says she is giving the Taliban the benefit of the doubt, for now. She has no quarrel with their assertion that everything must be done according to Shariah law, because that is the religion of Afghanistan. But how the Taliban interpret Shariah will matter, too, she said. We just have to wait and see what is happening. The Taliban have not really started anything check in one month, in two months, in six months, she said. Mahbouba, whom the Times is identifying by just one name to protect her and her organization, oversees a long-established safe house for women. She has not fled, or closed its doors, but she is keeping a low profile and calibrating what she says to the news media, she said. When some Taliban recently came to her office saying that the women were being kept against their will, Mahbouba said she did not let them in, but went outside to talk with them. They told her they had heard that some women are kept prisoners here. She rejected that, saying instead she was defending the honor of Afghan women. I do not let them go on the street to be used and abused by other people; these are the victims of family violence, she recalled saying. So, instead of running away and having them go to prostitution, I have kept their honor and I am keeping them safe. The Taliban appeared to accept that explanation, and Mahbouba said she was determined to have a dialogue with them. But she also made a request: Please, she said, keep watching, and if our world goes haywire and it becomes really terrible, we can let people know. The leader of the Afghan opposition group resisting Taliban forces in the Panjshir valley north of Kabul said on Sunday he welcomed proposals from religious scholars for a negotiated settlement to end the fighting. Ahmad Massoud, head of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRFA), made the announcement on the group's Facebook page. Earlier, Taliban forces said they had fought their way into the provincial capital of Panjshir after securing the surrounding districts. The Islamist Taliban took control of the rest of Afghanistan three weeks ago, taking power in Kabul on Aug. 15 after the Western-backed government collapsed and President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. "The NRF in principle agree to solve the current problems and put an immediate end to the fighting and continue negotiations," Massoud said in the Facebook post. "To reach a lasting peace, the NRF is ready to stop fighting on condition that Taliban also stop their attacks and military movements on Panjshir and Andarab," he said, referring to a district in the neighbouring province of Baghlan. Read more: Taliban order university women to wear face-covering niqab A large gathering of all sides with the Ulema council of religious scholars could then be held, he said. Earlier, Afghan media outlets reported that religious scholars had called on the Taliban to accept a negotiated settlement to end the fighting in Panjshir. There was no immediate response from the Taliban. On Sunday, the NRFA also confirmed that its main spokesman, Fahim Dashti, had been killed during the day. Dashti had survived the suicide attack that killed Massoud's father, Ahmad Shah Massoud, on Sept. 9, 2001, just days before the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States. He had been one of the main sources of updates from the area as the Taliban pressed in on opposition forces, issuing a defiant series of statements on Twitter, vowing that resistance would continue. Massoud, who leads a force made up of remnants of regular Afghan army and special forces units as well as local militia fighters, called for a negotiated settlement with the Taliban before the fighting broke out around a week ago. Several attempts at talks were held but eventually broke down, with each side blaming the other for their failure. Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi said earlier on Sunday that their forces had made it into the provincial capital, Bazarak, and had captured large quantities of weapons and ammunition. Rugged valley Panjshir, a rugged mountain valley still littered with the wreckage of Soviet tanks destroyed during the long war in the 1980s to oust the Soviet presence, has proved very difficult to overcome in the past. Under Ahmad Shah Massoud, the region long resisted control by both the invading Soviet army and by the Taliban government that previously ruled from 1996 to 2001. But that effort was helped by supply routes leading north to the border, which were closed off by the Taliban's sweeping victory last month. The Panjshir fighting has been the most prominent example of resistance to the Taliban. But small individual protests for women's rights or in defence of the green, red and black flag of Afghanistan have also been held in different cities. US President Joe Biden will commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11 by traveling to all the three sites of the attacks, the White House said Saturday. On September 11, the president and First Lady Jill Biden will "honor and memorialize the lives lost 20 years ago," according to the White House statement. They will take part in ceremonies in New York, where the twin towers of the World Trade Center fell; in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, the site of a crash of a plane hijacked by four jihadists; and in Arlington, Virginia, where the Pentagon was struck. Biden had been counting on marking the 20th anniversary of the tragedy with a symbolic withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan. But America's longest war ended in chaos, with the US military unprepared for Taliban's swift takeover of the country and the death of 13 US troops in an attack in Kabul as the pullout was being completed. The world "got it wrong" on how quickly the Taliban would take over Afghanistan, the head of the British army said on Sunday, days after the UK government acknowledged that intelligence suggested that "it was unlikely Kabul would fall this year" after Western troops withdrew from the war-torn country. The US and other countries were caught off-guard by the Taliban's lightning conquest of Afghanistan last month and the strikingly rapid fall of the Afghan military and government backed by the West once NATO troops left the country. "It was the pace of it that surprised us and I don't think we realised quite what the Taliban were up to," Britain's chief of the defence staff, Gen Nick Carter told the BBC. Read more: Taliban order university women to wear face-covering niqab Asked whether military intelligence was wrong, he said the government received intelligence from a variety of sources. "It's not purely about military intelligence," he said. The last British and US troops left Afghanistan a week ago, bringing their 20-year military campaign in the country to an end. There has been criticism of the way the West withdrew from Afghanistan, with questions over how the Taliban was able to seize control of the country at such speed. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told MPs last week the intelligence assessment had been that there would be a "steady deterioration" in the security situation in August but it was "unlikely Kabul would fall this year". However, the Taliban took over Kabul on August 15 and Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani fled to the UAE. Speaking to the BBC, Nick was asked how the predictions had been wrong. "I think everybody got it wrong is the straight answer," he said. "Even the Taliban didn't expect things to change as quickly as they did." Asked whether military intelligence was wrong, Nick said: "No... many of the assessments suggested it wouldn't last the course of the year and, of course, that's proven to be correct." He said: "It's a much broader thing than just strictly military intelligence. "The way it works in this country is we have the joint intelligence committee which sits inside the Cabinet Office. So what they do is pull together the sources from the Ministry of Defence, the Foreign Office, the inter-agencies and the secret intelligence services and wider open source material." He said: "I don't think what anybody predicted was how fragile that Afghan government was and how fragile it was in relation to the command of its armed forces." After the Taliban took control of Kabul, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Mark Milley commented on the intelligence assessment at a Pentagon news conference, saying the time frame of the Afghan government's collapse "was widely estimated and ranged from weeks to months and even years following our departure." "There was nothing that I or anyone else saw that indicated a collapse of this army and this government in 11 days," Milley said. The Taliban is expected to announce a new government soon, meaning foreign powers will have to adapt to the prospect of dealing with an administration led by hardline Islamic insurgents. Read more: Afghan anti-Taliban resistance leader Ahmad Massoud says he is ready for talks The British army chief said it was too early to say how the Taliban would govern, but there was a possibility the militant group would be less repressive than it was in the past. "On the face of it, it doesn't look good at the moment. But let's see what happens. It may well change," he said. "I also think they're not stupid enough to [not] know the Afghan people have changed and they want a slightly different sort of governance." On Sunday, the Taliban was accused of murdering a female police officer. The killing comes amid reports the group is escalating its repression of women. He said it was now down to the international community to encourage the Taliban to govern in a different way. "They're going to need a bit of help to run a modern state effectively," he said. "If they behave, perhaps they'll get some help," he said. Nick said the risk of terrorism will depend on whether an effective government can be formed in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Opposition Labour Party's shadow foreign secretary Lisa Nandy said there was a strong possibility that Britain may now be less safe because of the events in Afghanistan. "The urgent task for the government... is to make sure Afghanistan doesn't collapse once again into a haven of terrorism," the Indian-origin politician said. She called on the UK to work with other countries - not just its allies - to take a common approach towards the Taliban, and use their leverage to demand rights for women and girls living in Afghanistan. Mutinous soldiers in the West African nation of Guinea detained President Alpha Conde on Sunday after hours of heavy gunfire rang out near the presidential palace in the capital, then announced on state television that the government had been dissolved in an apparent coup d'etat. The country's borders were closed and its constitution was declared invalid in the announcement read aloud on state television by army Col. Mamadi Doumbouya, who told Guineans: "The duty of a soldier is to save the country." "We will no longer entrust politics to one man. We will entrust it to the people," said Doumbouya, draped in a Guinean flag with about a half dozen other soldiers flanked at his side. It was not immediately known, though, how much support Doumbouya had within the military or whether other soldiers loyal to the president of more than a decade might attempt to wrest back control. The junta later announced plans to replace Guinea's governors with regional commanders at an event Monday and warned: "Any refusal to appear will be considered rebellion" against the country's new military leaders. The West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS quickly condemned the developments, threatening sanctions if Conde was not immediately released. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tweeted that he strongly condemned "any takeover of the government by force of the gun." Read | Five things to know about Guinea The US State Department warned against violence and urged authorities in Guinea to avoid "extra-constitutional" actions that "will only erode Guinea's prospects for peace, stability, and prosperity." Spokesman Ned Price added in a statement that the junta's "actions could limit the ability of the United States and Guinea's other international partners to support the country." Conde's whereabouts had been unknown for hours after the intense fighting Sunday in downtown Conakry until a video emerged showing the 83-year-old leader tired and disheveled in military custody. The junta later released a statement saying Conde was in contact with his doctors. But they gave no timeline for releasing him other than to do say: "Everything will be fine. When the time comes, we will issue a statement." Conde, in power for more than a decade, had seen his popularity plummet since he sought a third term last year, saying that term limits did not apply to him. Sunday's dramatic developments underscored how dissent had mounted within the military as well. Doumbouya, who had been the commander of the army's special forces unit, called on other soldiers "to put themselves on the side of the people" and stay in their barracks. The army colonel said he was acting in the best interests of the nation, citing a lack of economic progress by leaders since the country gained independence from France in 1958. Also Read | Guinea junta says President Conde unharmed, his wellbeing guaranteed "If you see the state of our roads, if you see the state of our hospitals, you realise that after 72 years, it's time to wake up," he said. "We have to wake up." Observers, though say the tensions between Guinea's president and the army colonel stemmed from a recent proposal to cut some military salaries. On Sunday morning, heavy gunfire broke out near the presidential palace and went on for hours, sparking fears in a nation that already has seen multiple coups and presidential assassination attempts. The Defense Ministry initially claimed that the attack had been repelled by security forces, but uncertainty grew when there was no subsequent sign of Conde on state television or radio. The developments that followed closely mirrored other military coup d'etats in West Africa: The army colonel and his colleagues seized control of the airwaves, professing their commitment to democratic values and announcing their name: The National Committee for Rally and Development. It was a dramatic setback for Guinea, where many had hoped the country had turned the page on military power grabs. Conde's 2010 election victory the country's first democratic vote ever was supposed to be a fresh start for a country that had been mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule and political turmoil. In the years since, though, opponents said Conde too failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the country's vast mineral riches of bauxite and gold. The year after his first election he narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed. Violent street demonstrations broke out last year after Conde organised a referendum to modify the constitution. The unrest intensified after he won the October election, and the opposition said dozens were killed during the crisis. In neighbouring Senegal, which has a large diaspora of Guineans who opposed Conde, news of his political demise was met with relief. "President Alpha Conde deserves to be deposed. He stubbornly tried to run for a third term when he had no right to do so," said Malick Diallo, a young Guinean shopkeeper in the suburbs of Dakar. "We know that a coup d'etat is not good," said Mamadou Saliou Diallo, another Guinean living in Senegal. "A president must be elected by democratic vote. But we have no choice. We have a president who is too old, who no longer makes Guineans dream and who does not want to leave power." Thirteen Iraqi policemen were killed in an Islamic State group attack against a checkpoint in the country's north early Sunday, security and medical sources said. The attack, in the region of Al-Rashad around 65 kilometres (40 miles) south of Kirkuk city, took place just after midnight, a senior Iraqi police officer told AFP. "Members of the Islamic State organisation targeted a federal police checkpoint," said the officer, who did not want to be named. "Thirteen were killed and three wounded" among the security forces, the officer added. A medical source based in Kirkuk confirmed the toll. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. IS seized swathes of Iraq in a lightning offensive in 2014, before being beaten back by a counter-insurgency campaign supported by a US-led military coalition. The Iraqi government declared the Sunni extremists defeated in late 2017, but they retain sleeper cells which continue to hit security forces with asymmetric attacks. Jihadist cells regularly target the Iraqi army and police in northern Iraq, but this attack was one of the most deadly this year. A July 19 bombing claimed by IS officially killed 30 people in the Al-Woheilat market in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb of Baghdad. International coalition troops in Iraq currently number around 3,500, of which 2,500 are US troops. But Washington has been drawing down its military presence amid attacks on facilities it uses by Iran-aligned armed groups and has said that from next year the role of US troops will be limited to training and advising their Iraqi counterparts. Last Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Iraqi Kurdistan and expressed concern about an IS "resurgence" in both Iraq and Syria. He also said that French soldiers deployed in Iraq as part of the international coalition will remain in the country "no matter what choices the Americans make". The Nepal government on Sunday warned its citizens against carrying out any "reprehensible and disgraceful" actions that may hurt the dignity of the friendly nations after some people burnt effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during protests in the country. In a statement, Nepal's Home Ministry said that in the past few days, "the activities of chanting slogans, holding demonstrations and protest and burning effigies to tarnish the image of the neighbouring friendly nation's Prime Minister has caught" its attention. The home ministry statement, however, did not identify the leader. But it expressed objection towards such "reprehensible and disgraceful" actions. The strong statement came after some students and youth organisations belonging to both the ruling alliance and the Opposition burnt effigies of Prime Minister Modi during protests over the death of a Nepalese youth when he was crossing the Mahakali river near the border with India in July. "The Government of Nepal wishes to have a friendly relationship with all friendly nations and is determined not to let any activities that may harm the national interest. We request everyone not to carry out any action that may hurt the dignity and respect of the friendly nations," the statement said. Nepal has a long tradition of solving the dispute with the neighbouring nation through diplomatic channels and mutual dialogue, the statement said. "In future as well, diplomatic initiative and mutual discourse will be utilised while solving any dispute," it said. The Home Ministry will take action to control the activities targeted against the friendly neighbouring nation and will punish those who involve themselves in such unlawful activities, it warned. Jaya Singh Dhami, 33, of Byas rural municipality in Darchula district, is stated to have jumped into the river from the carriage of the tuin (a makeshift ropeway with a box attached for seating) he was clinging to after he saw an approaching patrol of the India-Nepal border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Officials in India said the man was crossing over to the Indian side "illegally" using the tuin and was coming from Darchula in Nepal to Gasku in Dharchula in Uttarakhand''s Pithoragarh district. A Nepalese committee investigating the death of Dhami has concluded that the incident occurred in the presence of Indian security personnel. South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma, who is serving a 15-month sentence for contempt of court, has been granted medical parole because of his ill health, jail authorities said on Sunday. Zuma, 79, was sentenced in June after losing his appeal in the country's apex court for his consistent refusal to appear before the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption. He is accused of enabling the plunder of state coffers during his nearly nine-year stay in office from 2009 to 2018. "Medical parole placement for Mr Zuma means that he will complete the remainder of the sentence in the system of community corrections, whereby he must comply with a specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires, the Department of Correctional Services said in a statement on Sunday. "We want to reiterate that placement on medical parole is an option available to all sentenced offenders, provided they meet all the requirements. We appeal to all South Africans to afford Mr Zuma dignity as he continues to receive medical treatment," the statement added. Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said he could not disclose Zumas exact condition, but quoted the relevant legislation which allowed for this type of parole. "It has to be someone who is terminally ill or is physically incapacitated, so its an inmate whose daily activity is now limited and someone who is unable to afford what we call selfcare. Therefore, that person has to be considered for (parole) placement on medical grounds," Nxumalo told Newzroom Afrika (sic). Nxumalo said the Department had received independent medical reports from both its own doctors and the military doctors from the South African Defence Force recommending the parole. Last week, Zuma had refused a request from the National Prosecuting Authority that its doctors be allowed to examine him independently as details of his illnesses could not be divulged. On July 7, Zuma handed himself over to authorities to begin his 15-month prison sentence, sparking protests which rapidly escalated into massive violence, looting and the deaths of over 300 people in two of South Africas main provinces - KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. While in prison, Zuma was first taken to the prison medical wing before being transferred to an external hospital for undisclosed treatments, resulting in him being unable to attend court proceedings last month in a separate trial for graft charges that has been going on for more than a decade. The Jacob Zuma Foundation welcomed the parole decision. "It just shows that there is some humaneness in the system, but on the other hand it also indicates the precariousness state of President Zumas health," Foundation spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi said. Manyi said Zuma was still in hospital under the supervision of the prison authorities and would not be home this evening already as his lawyers study the statement by the Department and its implications. Legal analyst Mphumelelo Zikalala told the channel that the parole officials must have taken Zumas health into account. "In this case, the medical status of the former president must have been taken into consideration and they (would have) said it is much better that you go and heal outside and you make sure that you (have) a much better facility, being in the care of your family; being visited by your doctors without any restrictions, so that at the end of the day you are able to preserve your life, Zikalala said. By James Paton, Wealthy countries face mounting pressure to divert Covid vaccine supplies to lower-income regions, with a new analysis showing theyll likely have about 1.2 billion extra doses available by the end of the year. The US, Britain, European nations and others could satisfy their own needs -- vaccinating about 80 per cent of their populations over the age of 12 and moving ahead with booster programs -- and still have large quantities to redistribute globally, according to London-based analytics firm Airfinity Ltd. Those governments have so far delivered a meager amount of the supplies theyve pledged to poorer countries as some move forward with plans for booster shots in a race to combat the delta variant. Health advocates worry that the slow pace will prolong the pandemic and increase the risk more worrisome variants will emerge. Some are also calling for more transparency on the agreements between governments and manufacturers. Also Read | Covid-19 vaccines effective at reducing severe illness, hospitalisation: Lancet study There needs to be an urgent global reckoning, said Fatima Hassan, founder and director of the Health Justice Initiative, a non-profit in Cape Town. We need to divert doses to those in need and open all the contracts. False Dichotomy An independent review of the international Covid response earlier this year urged high-income nations to provide more than 2 billion doses to poorer regions by mid-2022. Of the more than 1 billion doses Group of Seven countries and the EU have pledged, less than 15 per cent has been delivered, Airfinity found. The issue is often seen as a choice between going ahead with booster campaigns at home or reallocating doses abroad, Rasmus Bech Hansen, the companys chief executive officer, said in an interview. Our data is showing its a false dichotomy, he said. You can do both. Global output is rising steadily, and disruption seems unlikely, he said. Production could cross 12 billion doses by the end of the year, including shots in China, Airfinity estimates. Thats more than the roughly 11 billion required to vaccinate the world. Also Read | India should reject a blanket vaccine mandate, adopt a decentralised policy Western countries have about 500 million doses available to be redistributed today, some of that already donated, with that number rising to about 2.2 billion by the middle of 2022, the analysis shows. The Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE vaccine accounts for about 45 per cent of the available shots that could be redistributed, while Moderna Inc.s makes up roughly a quarter of the total, according to Airfinity. Many lower-income nations are relying on Covax, an initiative led by groups including the World Health Organization thats designed to provide fair access to the shots for every country, but the program has fallen short of its targets. Covid booster plans should be postponed until more shots are distributed to countries where theyre scarce, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has said. Meanwhile, President Joe Bidens booster program is mired in controversy of its own, having encountered pushback from health authorities in the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention who say scientific support is lacking. Health leaders in the European Union have also said that boosters arent yet needed as the current regimens of Covid shots remain effective. Coordinated Effort High-income countries have ordered over twice as many doses as are needed for their populations, the former co-chairs of the panel that reviewed the Covid response wrote last week. Now is the time to show solidarity with those who have not yet been able to vaccinate their frontline health workers and most vulnerable populations. Its not just a question of having the means to acquire Covid vaccines, Bech Hansen said. There needs to be a more coordinated effort globally to allow countries with ample supplies to resell and donate doses, he said. Its not a purely high-income-world, low-income-world discussion -- its a little more complicated than that, he said. One could imagine the US, the UK and the EU getting together and agreeing on a way forward. The relationship between a teacher and a student has been fodder for many Indian films. The relationship is such that it lends to a lot of drama and emotions. Ahead of the Teachers Day on September 5, Metrolife looks at some of the memorable films in Kannada that celebrate the teacher-student bond. Naagarahaavu The 1972 film, directed by Puttanna Kanagal, put Vishnuvardhan in the limelight. The actor plays a rebel who listens to only one man: his teacher Chamayya (a terrific KS Ashwath). Vishnuvardhan is excellent in his angry-young-man character of Ramachari. He is difficult to reason with and has a great deal of pride. Chamayya meshtru takes it upon himself to put Ramachari on the right path. The film has a tragic love story but the emotional teacher-student relationship stands out strongly. Where to watch: YouTube and MX Player School Master BR Panthulus School Master (1958) is touted to be the first Kannada film to complete the silver jubilee. Panthulu plays a school teacher Ranganna. When he returns to his village as a headmaster, he is shocked to see the poor state of the primary school and decides to bring about a change. How the honest teacher fights a corrupt system and several hurdles it hurls at him forms the rest of the story. Where to watch: YouTube Care of Footpath The film made a lot of news before it was released in 2006. It was directed by the youngest filmmaker in the world, Kishan Shrikanth, who was nine years old then. His record stood till 2014, when a Nepali boy Saugat Bista made Love You Baba at the age of seven. Care of Footpath is about an orphan slum boy Slummu and his strong will to study in the face of rejections by the society. Saraswati, played by Tara, comes to Slummus rescue. The good-hearted teacher goes all the way to ensure Slummu is enrolled in her school. The film shows how a supportive mentor can help a gifted child achieve his or her dreams. Where to watch: YouTube and Disney+Hotstar Kalidasa Kannada Meshtru The film is far from perfect but it must be lauded for highlighting the issue of inequality in education. Jaggesh plays Kalidasa, a witty teacher who is passionate about his profession and the Kannada language. The 2019 film begins with this trademark comedy and turns serious gradually. It shows the problems children face in accessing education, which is their basic right. Where to watch: Zee5 More recommendations V Ravichandrans Halli Meshtru (1992) Vishnuvardhans School Master (2010) Shivarajkumar-starrer Drona (2020) The process of appointment of judges to high courts is through a well established process where the HC collegium considers seniority, merit and all inputs received by the government, the Supreme Court has said while imposing a cost of Rs 5 lakh on an advocate for abusing the court proceedings by trying to stop the elevation of a judge. A bench of Justices S K Kaul and M M Sundresh made the observation while dismissing a plea filed by an advocate seeking directions to consider the representation submitted by him and take necessary action with the proposal of appointment of high court Registrar General A Venkateswar Reddy as a judge of the Telangana High Court. The three-member Supreme Court Collegium in a meeting held on August 17 had approved the proposal for elevation of six judicial officers as judges of the Telangana High Court including Reddy. Read more: I'm not Tendulkar, the entire team has to work together, says CJI Ramana The top court was hearing a plea filed by advocate B. Sailesh Saxena seeking directions to the Centre, Telangana and Registrar (Vigilance & Administration) of the High Court of Telangana to consider the representation submitted by him and take necessary action as per law for proceeding further with the proposal of appointment of Reddy as a judge of the Telangana High Court. The petitioner made several allegations against the high court Registrar General and stated that his recommendation should not be processed for his elevation as a judge. The petitioner advocate in his plea claimed that he was a legal advisor for the family of a MP belonging to the Telugu Desam Party and legal counsel for other politically connected persons and alleged that an FIR at the instance of the Registrar was filed on July 31, 2017 in pursuance to a direction issued by high court with a view to harass him. The bench said the high court registrar general, as a responsible officer, only followed the direction passed by the high court judge. The apex court said the high court opined that what the petitioner was attempting to do was to seek an investigation into the allegation that the evidence collected by the investigating officer in criminal complaints filed against him as fabricated and that was found to be nothing but a deflection towards derailing the course of investigation in the complaints lodged against the petitioner. The writ petition was found to be thoroughly misconceived and appears to be an abuse of process of law and a counterblast to the series of criminal complaints in which persons belonging to the 'so-called noble profession got involved'. We are surprised as the brazenness of the petitioner now filing the present petition under Article 32 of the Constitution of India, the aforesaid being the finding against him, to now somehow see that the elevation of respondent No. 4 does not take place on the account of these proceedings initiated by the petitioner. "This is gross abuse of process of law.The process of appointment of judges to the high court is under a well known established process where the collegium of the high court considers recommending the names and in case of judicial officers by seniority and on merits. Thereafter, the proposed IB inputs and other inputs are obtained and the Government processes names. "The collegium of the Supreme Court has the benefit of all the material before taking a call on whether to recommend the name or not. The appointment takes place thereafter by issuance of warrants of appointment. Thus sufficient safeguards exist in the system," the bench said. The top court said the endeavour of the petitioner is to harass respondent No. 4 (high court registrar General) and abuse the court proceedings. "We are of the view that appropriate imposition of costs seems to be the only solution.We thus dismiss the writ petition with costs of Rs 5 lakh to be deposited with the Supreme Court Advocates On Record Welfare Fund within four weeks.We also think it appropriate that the Bar Council of Telangana examines the conduct of the petitioner as a member of the 'Noble Profession' and for that purpose a copy of the order be sent to the Bar Council of Telangana," the bench said. Standing with his arms crossed at a construction site, 12-year-old Gavi looks straight ahead, as he recites, four four za sixteen, four five za twenty, and pauses. His mother Geetha, a migrant labourer in Bengaluru looks on, concerned. She confesses that this long gap in schooling has left her feeling helpless, I cant help him since I did not go to school. Gavi is one among 32 crore children in India who have not stepped into school since the pandemic struck. Even though the low budget private school that Gavi attends is conducting online classes, his father needs the only smartphone in the household for his job as a cab driver. His case is no exception. In fact, it is the norm. In Karnataka alone, out of the 93 lakh students who were surveyed by the Department of Public Instruction, 37.8 lakh students did not have access to digital education; 33 per cent of children did not even have access to digital devices like phones. As online education remains out of reach, for many children this has meant that their contact with education has been virtually severed for one and a half years, causing unprecedented levels of learning loss. Before the pandemic, Gavi was in the fourth grade. He could recite multiplication tables until 13, add, subtract and multiply and divide easily. Ive forgotten everything now, he said. He hopes that when he goes back to school, he will remember whatever he learnt. Read | As NEP implementation nears, colleges scramble In Karnataka, schools opened for Class 9 and 10 students on August 23. Classes 6 to 8 are scheduled to resume from September 6. This announcement brings trepidation for children, parents and teachers, raising questions about how children will fare academically after sporadic contact with education for a year and a half. Parents worry that the transition to regular schooling may not be smooth, as they describe the regression in learning they have witnessed over the past year and half. Jaya V, a homemaker, recalls how her daughter Gayathri, a Class 4 student at a private school in L R Nagar, could read English paragraphs fluently. Now, she struggles to read through sentences. A study by Azim Premji University that looks at the loss of learning in Indian school goers during the pandemic adds substance to this worry. Close to 92 per cent of students have lost one specific language ability and 82 per cent have lost one specific numerical ability such as identifying two or three digit numbers, problem solving capacities or performing basic arithmetic operations. This is particularly worrisome, since learning levels have always been low in low-cost private schools and government schools. The Annual Status of Education Report, 2018 stated that 50 per cent of Class 5 and 25 per cent of Class 8 students cannot read a Class 2 level text. The pandemic has made education inequity even starker. Since school started on August 23, Rekha T*, an English teacher at a government high school in Davangere has been with foundational knowledge with her Class 9 and Class 10 students. "Even students who could study well have lost the ability to read," she said. "For some students, I have had to start from teaching them letters. I don't know how I can teach them such basics and also teach them the regular syllabus. It is impossible," she said. In Herur, Koppala, a government primary high school teacher, Anil Kumar is more resigned about the situation: We must teach according to the requirement of the children, if they dont know key concepts, that is what we should emphasise, he said. Another government teacher at a primary school in North Bengaluru has tried everything from printing out their own worksheets, teaching on WhatsApp and even tracing students during ration distribution programmes but knows that her efforts have yielded limited outcomes. Our efforts have not even been 50 per cent effective. We can tell from the worksheets, she said. Often the worksheets or study material sent on WhatApp would need the aid of adults. Busy with earning a livelihood or not educated themselves, many parents are unable to help their children. Some teachers have also heard about the series of announcements by Chief Minister Basavarj Bommai about the implementation of the National Education Policy. It was a sudden announcement. I hope they dont plan to implement it now. We have too much to do, said Rekha. Read | Teachers are a countrys wealth Bridge courses The Karnataka Government had sent out a notification for all schools to conduct at least 15 days of bridge courses. Materials for the bridge courses are even available on the Department of State Education and Research Training. However, the effectiveness of these courses is up for debate. Sunil H*, a Math teacher at a government school has accessed the materials but the learning levels are so varied that it was difficult to use the material. It seems like a revision which is futile if they are not a little familiar with the concept, he said. Many teachers depend on material they come up with to get children on the same page. Dr Indira Vijaysimha, a retired professor at Azim Premji University explains that while some teachers may take initiative, the sheer amount of backlog and curriculum to cover can force teachers to drill subjects into students and not teach them in a way that helps them retain concepts. To understand learning levels within classrooms, she recommends localised assessments based on which the curriculum can be modified. Dr S N Gananath, an education expert, explained that in some subjects, several lessons can be skipped and it will not affect future learning. However, he cautions, Other subjects like Maths, skipped lessons or poorly understood lessons will affect future learning. Teachers should ideally work with a restricted curriculum that covers key concepts. They should be empowered to innovate their teaching methods with tools and activities so that retention increases, said Dr Gananath. One thing is for certain, there must be a concerted effort from all child care officials to coordinate.DSERT, Block Resource Centre, Cluster Resource Centre and District Institute of Education and Training and experts should work together to set up a realistic system, said Niranjan Aradhya, an education expert. There is also a need to build resilient systems that can withstand the onslaught of the third wave, if and when it comes. Due to disruptions in the midday meals, a scheme that covers 80 per cent of primary-school-aged children, another area that requires immediate attention and intervention is nutrition loss. A report by Oxfam in 2020 indicates that 35 per cent of government schoolgoing children did not receive midday meals or dry rations. Dr Indira, referring to the government programme Nali Kali, which engaged community volunteers to build alternatives to classroom teaching, explains how these volunteers under the support of teachers can provide alternatives to classroom teaching at the community level in the case of school closures. Due to disruptions in the midday meals, a scheme that covers 80 per cent of primary-school-aged children, another area that requires immediate attention and intervention is nutrition loss. A report by Oxfam in 2020 indicates that 35 per cent of government schoolgoing children did not receive midday meals or dry rations. Drop out rates Education experts are also concerned that the academic confidence of children has taken a severe hit after intermittent contact with education. Out of 20 children who talked to DH, 18 confided that going to school felt intimidating and feared that they would not be able to keep up with classmates or the pace of teaching. If these fears continue, teachers are apprehensive that children may drop out. According to a report by Childfund India in 2020, 64 per cent of children surveyed across India were worried they would have to drop out if they are not provided with additional academic support. With many schools still yet to reopen, it is difficult to know how many children are out of school presently but loss of academic confidence may just be one factor that will keep children from coming to school. Rekha said that during the pandemic, some of her students were involved by their parents in labour due to financial constraints and also because parents feared that their children would wander off and do mischief. Three girls in classes that Rekha teaches were also married off. There may be other cases that we have not heard of, she said. With children just returning to school, it is difficult to ascertain how many have dropped out and for what reason. However, the very possibility calls for developing a greater support system involving teachers, child protection officers and child welfare committee members. Read | Pandemic continues to affect teachers, students The way forward Parents, who are important stakeholders, should also be taken into confidence and told that students may display less interest because of sporadic learning. While the pandemic is a huge setback to the education of lakhs of children, there is also the possibility of overcoming it and ensuring children have the opportunity to exercise their right to education. If we dont take action we may see many, many children discontinuing their education, said Aradhya. Education, Geetha hoped, would be a ticket out of poverty for her son Gavi, her tool for his social mobility. Now, if schools dont open, I think hell be stuck like me, she said. The Delhi government will fund the education of government school teachers who get selected in the world's top 100 universities for pursuing courses, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said on Sunday. He was speaking at a function where 122 teachers and principals were honoured with the State Teacher Award. "In the last five years, we have sent our teachers and principals to Cambridge, Finland, Singapore and the US. The courses for which our teachers went there were such courses which these universities had prepared for us," Sisodia said. "All the best universities in the world are known for their own tailored courses. We believe that if our teachers apply for such courses, they can get selected on the basis of their abilities. That's why the Delhi government has decided today on Teachers' Day, that our teachers will be able to apply for prestigious courses in the field of education in the world's 100 top ranked universities," the deputy chief minister said. He said the Delhi government will bear the full cost of their programme and in the next few days, the Department of Education will issue necessary guidelines regarding this. Sisodia appreciated the efforts made by the teachers for improving the quality of education in schools. Noting that the education system has been badly affected due to the Covid pandemic, he said after the closure of schools, no one had any idea how to proceed with the teaching-learning process. "But the teachers and principals of our schools showed incredible grit and determination in responding to this situation in the face of difficulties. Our teachers delivered the message of 'Learning Never Stops', ensuring how to reach out to their students through new mediums and innovations, and continue their studies. Their efforts are really commendable," he added. Sisodia said teachers have been the biggest contributor to nation building. "Our teachers influence millions of lives everyday with their work. These teachers prepare our children who are the foundation of our nation. Today, the revolutionary changes that have come in the education system of Delhi are a result of the collective efforts of Team Education of Delhi," he said. Every year on the occasion of Teachers Day, the Delhi government honours the teachers with the State Teacher Award and expresses gratitude through a grand celebration. This time, many changes have been made in the award. Earlier, this award was given only in the academic field but this time many people belonging to other fields were felicitated. This year, the number of awards has been increased from 103 to 122 as compared to last year. Sisodia also released the first edition of the Education Department's e-magazine 'Nai Udaan'. This year, the Delhi government has introduced the 'Face of DOE (Directorate of Education) award and it was given to Raj Kumar, a music teacher who entered the Guinness Book of World Records, and Suman Arora, who had helped government school students crack IIT. India is mulling to offer humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, even as it is yet to take a call on recognising the war-torn countrys new government, which is likely to be led by the Taliban. New Delhi is likely to send a representative to a meeting the United Nations will hold on September 13 to discuss and coordinate the international communitys response to the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. With no government in place in Kabul, New Delhi is yet to take a call on recognising the new dispensation, which is likely to be formed by the Taliban. But Prime Minister Narendra Modis government is still considering sending humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, possibly channelising it through one of the United Nations agencies. A source in New Delhi said that India was keen to stand by the distressed people of Afghanistan, irrespective of the course of its engagement with any government that might come to power in the conflict-ravaged country. New Delhi evacuated its envoy and diplomats from Kabul on August 17, less than 48 hours after the Taliban militants entered the capital city culminating its swift military blitz across Afghanistan and President Ashraf Ghani escaped from the country marking the collapse of his Government. But it did not formally shut down the Embassy of India in Kabul, as it would have meant severance of its diplomatic relations with Afghanistan. Also Read | India has no option but to wait and watch, avoid knee-jerk reaction: Ex-diplomats on Afghanistan Ever since the Taliban stepped up military campaign a few months back to take advantage of the withdrawal of troops by the United States and its NATO allies, a large number of people left villages in pursuit of safety. The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) estimated that over half a million people had been internally displaced in Afghanistan in 2021 alone and the number of people forced to flee was still rising and nearly 80 per cent of displaced people were children and women. Over 3 million people had already been internally displaced in Afghanistan by December 2020 according to the UN agency. The World Food Programme estimated that nearly 12 to 14 million Afghans, including two million already malnourished children, were experiencing food insecurity. India already made it clear that its historical relationship with people of Afghanistan would guide its approach on the future course of engagement between the two nations. The source in New Delhi pointed out that India had spent $3 billion for development projects in Afghanistan over the past two decades and it would like to continue doing its bit for the people of the country. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Sunday said he had an interaction with his Italian counterpart Roberto Speranza on giving priority in travel to vaccinated Indian students enrolled in educational institutions in Italy and on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the field of health and medicine. Mandaviya is in Rome, Italy, for the G20 health ministers' meeting. In a series of tweets, he said, "Had an interaction with Mr Roberto Speranza, Health Minister, Italy to enhance the bilateral cooperation between the two nations in the field of health and medicine." Discussed giving priority in travel to Indian vaccinated students enrolled in Italian educational institutions. Also, invited Italian pharmaceutical companies to invest and expand their business in India. (2/2)#Unite2FightCorona#G20Italy Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) September 5, 2021 "Discussed giving priority in travel to Indian vaccinated students enrolled in Italian educational institutions. Also, invited Italian pharmaceutical companies to invest and expand their business in India," he added. In another tweet, the minister said he invited UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid to visit India and discussed with him a roadmap for a new health dialogue between the two countries. "UK appreciated India's management of COVID & congratulated on administering first #COVID19 vaccine dose to more than half the population," he stated. I invited the UK Health Minister for a visit to India and discussed a roadmap for a new health dialogue between the two countries. UK appreciated India's management of COVID & congratulated on administering first #COVID19 vaccine dose to more than half the population. (2/2) pic.twitter.com/p9XiSs8Ga4 Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) September 5, 2021 "Our discussions included ways to promote digital health & enhancing access to new models of telemedicine," Mandaviya said of his meeting with Javid, adding that he highlighted various areas of cooperation in the field of healthcare. Mandaviya also met his Brazilian counterpart. Had an excellent discussion with Mr Marcelo Queiroga, Minister of Health for Brazil, for better cooperation in healthcare. We spoke about One Health & the introduction of Nano-Urea for better results. Also, offered India's full support to aid Brazil's fight against TB. pic.twitter.com/UnG0ezZYxU Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) September 5, 2021 "Had an excellent discussion with Mr Marcelo Queiroga, Minister of Health for Brazil, for better cooperation in healthcare. We spoke about One Health & the introduction of Nano-Urea for better results. Also, offered India's full support to aid Brazil's fight against TB," he tweeted. Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi arrived in New York as she begins her official visit to Colombia and New York during which she will participate in a UN Security Council meeting on peacekeeping and interact with members of the Indian diaspora. Lekhi will first travel to Colombia from September 4-6 where she will call on the countrys top leadership and hold bilateral discussions with Vice President and Foreign Minister Marta Lucia Ramirez and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. During her visit to New York from September 7-9, Lekhi will participate in the Security Council Ministerial Open Debate on 'Transitions' under the agenda item 'United Nations Peacekeeping Operations' that will be convened on September 8 under the Council's Irish Presidency. During the visit to NY, I will participate in the UNSC Open Debate on 'Transitions' under the agenda item 'United Nations Peacekeeping Operations'. I will also interact with members of the Indian community, Lekhi tweeted on Friday as she arrived here to begin her first overseas visit as Minister of State to Colombia and New York. During the visit to NY,I will participate in the UNSC Open Debate on 'Transitions' under the agenda item 'United Nations Peackeeping Operations'. I will also interact with members of Indian community. See press release for more information: https://t.co/3S6LJBBenU @IndiaUNNewYork Meenakashi Lekhi (@M_Lekhi) September 3, 2021 She is expected to meet with senior UN leadership and interact with the Indian community in New York, in celebration of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of India's independence. After her arrival on Friday, Lekhi addressed a few members of the Indian community at the Jan Aashirwad Abhar event organised by Jaipur Foot USA and Gracious Givers Foundation in the city. In her remarks, Lekhi spoke about the devastation caused around the world by the Covid-19 pandemic, which she said ravaged even the strongest nations in the world. Emphasising that Indians have a "very strong character, she said India and its citizens bravely faced the challenges and emerged from them. Lauding the contributions of the Indian-American community, she said the diaspora acts as goodwill ambassadors for the country and have contributed significantly towards finding solutions to combat societys problems. Speaking at the event Jaipur Foot USA Chairman Prem Bhandari voiced gratitude for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola for their support in helping alleviate the difficulties faced by the Indian diaspora due to the lockdowns and travel restrictions put into place during the pandemic. He also spoke about the partnership between the MEA and Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti-BMVSS, the parent organisation of Jaipur Foot USA, for the India for Humanity initiative under which prosthetics fitment camps have been conducted to help differently-abled people around the world. Under this initiative, 13 artificial limb fitment camps have been held by India in 12 countries and more than 6500 artificial limbs have been fitted, mainly in Asia and Africa. These camps were fully sponsored by the Ministry of External Affairs and materialised by Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti. Bhandari said that on August 5 last year, the agreement between MEA and BMVSS was further extended and one camp has already been conducted in Uganda despite the COVID-19 pandemic. He said that Jaipur Foot USA is working under the guidance and mentorship of the Founder and Chief Patron of BMVSS Padma Bhushan Dr DR Mehta to expand outreach of the prosthetic limb within India and abroad. A press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said that during her visit to Colombia, Lekhi will also be interacting with leading Indian and Colombian companies and the Indian Community residing in the country. In 2019, India and Colombia celebrated 60 years of their diplomatic relations, the MEA statement said, adding that Colombia is an important partner of India in Latin America and "our relations with Colombia have been expanding particularly, in the economic and commercial sphere. Bilateral trade with Colombia for the year 2020-21 stood at $2.27 billion, which is a significant increase from $1.85 billion over 2019-20 despite disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Lekhis visit to Colombia would provide an opportunity to review progress in our bilateral relations and further expand and strengthen this important partnership, the MEA statement said. Eight years after the communal riots scarred the region, farmers turned up in full strength in this sugarcane belt of western Uttar Pradesh vowing to oust the BJP governments from the state as well as the Centre. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), spearheading the farmers agitation against the three farm laws at the doorsteps of Delhi, on Saturday launched Mission Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand at the massive Kisan Mahapanchayat at Muzaffarnagar with protests in every district of the two states. The SKM also gave a call for a nationwide strike on September 27 to protest against the three farm laws that the farmers claim would benefit only big businesses. Read more: 'Kisan Mahapanchayat' in Muzaffarnagar an 'election meeting': BJP Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait, who has emerged as the face of the nine-month farmers agitation, accused the BJP of creating a divide between the Jat and Muslim communities in western Uttar Pradesh after the communal riots of 2013 and claimed that eight-year-old wounds have now healed. The slogans of Har Har Mahadev and Allahu Akbar were raised together earlier and will continue to be raised together in the future, Tikait, the younger son of prominent farmers leader Mahendra Singh Tikait said addressing the massive rally. Tikait accused the Modi government of putting India on sale by rolling out plans to privatise roads, airports and seaports a move that could affect livelihoods across the country. India is on sale, and that is a reality, he said. The five-hour rally saw farmer leaders from across the country address the gathering, with every leader urging them to punish the Modi and Yogi governments for ignoring the farmers demands. The huge turnout here is a signal that you are set to repeat the West Bengal formula in Uttar Pradesh, Balbir Singh Rajewal, a leader of the BKU faction from Punjab said. Activist Medha Patkar said farmers should declare that they will not vote for Modi and Yogi for ignoring the demand for rollback of the three farm laws. Votebandi (say no to votes) is the only answer for notebandi (noteban) imposed by Modi on the nation, Patkar said. Making an emotional pitch, Tikait said he had taken a vow to return home from the protest site at Ghazipur border in the national capital only after the success of the agitation. I have come here directly from the Ghazipur border. I will return there after the mahapanchayat. I will not step inside my house in the city till the success of the agitation, Tikait said. A 12-year-old boy has been admitted to a hospital in Kerala's Kozhikode with symptoms similar to those of Nipah virus infection, health department sources said Saturday. The state government held a high-level meeting of health officials late Saturday night following the information about the suspected Nipah infection, a health department source told PTI. Although the state government has not yet officially announced the presence of Nipah virus, sources said the health minister might rush to Kozhikode Sunday morning to take stock of the situation. Further details are awaited. The first Nipah virus disease (NiV) outbreak in South India was reported in the Kozhikode district of Kerala on May 19, 2018. The state had witnessed 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases till June 1, 2018. Despite the Kerala High Court's recent observation that the criminal background of a person should not be a disqualification for donating organs as their organs could not be considered "criminal kidney or liver", the issue remains a taboo. Blood banks are not entertaining prisoners to donate blood as they are considered a high-risk group with chances of infections like sexually transmitted diseases and drug abuse. Earlier, prisoners in Kerala used to donate blood, and there were provisions for remission of up to 15 days in their sentence for each blood donation. But now, no blood bank authorities are entertaining blood from prisoners. Bringing blood under the definitions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act following instances of the spread of infections like HIV through blood transfusion is learnt to have led to restriction of taking blood from prisoners. Deputy Inspector General of Prions S Santosh told DH that no request for blood donors came to the prisons for more than ten years. Now that the High Court had observed that the criminal background of a person should not be a disqualification for donating organs, the restrictions on collecting blood from prisoners may hopefully see some change. Dr N Vijayakumar, medical officer of the Regional Blood Transfusion Centre at Aluva in Ernakulam, said that the restriction on taking blood from prisoners came after blood was brought under the purview of Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules following public interest litigation in the Supreme Court in 1994. The PIL followed the spread of infections through blood transfusion. Moreover, the coercion factor could be involved in taking blood from prisoners, he said. The rule states that "no person shall donate blood and no blood bank shall draw blood from a person more than once in three months. The donor shall be in good health, mentally alert and physically fit and shall not be inmates of jail person having multiple sex partners and drug-addicts." A doctor in charge of the blood bank at Thiruvananthapuram medical college said that even as prisoners were considered as high-risk group, earlier there used to be a practice of accepting blood from prisoners. But over the last many years, prisoners' blood was not being taken. Moreover, there is an an adequate number of voluntary blood donors now, said the doctor. Even as all sorts of tests are conducted before using the blood donated by a person, the chances of certain infections remaining undetected during the window period were there. Though voluntary blood donors are subjected to pre-donation counselling, those with criminal backgrounds need not disclose chances of infections like STDs, said a blood bank official. Deepavali is just two months away, but the usual enthusiasm witnessed among fireworks manufacturers and labourers in the months leading to the festival are absent this time. With a huge pile of last years stock still lying with dealers, a majority of the manufacturers have scaled-down production by around 50 per cent this year translating into reduced working days for lakhs of labourers who are dependent on the multi-crore industry, which could well be staring at an existential crisis. The stakeholders manufacturers, labourers, dealers, and allied industries have just one prayer on their lips. Covid-19 cases should not spike in October leading to a lockdown and state governments should not impose a ban on the bursting of crackers during Deepavali, falling on November 4. Lockdown and the losses Two lockdowns induced by Covid-19 in successive years and loss of sales during the marriage season and festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi due to a ban on celebrations are also cited as reasons for the industrys current plight. The manufacturers have been navigating from one crisis to another in the past few years notably, the transition to Green Crackers during which they suffered huge losses and Covid-19 might be the last straw. The prerequisite for this industry to survive beyond 2021 is to allow sales and bursting of crackers this Deepavali season. A ban on the bursting of crackers this year would mean stocks worth thousands of crores of rupees lying either with manufacturers or dealers. In such a scenario, we cannot begin production for the 2022 festive season, P Ganesan, President of Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers' Association, told DH. If the production does not start immediately after Deepavali, companies wont up their shutters leaving over seven lakh labourers, both direct and indirect, in the lurch. Already labourers get just three or four days' work a week instead of six days during pre-Covid years. Since other industries in Sivakasi also depend on the fireworks cluster, labourers dont even have the option of shifting jobs on days they do not get jobs at the cracker factories. Woes of fireworks labourers 58-year-old Sundari recounted her tale even as her hands moved fast in packing 'bijli' crackers at a factory in Meenampatti near Sivakasi. I consider myself lucky if I get four days work a week. Covid has turned our lives upside down as factories do not give us work for six days a week. With just three days wages, it is very difficult to meet ends, Sundari told DH. The last year was a tad better because we got six days work a week. This year, though the lockdown was lifted early, we dont get work regularly. You can just imagine what my plight would be, she said. Mixing chemicals in a nearby factory, 46-year-old Nagarajan said she shifted to fireworks a decade ago after working in the printing industry for 15 years. Life has always been difficult for labourers in Sivakasi. But it has turned worse after the Covid-19 pandemic. We dont even get our salaries on time as manufacturers say they dont have enough orders to pay us. Since the economy in the town is entirely dependent on the industry, we do not have many options, Nagarajan told DH. Scaling-down production While big companies are taking a risk by manufacturing firecrackers to the scale they produced during pre-Covid years, the small and medium scale industries are utilising just 50 per cent of their total capacity. The refrain of several manufacturers is that dealers, especially those in north India, are sceptical of taking the orders from Sivakasi as they are not sure of what could be in store as Deepavali approaches. Even dealers who gave advance money are asking us not to dispatch the firecrackers. No one is sure of whether state governments will allow the bursting of crackers as many states imposed a ban at the eleventh hour last year. We scaled down production by 50 per cent this year. The tragedy is I dont know whether I can even sell those, a manufacturer told DH. P Asaithambi, Director of Lord Fireworks, referred to an order by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that firecrackers cannot be burst in cities that have poor Air Quality Index (AQI) levels and questioned the purpose of manufacturing green crackers if blanket bans had to be imposed. My companys main market is Uttar Pradesh and if there is a blanket ban on bursting crackers or a decision is taken on the basis of AQI level, I will incur losses in crores. Because the AQI level in almost all major UP cities falls under the poor category. Green crackers were introduced to reduce pollution but it is unfortunate they are also not allowed in such places, Asaithambi said. 'Hope 2021 is different from 2020' Ganesan added it was unfortunate that firecrackers are blamed for pollution though they are burst only on the day of Deepavali. There is no study or research to connect bursting of crackers with pollution. Actually, there is no relation between the bursting of firecrackers and Covid-19 infections. But many state governments banned firecrackers last year. We just hope 2021 is different from 2020, he said. Asaithambi, also the president of Sivakasi Fireworks Manufacturers Association, said his firm has reduced production by at least 50 per cent this year due to fear of a last-minute ban. At our factory, we work only for four days a week while many small players have reduced the working days to three. There is no point in producing firecrackers in abundance and stocking them in godowns. The uncertainty surrounding the sales is what worries the manufacturers and dealers, Asaithambi said. N Kartheeswaran of Sri Velavan Fireworks too echoed the same sentiments maintaining that he may have to shut down his unit if he does not manage to push the stock off his factory before Deepavali. We have not been able to offset the losses that we incurred last year. Many dealers have not paid for the stocks that they took from us last year as they were not able to sell them. If we continue to invest, where do we go and borrow? he asked. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday said that serving in rural areas should be made mandatory before granting the first promotion to doctors in the government sector. Speaking at the 11th annual Medical Teachers' Day Awards function here, the Vice President said three to five years service in rural areas for young doctors was essential while pointing out that 60 per cent of the country's population lives in the villages, an official release said. "It (serving in rural area) must be made mandatory. I know that it will not be liked by many. But, I feel that is the need," Naidu said. The Vice President stressed the need to increase the number of medical colleges while referring to the government's efforts to bridge the gap in doctor-patient ratio in the country. He said the doctor-patient ratio was 1:1,456 as against the WHO norm of 1:1,000. Expressing his appreciation at the government's plan to establish at least one medical college in each district, he also pointed out that the urban-rural ratio of doctors was also highly skewed with more medical professionals opting to work in urban areas. Read | VP Naidu urges people to influence conduct of lawmakers Describing the medical profession as a noble mission, he advised doctors not to give any remission or commit omission, but to serve the nation with passion. Asking the doctors to remember the core value of compassion for humanity in all their actions, he said "let that be your moral compass when in dilemma and always adhere to the highest level of ethics. If you can serve with a spirit of selfless dedication, you derive boundless and real happiness." Calling for creating state-of-the-art health infrastructure across the country, particularly in rural areas, the Vice President said the Covid-19 pandemic has accentuated the need for better health infrastructure and advised the state governments to bestow special attention on this aspect. Naidu further emphasised that both medical education and treatment should be affordable and within the reach of the common man. He said that top priority should be accorded to education and health sectors with a greater allocation of budget. Referring to the fast-changing technological world, the Vice President urged medical colleges to ensure that those passing out of their portals stay abreast of the latest diagnostic and treatment systems. "This has become all the more imperative in the wake of the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 as everything about the novel coronavirus is new learning to allfrom scientists to doctors," he said. Naidu also expressed his appreciation to the Association of National Board Accredited Institutions (ANBAI), an apex organisation of many leading hospitals and medical institutions in India for partnering with the Government in providing post-graduate medical education, the release said. The Vice President also paid his homage to the former President and statesman-philosopher, the late Shri Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary on Sunday. He also paid his respects to all his teachers, who mould and shaped his career. Earlier, he presented the Life-Time Achievement Award to well-known cardiologist and President of Public Health Foundation of India, Dr K Srinath Reddy and others including Dr Devi Shetty, the release added. Two Dalit girls in their early teens were brutally gang-raped and allegedly murdered in Vijayapura district in May. A grief-stricken Gangamma*, the mother of one of the girls, has vowed not to send her other girl child alone anywhere. Gangamma also fears this could be the end of freedom for many young girls in the neighbourhood, and some families might just pull them out of school. Why does the heinous act not haunt the perpetrators and their families, or affect other men? Gangamma asks in agony, as her son informs her that the families of the accused are trying to get them out on bail. This unlettered woman doesnt know about former Israeli prime minister Golda Meir or her reply to her Cabinet, which suggested a curfew on women as a possible solution to curb sexual assaults in Israel in the 1970s: But it is the men who are attacking the women. If there is to be a curfew, let the men stay at home. The administration of Mysore University clearly lacked the wisdom of Golda Meir or the concern of Gangamma, when it responded to the gang-rape of a girl in Mysuru by issuing a circular restricting the movement of female students on the campus after 6.30 pm. The notification was later withdrawn after a public backlash. "Do we really stand up against rape by discriminating between the privileges of a male and a female?" asks Shreyansh, a post-graduate student in Belagavi who does not agree with this move. "Empower and equip us to ensure that every gender feels safe, and realise Gandhi's ideal of true freedom," he says. Like in any patriarchal society, almost all agencies in the country think that sexual violence is a womens issue and curbing womens autonomy in the name of protection remains the standard reaction to any act of crime. Each time such an incident happens, the issue of morality comes into play. The debate gets reduced to the time of the incident, dress, and place. The response is to control, shame or blame the survivor. But are we doing anything to stop the perpetrator or do a course correction by asking why men rape? Studies show that rapes happen when a man thinks of a woman as a commodity. It is about power and control. Leaders who do not understand this but still make insensitive statements with impunity, set bad examples and influence people's psyche for the worse. When Karnataka Home Minister Araga Jnanendra, Karnataka State Womens Commission former chairperson Manjula Manasa and some other leaders blamed the Mysuru rape survivor for being out on that desolate stretch late in the evening, they probably were not aware that a 13-year-old child was raped and murdered in the afternoon on July 23 in Chitradurga district. Two years after the country was declared open-defecation free, this child lost her life when she had gone to defecate in the open. "We have strong laws, but both society and the enforcing agencies are rooted in a feudal, patriarchal mindset. This mindset necessitates a public protest after every other reported rape to book the culprit; this makes the law and a court accept marital rape," says advocate Maitreyi Krishnan. Sustained struggles over the past four decades from the Mathura case in the 1980s to the Vishakha incident in the 1990s and the Nirbhaya case in the 2010s have led to the strengthening of laws against sexual violence. These struggles have resulted in increased reporting of violence and public awareness as well to an extent that some men who used to prevent women from participating in protests against sexual violence now empathise with the cause. Root cause And there we stop, says anthropologist Arun Joladakudligi. We see our daughters as possible victims, but never think of our sons as possible perpetrators. This leaves a huge gap in addressing gender-based violence. Studies indicate that gender inequality and a lack of gender sensitivity are at the root of rape. Have the governments, educational institutions and other agencies ever prioritised breaking gender stereotypes? What is the role of these agencies in producing abusive individuals? Democratic debates and discussions on these issues have no space in universities that have been dominated by ideological and identity battles, in addition to moral policing. Recently, Delhi University dropped three works of feminist literature from its BA English (Honors) course, a move widely seen as one ignoring the harsh realities of womens life, particularly sexual violence, over the 'discomfort' caused by studying narratives challenging patriarchy. In 2015, the University Grants Commission started the annual programme: Gender Champions in Institutions. In 2020, only 56 of over 1,000 universities in the country have implemented it. Just three of those universities are from Karnataka, and none of them are state universities. The number of colleges in the country that have gender champions is slightly over 100. Karnataka's Education Department also organised a gender sensitisation programme for teachers in 2012-13. And it didnt continue for reasons that are not known. Gender sensitisation People's Movement Against Sexual Assault, a platform of various womens organisations and concerned individuals, is one of the few organisations that engage children in gender sensitisation. Mallige, a member of the movement, recalls how some schools had sent boys home as they felt only girls need sensitisation. "When we say gender, people hear women by default," she says, "Of course, women need to be strengthened but it is actually men who need to be sensitised." Prof Sabiha is among the rare breed of educators in the state who stress on gender sensitisation programmes. She organised workshops on the topic until her retirement last month: First as a professor at the Mangalore University and later as the vice-chancellor of the Karnataka State Women's University. "This workshop helps students understand the challenges and perspectives of the other gender. From primary level, the schools have segregated them as two separate entities. From seating to extracurricular activities, gender plays a role in what they do and how they think. The sessions here are designed in such a way that they open up and start seeing through the eyes of the other gender," she says. There is also a module on self-defence in this programme. Mustafa K H, a researcher at Mangalore University, wishes students across the state, from primary school to post-graduation, participate in such programmes, called 'Ghanateya Baduku' or 'A life of dignity'. From sexualities to breaking gender stereotypes we discuss many aspects of our life and get the right orientation, he says. Is the situation any better in the workplace? No, says Dr Shaibya Saldanha, who works with survivors of sexual abuse and is a member of several POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) committees. The notions about sexuality are so formally entrenched that the perpetrator is forgiven easily, while the woman who complains ends up losing the job, she says. Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 mandates awareness workshops for each member of the organisation. "This is hardly followed. HR departments in many companies avoid putting the names and contact details of the internal committee members on all the notice boards in various languages spoken by the staff, as they feel it will cause 'unnecessary complaints'," Shaibya says. At the global level, there are initiatives such as HeForShe, which is a United Nations Global Solidarity Movement For Gender Equality. Still, as a society, we are grappling with the objectification of women, glorification of dress code, superficial efforts of empowerment and the justification of male hegemony. The recent incident has only shown the need to turn the discourse on sexual violence from "Don't get raped" to "Don't rape". (*Name has been changed to protect identity) Faced with the challenge of clearing more than 40 lakh tonnes of legacy ash in its thermal plants within the 10-year deadline set by the Union environment ministry, the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) is drawing up plans to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. Of the two types of ash generated during the burning of coal in the power plants, fly ash, which is made of fine particles, is purchased at around Rs 400 per tonne by cement and brick industries. However, officials have struggled to dispose of pond ash which contains coarse materials and has very low demand. The pollution caused by coal ash, which contains heavy metals, has drawn the attention of the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The tribunal had imposed penalty of up to Rs 5 crore on some private plants failing to dispose of the ash. In 2018, the tribunal had told the state governments and the Centre to ensure that the ash generated everyday is scientifically disposed. Ever since, the three state-owned thermal plants in Karnataka have been making efforts to clear the ash generated on a daily basis. The Ministry of Environment Forests and Climate Change issued a draft notification in April directing unutilised accumulated ash shall be utilised progressively within 10 years. after the states expressed concern over meeting the deadline of five years set in the previous draft. For KPCL officials, the challenge lies in disposing about 41 lakh metric tonne of pond ash that has accumulated over the years. Besides the coarse particles, pond ash is wet and requires a drying process and therefore not preferred by many industries. At the present rate of disposal, it will require over 32 years to clear the accumulated mounds. We are now calling expression of interest from companies for grinding and drying the pond ash, following which we anticipate more demand and hope to sell about 2.1 lakh tonne per month, a senior official in KPCL told DH. He said an upcoming cement plant near the Raichur Thermal Power Station is expected to buy an additional one lakh tonne. We are exploring additional sectors including road construction, to meet the deadline set by the Centre, the official said. The countdown will begin after the final notification from the Union ministry, which is expected to come in the next few months. For us, the clock has already begun ticking. We hope to award the tender to grind and dry the pond ash before the final notification, he added. While the pond ash is sold at Rs 40 per tonne, officials expect the grinding to boost the price thereby avoiding the need for the government to make large investment. The higher price will compensate the company which sets up the grinding plant, a source said. Dakshina Kannada, which is witnessing an upward trend in daily cases following a spike in infections in Kerala, has recorded 130 fatalities in August, making it the district with highest number of deaths in the state for the said month. Bengaluru Urban registered 101 Covid deaths in August. One in every five Covid deaths in Karnataka has occurred in Dakshina Kannada in August. The district, in its defence, said 29 of those deaths were of patients from other districts, which if taken into account, the coastal district would still tie with the state capital on the districts with most number of deaths for the month. According to the officials, 59 per cent of the active cases are in Mangaluru city. Also, 66 per cent of the total active cases are in home isolation. The district administration is mulling over filing FIRs against primary contacts who breach quarantine. Dr Ashok H, Covid nodal officer for Dakshina Kannada district, told DH that the positivity rate over the past seven days in the district has dropped to 2.04 per cent and case fatality rate to 1.43 per cent. Also read: 42,766 single-day coronavirus cases, nearly 30K from Kerala alone "Out of 2,248 active cases, 1,486 (66.1 per cent), are in home isolation, 544 (24.2 per cent) in hospitals and 218 (9.7 per cent) in Covid Care Centres. The reason for higher hospitalisation rate compared to other districts is that we are admitting nursing and paramedical students, who are testing positive, who don't have severe symptoms, to hospitals so that they compulsorily remain isolated," he said. "We have 32 paramedical and eight medical colleges. We got clusters from there when we screened 7,000-odd students. Sullia also had 8 per cent positivity rate previously for one month but now has only 145 active cases," he added. Now the focus is on Beltangady taluk which has the next highest active cases with 296. "Deaths are high because medical colleges like Yenepoya are getting referrals from other districts under Ayushman Bharat-Arogya Karnataka. Earlier we would send them back to their districts but now with the centralised bed management system, deaths of patients from other districts occurring in Mangaluru are being recorded as Dakshina Kannada district's deaths," Dr Ashok said. Taluk committees Apart from district-level technical expert committee, similar ones have been constituted at the taluk-level apart from facility-based ones. "Deaths occurring after one month of recovery from Covid, due to complications, are also being considered Covid deaths, reveal verbal autopsies and case sheets. Majority of them are occurring in medical colleges. Despite 30 different entry points being strictly monitored by the police at the Kerala border, we have people slipping in by foot," he said. The Industries department will reintroduce 'Industrial Adalats' (industrial courts) from September 27 to help solve industry related problems on the spot, Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries, Murugesh Nirani said on Sunday. The Minister said he also planned to hold symposia and workshops in major cities across the state to encourage entrepreneurship among youths. The decision to reintroduce Industrial Adalats was taken after his recent meeting with senior officials of his department, the minister said in a statement. Nirani said the Industrial Adalats will provide platforms for stakeholders from the industrial sector to get their long pending grievances resolved. According to him, the Industrial Adalat was introduced during his previous stint as Industries minister between 2008 and 2013. Many investors and industrialists have immensely benefited from Industrial Adalats and issues such as land disputes, taxes, fees, infrastructure facilities and other related issues were resolved amicably, he said. Regarding symposia and workshops, Nirani said it will be held a day after the scheduled Industrial Adalats in cities such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Belagavi and Kalaburagi. "We want to encourage the spirit of entrepreneurship among our youths by imparting necessary skills through these workshops and make them entrepreneurs. We want them to emerge as job-providers instead of job-seekers," Nirani said. Limiting Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations to five days and prohibiting cultural programmes and processions taken out, the Karnataka government issued guidelines for the celebration of the festival on Sunday. Speaking to reporters, Revenue Minister R Ashoka said that the government will allow only one Ganesha pandal per ward in urban areas. "We have granted conditional permission for the celebrations," he said. In rural areas, pandals can be set up with permission from local authorities. All organisers should have a vaccination certificate and Covid negative report, according to the guidelines. They were issued following a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, with ministers and experts over the measures required to curb the spread of the pandemic during the festival. At all public Ganesha pandals, the premises should be sufficient to accommodate only 20 people. Organisers should make sure that the number of devotees does not exceed 20 at any moment during the five day period, the circular said. According to Ashoka, a pandal can come up in an area of 50x50 feet. The government has also barred all cultural events and DJ programmes organised on account of the festival. It has restricted the height of Ganesh idols to four feet at public programmes and two feet at residences. "Processions are not allowed either when installing the Ganesha idol or while during visarjan. Processions are completely banned," the guidelines issued by Tushar Girinath, Principal Secretary, Revenue Department (Disaster Management) said. Only a 'small number of people' will be allowed to take the idol for visarjan. All public places and temples where Ganesha idols are installed will have to be sanitised on a daily basis. Arrangements should be made to provide sanitisers and thermal screening for devotees. All events at Ganesh pandals should end at 9 pm, in accordance with the night curfew regulations. Arrangements for Ganesh visarjan will be made by local authorities at dedicated spots in both urban and rural areas. Mobile tanks will also be pressed into service. Any violation of the guidelines will attract penal provisions under the Disaster Management Act 2005 and section 188 of the Indian Penal Code, the circular added. The guidelines came amidst pressure from BJP leaders and various groups to allow full-fledged celebrations during the festival. Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Sunday said that thrust would be given to post-harvest management under the Comprehensive Agriculture Policy (CAP). The chief minister, who launched the ambitious CM Raitha Nidhi Scholarship programme, said efforts will be made to get better prices for the crops grown by the farmer through scientific storage of agricultural produce, transportation, marketing facilities and other amenities. Bommai said agriculture universities must successfully grow the plant variety, which are researched in the agriculture fields. Universities must come out of their premises to the fields, he opined. Appreciating Prime Minister Narendra Modi's determination to double the income of farmers, he said that though it is a challenge the Prime Minister has accepted the challenge and has charted out a plan. He also said that the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Scheme was implemented to provide security to farmers' lives. The State government too added Rs 4,000 additional assistance when B S Yediyurappa took charge as CM, he said. Dharmendra to begin shooting with Ranveer soon for KJo's next; Akshay to resume shoot for Ram Setu on returning to India Akshay Kumar is never not busy and while he shoots for an upcoming film in London right now, reports are already abuzz about him resuming shoot for Ram Setu once he returns to India. The actor resumed work after the pandemic in August last year with Bell Bottom which has already been released and has completed multiple projects since. According to an ETimes report, Akshay will resume shoot for Ram Setu in October. It was while working on this film in Ayodhya earlier in the film that the star had tested positive for Covid-19 and the sets had to be demolished as several other crew members tested positive too. The film will now resume with Akshay, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Nushrratt Bharuccha and is likely to be shot in Gujarat instead of Sri Lanka and Kerala as planned earlier by the makers. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) Another big film in the works right now is Karan Johars Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. Returning to the directors seat after five years, Karan has already begun shooting for this romantic comedy with Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh in Mumbais Mehboob Studio. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ranveer Singh (@ranveersingh) According to another report of the publication, Ranveer will now move on to shoot with veteran star Dharmendra in a day or two on a set of the film constructed in Mumbais Powai area. Apart from Dharmendra Jaya Bachchan might also join the shoot there while the cast is likely to move on to shoot in Delhi once the Mumbai schedule is over. Local Petition problems: Daily Journal analysis calls into question Lee County certification standard Adam Armour / ADAM ARMOUR I DAILY JOURNAL A petition submitted to the Lee County Circuit Clerk's Office shows the signatures of county residents in favor of forcing county leaders to hold a special election to determine whether to raise property taxes to fund various projects, including the construction of a new jail. This single page from the petition reveals a mix of signatures both accepted and rejected by the Circuit Clerk's office, identified with an "OK" on the left margin for an accepted signature, or "NR" for "Not Registered" or rejected. TUPELO Lee County supervisors face a looming choice to either clear the way for voters to decide whether to raise property taxes to fund a new jail and other county infrastructure projects or press forward with a likely tax hike on their own. As of last week, organizers of a petition effort that would force the county to hold a special election to determine whether it will take on as much as $85 million in bond debt for special projects, including a new county jail, still dont have a petition recognized by local election authorities as having the required 1,500 names of registered voters necessary to trigger the special election. But a Daily Journal analysis of the petition and rejected names calls into question the standard used by the circuit clerk in the certification process. And even as Circuit Clerk Camille Dulaney Roberts isnt budging in the face of criticism over how her office reviewed the petition names, she ultimately doesnt determine the sufficiency of the petition or the names it contains. I think the final say-so is with the Board of Supervisors, said Gary Carnathan, attorney for the board. They are the final decision makers. Thats what the law says. Dulaneys office previously certified 1,359 names of 2,134, and disqualified 775. State law allowed a 10-day window for those disqualified petition signers to present an affidavit asserting that they are, in fact, qualified and should be counted. With that process concluded, Dulaney told the Daily Journal the petition will still be about 20 names short, though she has yet to formally turn over new certification numbers. When she does so, the validity of a decisive number of names are likely to still remain in dispute. What did the Daily Journal analysis find? Of the more than 750 names that were disqualified from the petition, the Daily Journal selected about 275 for independent analysis and review, mostly selecting disqualified names that likely belong to registered voters, as well as some additional names sampled at random. The printed name, signature and address associated on the petition with each of the names selected for Daily Journal review were compared to a list of Lee County voters received through a public records request, a list which was accurate as of Aug. 17. Daily Journal analysis found the following: Of the selected names, 77 petition names and addresses can be matched or nearly matched to voter registration records. Most of these were likely disqualified based on difficulty reading the handwriting of the printed name, signature or both. An additional 82 petition signers were likely disqualified based on variation between the name on the petition and the registered name. This category includes shortened versions of the first name such as Josh for Joshua or Bob for Robert as well as people who signed using their middle name rather than the first name. This category also includes last name changes. Differences in the petition address and the registered address appear to account for 54 disqualifications from the Daily Journals selected pool of names, but a cursory review indicates address changes are linked to a much number of disqualifications within the total list of disqualifications. Names reviewed by the Daily Journal also surfaced 62 signers who appear to not be registered voters in Lee County, did not write sufficient information to identify themselves or signed the petition multiple times. Attorney general opinions, circuit clerk take different views In its official but nonbinding opinions on the matter, the state of Mississippis chief legal agency has repeatedly said, across at least five different opinions issued from 1975 to 1995, that signatures on a petition should not be disqualified based on the use of a shortened or alternative form of the full name as given on the county voting rolls. In a 1995 question posed to the state Attorney Generals office, a requestor explicitly asked about practices at issue in the current Lee County controversy: Would the use of an initial on the petition while the persons full name is shown on the registered voter roll invalidate that persons full name from the petition? What about shorter versions of Christian names, when accompanied by an accurate address? In its reply on this matter, the attorney generals office said that a persons signature on a petition is not to be invalidated based solely on the fact that the signed name is not identical to the way his name appears on the voter registration records. Dulaney has reserved for herself, however, a qualifying standard far higher than the one the attorney generals office has taken to be the statutory standard. They are not registered to vote under that name, Dulaney told the Daily Journal about a voter who used Josh rather then his full name of Joshua on the petition. That is not their registered voter name. I do not know the difference. Sam Begley, a Jackson-based attorney with experience litigating petition controversies, said he does not believe any basis exists in the statute, the case law or the attorney generals opinions for the standard Dulaney is imposing. The test isnt whether the name matches the actual voter registration name, Begley said. The test is: Is that the voter? Begley suggested that with uncertain or disputed names, matching the petitions handwriting style with the signature on file would be a better way to verify the voters identity. That seems to be the easiest way, not this silly Kafkaesque, how many bubbles are in a soap bar stuff, Begley said. Dulaney did say suspicion fell on some names due to apparent handwriting mismatches, but then also held up a page of signatures she believed to have been all signed by the same person, and noted that every name on the page except one duplicate was accepted by her office. Inconsistent standards used to qualify names Across the 2,100 signatures on the petition, the criteria used by the circuit clerks staff to determine whether or not to disqualify each name appears to have been applied inconsistently. That means no single standard was uniformly applied to each and every signature on the petition. A Plantersville woman signed the petition as Nicole Smith. Her full name on voter registration records is Jeanne Nicole Smith. Her address on the petition and her registered address match. Dulaney acknowledged that Smith was disqualified from the petition simply because she signed using her middle rather than first name and stood by that decision. We dont go by middle name, Dulaney said. We go by first name and last name. But the circuit clerks office did not, in fact, always go by first name and last name. Based on a review of only 215 names that were certified as qualified electors, the Daily Journal has identified at least five voters who signed the petition using a middle name and a last name, and did not print or sign the first name by which they are identified within the county voter registration records. The circuit clerk wouldnt offer specific comment about the possible reasons for these inconsistencies or about the implications of such inconsistencies for the reliability of her final certification. Instead, she defended the work of her office in general terms. Whatever you want to say is wrong, thats perfectly fine, Dulaney told a Daily Journal reporter. I feel like my office did an outstanding job. Were not doing anything malicious or evil. Were not incompetent, these people out here. The Daily Journal also found a certified signature in which the petition name is Jackie and the registered name is Jacqueline, as well as a certified signature on the petition in which the first and middle name registered name are written, but not the registered last name. Another area of inconsistency involves situations in which multiple individuals share the same or nearly the same registered name. Dulaney said there had to be a way to distinguish between these voters, such that if a senior and a junior share the same address, and one of them signs the petition but without an identifying suffix, the name was disqualified. However, at least two individuals were certified on the petition even though they share a name with another registered voter at the same address, and there is no way to distinguish from the petition which voter signed. The Daily Journal has also identified at least seven individuals who signed the petition using an address that differs from the registered address, but were deemed qualified electors. County attorney: 10-day window paramount legal issue Unequal application of qualifying standards such as the use of the middle name rather than the first name could pose broader constitutional questions, not just state law questions. That sounds on its face to be a cognizable civil rights claim under due process or equal protection, Begley said. Carnathan the Board of Supervisors attorney in Lee County largely declined to engage with specific questions about the inconsistent application of qualifying standards. Instead, he pointed to the requirement of state law that the county offer disqualified voters 10 days to contest by affidavit. The statute in question is found within at law code section 1-3-76, and Carnathan cited these numbers frequently in response to questions. If you get into the situation like, I think 1-3-76 gives you your answer, Carnathan said. Joshua, Josh, comes in and says, Joshua and Josh are one and the same person, I want you to count my signature. Beyond the question of alternative and shortened styles of the name, Carnathan sees this section of the law as key to resolving questions about errors or inconsistencies of qualifying decisions, 1-3-76 is the catch-all to cure exactly what youre talking about, Carnathan said. I dont think youre losing your due process, because you had a remedy. Begley agreed that the statutory process to contest disqualifying decisions is relevant, but doesnt think it completely resolves all concerns about potential civil rights violations. It could be a defense, but it may not be a defense against all various causes of action, Begley said. Carnathan said he'd let the federal courts settle questions like, should someone raise suit. "If you get into what is due process, equal protection, and you go off into the federal judgeships, then some judge may say, well, Carnathan, youre as full of it as a Christmas turkey," the county attorney said. "That would be a judicial interpretation of what the standard is and I dont want to give a judicial interpretation." Joshua Douglas, an expert in election law, voting rights and constitutional interpretation and professor at the University of Kentucky Rosenberg College of Law suggested that due process and equal protection claims may not be the relevant area of constitutional law, since the issue at hand involves not an election but simply a petition. The lack of consistency poses potential questions, but the professor agreed the allowance to protest disqualifying decisions is important to any legal analysis. Even under a deferential standard of review, the government actors should have some rationale for the process they use and the decisions they make, such that it is not wholly arbitrary, Douglas said. The cure process, however, does mitigate the concern somewhat so long as the individual is notified. The county met its state law obligations to notify disqualified voters by posting a list of such voters in the Lee County Justice Center lobby and the Board of Supervisors building. Decisive number of signatures at issue Among the pool of disqualified voters who did not submit an affidavit, and therefore remain disqualified, the Daily Journal has identified at least 14 where the use of a shortened first name appears to be the disqualification basis, and another three where the use of the middle name rather than the first name appears to have been the disqualification basis. This alone nearly erases the 20-signature deficit, with another pool of names at hand at which the only issue appears to be potentially subjective questions about handwriting clarity. At least one other supervisor indicated concerns about some of the qualifying criteria employed by the circuit clerk. My name is Phil, I run by Phil, but my legal name is Jay Phillip, said District 1 Supervisor Phil Morgan. I would have a problem with someone signing Josh and his name is Joshua and them kicking him out. That wouldnt fly with me. I know youre going to have to have guidelines, but to say someone youve called Matt youre whole life, and its gotta be Matthew, thats just crazy. I know theres got to be guidelines, but youve got to have some practicalities. But Morgan is not that interested in questions about the petition process. He continues to say he wants a special election on any bond issue involving more than a negligible tax increase, even if the petition efforts doesnt have the necessary 1,500 signatures. Another supervisor the county board's lone Democrat, Tommie Lee Ivy of District 4 was actively involved in the petition effort and has long advocated for special elections on bond issues. Supervisors meet next Tuesday, but Carnathan said he doesnt expect the board to take up any questions yet about the petition. ADA [ndash] Graveside Services for Delbert Gene Wallis, 96, of Byng, was 10 a.m. Monday, Sep. 13, 2021, at Rosedale Cemetery, David Gray officiated. Mr. Wallis passed away Friday, Sep. 10, 2021, at his home. He was born March 13, 1925. He retired from Ideal Cement. Survivors are his three so North Andover, MA (01845) Today Partly to mostly cloudy with a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High around 85F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Thunderstorms. Low near 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 60%. This map shows where in the city Mesa Police believe illicit activities tied to massage parlors is the most prominent. Stay up to date on COVID-19 Get Breaking News Sign up now to get our FREE breaking news coverage delivered right to your inbox. Sponsored By: St Anthony's Hospital Dan Rather poses in a CBS studio in New York on Feb. 20, 2001, left, Peter Jennings poses on the set of ABC's "World News Tonight" in New York on Feb. 5, 2001, center, and "NBC Nightly News" anchor Tom Brokaw delivers his closing remarks during his final broadcast, in New York on Dec. 1, 2004. Most Americans were guided through the events of the day by one of three men: Tom Brokaw of NBC News, Peter Jennings of ABC and Dan Rather of CBS. Each had extensive reporting experience before that, Brokaw and Rather were at the White House during Watergate, and Jennings has been a foreign correspondent. (AP Photo) Athens, AL (35611) Today Showers in the morning, then cloudy in the afternoon. High around 80F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers later at night. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%. A tip to members of Congress: if you're going to send an angrily-worded letter to a technology CEO, make sure they're still working at the company. A group of 11 House Republicans has sent letters to the leaders of 13 tech companies threatening legal action if they comply with a request for records related to the January 6th Capitol attack. However, there's one major problem. The letter to Yahoo (Engadget's parent company) is addressed to Marissa Mayer, who hasn't been CEO of the company since 2017. That's four years ago, folks she's not exactly a recent departure. The representatives' other letters appear to have been free of snafus on their way to Amazon, AOL (which Apollo acquired alongside Yahoo), Apple, AT&T, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Snap, T-Mobile, Twitter, US Cellular and Verizon (Engadget's former parent). However, the congresspeople appear to be slightly behind the times as well. None of the letters went to Reddit, Telegram, TikTok and other key firms asked to produce records. The list appears to be a who's-who of tech from several years ago. We laugh, but the slip-up is also a reminder that Congress' general lack of tech knowledge creates problems, whether it's a letter to a long-gone CEO or proposed law changes that could produce easily foreseen complications. The next mistake could cost a lot more than embarrassment and wasted paper, and that unfortunately won't change any time soon. The services celebrating and honoring the life of Phyllis Caywood, of Enid, are pending under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com. ENID, Okla. More houses on the median of West Randolph are set to be demolished as plans continue to pick up steam for the city of Enid to buy properties in the six-block area as part of a future construction project. All but one of the citys 11 properties it owns along the street west of Van Buren have already been demolished, with all three on Randolphs 1500 block having come down this year. The house formerly located at 1510 W. Randolph was demolished nearly two weeks ago after being declared dilapidated by city of Enid code enforcement. People had been removing parts of the house, which wouldve been torn down anyway, according to the city. A fourth house, at 1304 W. Randolph, is set to be cleared in the next couple weeks, Assistant City Manager Scott Morris said last Friday. Probably in the next 60 days, youll be seeing more houses going down, he said. For the last three years, the city of Enid has quietly been acquiring, then clearing, more of the properties sitting on the median, in hopes of widening the often-used street for through traffic. On the Garfield County Assessors website, 11 properties are currently listed as owned by the city of Enid on 1200-1800 blocks of West Randolph, but Morris said the city has acquired 13 total so far. Nine of the citys 11 warranty deeds have been acquired since 2018 and five since the start of the year though other acquisitions date back to 1998 and 2009. Itd be nice to say, Were paying $25K for a house, Morris said, but theyre not all the same square footage, while some were dilapidated. The properties bought this last year have cost the city between $7,700 to $35,000, according to claims approved by Enid city commissioners during regular meetings. The city acquired the dilapidated property at 1502 in May this year for nearly $23,000. The two other houses on the block were purchased in March for about $26,000 and $29,000, according to purchase claims. Morris said last Friday that the city had closed on another property the day before, with another closure expected in around two weeks time. If theres people interested in selling, were interested in buying, he said. $50,000: the magic number After recent boosts to capital development funds, the city of Enid now owns over a third of the nearly 40 properties located on the six-block Randolph-James median strip, which starts at Tyler and ends at the railroad tracks past Johnson. At the tail end of a Enid City Commission meeting in January, commissioners passed the budget transfer increase of $250,000 to the citys Capital Replacement, the department that handles property purchase claims for the city. The city had already purchased half a dozen residential properties on the median. However, Morris said during the meeting that the funding would give City Manager Jerald Gilbert, the citys purchasing agent, the flexibility to purchase near market value what he called the island of houses as they became available. Morris said the plan was to start construction to widen the road in the next five years. (Purchases) were just far and few between until the 250, he said Friday. Under city code, the city manager can spend up to $50,000 on purchases or non-public competitive bids, as well as be able to transfer funds between departments within fund balances such as the general fund. Anything more than $50,000 instead requires direct approval from the city commission or trust authority. Because these properties are all below the $50,000 line, commissioners need not approve their individual purchase orders in public meetings. Instead, since the January meeting, all five of the Randolph property purchases as well as demolition orders for the three on the 1500 block have been included in the bulk purchase claim list commissioners approve as a single, sometimes million-dollar-plus, line item. Commissioners have also been approving demolition claims for the island of houses since at least March 3, 2020, when claims totaling $11,100 for three unspecified demolition projects on West Randolph got the OK for Enfield Demolition and Excavation. The monies that Capital Replacement pulls from, to purchase property and other capital, were later doubled in this years budget, going from $50,000 to $100,000. An open records request from the News & Eagle to the city of Enid was not returned as of Friday before Labor Day weekend asking for demolition and property purchase claims for all currently city-owned properties on West Randolph and James going back to 2019 (when claims lists arent included in meeting agenda packets online). Looking down the road Despite its more residential appearance, Randolph is one of three major east-west streets that stretches from one end of the city to the other (the others being higher-traffic arterial streets Garriott and Willow). Former city commissioner Ben Ezzell who had motioned to approve Januarys Capital Replacement budget increase said on Friday he knew that the city had wanted to widen Randolph since before he joined the council in 2013. It needs it. It needs it badly, Ezzell said. That whole corridor from Van Buren to Cleveland is kind of a mess through there. And that carries so much traffic. In 2008, Enid voters rejected a $39 million bond proposal from the city that would have largely funded widening Randolph to four lanes from 30th to Garland. The measure failed in all precincts but one, and residents of the area against the proposal said widening the road would increase traffic, pollution and safety problems. But for the last several years, city officials have again been looking far down the road at developing the entirety of Randolph. Major road closures expected through rest of 2021 as street work continues Enid residents and business owners can expect major road closures in the coming months as city crews plan to continue work on several arterial streets. The city is almost done relocating a waterline from 26th to 30th streets that necessitated closing Randolph, Morris said, while at the other end of town, the city is reworking Randolphs intersection at Garland. Pretty much the entire street of Garland (from Randolph) to Garriott is getting a makeover, as well, Morris said. Right in the middle of Enid, city crews have yet to start a concrete mill and overlay of Randolph from 7th to Washington, following a waterline relocation over the past several months the second phase of reconstructing the street as it goes through downtown. The city intends to then overhaul the street from there down to Van Buren, Morris said. Unlike in 2008, he doesnt know if Van Buren to Johnson would be widened to four lanes this time around, Morris said. He also said repairing the road from Johnson to Cleveland, past the Randolph-James median, would be worked into a different plan. Acquiring public right-of-ways along the north and south sides of median probably wouldnt be necessary either, Morris said. I think purchasing those center properties will do the trick, he said. This story is the first part of a two-part series about the citys plans for widening Randolph and other major construction projects. Next weeks will discuss the history of eminent domain in Enid and Garfield County. GBP/NZD Exchange Rate Tumbles as Risk Appetite Improves The Pound New Zealand Dollar (GBP/NZD) exchange rate fell steadily from Tuesdays session, as a risk-on mood prevailed and the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) enjoyed tailwinds on an optimistic Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) outlook. Meanwhile, the Pound (GBP) came under pressure as the little data there was printed low. Supply chain issues and bearish sentiment weighed upon Sterling. New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Exchange Rates Firm as Risk Sentiment Strengthens The New Zealand Dollar benefitted over the course of the week from a risk-on mood, triggered by weakness in the US Dollar (USD). Despite poor data early in the week, the Kiwi resisted downside pressure Tuesday saw business confidence drop by 14.2 points, although the report was low-impact. The New Zealand Dollar performed well on the whole through Mondays session, but wavered against the Pound as both currencies enjoyed tailwinds on high risk sentiment. Public sentiment in New Zealand was high as coronavirus cases fell for a second day, although ongoing lockdown conditions in Auckland capped NZD gains. Into Tuesday, the New Zealand Dollar regained its footing against the Pound and resumed an upward trajectory towards a three-month high. The Pound saw some negative data, which supported the Kiwi in the GBP/NZD exchange rate. The New Zealand Dollar then continued to lift through Wednesday to Friday, bolstered by a greater-than-expected rise in import and export prices in the second quarter. The Kiwi also found support from Australian Dollar strength, due to the correlation between the two currencies. Finally, hawkish expectations for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand helped to sustain NZD momentum. According to economists at MUFG bank, Governor Orr indicated the probability of rate hikes soon even if COVID-19 remains in the community. Assistant Governor Hawesby went further He admitted the RBNZ discussed hiking by 50bps. That now would become a plausible scenario if Covid was eradicated quickly. Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates Slump on Disappointing Data and Brexit Concerns The Pound had a poor start to the week, as Monday lacked any significant data and Tuesdays consumer credit figures fell by -0.042bn rather than rising by 0.441bn as expected. Losses were capped, however, by weakness in the US dollar. Wednesdays data appeared promising, as the UK finalised Markit/CIPS manufacturing PMI printed above expectations at 60.3, demonstrating strong overall expansion and rising export orders: investors were underwhelmed, though, as a slowdown in factory activity highlighted ongoing supply chain disruption and staff shortages. Thursday saw a further lack of UK data, exposing Sterling to losses against its peers. British officials are worried about the return of children to school next week and the possibility of a related surge in Covid cases, alongside ongoing concerns over Brexit. The chief executive of high street retail giant Next has criticized the UK government's decision to reject foreign lorry drivers as the country battles supply shortages: elsewhere, ex-Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Arlene Foster raises fears of irreparable economic damage due to the deadlock over the Northern Ireland (NI) protocol. The Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said: The experience of the operation of the Protocol has shown that it is certainly protecting the EU but at the price of destabilising society in Northern Ireland, in other words damaging the balance envisaged by the Belfast Agreement. GBP/NZD Exchange Rate Forecast: New Zealand Dollar to Climb Higher on RBNZ Decision? Looking ahead, investors bullish outlook for the RBNZs forward guidance could propel the New Zealand Dollar higher against its peers. In the view of economists at MUFG Bank, the central banks rate hike plans are set to encourage a stronger NZD. On the data front, a bundle of UK releases next Friday is likely to drive some movement within the GBP/NZD exchange rate. If the UK balance of trade posts a -3bn deficit as expected, the Pound could face significant headwinds. Meanwhile, risk sentiment informed by coronavirus developments and political stimuli are likely to direct GBP/NZD trading. Overall, the Pound to Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate traded close to 1.3850 on Monday with no further attack on the 1.3900 level. US markets will be closed on Monday for the Labor Day holiday which will limit activity. Federal Reserve officials will also be silent on Monday, but there will be a flurry of comments later in the week with the overall rhetoric watched closely for hints on Fed policy at the September policy meeting. After dipping on Friday following the weaker than expected headline jobs data, the US currency regained some ground on Monday as the firm overall labour-market data limited the potential for net dollar selling. The Pound to US Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate trended higher last week, with the pairing striking a high of $1.3884, amidst broad USD weakness. US Dollar (USD) Exchange Rates Fumble on Underwhelming US Jobs Data The US Dollar (USD) spent much of last week on the defensive, as a prevailing risk-on mood dampened the appeal of the safe-haven currency. Also contributing to the pressure on the Greenback through the first half of the week was some lingering disappoint over Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powells speech at the Feds annual Jackson hole Symposium at the end of the previous session. Powells reluctance to put a firm date on when the Fed would begin its tapering process, left the US Dollar in limbo, with economists from Reuters split on the direction the US currency will take in the coming months due to uncertainty over the tapering process. The USD selling bias was then further entrenched by falling US Treasury yields as well as the publication of the latest ADP employment report, after Augusts release printed well below estimates with only 374,000 jobs added against forecasts the private sector would add 613,00. Despite a modest souring of market sentiment going into the second half of the week, the USD selloff then intensified on Thursday, resulting in the GBP/USD exchange rate climbing to a two-week high. The US Dollar then limped across the finishing line with the publication of the latest US non-farm payroll report, after it revealed that the US economy added just 235,000 jobs in August. This was well below the 750,000 forecast ahead of the release and was the lowest reading so far this year. USD investors were particularly concerned as it appeared to confirm fears that the spread of the Delta variant may be impacting the US economy more than previously thought. Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates' Gains Tempered by Economic Uncertainty Meanwhile, the Pound (GBP) got off to a slow start against the US Dollar (USD) last week, as an extended bank holiday weekend in the UK initially resulted in thin trading conditions in the currency. Sterling then fluctuated through the middle of the week, amidst mounting concerns over the UKs economic resilience. GBP investors are growing increasingly concerned about the labour shortages and supply chain issues facing many businesses in the UK, which are stoking concerns that the countrys economic recovery could slow through the remainder of 2021. Despite a lack of a clear catalyst, the Pound then rallied in the second half of the week, with GBP investors seeming shrugging of a weaker-than-expected UK services PMI as well as speculation over potential tax increases from the government. GBP/USD Near-Term Exchange Rate Forecast: UK GDP in Focus Turning to this weeks session, the publication of the UKs latest monthly GDP figures will likely be the key draw for GBP investors. Their publication at the tail end of the session could see the Pound US Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate come under pressure, as economists forecast economic growth in the three months to July will have slowed. In the meantime, Sterling could face some headwinds if UK coronavirus cases remain elevated, as this will cast further doubts over the countrys economic resilience. A lull in notable US economic releases this week will meanwhile see the direction of the US Dollar likely dictated by global economic CONTACT: Pamela D. Wilson +1 303-810-1816 Email: Inquiry_For_Pamela@pameladwilson.com Golden, Colorado September 4, 2021 The Caring Generation Helping Elderly Parents Age at Home Golden CO- Caregiver subject matter expert Pamela D. Wilson hosts The Caring Generation podcast show for caregivers and aging adults. This coming Wednesday, September 8, 2021, Wilson shares what aging adults, caregivers, and elderly parents must know to remain independent and self-sufficient later in life. Wilson releases new shows for The Caring Generation series each Wednesday. Featured are tips and conversations about aging, caregiving, family relationships, and managing the healthcare maze. Also shared are interviews and research from experts worldwide about health prevention and planning. Generation is available on Wilson's website, podcast, and music apps worldwide. Elderly Parents Want to Age at Home Everyonemost of all elderly parentswants to live at home in retirement years. The challenge is that few individuals understand the complexity of the aspects involved in living a healthy and vibrant life until health issues become a daily concern. Remaining independent and self-sufficient with age is not the reality for many elderly who depend on adult children or families for support. During this program, Wilson offers examples of everyday care situations to illustrate how goals for care or the good intentions of family caregivers have unintended results. Unfortunately, women are at a greater risk of being unprepared for the unexpected events related to living at home after age 60. Life events in middle age that affect physical health seem insignificant until the consequences intensify years later. Wilson promotes gaining insight as early as possible about the reality of what it is like being an aging adult faced with challenging decisions about where and how to live. Adult children caregivers face similar struggles attempting to help aging parents when a lack of information or experience exists. Getting ahead of the learning curve instead of responding in crises offers the best opportunity for aging adults and their caregivers to establish situations where parents can continue living in their homes. Online Course: Stay at Home - Helping Elderly Parents Remain at Home and Beyond Wilson offers an extensive online webinar course addressing aspects that support aging at home. The course provides comprehensive steps to help caregivers manage care, address nutrition, physical concerns, and home safety, monitor daily care, identify and plan for parents who have a memory loss diagnosis, including the costs of care. Recommendations for coordinating care with service providers, physicians, nursing homes, and other healthcare providers are included. The program's content is based on Wilson's experience of more than twenty years of care management and legal responsibility for aging adults and the disabled. Examples of Wilson's educational videos are on her YouTube Channel. Topics for each week's show and many of the videos she creates are the results of caregivers completing the caregiving survey on her website and social media interactions. Wilson works with family caregivers, groups, and corporations worldwide to educate about the role strain that caregivers experience, managing, and planning for health and aging issues. More about Wilson's online courses for elderly care, individual elder care consultations, caregiver support, webinars, and speaking engagements are on her website www.pameladwilson.com. Pamela may also be contacted at +1 303-810-1816 or through the contact Me page on her website. # As customary, there will be celebrations and somber reflections as American Jews observe the upcoming High Holy Days their faiths most important period. There also will be deep disappointment, as rabbis once again cancel or limit in-person worship due to the persisting COVID-19 pandemic. The chief culprit is the quick-spreading delta variant of the coronavirus, dashing widespread hopes that this years observances, unlike those of 2020, could once again fill synagogues with congregants worshipping side by side and exchanging hugs. Im crushed emotionally that were not able to be in-person, said Rabbi Judith Siegal, whose Temple Judea in Coral Gables, Florida, will hold only virtual services for the holy days as the pandemics upsurge buffets South Florida. For many rabbis, this is our favorite time of the year were extroverts who love to be with people, Siegal said. We really miss being able to be together. Instead, Siegal and her staff are filling the synagogues sanctuary with cardboard cutouts of congregation members, including children and pets. At many synagogues, such as The Temple in Nashville, Tennessee, there will be a mix of in-person services, including indoor and outdoor options, and virtual offerings for people staying home. In many cases, plans keep changing with the approach of Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, which starts the evening of Sept. 6, followed by Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, on Sept. 15-16. Theres an asterisk by everything, said The Temples senior rabbi, Mark Schiftan. Were not even sending out more than very tentative information about Yom Kippur because thats too far out. At Temple Beth El in Charlotte, North Carolina, Rabbi Asher Knight and his staff have planned meticulously for holiday services, requiring advance registration for congregants whether they want to participate in person or online. Everyone attending in person must wear a mask, and vaccinations are mandatory for all those 12 and over. Everything we do leads to the preservation of life, Knight said. Another Temple Beth El, in Augusta, Maine, also will require masks inside the synagogue. But workers have erected a big tent in the yard for an outdoor service Sept. 7. The ability to see people face to face is wonderful, whatever way they choose to come, Rabbi Erica Asch said. But theres a little bit of sadness that we cant all be together the way wed like. At Valley Beth Shalom, a Conservative synagogue in Los Angeles serving about 10,000 people, no unvaccinated worshippers will be allowed on the campus during the holy days. That includes all children under 12 because they're ineligible for vaccinations, a decision Rabbi Noah Farkas called the saddest thing we did this year. All of us were hoping this holiday season was going to be a do-over from 2020, Farkas said. After all the pain, all the distancing, I was hoping we could shake it off and everyone could come back and give each other hugs. Thats not going to happen." Amy Asin, who directs the Union for Reform Judaisms Strengthening Congregations initiative, said many rabbis feel similar disappointment. Theres been an incredible amount of resilience over the past 18 months, and now there are very serious levels of exhaustion, she said. Another emotion sorrow pervades the 2,000-strong congregation at the Shul of Bar Harbour, an Orthodox synagogue in Surfside, Florida, the city where 98 people died when a condominium collapsed in June. Rabbi Sholom Lipskar estimates that 40% of those killed were Jewish, including perhaps a dozen or more who were active in the Shul community. Theres no question that this tragedy, and its lingering pain and anguish, is part of the community at this point, Lipskar said. At same time, recognizing who we are as Jewish people, we have learned to live with the most extraordinary adversity." God has blessed us, he added. We are here, we are alive, we have a purpose in life. Were going to look to a new year. Theres a very big sense of power and renewal. Lipskars synagogue is one of about 1,100 across the U.S. affiliated with the Hasidic organization Chabad-Lubavitch. Chabad's media relations director, Rabbi Motti Seligson, said the synagogues will host in-person High Holy Days services, many of them outdoors, following guidelines from local medical authorities. For those who choose to pray at home, Chabad is distributing a booklet containing Rosh Hashana prayers. In some communities, pandemic worries are compounded by concerns over possible incidents of antisemitism during the High Holy Days, which overlap with the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. A Jewish volunteer group, Community Security Services, has been promoting free webinars for New York-area Jews aimed at increasing security awareness. The threat against Jews in NY has reached record levels," an online ad warned. "The hatred and violence is impacting all of us. "Whats striking about the threats is that they come from the left and right of the ideological spectrum," said Evan Bernstein, national director of Community Security Services. We have to be keenly aware of that and not think its only coming from one particular group," he said. Security experts are concerned by white supremacists, pro-Palestinian activists and people embracing conspiracy theories blaming Jews for the pandemic, said Mitch Silber, who heads a regional security initiative on behalf of New York-based Jewish organizations. The Jewish community in the U.S is facing what may be the most diverse sets of threats weve ever seen, Silber said. With more services and events being held outdoors due to the pandemic, security experts say those might be more vulnerable to attacks and are offering advice on minimizing potential dangers. But for the Chabad Jewish Center of St. Charles County, in greater St. Louis, holding services and events such as study groups outdoors has been essential during its short time in existence, having been founded in 2019 shortly before the pandemic hit. Weve never had services indoors for high holidays, Rabbi Chaim Landa said. Were going into the second year of this, but this is all we know thus far. Last year 120 people participated in the centers Rosh Hashana observance in a park, and this year it's preparing for 200 people. Were open for the high holidays, Landa said. Our calling is to be there at these important times. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support from the Lilly Endowment through The Conversation U.S. The AP is solely responsible for this content. Cynthia Watson is the first woman and first blind CEO of San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, a $120 million manufacturing plant. The Texas native is honored to continue the work of former Lighthouse CEO Mike Gilliam, a mentor of many years. Im still pinching myself, said Watson, 49. The thought of being able to take this solid foundation that he built at the Lighthouse and taking it into the future is a true honor for me. To be the first CEO here who happens to be legally blind and has a deeper understanding of the challenges that people who are blind are faced with in the community is exciting to me. VIEWS & VOICES: The newest newsletter you wont want to miss Watson was the top finalist in a national search among more than 200 candidates. She started Aug. 9 as the fifth CEO of the Lighthouse, which employs 500 people, half of whom are blind and severely vision impaired. Located on the South Side, the nonprofit has supported the blind since 1933. Watson previously led the Seattle Lighthouse that employed people who are blind and focused on manufacturing and service businesses. Watson has served people adjusting to vision loss her entire career. More than 20 years ago, she started as a direct service provider going into homes to help people. Her mentors provided her with an outlook she still follows. They told Watson she would have to work harder and look at interactions as an opportunity to educate others about the capabilities of people who are blind. At the heart of it, people want to help, Watson said, but they just dont know how. Generally, people with disabilities have more opportunities and less challenges. The mission is personal to her. Watson knows what its like to have barriers to career opportunities. And she knows the frustration of the challenges of being independent and doing the things needed to live a full life. On ExpressNews.com: Heartbreak seems to be on an endless loop - San Antonio women relive trauma after Haiti earthquake She grew up in Galveston County, living in a low-income household. Watson was 9 when she was diagnosed with a genetic eye condition. Having vision loss, getting more counseling and intervention, I believe actually empowered and opened more opportunities that I might never had, Watson said. I knew I wanted to be in the helping profession because I developed such gratitude for the teachers and counselors that helped me navigate life as a blind person. That was in my heart. I wanted to change lives the way they changed mine. According to the nonprofits staff, the Lighthouse is the largest manufacturer of military apparel in Texas. Funding comes from manufacturing, e-commerce sales and military base stores. Currently, the nonprofit operates 14 mission-support stores on 11 military bases in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, including Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland and -Randolph. On ExpressNews.com: Love of volleyball drives cancer survivor who is representing U.S. at 2020 Paralympic Games The program supports all ages through teaching assistive technology, independent living skills and workforce placement. While in the final stages of the interview process, Watson toured the rehabilitation services wing. She was familiar with the area. Its set up with assistive technology to learn about different high-tech tools. While in college, she used large print, but it wasnt productive and affected her grades. She was referred to the Lighthouse to determine which tools would be a better fit for her success in school. When the tour reached the technology unit, Watson recalled receiving an evaluation in the room years ago. Now, Watson has a masters in business administration from the University of Houston at Clear Lake. To have been at one time a client, it changed my trajectory and my success probability in school, Watson said. And to now come back to lead and have the opportunity to continue services and community for other people is really a full-circle moment. On ExpressNews.com: A beacon of light - East Side pastor offers food, blankets, blessings to those in need As the facilitys CEO, one of the first things on her schedule was to tour the facility. Watson used a white cane as she visited employees throughout the building. A medley of music, bursts of steam and hum of machinery permeated the rooms filled with workstations, many affixed with sewing machines. The employees gave her an overview of their jobs and how their machines worked. Watson stopped to talk to Ernest Arce, 52, who has worked at the Lighthouse for 33 years. He showed her how to line up material and sew it together for fatigue pants. Its just been a joy working here, Arce said. Ive done everything from pencils to ink pens and oil-test kits for aircraft for the military. Not only is she learning about the operations, but shes getting to know the employees who make the Lighthouse a one-stop shop for the blind in San Antonio. Everyone is so welcoming and eager to know me, Watson said, and how we can work together into the future. Its exciting to be that resource. vtdavis@express-news.net This Labor Day, our concept of work has become splintered. Millions of Texans have been propelled by the pandemic into a Zoom world featuring work at home and heavier reliance on technology than ever before. For millions of others, work looks pretty much the same. Front-line, essential and many other workers glue us together amid unprecedented change. One mighty force never pales, regardless of the mode of labor: the power of workers speaking up, in solidarity, for dignity, respect and better lives. VIEWS & VOICES: The newest newsletter you wont want to miss When unions conceived Labor Day in the 1880s, Americans didnt have a 40-hour workweek, overtime pay, minimum wage, health insurance, workplace safety laws, workers compensation, unemployment insurance, Social Security, Medicare or even a broad middle class. The bumper sticker Unions: The Folks Who Brought You the Weekend is shorthand for a storied history in which our movement delivered fundamental workplace protections. By no means was any of this inevitable. Working people are fighting to this day against assaults on every inch of this progress amid record income inequality. Sure, the union agenda will always place a high priority on the numbers on our pay stubs, but our work has broader goals. The PRO Act, pending in Congress, will restore the ability of worker majorities to form a union free of intimidation, empower workers to demand adequate precautions against workplace health and safety hazards, and give workers a real voice in the jobs of tomorrow. Working people understand what is necessary to live fully in a changing world. We want to modernize the very definition of infrastructure to include universal broadband, a focus on racial justice so all communities can thrive, and health care for all, as well as roads and bridges. We are fighting not just for livelihoods but literally for life and death. The running battle for the safety of front-line and essential workers in the COVID-19 pandemic is a harbinger of broader policies needed to make workplaces healthier. Speaking of life and death, the union movement recognizes climate change is an existential issue that cannot be separated from the question of jobs and inequality. That is why the Texas AFL-CIO recently adopted a report backed by 27 unions calling for a worker-focused renewable energy economy that develops millions of good-paying union jobs. The climate crisis came knocking on the Gulf Coasts door again in the form of Hurricane Ida. Last Valentines Day, millions of Texans froze in our homes as the energy grid failed to deliver during statewide ice storms. As extreme weather events become more frequent and as climate breakdown intensifies, working people will continue to be hit first and worst. Workers in Texas cant afford to sit idly as hurricane seasons get deadlier, droughts get longer, floods get bigger, and our power grid failures become more frequent. The Texas Climate Jobs Projects report spells out well-researched ways we can take the high road to address climate change. Whether unions are negotiating for another $1 an hour or to help save the world, a future that offers workers dignity is a future worth fighting for. On this Labor Day, in solidarity, workers seek to use our power to invent a better future. Rick Levy is president of the Texas AFL-CIO, a state labor federation consisting of 240,000 affiliated union members who advocate for working families in Texas. Throughout the pandemic, we have discovered that most, if not all, our workers are essential. At grocery stores, auto shops, even liquor stores, life has gone on, a semblance of normalcy in abnormal times. Then there are the workers who are not only essential but indispensable nurses, doctors and emergency medical technicians who are waging a war against an unseen enemy. VIEWS & VOICES: The newest newsletter you wont want to miss We celebrate them all today health care workers, retail staff, teachers, firefighters, police and so many others who have transcended their normal duties to keep us functioning under these perilous conditions, as safe and worry-free as possible. An observance we mark every year, Labor Day seems more necessary, more crucial, during these times, when daily life has taken a darker tone, with obituaries hogging space in our daily newspapers. More than 630,000 Americans have died from COVID-19 since the pandemic struck in January 2020, unleashing a flood of fear and anxiety. Like the plague itself, the bad news is relentless, but our essential workers, all of them, seem as stout and resilient as the virus they combat. I cant talk to a patient without a mask, Dr. Shirlee Xie of Hennepin Health care in Minneapolis told CBS News. I cant touch them without gloves on. You know, they die, and they never see our faces. In Louisiana, hospitals throughout the region were filled with COVID-19 patients, straining both medical personnel and their equipment. Then Hurricane Ida slammed the coast, and the emergency situation became more dire. Generators went out, and millions of people lost power as the hurricane struck New Orleans. I hate to say it this way, but we have a lot of people on ventilators today, and they dont work without electricity, Gov. John Bel Edwards told the Associated Press. Throughout the ordeal, health care workers focused on their patients, not themselves. The courage was stunning but not surprising given their dedication throughout the pandemic. These workers are heroes, and they deserve all the support they can get, including the shedding of the cavalier attitude many people have about masks and vaccinations. More than 2,900 U.S. health care workers have died from COVID-19 since March 2020, according to a report released in December by Kaiser Health News and the Guardian. Most of the victims have been younger than 60, while 65 percent have been people of color. One-third of the deaths involved inadequate personal protective equipment, according to the analysis. Those (health care workers) are people who walked into places of work every day because they cared about patients, putting food on the table for families, and every single one of those lives mattered, Sue Anne Bell, a University of Michigan assistant professor of nursing, told PBS. Created by the labor movement in the 19th century, Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894. It came during the height of the Industrial Revolution, when many workers toiled under conditions that seem unfathomable today 12-hour days, seven-day weeks. The holiday cast a bright light of awareness on these conditions, now part of a dark, ugly past. That past is gone, but brutal conditions remain, especially for our health care workers in these times. They labor for rewards far greater than any paycheck the knowledge that they are helping their country, and they should be celebrated today and every day. A dark time would be darker without them. Whos sacrificing the most? artist Taiji Terasaki, who created a memorial in downtown Los Angeles to honor fallen health care workers, told the Los Angeles Times. Its these health care workers who are out there risking their lives. In an age when our spirit and resolve should be flatlining, we remain as hopeful as possible, bolstered by the courage we see around us. It is because of our workers, all of them essential, but none more so than our health care professionals. Let us celebrate them today, Labor Day, and keep them in our hearts and prayers every day moving forward. OLYMPIA, Wash. Days after suing to block what is believed to be among the nations strictest COVID-19 employee vaccine mandates, Washingtons largest state labor union has announced a tentative agreement for Gov. Jay Inslees order for state workers. The Northwest News Network reports the Washington Federation of State Employees has negotiated terms for Inslees mandate that all 46,000 of its union members be fully vaccinated by October 18 or lose their jobs. The new agreement, which still needs to be ratified, was announced Saturday and defines the exceptions and religious and medical exemptions process for employees who cant or wont get their shots. ___ MORE ON THE PANDEMIC: Florida deals with deadliest phase yet of the pandemic Brazil starts booster shots while many still await a 2nd jab Virus pummels French Polynesia, straining ties with Paris Brazil starts booster shots while many still await a 2nd jab ___ Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronvirus-vaccine ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: FRANKFORT, Ky. Democratic Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has announced that hes calling the states Republican-led legislature into a special session to shape pandemic policies as the state struggles with a record surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The return of lawmakers to the state Capitol starts Tuesday and marks a dramatic power shift in coronavirus-related policymaking in the Bluegrass State following a landmark court ruling. Since the pandemic hit Kentucky, the governor mostly acted unilaterally in setting statewide virus policies, but the state Supreme Court shifted those decisions to the legislature. Now, that burden will fall in large part on the General Assembly, Beshear said Saturday. It will have to carry much of that weight to confront unpopular choices and to make decisions that balance many things, including the lives and the possible deaths of our citizens. Beshear wields the authority to call lawmakers into special session and to set the agenda. At a news conference Saturday, he outlined pandemic-related issues he wants lawmakers to consider, including policies on mask-wearing and school schedules amid growing school closures brought on by virus outbreaks. But GOP supermajorities in both chambers will decide what measures ultimately pass. Lawmakers will be asked to extend the pandemic-related state of emergency until mid-January, when the legislature would be back in regular session, Beshear said. They will be asked to review his virus-related executive orders and other actions by his administration, the governor said. On the issue of masks, the governor said he will ask them to determine my ability to require masking in certain situations, depending on where the pandemic goes and how bad any area is. He also asked them to provide more scheduling flexibility for schools, as many districts have had to pause in-person learning because of virus outbreaks. And lawmakers will be asked to appropriate leftover federal pandemic aid to further the fight against the coronavirus. ___ MONTGOMERY, Ala. Alabama schools reported nearly 9,200 coronavirus cases in students and staff in the past week. A state dashboard was updated Friday with information from 84 of the 143 school districts. The surge is causing more schools to make a temporary switch to remote learning. Superintendent Eric Mackey says the statewide spike in COVID-19 cases comes as schools were opening the academic year, creating a difficult mix. He says scores of schools are closed to in-person instruction. Mackey says they are trying to avoid long closures because upcoming test scores are expected to show student achievement declined last year with closures. Over the last four weeks, people ages 5 to 17 accounted for 21% of all virus cases in Alabama, even though they constitute just 16% of the population. Republican Gov. Kay Ivey has not set statewide mask orders, instead leaving the decision to local school boards. Mackey estimated that 90% of Alabama school systems are requiring masks. ___ HARTFORD, Conn. Connecticut nursing homes will once again be allowed to hire temporary nursing aides as they deal with staffing shortages during the pandemic. Gov. Ned Lamont on Friday signed an executive order that revives the states nurses aides program that was used earlier during the pandemic. Under the program, the temporary workers will be allowed to provide nursing-related services, but nothing that requires a license. The governors office said the idea is to use those aides to help serve residents who do not have COVID-19, allowing permanent staff to focus on patients who have tested positive for the coronavirus. The governor also extended his deadline for nursing home workers to receive their first vaccination shot from Sept. 7 to Sept. 27. ___ JACKSON, Miss. Some Mississippi judges are urging people to follow their example and get vaccinated to slow the spread of COVID-19 an effort aimed at keeping courts open. Thirteen judges have made messages to air on TV and radio stations. Thats according to a news release from the state court system. The effort was coordinated by the state Department of Health. Circuit Judge Stanley Sorey of Raleigh says his wife of 27 years died of COVID-19 last year, before the vaccines were available. ___ BERLIN A man has injured two members of a vaccination team in eastern Germany after he demanded a vaccination certificate without wanting to get vaccinated and was denied it. German news agency dpa reported that the man, whose identity was not given due to national privacy rules, attacked and injured a nurse and an assistant during a vaccination event at a shopping center Saturday in the eastern town of Gera. Police said that the man walked up to the mobile vaccination team, refused to get vaccinated and then became violent when he didnt get a certificate. The two injured team members, who were also not identified by name, had to be treated in a hospital but were later released. The attacker was later detained by police in a nearby parking garage. His identity was known to police because he had registered with his name for the vaccination in advance, dpa reported. He was also slightly injured during the attack. ___ PARIS A group of rowdy protesters angry at Frances virus rules descended on a big Paris shopping mall Saturday and resisted police efforts to disperse them. The incident at the Les Halles shopping center in central Paris came as protests were held across the country against government efforts to boost vaccinations, and against virus passes required to enter restaurants and other venues. Protesters shouting Liberty! and pumping their fists forced their way passed security guards into the underground mall. Some wore yellow vests or armbands, in a reference to the 2018-2019 yellow vest movement against perceived economic injustice and President Emmanuel Macrons government. .Earlier Saturday, thousands of people marched under a canopy of French tricolor flags at a rally organized by far-right figure Florian Philippot. Other protests were held in Marseille and other cities. While such protests have been held every Saturday for weeks, a majority of French people support the virus rules, some 73% have had a first vaccine dose and 67% are fully vaccinated. Frances latest surge in infections started receding after the virus passes came into effect, and hospitalisations are also declining. ___ ANKARA, Turkey A 116-year-old woman in Turkey has survived COVID-19, according to her son, making her one of the oldest patients to beat the disease. Ayse Karatay has now been moved to a normal ward, her son Ibrahim told the Demiroren news agency on Saturday. My mother fell ill at the age of 116 and stayed in the intensive care unit for three weeks... Her health is very good now and shes getting better, he said. French nun Sister Andre recovered from COVID-19 in February, days before her 117th birthday. She is the worlds second-oldest living person. Ayse, from Emirdag in Afyonkarahisar, western Turkey, was treated in Eskisehir City Hospital after falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 last month. Ibrahim said she had only received one shot of the Chinese Sinovac vaccine before she became sick, adding that she was probably infected by a family member. Ayse was born during the Ottoman Empire, when exact dates of birth were rarely officially recorded. ___ MIAMI Florida is in the grip of its deadliest wave of COVID-19 since the pandemic began, a disaster driven by the highly contagious delta variant. While Floridas vaccination rate is slightly higher than the national average, the Sunshine State has an outsize population of elderly people, who are especially vulnerable to the virus; a vibrant party scene, and a Republican governor who has taken a hard line against mask requirements, vaccine passports and business shutdowns. As of mid-August, the state was averaging 244 deaths per day, up from just 23 a day in late June and eclipsing the previous peak of 227 during the summer of 2020. Because of both the way deaths are logged in Florida and lags in reporting, more recent figures on fatalities per day are incomplete. Hospitals have had to rent refrigerated trucks to store more bodies. Funeral homes have been overwhelmed. ___ BERLIN Germanys top health official has called on more citizens to get vaccinated, warning that if the numbers dont go up, hospitals may get overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients toward the end of the year. Health Minister Jens Spahn tweeted that we need at least 5 million vaccinations for a safe autumn and winter. More than 61% of the German population, or 50.9 million people, are fully vaccinated. However, the daily vaccination rate has been dropping while infection cases have been going up again for weeks. On Saturday, Germanys disease control agency reported 10,835 new COVID-19 cases, up from 10,303 a week ago. The health minister told daily Hannoversche Zeitung that the number of people who have been vaccinated is too low to prevent an overburdening of the health system. He said that currently 90 % of COVID-19 patients in intensive care are unvaccinated, German news agency dpa reported. ___ LJUBLJANA, Slovenia A group of virus deniers and anti-vaccination protesters have broken into the building of Slovenias public broadcaster, triggering a police intervention. The confrontation happened Friday night evening in Slovenias capital, Ljubljana. Local media say about 20 people burst into the RTV Slovenia building and managed to push their way into a news studio before police arrived and drove them out. The studio wasnt on the air when the protesters broke in demanding to be allowed to broadcast their opinions. Vaccine opponents have gathered outside the building for months, often disrupting journalists coming to or from work, the STA news agency reported. The head of RTVS, Andrej Grah Whatmough, described Fridays incident as a grave attack on our media house and public media outlet, which we condemn in the strongest terms. Whatmough says RTVS management will beef up security. Slovenia has seen an increase in daily reported COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in recent weeks. ___ WELLINGTON, New Zealand New Zealand reported its first coronavirus death in more than six months on Saturday, while the number of new cases continued to trend downward. Health authorities said the woman who died was in her 90s and had underlying health problems. Authorities reported 20 new community cases, all in the largest city of Auckland. New Zealand remains in lockdown as it tries to eliminate an outbreak of the delta variant that began last month. New cases in the outbreak have steadily fallen from a peak of more than 80 each day. New Zealand has so far escaped the worst of the pandemic and has reported just 27 coronavirus deaths since it began. ___ SAO PAULO Some cities in Brazil are providing booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccine, even though most people have yet to receive their second jabs. The move reflects the concern in the country over the highly contagious delta variant. Rio de Janeiro, currently Brazils epicenter for the variant and home to one of its largest elderly populations, began administering the boosters Wednesday. The northeastern cities of Salvador and Sao Luis started on Monday, and the most populous city of Sao Paulo will begin Sept. 6. The rest of the nation will follow the next week. France, Italy, China and Chile are among those countries offering boosters, but much greater shares of their populations are fully inoculated than the 30% in Brazil. A U.S. plan to start delivery of booster shots by Sept. 20 for most Americans is facing complications that could delay third doses for those who received the Moderna vaccine, administration officials said Friday. ___ PAPEETE, Tahiti Frances worst coronavirus outbreak is unfolding 12 times zones away from Paris, devastating Tahiti and other idyllic islands of French Polynesia. The South Pacific archipelagos lack enough oxygen, ICU beds and morgue space and their vaccination rate is barely half the national average. Simultaneous outbreaks on remote islands and atolls are straining the ability of local authorities to evacuate patients to the territorys few hospitals. The problem is, there are a lot of deaths before we get there, lamented Vincent Simon, the head of the regional emergency service. French Polynesia is Frances latest challenge in juggling resources to battle the pandemic in former colonies that stretch around the world. With more than 2,800 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, it holds the national record for the highest infection rate. And thats only an estimate: Things are so bad that the multi-ethnic territory of about 300,000 residents stopped counting new infections as local health authorities redeployed medical staff to focus on patient care and vaccination instead of testing. ___ MADRID Spain is tweaking its travel entry rules from next week to require vaccination certificates from U.S. tourists, adjusting to recent European Union advice on stricter rules due to growing anxiety over coronavirus contagion in the U.S. The European Councils decision earlier this week to remove the U.S. from a safe list of countries for nonessential travel also came amid unanswered calls from European officials for reciprocity in travel rules. Despite the EUs move to open its borders to U.S. citizens in June, the U.S. didnt allow EU tourists in. Spain, a major tourism destination, is among a handful of EU countries that has announced steps to adjust its entry rules to the Councils recommendation. The country published Friday the new guidelines on its official gazette, also removing Israel, Kosovo, Lebanon, Montenegro and North Macedonia from the safe list. Under the rules, U.S. tourists will no longer be admitted from Monday, Sept. 6, unless they can show proof of being fully vaccinated at least 14 days before their trip. ___ ATLANTA A nurse staffing crisis is forcing many U.S. hospitals to pay top dollar to get reinforcements to handle the crush of COVID-19 patients this summer. The problem, health leaders say, is twofold: Nurses are quitting or retiring, exhausted or demoralized by the crisis. Many are leaving for lucrative temporary jobs with traveling-nurse agencies that can pay $5,000 or more a week. In Texas, more than 6,000 travel nurses have flooded the state to help through a state-supported program. But the same time 19 travel nurses started work at a hospital in the northern part of the state, 20 other nurses there gave notice theyd be leaving for a traveling contract, said Carrie Kroll, a vice president at the Texas Hospital Association. ___ WASHINGTON President Joe Bidens plan to start delivery of booster shots by Sept. 20 for most Americans who received COVID-19 vaccines is facing complications that could delay the availability for those who received the Moderna vaccine, administration officials said Friday. Biden announced last month that his administration was preparing to administer boosters to provide more enduring protection against the coronavirus, pending approvals from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration. He recommended boosters eight months after the second shot. However, those agencies are awaiting critical data before signing off on the third doses, with Modernas vaccine increasingly seen as unlikely to make the Sept. 20 date. According to one official, Moderna produced inadequate data for the FDA and CDC to approve the third dose of its vaccine. The FDA has requested additional data that is likely to delay those boosters into October. Pfizer is further along in the review process, with an FDA panel review on boosters on Sept. 17. ___ MADISON, Wis. Wisconsins $100 reward program for those receiving the COVID-19 vaccine will be extended two weeks until Sept. 19. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers says extending the incentive will give an opportunity for more people to get vaccinated. The program began Aug. 20 and was originally scheduled to end Monday. Between Aug. 20 and Sept. 1, more than 65,000 people received their first dose. Evers launched the program amid a spike in cases across the state caused by the more infectious delta variant. The level of new cases and hospitalizations are at a level not seen since January. On Aug. 22, the day before Evers announced the program, the seven-day average of vaccinations in Wisconsin was 8,360. That grew to 9,712 as of Wednesday. More than 3 million people are fully vaccinated in Wisconsin, about 52% of the total population. Among adults age 18 and over, more than 62% are fully vaccinated. FAIRFIELD Sacred Heart University has a series of events lined up to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The events, which include lectures and films, will be on campus and at the SHU Community Theatre, 1420 Post Road, Fairfield. It concludes with the opening of the SHUs Art & Design Gallery exhibit To Bear Witness. The new exhibit will run from Sept. 14 to Dec. 11 and uses multimedia to explore how modern media impacts peoples different perceptions of 9/11. It incorporates a variety of elements, including photography, augmented reality, interactivity and video. This year, as we mark the 20-year anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, Sacred Heart University will host several events to honor those who lost their lives on that tragic day, said SHU President John J. Petillo. Commemorating the day this year is particularly important, as many of our students were not yet alive when this happened. It is important not only to remember, but to educate our younger students on the impact this day had on our country. The commemoration begins at 7 p.m. on Sept. 7 with a screening of Sky So Blue by Tim Oliver, followed by a question-and-answer session, at the SHU Community Theatre. There will be three events on Wednesday, including an interfaith memorial service with a candlelight vigil at the chapel quad at 8 a.m. and a screening of The Second Day, followed by a question-and-answer session at the SHU Community Theatre at 3 p.m. A Colloquia on the 20th Anniversary of 9/11, will happen at 2 p.m. in the Frank and Marisa Martire Center for the Liberal Arts theater. It is hosted by Michelle Loris, professor and associate dean of curriculum and special projects at the College of Arts & Sciences, and Richard Falco, coordinator of multimedia journalism at the School of Communication, Media & the Arts. There will be a screening of Saint of 9/11, followed by a question-and answer session, hosted at the SHU Community Theatre at 3 p.m. on Thursday. The Community Unity Concert will happen at 7 p.m. on Sept. 10 at the SHU Community Theatre. It features cast members of Amateur Night at the Apollo and will have special guest musicians and vocalists. A few events will be held Saturday on the actual anniversary, including placing American Flags on the universitys lower quad at 11 a.m. Richard Falco will conduct a photography presentation at 12:30 p.m. at the SHU Community Theatre. It will include a live musical tribute, composed by adjunct music instructor Joe Utterback and Ken Tedeschi, and a film screening of Boatlift. There will be a panel discussion with Michelle Loris, Richard Falco and Hadar Lubin, co-founder and medical director of the Post Traumatic Stress Center in New Haven and associate clinical professor at Yale University. The day will end with a Local Legends Show at 7 p.m. at the SHU Community Theatre. It will feature Jay Stollman, with special guests and words from first responders. The commemoration ends with an opening reception at 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 14 for the To Bear Witness exhibit at the gallery. The exhibit was inspired by Richard Falcos 2003 book, To Bear Witness, September 11. The exhibit was designed by Jon Walker, professor of design, and it was produced by Mary Treschitta, professor and chair of art & design and gallery director. For information, visit the SHU Community Theatre website. Ask for a roast beef sandwich at an Arbys drive-thru east of Los Angeles and you may be talking to Tori an artificially intelligent voice assistant that will take your order and send it to the line cooks. It doesnt call sick, says Amir Siddiqi, whose family installed the AI voice at its Arbys franchise this year in Ontario, California. It doesnt get corona. And the reliability of it is great. The pandemic didnt just threaten Americans health when it slammed the U.S. in 2020 -- it may also have posed a long-term threat to many of their jobs. Faced with worker shortages and higher labor costs, companies are starting to automate service sector jobs that economists once considered safe, assuming that machines couldnt easily provide the human contact they believed customers would demand. Past experience suggests that such automation waves eventually create more jobs than they destroy, but that they also disproportionately wipe out less skilled jobs that many low-income workers depend on. Resulting growing pains for the U.S. economy could be severe. If not for the pandemic, Siddiqi probably wouldnt have bothered investing in new technology that could alienate existing employees and some customers. But its gone smoothly, he says: Basically, theres less people needed but those folks are now working in the kitchen and other areas." Ideally, automation can redeploy workers into better and more interesting work, so long as they can get the appropriate technical training, says Johannes Moenius, an economist at the University of Redlands. But although that's happening now, its not moving quickly enough, he says. Worse, an entire class of service jobs created when manufacturing began to deploy more automation may now be at risk. The robots escaped the manufacturing sector and went into the much larger service sector, he says. I regarded contact jobs as safe. I was completely taken by surprise. Improvements in robot technology allow machines to do many tasks that previously required people -- tossing pizza dough, transporting hospital linens, inspecting gauges, sorting goods. The pandemic accelerated their adoption. Robots, after all, cant get sick or spread disease. Nor do they request time off to handle unexpected childcare emergencies. Economists at the International Monetary Fund found that past pandemics had encouraged firms to invest in machines in ways that could boost productivity -- but also kill low-skill jobs. Our results suggest that the concerns about the rise of the robots amid the COVID-19 pandemic seem justified, they wrote in a January paper. The consequences could fall most heavily on the less-educated women who disproportionately occupy the low- and mid-wage jobs most exposed to automation -- and to viral infections. Those jobs include salesclerks, administrative assistants, cashiers and aides in hospitals and those who take care of the sick and elderly. Employers seem eager to bring on the machines. A survey last year by the nonprofit World Economic Forum found that 43% of companies planned to reduce their workforce as a result of new technology. Since the second quarter of 2020, business investment in equipment has grown 26%, more than twice as fast as the overall economy. The fastest growth is expected in the roving machines that clean the floors of supermarkets, hospitals and warehouses, according to the International Federation of Robotics, a trade group. The same group also expects an uptick in sales of robots that provide shoppers with information or deliver room service orders in hotels. Restaurants have been among the most visible robot adopters. In late August, for instance, the salad chain Sweetgreen announced it was buying kitchen robotics startup Spyce, which makes a machine that cooks up vegetables and grains and spouts them into bowls. Its not just robots, either -- software and AI-powered services are on the rise as well. Starbucks has been automating the behind-the-scenes work of keeping track of a stores inventory. More stores have moved to self-checkout. Scott Lawton, CEO of the Arlington, Virginia-based restaurant chain Bartaco, was having trouble last fall getting servers to return to his restaurants when they reopened during the pandemic. So he decided to do without them. With the help of a software firm, his company developed an online ordering and payment system customers could use over their phones. Diners now simply scan a barcode at the center of each table to access a menu and order their food without waiting for a server. Workers bring food and drinks to their tables. And when theyre done eating, customers pay over their phones and leave. The innovation has shaved the number of staff, but workers arent necessarily worse off. Each Bartaco location there are 21 now has up to eight assistant managers, roughly double the pre-pandemic total. Many are former servers, and they roam among the tables to make sure everyone has what they need. They are paid annual salaries starting at $55,000 rather than hourly wages. Tips are now shared among all the other employees, including dishwashers, who now typically earn $20 an hour or more, far higher than their pre-pandemic pay. We dont have the labor shortages that youre reading about on the news, Lawton says. The uptick in automation has not stalled a stunning rebound in the U.S. jobs market -- at least so far. The U.S. economy lost a staggering 22.4 million jobs in March and April 2020, when the pandemic gale hit the U.S. Hiring has since bounced back briskly: Employers have brought back 17 million jobs since April 2020. In June, they posted a record 10.1 million job openings and are complaining that they cant find enough workers. Behind the hiring boom is a surge in spending by consumers, many of whom got through the crisis in unexpectedly good shape financially -- thanks to both federal relief checks and, in many cases, savings accumulated by working from home and skipping the daily commute. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moodys Analytics, expects employers are likely to be scrambling for workers for a long time. For one thing, many Americans are taking their time returning to work -- some because theyre still worried about COVID-19 health risks and childcare problems, others because of generous federal unemployment benefits, set to expire nationwide Sept. 6. In addition, large numbers of Baby Boom workers are retiring. The labor market is going to be very, very tight for the foreseeable future, Zandi says. For now, the short-term benefits of the economic snapback are overwhelming any job losses from automation, whose effects tend to show up gradually over a period of years. That may not last. Last year, researchers at the University of Zurich and University of British Columbia found that the so-called jobless recoveries of the past 35 years, in which economic output rebounded from recessions faster than employment, could be explained by the loss of jobs vulnerable to automation. Despite strong hiring since the middle of last year, the U.S. economy is still 5.3 million jobs short of what it had in February 2020. And Lydia Boussour, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics, calculated last month that 40% of the missing jobs are vulnerable to automation, especially those in food preparation, retail sales and manufacturing. Some economists worry that automation pushes workers into lower-paid positions. Daron Acemoglu, an economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Pascual Restrepo of Boston University estimated in June that up to 70% of the stagnation in U.S. wages between 1980 and 2016 could be explained by machines replacing humans doing routine tasks. Many of the jobs that get automated were at the middle of the skill distribution, Acemoglu says. They dont exist anymore, and the workers that used to perform them are now doing lower-skill jobs. ___ AP Economics Writer Christopher Rugaber contributed to this story. Next Story : FabNU Is Here To Fix All Your Wardrobe Woes These ladies of Bollywood have taken the matters of the sari into their own hands and are inspiring us to wear them to the next event that were invited to.On that note, a round-up of the best sari looks weve seen in the month of August. Have a look!Image: Instagram Wedding season is just around the corner, and we think that Hina Khans sequin sari by designer Manish Malhotra would be the perfect match for it. She paired the mint green tulle number thats embellished with bugle beads and pearls with a jadau choker from Manish Malhotra Jewellery by Raniwala and wore it with an almost backless sequin blouse. Extra points for the bombshell blowout hair.If you needed a lesson or two on wearing incandescent hues like its no big deal, this look of Kiara in an orgazna kaffir lime colour sari is everything. The actors Torani saree that she has worn with a halter-neck blouse featuring vintage rose chintz is injecting the look with a dose of subtle retro galmour, only made better by the low chignon. A demure-looking Kiara is unconventional, but we could get used to it.Madhuri Dixt is squashing ageist generalizations with her choice of outfits. Here, shes seen sporting a pre-draped silk sari from designer Punit Balana. A skirt-sari hybrid, this design is perfect for the modern traditionalists who like their outfits rejigged with a little bohemian vibe, regardless of their age. Throw on some chunky silver jewellery like the actor to finish the look.We cannot, not mention Malaika Aroras appearance in this Manish Malhotra sari that is akin to liquid gold. The sari features embellishments arranged in highly structural geometric patterns that make it look new age. How stunning is that abstract diamond neckpiece from Mahesh Notandas? If youre looking for an outfit inspiration for Indian weddings, this one from Malaikas many, many sari looks is perfect.Nora Fatehi in this Anjul Bhadari chikankari sari is the stuff of fashion lore. While were always talking about championing heritage Indian artistry in our going-out wardrobes, Nora has done it with her beige sari thats embellished with Japanese pearls, sequins, beads, and finished with a zardozi border. The vermillion banarasi blouse might just be the inspiration that the fashion world needed to bring back the high-neck design. Is this a look brides can cop on their wedding day? We think so.Which one do you like the most?Also Read: Let's Take a Second To Talk About Hina Khans Sequin Sari LONDON, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Justin Kareem Hawley was recently appointed as the first Ambassador of St Kitts and Nevis to the UAE. In a meeting that took place between Hawley and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, credentials were presented and Hawley was officially welcomed. This important appointment comes at a time when the governments of St Kitts and Nevis and the UAE continue to explore ways in which the two can further cooperation. The two nations currently liaise in areas of renewable energy development, climate change adaptation and tourism. St Kitts and Nevis is also home to many individuals from the Middle East, including the Gulf countries, that constitute a vital part of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme of St Kitts and Nevis. The programme grants citizenship to individuals of high net worth and their families, generally within a matter of months, who get visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to nearly 160 countries. Furthermore, new citizens are also permitted access to healthcare, education and full working and living rights in the sunny Caribbean nation. Nevis's Premier, Hon. Mark Brantley, also applauded the new Ambassador. "I congratulate our very first Ambassador to the UAE HE Justin Hawley. This significant upgrade to our diplomatic presence in the Middle East will allow St Kitts and Nevis to continue to deepen and strengthen relations with this significant region of the world," he tweeted. CS Global Partners is one of the authorised representatives for the St Kitts and Nevis CBI Programme with a presence in the UAE. Paul Singh, the firm's director, said there was a notable increase of interest in CBI from the Arab world during the pandemic. The demographic that the programme largely caters to in the region are from Lebanon, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan and Morocco. "Second citizenship is essential for many from the Middle East, especially in the UAE, because it gives them an opportunity to grow their business and set up offices in major business hubs worldwide." The CBI programme was launched in St Kitts and Nevis in 1984 to stimulate foreign direct investment inflows and is now the longest-standing in the world. Last month, it was ranked as the best globally by the Financial Times' PWM magazine. Contact: pr@csglobalpartners.com www.csglobalpartners.com Paxton, IL (60957) Today Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High near 80F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. (CNN) -- White House chief of staff Ron Klain said Sunday that the US will find ways to get any remaining Americans in Afghanistan out of the country if they want to leave, even after the US finished its military evacuation of US citizens, third country nationals and vulnerable Afghans. Klain told CNN's Dana Bash on "State of the Union" that the administration believes there are "around 100" Americans still in Afghanistan and said he is hopeful that if Qatar resumes air service in and out of Kabul, Afghanistan, in the coming days, Americans might be able to get on those flights. "We are going to find ways to get them -- the ones that want to leave -- to get them out of Afghanistan. We know many of them have family members, many of them want to stay, but the ones that want to leave, we're going to get them out," he told Bash, echoing President Joe Biden, who said last week that getting Americans out is now a diplomatic mission as opposed to a military one. The comments from Klain come nearly a week after the US withdrew all American troops from Afghanistan to meet an August 31 deadline to exit the country. Though US forces conducted a sweeping airlift to get thousands of Americans and Afghan allies out of the country, some were left behind, presenting an ongoing challenge to the US, which no longer has a military presence in the country. Pressed by Bash on reports that the Taliban, which is now in control of Afghanistan, are systematically hunting down and killing Afghans who worked with the US over the 20 years that there was a US military presence there, Klain did not dispute the reports, but said the administration continues to work to try and get those people out of the country. "Dana, we -- there are all kinds of reports coming in. We're in close communication with our sources and our contacts in Afghanistan to try to get those SIVs out, to get them out safely," Klain said, referring to Special Immigrant Visa holders. "We're gonna continue to work to move those SIVs out of the country." Biden's top aide also touted the US military's "historic airlift," which brought 124,000 people out of Afghanistan over the course of a couple weeks after the Taliban took control of the country. But a senior State Department official said last week that "the majority" of Afghans who worked for the United States during its 20-year military campaign there were likely left behind in the chaotic and rushed evacuation. There were at least 20,000 SIV applicants in the pipeline prior to the US withdrawal, and the State Department has not provided a specific count of how many of those evacuated from Afghanistan fall into that category. Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger blasted the administration in a separate interview on "State of the Union" Sunday, telling Bash that the failure to fully evacuate all SIV applicants from Afghanistan before the US withdrew troops represents a "shameful moment in America." "This is America's reputation. This is going to last for a long time. It's going to be a stain on our country," said Kinzinger, an Air Force veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Illinois congressman also said he hadn't heard back from the administration after he sent letters to the secretaries of State and Defense asking for specifics on exactly who was evacuated and who wasn't. The-CNN-Wire & 2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. As we celebrate Labor Day and essential workers amid a viciously resurgent pandemic, we ought to match our rhetoric with some concrete protections for these workers you know, all those warehouse employees, meatpackers, farmworkers and supermarket staff that industry groups love to thank online while doing little, if anything, for them in the real world. Were talking basic things like fresh N-95 masks for all workers, face shields wherever needed, adequate physical distancing, free regular testing for COVID-19 and paid sick time for every worker who needs it all recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. The problem is that President Joe Biden has abandoned his own executive order, issued on his second day in office, to protect workers health and safety during the pandemic. Biden pledged to enact a new infectious disease rule to protect workers which the Trump administration refused to do by last March. Three months later, in June, he finally signed a narrow rule that only covers health care workers leaving out tens of millions of workers who toil daily in dangerous conditions where COVID-19 infections have spread like wildfire. Hostetler applied for help from the organization without any thought of getting a wheelchair lift. She just wanted whatever assistance they could provide. But Mercy House had just received a donation from another local family: a Toyota Braun Rampvan, outfitted with a retractable ramp that makes it much easier to roll a wheelchair up into the cabin. This particular vehicle we received as a donation came to us from a family that had that kind of vehicle with a wheelchair lift, Enger said. Just prior to this donation, we had been approached by a woman who had a child with that kind of need so it just kind of happened through the grace of God. The family which donated the van requested anonymity. Hostetler said that the donated van and its ramp ramp has brought new mobility to the family. I cant lift him up by myself, she said, explaining the difficult process they had to use before receiving the van a couple months ago. The family used to load Dalton into a car seat, then finagle the wheelchair into the back. A process that used to take several minutes now takes about 30 seconds with the ramp. No cure While those improving figures represent a rebounding economy, they're still above pre-pandemic levels. In July 2019, for example, Linn County had a 4.2% unemployment rate while Benton County was at 3%. Combined, Linn and Benton counties had roughly 3,500 fewer people employed in July than before the pandemic, according to Oregon Employment Department data. The difference was most stark in Benton County, which was down 2,820 nonfarm jobs, or 6.5%. Linn County was below prepandemic levels by 750 jobs, or 1.5%. O'Connor said that a variety of factors contributed to job losses. Some people were put out of work by layoffs. Others didn't want to work and risk their health during the pandemic. And some residents, notably single mothers, were forced to leave their jobs to take care of children in an age of limited childcare options and online schooling. "It's a combination of reasons," O'Connor added. Oregon also reported a decrease for its unemployment rate statewide for July. The state had a seasonally adjusted 5.2% rate which was down from 5.6% in June. At the height of the pandemic, Oregon's unemployment rate reached a record 13.2%. The state has collected statewide unemployment data since 1978, and county-by-county figures since 1990. Gettysburg, PA (17325) Today Partly cloudy early. Scattered thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 87F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Cheyenne resident and former journalist Bob Vines is pictured while hospitalized with COVID-19. Vines is raising money to buy new shoes for the CNAs who have cared for him and others across Wyoming. We still need a plan to avert further disaster in Afghanistan (Left) As president and CEO, Michael Jones will work closely with the board of directors and Delta Dentals executive leadership team to create and leverage partnerships that strengthen the organizations ability to meet current and evolving market demands. (Right) Allan Allford, who has served as president and CEO of Delta Dental since 2010, revealed in February his plans for retirement by years end. SAN DIEGO, Sept. 05, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The U.S. Senate is currently controlled by the Democratic Party, thanks to the tie-breaking vote of Vice President Kamala Harris. But the Senate is tied at 50-50, and the loss of a single senator to the Republican side would flip the balance of the Senate and have ramifications across America. Today, Republican candidate Larry Elder has stated that he plans to replace Feinstein with a Republican, should he become governor and Feinstein resigns. In response to Mr. Elder, Dr. Brandon Ross has made a similar commitment to replace Feinstein with a Democrat. Dr. Ross goes further and has stated his intention to appoint a Democrat who is female and either of African American or Hispanic descent. "My phones and email have been lighting up today from constituents asking me my take on Elder's position. Obviously, there is no question that I will fill any void left in one of California's U.S. Senate seats with a top-qualified Democrat. But I would like to take that a step further and commit to trying to even the playing field in the Senate. I will find the most qualified minority female candidate for the job. Females and minorities have been under-represented in U.S. politics for too long, and if I have a chance to make a difference, I will do so." It should be noted that Senator Feinstein has recently stated that she has no intention of stepping down. Feinstein has served in the U.S. Senate since the early 1990s. For more on the Ross Campaign, see: www.ross4gov.com ross4gov@gmail.com (619) 883-3599 Related Images Dr. Brandon Ross Leading democratic challenger for California Governor, Dr. Brandon Ross This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. Attachment Gloucester, MA (01930) Today Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High 78F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms in the evening, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low 64F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%. MONGO [mdash] Ida Mae Christner, 94, Mongo, died at her home Sept. 9. Mrs. Christner was born July 28, 1927, in Topeka, to Martin W. and Lovina (Yoder) Yoder. Living her lifetime in LaGrange County, she was a homemaker and loved to cook and bake. She was a volunteer for many years at Miller' Support local journalism We are making critical coverage of the coronavirus available for free. Please consider subscribing so we can continue to bring you the latest news and information on this developing story. GREENWICH Dorothea Bellafiore doesnt know any other 103-year-old cheerleaders. I dont know any other 103-year-olds, the sharp-witted mother of five said. But that doesnt stop her from taking center stage with The Pom Squad, a group of active-minded chanters who strutted their stuff at a recent variety show at The Mews of Greenwich, a downtown senior living community. Linda Radice, who has been organizing exercise and recreational activities at the community since 2018, decided to incorporate a little cheerleading during the twice-weekly chair exercise classes after seeing the 2019 film Poms starring Diane Keaton. The Mews librarian first screened the lighthearted movie that focuses on a group of senior women who are game to spit in the eye of ageism by signing up for a cheerleading competition. Radice was so inspired by the movie that she bought the DVD. I must have watched it a gazillion times, she said. Radice usually begins class with a stretch-along warm-up, transitioning to dance moves to music from classical to country. Cheering pairs well with senior exercise because it involves a lot of hand moves that support upper body strength and tone, she said. And they have a ball, she said. Resident Ethel Renek has been dancing for most of her 89 years, favoring interpretive dance. The former Pound Ridge, N.Y., resident said Radices lively attitude inspires the group to put enjoying themselves above any other concerns. She has a tremendous amount of enthusiasm and a sense of humor, said Renek, who cheered, read her original poetry, sang and danced at the recent show. Choosing the effervescent Shania Twain tune Up! for their performance is one indication of The Pom Squads vibe. If youre not able to touch your toes, touch your knees, Renek said. The point is to not judge ourselves. Bellafiore had to make time in her busy schedule for cheerleading: She has a standing weekly date to play bridge and holds a Zoom chat with her five children from Boston to Hawaii each Sunday. Im a people person, said the Brooklyn, N.Y., native. I like the people here very much. The more people I see, the more I like. Born 100 years ago just outside Tipperary, Ireland, Mary Lavelle admits she found cheerleading a bit of curiosity when she first arrived in America in 1955. I thought it was a little hilarious, said the mother of three. I wondered where it started. All these young girls, scantily clad. Shes still not sure about the activity, but she said cheering from a chair during exercise class is an extension of the way she was raised. I was the second youngest of three girls and four boys, she said. We kept things spotlessly clean and we walked everywhere to school, to funerals. Everyone walked. We just had good clean water, clean air and exercise. She and her late husband sent their own children to parochial school, where the nuns taught more than reading and writing, she said. They taught you to take charge of yourself, she said. Thats whats important. Joining a cheerleading team and performing at the senior community talent show at 100 makes perfect sense, she said. Life was great back then, but Im just as happy now, she said. You have to make your own fun and be around people who make you happy. Hello to another week's recap. The vivo X70 series are coming on September 9 and the flagship of the lot - the X70 Pro+, will have a 50MP 1/1.31-inch ISOCELL GN1 main camera, a 5x 8MP periscope unit, 48MP ultrawide snapper and Zeiss T* lenses all over. We expect the chip of choice to be the Snapdragon 888+. Samsung unveiled two ISOCELL sensors this week - the 50MP GN5 with 1.0m pixels and improved all-directional autofocus - and the flagship 200MP HP1 that will be featured in the Galaxy S22 Ultra. It can output in 200MP, 50MP and 12.5MP, the latter with the biggest 2.56m pixel pitch, and shoot 8K video. According to a tipster, the Xiaomi 12 will feature a triple 50MP camera with a 5x periscope - that's three cameras, all with 50MP sensors - nice! Samsung's Galaxy S22+ will have a 4,500mAh battery, while the Galaxy S22 Ultra will retain the 5,000mAh unit - neither is going to ship with a charger, though. Those were the key stories, but you can find the full list below. See you in a week! Leakster: the Xiaomi 12 will have a triple 50MP camera with a 5x periscope The Mi 11 Ultra is already close to that with a 50+48+48 MP camera and a 5x periscope. The next ultra will probably have a 200 MP camera, though. Oppo will launch the Reno6 series in Europe, the Middle East and Africa early next month The 5G models are getting the most attention, though some countries will get the Reno6 (4G) as well. There's no sign of the Reno6 Pro+, however. Samsung unveils flagship 200MP ISOCELL HP1, 50MP ISOCELL GN5 sensors The HP1 will likely be the imager of choice for the Galaxy S22 Ultra. Xiaomi CC11 surfaces on TENAA with 64MP main camera, 6.55" AMOLED display The phone should launch under the "Xiaomi Note 11" name globally. Rumor has it that it will be powered by a Snapdragon 778G or 780G. Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G launched in India The new A-series midranger is already up for grabs from Samsung and partner retailers. Windows 11 to launch without Android apps support Microsoft will bring Android apps to Insider users in the following months, though. Bloomberg: Apple iPhone 13's satellite link may be limited to emergency messages Following a recent report that the iPhone 13 will support a satellite connection, a new report suggests this may be solely for emergencies. One UI 4 beta (based on Android 12) will start testing on the Galaxy S21 series in September Users in South Korea are the first invited to the beta test, but users from other regions should be able to join soon. Honor X20 Max reportedly coming with a 7.2 screen The phone will keep the X20 design and arrive with a 6,000 mAh battery. Weekly poll: what kind of zoom camera setup do you want on your next phone? Sonys Xperia 1 III and 5 III have the first variable focal length cameras weve seen in years. They offer a focal length of 70 mm and 105 mm (which works out to 3x and 4.4x magnification). But those can only switch between the two stages, they cant zoom smoothly through the range. Oppo announced an 85-200 mm continuous zoom lens last month, though its not clear when we will actually be able get our hands on one. Continuous zoom is what it sounds like, the focal length can be smoothly adjusted between the two values. And thats not all either, Samsung will reportedly use cameras with continuous zoom on the Galaxy S22 generation, which is expected to launch early next year. Perhaps only the Ultra will get it, but maybe the S22 and S22+ will have it too, since according to rumors they will drop the mostly digital zoom setup of their predecessors. Digital zoom is still a valid solution, especially with the high resolution sensors of today (and the 200MP sensors of tomorrow). As Google showed with the Pixel, it can be done well, but it requires advanced image processing algorithms that very few companies have figured out. The progress of digital zoom: Pixel 2 (left) vs. Pixel 3 (right), both using a 12 MP sensor Here is this weeks question for you what kind of zoom setup do you want on your next phone? All digital? Digital plus one or two (or three) tele lenses. Continuous zoom lenses? Obviously, the advanced continuous zoom modules will be expensive at first so they will be available only on flagships. This may be the case for years to come, as entry-level phones and most mid-rangers dont have tele cameras but ultrawides are a dime a dozen. So, keep that in mind when answering the question. Maybe you dont zoom in often enough to pay the extra cash for camera modules you dont use. One or two old-school tele lenses might be enough for you. Or maybe youre willing to pay extra to get high quality shots at any distance. If you're having trouble voting using the embedded poll widget above, cast your vote here. In collaboration with the American Medical Center, the Guam Department of Education will be hosting a Covid-19 Vaccination Outreach on Sept. 18 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Tiyan High School gymnasium. This outreach is available to students 12 years or older. For information, email info@gdoe.net. Former Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority attorney Mark Smith, who faces federal criminal charges, has asked the court to dismiss his case, arguing the territorial federal judge assigned to it is legally ineligible. Smith and his friend, Glenn Wong, were indicted in the District Court of Guam in March 2017. Prosecutors alleged Smith rented properties under the federal Section 8 program while he was GHURAs lawyer, which isnt allowed, court documents state. The federal program pays most of the rent of eligible low-income residents. Smith allegedly signed his properties over to Wong, who collected rent and gave the money to Smith, through bank transfers and other means, documents state. Smith and Wong were charged with money laundering, wire fraud, theft of government property, making a false statement on a loan application and engaging in monetary transactions with the proceeds of unlawful activity. Wong died earlier this year, and the case against him was dismissed in June. Jury selection and trial for Smith are scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Oct. 19. Smith on Sept. 2 filed a motion to dismiss the case, objecting to Chief Judge Ramona Manglona, from the District Court of the Northern Mariana Islands, presiding over it. Manglona took over the case after Guam District Court Chief Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood disqualified herself. According to Smiths motion, Manglona, as a federal judge in a U.S. territory, is not qualified to substitute for Tydingco-Gatewood. Unlike other federal judges, those in the U.S. territories do not serve for life and have limited terms, of 10 years, unless reappointed. Smiths motion asks the court to instead assign a federal judge with lifetime tenure to hear his criminal case or any other type of judge authorized by Congress. Without a properly vested federal judge presiding over Smiths proceedings, this court cannot operate nor conduct a felony criminal trial, the motion states, adding Smiths rights would be irreparably damaged if the case moves on to trial. According to the federal indictment, Wong transferred federal rental assistance funds to Smith in several different ways, but mostly by depositing the money into Smiths credit card or loan accounts. Heres a breakdown: $243,839.76, Deposits to Smiths loan or credit card accounts; $23,900, Cash to Smith through checks, made out to cash, from Wongs account. A third person, with the initials JCB, endorsed the checks and gave the cash to Smith; $15,569.94, Deposits to Smiths checking or savings accounts Manglona scheduled a hearing for 1:30 p.m. Sept. 23 on Smiths motion to dismiss the case. The closure of schools to face-to-face instruction is expected to last two to three weeks, at a minimum, according to education Superintendent Jon Fernandez, who said the governors executive order prohibits it indefinitely, pending further action by the governor. Well be working with Public Health and the governors office and the lieutenant governor to determine when we can return. Our goal is to return to face-to-face instruction as soon as it is safe to do so, Fernandez said. When youre imposing new restrictions, its gonna take two to three weeks to see if those restrictions have the intended effect of lowering the number of new (COVID) cases. Guam Department of Education students are scheduled to resume classes Tuesday morning, 100% online, after Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero issued an executive order Aug. 27, prohibiting face-to-face instruction because of a spike of positive COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the community. The ban affects private and public schools, grades K-12. Department of Defense Education Activity schools in Guam are not affected and did not close campuses. We do have enough devices and laptops, for online instruction, said Deputy Superintendent Joe Sanchez. DOE has been distributing devices to students through their respective schools. There are about 28,000 DOE students, and DOE has about 30,000 laptops, with 3,000 more expected to arrive soon. Most were purchased using federal pandemic funds. Mi-Fi Providing home internet access to all DOE students who need it is another matter. All the mi-fi devices we procured under the governors funding (were) already distributed. There are no more devices to pass out to students, Sanchez said. We are in the process of procuring more mi-fi devices, but we know that they wont necessarily be ready for this particular shutdown. Sanchez said students who need internet access can use one of the community learning centers at the public schools. We have 30 of our schools that are gonna be open during the day, 7 to 4 oclock, where students go to utilize the internet, he said. Sanchez said teachers have been advised there may be some students who are unable to attend live classes because of problems with internet access and connectivity. Sanchez said the schools will instead assign work to those students by email, Google Classroom or other means. Safety plan Public Health officials last week told lawmakers the public schools have a good safety plan in place, based on Public Health guidance, but the decision to close the schools was prompted by the rise in community cases. As of last Friday, there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 linked to spread within the public schools. Chima Mbakwem, chief public health officer at the Department of Public Health and Social Services, told lawmakers the latest mitigation efforts should cause the number of new COVID-19 infections to dip during the next several weeks. The new guidance has a layered approach to actually keep the schools safe. But what happens is that if theres an increase in the community cases it also tends to tell us what actions to take, which is what we did in the last few weeks, Mbakwem said. When we started seeing the increase in the local cases, we had to shut the schools down because the community increase was actually going to affect the schools. Public Health Director Art San Agustin told lawmakers Public Health is concerned about the transition periods at the schools, when students arrive, move between classes, eat lunch, and prepare to go home. The schools have different, varying approaches. What we saw was a real hard effort on the staff of the Department of Education to come and do the best they can to protect the school-age kids, San Agustin said. But we still had concerns about that transition, and the number of positives that were in the school these are kids in the school. In this file photo, Guam firefighters conduct a search for a missing spearfisherman at Tagachang Bay in Yona on April 23, 2019. The spearfisherman, a male in his thirties, was later found in good health south of Tagachang Bay, according to Guam Fire Department spokesman Kevin Reilly. Members of the Guam National Guards Task Force Engineer and Surgeon Cell install the first of two BLUEMED tents outside the emergency room of the Guam Regional Medical City hospital in Dededo on Nov. 2, 2020. Haiti - COVID : The DR will donate 100,000 vaccines to Haiti Friday September 3, 2021, Roberto Alvarez, the Minister of Foreign Affairs announced that the Dominican Government will donate 505,000 doses of vaccine against Covid-19 including : 100,000 doses in Haiti, 101,000 in Honduras and 304,000 in Guatemala after receiving donation requests from these 3 countries. The vaccine that will be given is the "Vaxzevria" from the Anglo-Swedish laboratory Astrazeneca better known under the popular name of Astrazeneca vaccine. "The national authorities have ordered the immediate start of an international cooperation program to help, as far as we can, these brother countries affected by the unjust and unequal international distribution of vaccines." Roberto Alvarez, specifies that the ability to overcome the pandemic within a reasonable time depends on the solidarity distribution of vaccines against the virus "because it is very likely that the inequality in access to vaccines could generate new waves of contagion in the nations lagging behind in their immunization plans." This vaccine, which can be stored in the refrigerator, between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius, comes in an injectable suspension packaged in a 10-dose vial. After the first dose is withdrawn, the shelf life is 48 hours if the vial is returned to the refrigerator, or 6 hours if the vial is stored at room temperature (up to 30C). The unopened 10-dose vial can be kept for 6 months in the refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. However, one can wonder if these 100,000 additional vaccines, once handed over to the Haitian health authorities, will not expire in 6 months before they have even been used. Recall that Haiti, thanks to the COVAX mechanism, received on July 15, 2021 a donation of 500,000 "Spikevax" vaccines (official name since June 21, 2021) from the MODERNA Laboratory https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34237-haiti-covid-500-000-vaccines-in-haiti-75-of-haitians-do-not-want-to-be-vaccinated.html which will expire at the end of November 2021. However, from July 16, 2021 to August 31 (in 46 days), Haiti has only succeeded in injecting 34,500 doses of vaccine and it is unlikely that in the 90 days remaining before the expiry date, the authorities will manage to inject the vaccines. some 460,000 remaining doses before they expire, considering that 76% of Haitians refuse to be vaccinated https://www.haitilibre.com/fben.php?id=34237 See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34237-haiti-covid-500-000-vaccines-in-haiti-75-of-haitians-do-not-want-to-be-vaccinated.html HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Education : The largest Vocational Training Center of CARICOM will bear the name of Jovenel Moise The largest Vocational Center in the Caribbean at the cutting edge of technology, meeting international standards, a project dear to President Jovenel Moise, assassinated on July 7, 2021, which he was to inaugurate in a few months, aroused admiratio among southerners who decided to do him justice To honor the memory of President Jovenel Moise, assassinated on July 7, 2021, who was to inaugurate the largest Professional Center in the Caribbean in a few months, the Cayens propose to baptize the professional training complex "Centre Professionnel Jovenel Moise". An initiative welcomed by the Secretary of State for Training Maguy Durce who wishes to join Marie Lucie JOSEPH, the Minister of National Education and Vocational Training and Dikel Delvariste the Director General of the National Training Institute Professional (INFP) to materialize this initiative. Remember that following the laying of the first stone in August 2017 (at Dexia) https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21795-haiti-les-cayes-laying-the-foundation-stone-of-the-largest-caribbean-vocational-training-center.html, this vast complex at the cutting edge of technology, entirely financed by Brazil to the tune of 17 million dollars and provisionally baptized "Brasilia-Tech", built on a land of 15 hectares, will be the largest Training Center in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-18268-icihaiti-brazil-construction-of-the-greatest-training-center-of-the-caricom.html. The construction time was estimated between 3 and 5 years. It will welcome 3,000 students in 5 fields: textiles, civil construction, mechanics, electro-mechanics, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and a choice of 30 professions. Professional skills will be validated by 4 levels of certification : Attestation of Professional Aptitude (AAP); Professional Aptitude Certificate (CAP); Professional Aptitude Certificate (BAP) and Executive Technician Diploma (DT / DTS). Note : However, we do not have an official post-earthquake assessment of this major complex under construction that allows us to know to what extent the earthquake-proof buildings have been affected. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-21795-haiti-les-cayes-laying-the-foundation-stone-of-the-largest-caribbean-vocational-training-center.html https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-19149-haiti-brazil-agreement-on-the-strengthening-of-vocational-training.html https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-18268-icihaiti-brazil-construction-of-the-greatest-training-center-of-the-caricom.html TB/ HaitiLibrfe Login or sign up to follow actresses, movies & dramas and get specific updates and news Login Sign Up Email Password Password Username Your E-mail will only be used to retrieve a lost password. Stay logged in Help Michigan City, IN (46360) Today Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 74F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Clear. Low 51F. Winds light and variable. For many, the events of Sept. 11, 2001, seem recent, as if they could have just ha A meeting between representatives of the Central Committee in Daraa and representatives of the Security Committee of the forces of the Government of Damascus and the Russian side is currently under way at the Municipal Stadium of the Daraa station, on the one hand, in a new round of negotiations to reach a final solution on the Daraa file, according to the Syrian Observatory. This meeting comes amid continued commitment by the Russians and the Damascus Government to the issue of deporting those who refuse to settle and surrender arms and other items of the agreement, such as the placement of military posts and house searches. This morning, Daraa, the country, after an unsuccessful attempt at advance, witnessed a rocket bombing by the Damascus Government forces of the Fourth Division and other forces. T/S ANHA Videos Sorry, there are no recent results for popular videos. A TEENAGER who hopes to join the army has been selected as the Mayor of Henleys cadet. Lance Corporal Grace Iveson is a member of the Henley Army Cadets and was chosen by her detachment commander, 2Lt Mel Haynes. The role involves supporting the Mayor Councillor Sarah Miller at formal events such as the Remembrance Sunday service. Grace, 16, lives in Deanfield Avenue, Henley, with her mother Paula and brother, George, 13. Her father Matt lives in Twyford. She will begin studying for A-levels in politics, law and English language at The Henley College this month after leaving Piggott School in Wargrave. Im planning to do international relations at university, she said. I intend to join the Intelligence Corps. If I get the experience from the army, hopefully it will set me up for another career afterwards. About 20 cadets took part in the inspection at the Drill Hall in Friday Street, which was carried out by 2Lt Haynes and area commander Major Wayne Thrussell. They then divided into groups to demonstrate the skills they had learned. Grace, who was presented with a certificate and badge to mark her achievement, was one of seven cadets to be interviewed for the role. She said: Im good in interviews so I enjoyed it and I took it as an opportunity to learn, even if I didnt get it. I would like to say thank you to my detachment commander and company commander. We are the best detachment of the best company and that couldnt happen without them and all the adult volunteers. Cadets is so incredible it is the best part of my week. The people are incredible, both the instructors and the other cadets. The Henley detachment is one of five that make up the Nivelle Company in South Oxfordshire and normally has 35 to 50 young people attend the weekly meetings. Children normally join when they are 12 but Grace didnt do so until she was 14. She was inspired by her cousin, Amelia Jacob. She said: My cousin is also in the cadets and she got into it after she had an assembly at her school and the same happened with me. I would encourage anyone to join the cadets. It is an incredible experience and if you dont take it youre mad. Henley Army Cadets were quick to set up online meetings after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic and Grace said this had helped her to progress. She said: Because I joined later I didnt have as many oppportunities as everyone else but I passed a lot of subjects through lockdown that would probably have taken me a lot longer to do if it was not for the lockdown. We took a bad situation and made it positive. You can never really beat coming here every week and seeing all your friends but it is amazing what we were able to achieve online. Cllr Miller said: I think Grace is a great fit its going to be a good year. The important aspect is forging a strong relationship with the community and thats why it is so valuable for the children. One of my charities for the year is the Royal British Legion and the cadets always go out selling poppies. I think the cadets are so good for children. It is a fantastic way to teach them about discipline and respect and is not all about firing guns. 2Lt Haynes said: Grace is very mature and switched on and she copes well under pressure. She is also very good at talking to people. The cadets have to debrief a lot of the time and she is really good at feeding back information. She has the ability to command the room confidently and calmly and under pressure she will always perform she is so reliable. The choice was a no-brainer and I didnt even have to think or question my decision. I know she is really looking forward to it. The others were great and Im sure with time they will develop. Tallulah Scott, another cadet from the Henley detachment, was recently promoted to regimental serjeant major for the countys Rifles Battalion, having previously served as company serjeant major for Nivelle company. Tallulah, 17, of Greys Road, Henley, joined the cadets in 2016 and has previously held the ranks of cadet, lance-corporal, corporal, serjeant and colour serjeant. She will attend events around Oxfordshire and speak to cadets, including senior ones whom she will help train, and act as their voice within the organisation. Tallulah, who attends Piggott School in Wargrave, was inspired to sign up for the cadets by her father Nathaniel, who is an instructor and 2nd lieutenant in the Henley detachment and previously served in the armys military intelligence corps. Maj Thrussell said: Henley is probably our most successful detachment within the Oxfordshire battalion and it has won best detachment in Oxfordshire four years in a row. The two ways of looking at it are the feedback from the cadets and that they pass more here. Mel does more and the cadets are the most successful. Our biggest concern as an organisation is that we are not that well- known. I like to say we are NATOs best-kept secret. What has been really interesting is how weve improved in that respect during the pandemic and we are starting to be noticed more. The Henley Army Cadets parade every Wednesday at the Drill Hall in Friday Street from 7pm to 9.30pm as well as on many weekends throughout the year. The cadets undertake training taught by instructors or senior cadets. This can be outdoors in the fieldcraft area or indoors using a purpose-built range and building. If you are interested, email 2Lt Mel Haynes on 3360hayne@ armymail.mod.uk Free access for current print subscribers As a home delivery subscriber, you get free unlimited digital access to premium content on HenryHerald.com, including local news, local sports, obituaries, legal notices, local features, and the e-edition. All you need is your print subscription account number and your last name. Don't know your subscription number? Email access@henryherald.com with your delivery address. Activate your account now. Uniontown, PA (15401) Today Thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. High 76F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. North Andover, MA (01845) Today Partly to mostly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms developing during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 85F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Thunderstorms. Low near 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Fans on social media were stoked to hear Juice WRLD's appearance on Drake's Certified Lover Boy, following its release, Friday. The track, IMY2," which features Kid Cudi, opens with a snippet from Juice's 2019 interview with Montreality in which he can be heard saying, closing your eyes and dying in your sleep. I think thats what life is about, Juice says in the full interview. Truly finding yourself. And then closing your eyes and dying in your sleep. Finding yourself and finding other things. Finding yourself is one of the things, though, for sure. Dia Dipasupil / Getty Images Unfortunately, Juice and Drake never were able to truly collaborate prior to Juice's death in December 2019. Users on Twitter were quick to notice the Juice WRLD inclusion by Drake. "Juice tributes on two of the biggest albums of the year, just shows the impact he had in a small time," one fan tweeted. Juice was given a tribute on Kanye West's latest album, Donda. During Lil Yachty's verse on "OK OK ," he raps moment of silence, R.I.P. to Juice. "Juice tribute on DONDA and CLB. And people wanna say he had no impact or talent, literally the biggest artists in the world respect him and he still gets slandered," another fan wrote. Check out more reactions below. [Via] WASHINGTON (AP) The consolidation of the agriculture industry, with dominance by a few major companies, has become a focus of Washington policymakers. It was a key theme of an executive order President Joe Biden issued this summer on competition in the U.S. economy. Among the concerns is whether small-scale farmers and ranchers are being increasingly hurt. Rob Larew is president of the National Farmers Union, which advocates for family farmers and rural communities. The Associated Press recently interviewed Larew. This interview was edited for length and clarity. Q: The meat processing industry appears highly concentrated. Four big companies process about 80% of all beef. Whats the impact on family farmers? A: Consolidation has virtually eliminated competition in many agricultural markets. The farmers share of every dollar consumers spend on food has fallen from 50% in 1952 to less than 16%. A handful of massive plants process most meat. This system is vulnerable to shocks. A fire at a meatpacking plant in Kansas in 2019, the shuttering of many plants during the pandemic and a cyberattack on a major meatpacker have impacted markets, bringing lower prices for farmers and higher prices for consumers. Q: COVID hit the meat processing industry and its workers hard, with outbreaks at plants and people in crowded conditions getting sick. What should regulators do to bolster the food supply and ensure a more competitive marketplace? A: Instead of the large, inflexible corporations that dominate our food supply, we need to boost local and regional farm and food systems. The Agriculture Department committed $500 million in July to help build additional meat and poultry processing capacity. USDA also established a new grant program to help smaller-scale plants get certified so they can ship meat and poultry across state lines. The Packers and Stockyards Act, a law intended to protect livestock farmers from unfair practices by meatpackers, must be more strongly enforced. Regulators also must vigorously enforce antitrust laws, and they should review past mergers. If they find anticompetitive effects in mergers that violate the law, those companies should be broken up. Q: How are consumers affected by the problems with competition? A: The shuttering of many packing plants due to the pandemic or fire has pushed prices at the grocery store through the roof. And consumers have only the illusion of choice at the store because so many brands are owned by so few corporations. Q: There are moves to change the rules for Product of USA labels on meat. Why is that important? A: Under current rules, meat can be labeled a Product of USA if it's processed domestically but born, raised or slaughtered in another country. We need mandatory country-of-origin labeling for meat. If Hurricane Ida had veered west and hit Galveston, its 15-foot storm surge could have devastated the city and plowed up the Houston Ship Channel, smashing into residential communities and industrial facilities; its 150 mph winds could have left much of the Houston area without power for weeks, experts said. The region dodged yet another bullet last Sunday when Ida made landfall in Louisiana, inflicting catastrophic damage on its residents, property and oil-driven economy. But Houstons streak of relatively good luck since Hurricane Harvey four years ago is unlikely to last as climate change is expected to bring about more destructive hurricanes and sea level rise. A Category 4 hurricane such as Ida which brought a triple threat of wind, storm surge and torrential rainfall would have wreaked havoc on the Bayou City. Unlike New Orleans, which strengthened its levee system after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Houston hasnt completed any substantial projects to protect the region against surge from a major hurricane such as Ida. The stakes are high: The Houston area is home to 7.1 million residents, one of the busiest shipping ports in the country and the nations largest concentration of critical oil and gas facilities. We are sitting ducks right now for a storm, said Bill Merrell, a Texas A&M University professor who began advocating for an Ike Dike coastal barrier system years ago that has yet to get congressional approval. If Ida had hit Galveston instead of Port Fouchon, La., the hurricane could have caused devastating damage across the Houston region, meteorologists said. HURRICANE IDA: Incredible satellite images show Louisiana before and after Hurricane Ida's devastation Idas 15-foot storm surge would have been smaller than Hurricane Ikes 22-foot storm surge, the worst of which hit Bolivar Peninsula and parts of Chambers County in 2008. The Port of Houstons facilities, which are built 20 feet above sea level, likely would have survived. Luke Sharrett / Bloomberg Nevertheless, the surge from a storm with Idas intensity would not bode well for Houston, said Blake Eskew, a former energy consultant now at the Severe Storm Prediction, Education, & Evacuation from Disasters Center at Rice University. We would be in trouble. The Galveston Seawall, first built after the 1900 hurricane, could have blunted an Ida-like surge, but the bay side of the island would have seen significant flooding, said Lance Wood, a meteorologist with the National Weather Services Houston/Galveston office. More Information COMING MONDAY: A final version of the "Ike Dike" plan is soon to be released. Is the project strong enough? See More Collapse Idas sustained winds of 150 mph at landfall would have certainly exceeded any storm Houston has experienced in recent years, including hurricanes Harvey and Ike. Even parts of south Houston could have experienced Category 3 winds of between 111 mph and 129 mph, which would have damaged homes and other buildings. IDA'S AFTERMATH: Rig count plunges by 11 after Hurricane Ida disrupts offshore drilling These fierce winds have the potential to knock down transmission lines and leave much of the Houston area without power. However, it would have to be a massive hurricane to take out all the main power connections feeding into Houston, said Joshua Rhodes, a research associate at the University of Texas at Austins Energy Institute. Thats because Harris County has 27 transmission lines serving the region, compared with just eight in New Orleans. Widespread wind damage, flooding and power outages would be bad enough, but Houstons large concentration of oil and gas facilities could compound the natural disaster, experts said. Chemical fires, spills and emissions from damaged refineries and storage terminals could pose a threat long after the hurricane passes. People need to understand that these big hurricanes like this, even a Category 3, a big Category 3, its going to have a very significant impact, said Jeff Lindner, meteorologist for the Harris County Flood Control District. Its going to be challenging. Brett Coomer, Staff / Houston Chronicle Still not ready Houston has done little so far to mitigate the impact of a potential Ida, experts said. The region still relies on the 17-foot high seawall in Galveston. An 18-to-23-foot levee protects petrochemical facilities in Texas City and La Marque. A proposed barrier system in Galveston Bay, part of the Army Corps of Engineer's Coastal Texas Study, still needs to be approved, designed and built. The barrier would consist of a gate system that would stretch from the east end of Galveston Island across the mouth of the bay to Bolivar Peninsula. Its meant to stop storm surge as high as 22 feet from entering the Houston Ship Channel. In many respects, Harris County doesnt think of itself as a coastal county, Jim Blackburn with Rices Baker Institute of Public Policy said. So much of our rainfall flooding has been the focus I just think that weve got a very vulnerable back door to Harris County. The Corps is expected to submit a feasibility study to Congress by mid-September, which would allow federal authorities to earmark funding for the barrier system. The Corps estimates the cost of the entire project will be more than $26 billion. Merrell, the Texas A&M professor studying the plan, said the investment would be well worth the protection from a storm like Ida. The Army Corp. of Engineers flood reduction project in New Orleans, which cost $14.5 billion, appears to have prevented surge flooding during Ida. A properly designed Ike Dike would do the same, Merrell said. THE IMPACT OF IDA: Hurricane Ida aftermath includes oil spill in the Gulf Yet even if all goes according to plan, the barrier project is expected to still take up to 20 years to design and build, leaving the Houston region vulnerable to hurricanes for decades in the interim. We are wide open, Blackburn said. There is no question. Bob Stokes, president of the Galveston Bay Foundation, said hurricane mitigation efforts should go beyond the barrier project. While the Ike Dike could help stop an Ida-like storm surge, the barrier system isnt designed to withstand winds from a Category 4 or 5 hurricane or prevent major flooding inland from rain. Harris County has undertaken a number of projects since Hurricane Harvey to increase storage capacity for and conveyance of rainfall; a separate Corps project looking at addressing rainfall is still in the planning phase. Just as power plants should be ordered to weatherize their equipment for winter freezes, Houston leaders should be urging the oil and gas industry to shore up thousands of chemical storage tanks along the Gulf Coast, which are vulnerable to spills in the event of storm surge and extreme winds. And more homes along the Ship Channel should be bought out or elevated, Stokes said. Even if you think the coastal barrier is a great solution, it shouldnt be the end solution, Stokes said. Even if you had all the money in hand, it will take decades to build. We can be doing more in the short term that could make a big difference. Mark Felix / Bloomberg Oil & Gas at risk Houstons refinery and petrochemical complex the nations largest is particularly at risk of long-term catastrophic damage if it takes a direct hit from a major hurricane. There are eight major refineries and more than 200 chemical plants in the Houston Ship Channel and Galveston Bay, which produce about 13 percent of the nations gasoline and a quarter of its jet fuel. A 2015 Rice University study by Blackburn found that a 24-foot storm surge in the Houston Ship Channel could flood above-ground storage tanks and release 90 million gallons of oil and chemicals, 7 times the amount of oil spilled in the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster. A follow-up study published this year by Rice researchers found that chemicals released after a major hurricane could drift in the wind to a height of 5,000 feet for up to 12 hours, spreading across hundreds of miles into Texas. STORM COMPARISONS: How Hurricane Ida compares to Hurricane Katrina The oil and gas industry dotting the Gulf Coast is well aware of the risks major hurricanes pose to their operations. The industry trains and plans annually for extreme weather, tweaking emergency plans after every major storm, representatives said. The East Harris County Manufacturers Association, which represents 114 industry members representing about 130 plants in and around the Houston Ship Channel, said its storage tanks are built to sustain hurricane-force winds. Dikes have been dug around tanks to lessen the impacts of flooding and to contain any leaks. Manufacturers are not competitors when it comes to safety and environmental protection, MaryJane Mudd, EHCMAs executive director said in an email. After every storm event, lessons are shared and best practices established to improve performance. Brett Coomer, Staff / Houston Chronicle Suzanne Lemieux, the manager of emergency response policy with the trade group American Petroleum Institute, said the oil and gas industry has gotten better every year to protect facilities and workers against hurricanes. While the nations largest oil and gas trade group hasnt taken a position on the Galveston coastal barrier, it said it encourages more action by political leaders to do what it can to protect Gulf Coast refineries. We encourage the Army Corps of Engineers to work with the state, the Ship Channel, and users along the Ship Channel to determine what is the best option to protect those operations in that region of Houston that could be affected by significant storm surge, Lemieux said. Certainly there have been a lot of studies over many years. So we would encourage more action by the Corps. to do what they can with the state and the Ship Channel to improve and protect not just the operations, but the communities that could be impacted by storm surge. marcy.deluna@chron.com emily.foxhall@chron.com paul.takahashi@chron.com Dylan McGuinness and Andrea Leinfelder contributed to this story. Talos Energy is responding to an oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico that was discovered in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida. The Houston independent offshore producer on Saturday said it was notified Tuesday of an oil spill located two miles off the coast of Port Fouchon, La., where the Category 4 hurricane made landfall last weekend. The company on Wednesday deployed two oil recovery ships equipped with booms and skimmers, and is sending a lift boat with diving equipment to investigate the spill. An ongoing investigation has not determined the cause of the release at this time; however, extensive field observations indicate that Talos assets are not the source, Talos said in a statement Saturday. To date, no impacts to shoreline or wildlife have been observed. The oil spill was found in an unleased oil field called Bay Marchand, Block 5. Talos was notified of the spill because the company was the last leaseholder and operator at the site. Talos and a small interest partner Tenkay acquired the lease to the oil field from Stone Energy in 2014. Talos said it ceased production from the oil field in 2017, and plugged all of its wells and removed all of its pipelines from the area by 2019. Talos said the oil spill is located about 300 yards away from its plugged wells and former locations of its subsea pipelines. Satellite images on social media of the purported oil spill show a plume of oil emanating from underwater. The New York Times first reported about the oil spill on Saturday. OFFSHORE MEXICO: Talos' loss is a cautionary tale of operating in Latin America The Interior Departments Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, which oversees the offshore oil industry, and the U.S. Coast Guard, which responds to oil spills, did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Saturday. Environmental concerns are mounting in the wake of Ida, which damaged several oil and gas facilities in Louisiana and offshore platforms in the Gulf. The storm also forced refineries and petrochemical plants to flare, or burn off, excess chemicals before shutting down. Royal Dutch Shell on Tuesday said its Norco refinery and chemical plant in St. Charles Parish, La., was burning off more natural gas than usual after Ida slammed the region Sunday. Shells Norco manufacturing complex is without power, and photos on social media earlier in the week showed flooding at the site. Talos said it began responding to the Gulf oil spill on Wednesday, a day after it was notified by Clean Gulf Associates, a nonprofit oil spill cooperative. The company plans to start dive operations on Sunday to investigate the source of the oil leak. Talos will continue to work closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and other state and federal agencies to identify the source of the release and coordinate a successful response, Talos said. The companys top priorities are the safety of all personnel and the protection of the public and environment. Kat Cosley and her family had flown some eight hours to Hawaii for a beach vacation, only to be locked inside their hotel room by the staff. Cosleys family, along with others, was forced into quarantine on a hotel floor. She still cant believe it happened. Like many parents across the nation, Cosley and her husband, Frank Trigg, had hoped that normalcy was on the horizon back in July. That the pandemic was ending and we would soon be moving about like we did before all of this. The couple, who lives in Katy, booked a nine-day trip to Oahu to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary with their two boys, Lathen, 5, and Frankie, 8, and Cosleys mother, Margaret Cosley. The adults were fully vaccinated; the boys were too young for the COVID-19 vaccine. Cosley said she followed protocol uploaded their vaccine cards to Hawaiis Safe Travels site, then booked appointments at a Walgreens store for her children to get the COVID test before the flight. She couldnt predict that Walgreens would run out COVID tests, and shed be forced to rush her children to a reputable lab for the test just days before their departure. The results were negative. But in Hawaii, officials refused to accept the findings, saying the test was not conducted by a preferred provider. The family was shuttled to their hotel, where they were put into quarantine in a downgraded room. Cosleys boys cried from the room window, as they watched other children play in the water outside. This is the worst mom fail, Cosley thought. The kids were so emotional. They didnt understand why we had traveled all this way to be stuck in a hotel room. It was hard on everyone but especially the kids, she said. The next morning, Cosley and her husband spent thousands more dollars on airplane tickets for her and the boys to fly to Los Angeles for COVID tests, then return to Hawaii to salvage the rest of the vacation. The pandemic has made traveling, especially with small children, a monumental task. Its not just ensuring they are protected from germs but also preparing for anything and everything to go wrong. Hawaii has the most stringent COVID entry requirements in the country under the Safe Travels program. To bypass a mandatory 10-day quarantine, travelers must show proof of vaccination or present a negative COVID-19 test from an approved provider, taken no more than three days before arrival. I was on top of everything, Cosley said. I had done my research and gotten the COVID tests in advance. From the moment I booked the tests, it was all downhill from there. Im grateful we had the money to fly to LA, but it was a lot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated. If you are traveling with children who cannot be vaccinated, consider safer travel options, such as shorter plane rides and limiting how much they eat and drink in order to keep their masks on. Still, theres no such thing as a no-risk vacation during a pandemic. Though my recent trip with my kids wasnt affected by COVID protocol, being in a crowded airport with two young children caused enough stress. It was their first airplane ride, just days before the surge of COVID-19 cases in early August. We were bound for Atlanta, and I was determined to make it work. I had done my research, like Cosley, and ordered quality face masks and shields and packed enough wipes and hand sanitizer. I also reserved toddler car seats at the car-rental agency in Atlanta to avoid checking our car seats as luggage. The airport was jammed with travelers, restrooms were closed in many areas, and a burger and three small bottles of water cost $50. Once we arrived at the car-rental agency at midnight, the car seats, which I had confirmed would fit my 3- and 5-year-old days before, were for infants. I had no choice but to drive an hour and half to my friends house with my children strapped in adult restraints in the back seat, holding my breath that I wouldnt get stopped by police or end up in a car accident. The next day, I promptly bought car seats at Walmart and filed a complaint with the car-rental agency, which gave me a refund. Parents have had the most insane year, and navigating travel is no different., said Kristin Finan, co-founder of Austin Travels Magazine. I booked a bunch of trips because we were excited to be back on an airplane, then canceled them once COVID cases surged. Restrictions and protocol change daily. Im trying to make good decisions and listen to my gut about traveling. Finan and her husband, Patrick Badgley, took their six children ages 12, 10, 9, 8, 6 and 5 on a road trip in a rented RV to the Grand Canyon in 2020 to avoid the stress of airplane travel. Its impossible to predict what will happen when you travel with children during the pandemic. At least as parents, we all know that were in this together, she said. Our Atlanta trip was a needed respite to connect with former colleagues, family and friends. After a year of social distancing, I needed that interaction, and the kids enjoyed it, too. Still, Im not eager to get on another plane anytime soon. Like Cosley said, Im pretty smart and thought I was on top of everything. But the stress of making sure youre doing everything to prepare for a trip with kids during a pandemic is too much. Her advice, and mine: Dont travel right now. joy.sewing@chron.com WASHINGTON (AP) Mary Taboniar went 15 months without a paycheck, thanks to the COVID pandemic. A housekeeper at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Honolulu, the single mother of two saw her income completely vanish as the virus devastated the hospitality industry. For more than a year, Taboniar depended entirely on boosted unemployment benefits and a network of local foodbanks to feed her family. Even this summer as the vaccine rollout took hold and tourists began to travel again, her work was slow to return, peaking at 11 days in August about half her pre-pandemic workload. Taboniar is one of millions of Americans for whom Labor Day 2021 represents a perilous crossroads. Two primary anchors of the governments COVID protection package are ending or have recently ended. Starting Monday, an estimated 8.9 million people will lose all unemployment benefits. A federal eviction moratorium already has expired. While other aspects of pandemic assistance including rental aid and the expanded Child Tax Credit are still widely available, untold millions of Americans will face Labor Day with a suddenly shrunken social safety net. This will be a double whammy of hardship, said Jamie Contreras, secretary-treasurer of the SEIU, a union that represents custodians in office buildings and food service workers in airports. Were not anywhere near done. People still need help. ... For millions of people nothing has changed from a year and a half ago. For Taboniar, 43, that means her unemployment benefits will completely disappear even as her work hours vanish again. A fresh virus surge prompted Hawaii's governor to recommend that vacationers delay their plans. Its really scaring me, she said. How can I pay rent if I dont have unemployment and my job isnt back?" She's planning to apply for the newly expanded SNAP assistance program, better known as food stamps, but doubts that will be enough to make up the difference. "Im just grasping for anything, she said. President Joe Biden's administration believes the U.S. economy is strong enough not to be rattled by evictions or the drop in unemployment benefits. Officials maintain that other elements of the safety net, like the Child Tax Credit and the SNAP program (which Biden permanently boosted earlier this summer) are enough to smooth things over. On Friday, a White House spokesperson said there were no plans to reevaluate the end of the unemployment benefits. Twenty-two-trillion-dollar economies work in no small part on momentum and we have strong momentum going in the right direction on behalf of the American workforce, said Jared Bernstein, a member of the White House Council of Economic Advisers. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said he believed the country's labor force was ready for the shift. Overall the economy is moving forward and recovering, Walsh said in an interview. "I think the American economy and the American worker are in a better position going into Labor Day 2021 than they were on Labor Day 2020. Walsh and others point to encouraging job numbers; as of Friday the unemployment rate was down to a fairly healthy 5.2%. But Andrew Stettler, a senior fellow with the Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank, says the end of the expanded unemployment benefits is still coming too early. Rather than setting an arbitrary deadline, Stettler says the administration should have tied the end of the the protections to specific economic recovery metrics. He suggests three consecutive months with nationwide unemployment below 5% as a reasonable benchmark to trigger the end of the unemployment benefits. This does seem to be the wrong policy decision based on where we are, Stettler said. The end to these protections while the economic crisis persists could have a devastating impact on lower-middle class families that were barely holding on through the pandemic. Potentially millions of people "will have a more difficult time regaining the foothold in the middle class that they lost, Stettler said. Biden and the Democrats who control Congress are at a crossroads, allowing the aid to expire as they focus instead on his more sweeping build back better package of infrastructure and other spending. The $3.5 trillion proposal would rebuild many of the safety net programs, but it faces hurdles in the closely divided Congress. In the meantime, families will have to make do. These are two very important things that are expiring. There's no doubt that there will be families impacted by their expiration and that they will have additional hardship," Sharon Parrott, the president of the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, said in an interview. The COVID-19 response has been sweeping in its size and scope, some $5 trillion in federal expenditures since the virus outbreak in 2020, an unprecedented undertaking. Congressional Republicans had supported some of the initial COVID-19 outlays, but voted lockstep against Bidens $1.9 trillion recovery package earlier this year as unnecessary. Many argued against extending another round of unemployment aid, and Republicans vow to oppose Bidens $3.5 trillion package lawmakers are expected to consider later this month. There are still multiple avenues of support available, although in some cases the actual delivery of that support has been problematic. States with higher levels of unemployment can use the $350 billion worth of aid they received from the relief package to expand their own jobless payments, as noted by an Aug. 19 letter by Walsh and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Federal rental assistance funds remain available, though the money has been slow to get out the door, leaving the White House and lawmakers pushing state and local officials to disperse funds more quickly to both landlords and tenants. The investment bank Morgan Stanley estimated Thursday that the economy will grow at an annual pace of 2.9% in the third quarter, down sharply from its prior forecast of 6.5%. That decline largely reflects a pullback in federal aid spending and supply chain bottlenecks. And the economy still faces hurdles. Union officials says sectors like hotel housekeepers and office janitorial staffs have been the slowest to recover. Our industry is the tip of the spear when it comes to COVID, said D. Taylor, president of UNITE HERE, a union that represents hotel housekeepers a field that is "primarily staffed by women and people of color. Many of those housekeepers never returned to full employment even as Americans resumed traveling and hotel occupancy rates swelled over the summer. Taylor said several major hotel chains have moved to permanently cut down on labor costs by reducing levels of service under the guise of COVID. Taboniar's hotel in Hawaii for example has shifted to cleaning rooms every five days unless the guest specifically requests otherwise in advance. Even as the hotel was at more than 90% occupancy in August, she was only employed for half her usual pre-pandemic number of days. The delta variant of the coronavirus also poses a challenge, threatening future school closures and the delay of plans to return workers to their offices. Walsh called the delta variant an asterisk on everything. The sudden lapse of a crucial element of the pandemic safety net has fueled calls for a re-evaluation of the entire unemployment benefits system. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the chairman of the Finance Committee, said in an interview it's crucial that Congress modernizes the unemployment insurance system as part of the package. It's heartbreaking to know it didn't have to be this way, Wyden said. One of the changes he proposes is to have jobless benefits more linked to economic conditions, so they won't expire in times of need. We got to take the unemployment system into the 21st century, he said. ___ Associated Press writer Josh Boak contributed to this report. Jay R. Jordan / Jay Jordan, Staff A pedestrian was struck by a car and killed early Sunday morning in Channelview, according to authorities. Around 3 a.m., a car was traveling south in the 2000 block of Sheldon Road when it hit a man who was either walking or standing in the road, said Harris County Sheriffs Office deputies. A road rage shooting near a Houston gas station left a person Saturday night. Around 10 p.m., four people traveling in a Dodge sedan near the gas station at 2724 Quitman Street near Jensen Drive said they cut another vehicle off and then someone in that car began shooting in their direction, according to the Houston Police Department. A woman in the back seat of the sedan was struck in the leg by a bullet, police said. She was taken to a nearby hospital and is in stable condition. Police said the suspects car is a dark Dodge charger. Jay R. Jordan / Jay Jordan, Staff Two people were injured Saturday night in what the Harris County sheriffs office is investigating as possible road rage shooting. Officers responding to reports of shots fired around 7 p.m. on West Little York Road between Brittmoore Road and Sam Houston Parkway found two people suffering from gunshot wounds, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a statement. Alex Camacho felt like a sixth grader again, hearing the news of the planes hitting the Twin Towers during an early-morning class, as he visited the Lone Star Flight Museums new exhibit on Saturday commemorating the approaching 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. He can still feel the tension in the Dickinson school that day, as teachers cried and parents picked up students early. Its important for letting the new generation know, because a lot of them dont understand what it meant, Camacho said of the exhibit. They just see it maybe in the textbooks, so they dont understand what that is in our history. The exhibit, at 11551 Aerospace Ave., displays the names of the victims who died that day and a piece of an I-beam from the World Trade Center that is on loan from the city of Bellaire. Museum leaders said the milestone anniversary needed to be memorialized. Its important just to take a moment to recognize the people that are no longer here and then the families that it affected and then the path it has directed the rest of the United States, said Shelly Finley, Lone Star Flight Museum director of membership, public programs and ticketing. Finley was getting getting breakfast at the federal building for her job at the Houston Grand Opera when the first plane hit. Its hard to believe its already been 20 years. It doesnt feel like that, Finley said. We get so many kids in here, they dont know about it. Visitors can leave messages on a tree display on the museum wall, an idea that came from a pear tree that survived under the rubble of the World Trade Center and still stands at the memorial site. The tree features positive messages from visitors about finding hope and loving others. One visitor, Sharon Griffith, said the exhibit reminded her of that day, when she was at work when the first plane hit the building. They thought it was an accident at first, she said, until the next plane hit. Everybody was crying, Griffith said. It was one of the most horrible days Ive ever gone through. The 13 soldiers killed recently in killed in the Kabul Airport in Afghanistan is a reminder of the conflicts in the Middle East that began after the attacks, she said. Theyre fixing to release some of the classified papers, so now maybe we will find out who was actually behind all of this, Griffith said. Patrick Thompson, another visitor, called the exhibit impressive and important. Were still seeing ramifications of this, and I think well see ramifications for the rest of my life and probably another 100 years from now, Thompson said. The exhibit will run through Jan. 2, Finley said, with more programming planned for the weekend of 9/11. Billy Farney, a Houston resident who survived the 9/11 attacks, will be speaking at the museum, and a Q&A from the 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York will be shown, where students got to ask questions to survivors and family members of victims. paul.wedding@hcnonline.com Almost 80 years after battling racism in America and fascism abroad, Chinese American service members were recognized at a ceremony Sunday in southwest Houston as unsung heroes of World War II. When America didn't quite believe in you, you believed in America, Bob Lee, a retired major general, said at the ceremony for surviving and descendants. Lawmakers voted in late 2018 to honor Chinese-American veterans with a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor that Congress can bestow, with past winners including President George Washington, Major General Ulysses S. Grant, Winston Churchill, The Tuskegee Airmen, and the Capitol Police who protected the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 insurrection. The official presentation was delayed by COVID-19 pandemic until December, when Congress awarded the medal in a virtual presentation marking the 75th anniversary of WW II. On Sunday, officials with the Chinese American Citizens Alliance held a ceremony in southwest Houston to present the medals to four surviving veterans and to the relatives of at least another 170 veterans who have passed away. ESSAY: Asian Americans quietly made Houston history. Now we must be heard. The four surviving veterans listened as community officials extolled their service, and as Stephen Tom, a retired general several decades younger, described the medal, a 6-ounce piece of bronze emblazoned with two images: on one side, seven Chinese-American service members, one from each branch of the military the Army, Army Air Corps, Navy and Marine Corps and Coast Guard, along with a member of the U.S. Merchant Marine and an Army nurse. On the reverse side, the medal was emblazoned with military vehicles used in the conflict an Iowa class battleship, an M4 Sherman tank, and a P-40 Warhawk from the Flying Tigers, all set against a World War II-era American flag. Lewis Yee, 93, sat listening among the medal recipients, wearing a garrison cap and a blue vest bedecked with several medals from his service. He had been stationed in China with the Flying Tigers, a group of airmen who launched missions in Curtiss P-40 Warhawks famously painted with a grinning shark mouth on its nose. I'm glad today, he said, face beaming as he spoke. We were honored to serve this country. NEWSLETTERS Join the conversation with HouWeAre We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities. Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here. Despite racism, they still served their country During the war, nearly 20,000 Chinese-Americans or immigrants of Chinese ancestry fought for the U.S., many of whom were not citizens because of racist laws such as the Chinese Exclusion Act, which barred them from becoming citizens. Fewer than 300 of those are still alive, according to officials with the Chinese American WW II Veterans Recognition Project. While Chinese veterans may have experienced racism, that didnt prevent them from stepping up to serve their country, said Lee, one of two retired generals to speak at the event. With this medal you are now in the same company as (Past Congressional Gold Medal winners) George Washington and Ulysses S. Grant, he said, addressing Yee and the three other surviving veterans, Henry Gee, Bob Mah, Paul Yee. Gary Fountain, Houston Chronicle / Contributor At a time when Asian Americans have experienced a significant increase in racist attacks, prompted in part by the nicknaming of COVID-19 pandemic as the China virus, stories like those celebrated Sunday remind people that Asian Americans are Americans, said State Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston. Our contribution to this country is part of why this country is so great, he said, adding that Chinese servicemembers not only defended this country but showed the rest of the country what it means to be American. 'I FEEL GOOD': Car parade honors Houston Chinese American WWII vets on 75th anniversary Juanna Shin, daughter of award recipient Henry Gee, said attention on the war efforts of Asian Americans had given her the chance to learn more about her fathers time in the U.S. Navy. I didn't know much about his service, she said. For years, her dad didn't talk about it much. Gary Fountain, Houston Chronicle / Contributor The former sailor had been stationed stationed in Florida, where he joined crews searching for German submarines, and then spent a stint in the Pacific. Her father, Gee, listened to the speeches from politicians and community leaders. When he finally spoke to reporters, he was more concise: Im very proud, he said. Jose Lara knew something was wrong when he didnt see the yellow truck that belonged to his neighbor several houses down leaving for a nearby flea market, as was usually the case on Sunday mornings. He walked to the house in the 7500 block of Imogene when he noticed smoke coming from the house out just before 8 a.m. Lara wanted to see if his neighbors were inside. When no one responded to his knocking, Lara tried the door handle, but it was locked. We do not know whether the coronavirus escaped from a lab in Wuhan, China. What we do know is that a laboratory closer to home one of our 50 laboratories of democracy has cobbled together a monster worthy of Dr. Victor Frankenstein. Were talking about Texas, of course, where a power-hungry governor and his Trumpian disciples in the Legislature are piecing together policies more extreme than any in the nation. Walling off the states border with Mexico and totally outlawing abortion are only a couple of features of our new Lone Star leviathan. In a state thats changing, growing and apparently becoming less Republican, a state that became majority minority nearly 20 years ago, the GOPs Frankensteinian success has been both swift and stunning. Arguably, Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and the 87th Legislature have transformed Texas more thoroughly than any legislative session since the 30th, in 1907. Thats when Texas lawmakers, moved by progressive impulses stirring the nation, enacted far-reaching protections for everyday Texans the white ones, at least who had been at the mercy of big railroads, big business and the powerful banking industry. Thats not what we have today. We are dealing with relentlessly revanchist elected officials for whom power, not public service, is the driving force. Republican lawmakers this session have used their stronghold on the reins of state government to make purchasing a tool designed to kill human beings as simple and easy as buying a ready-made dinner at H-E-B, even though law enforcement officers warn that untrained, unlicensed gun carriers running around the state are likely to make their already-dangerous jobs even more perilous. They have enacted a deviously constructed anti-abortion law that in effect eliminates the procedure in Texas, with no exceptions, and encourages Texans to become abortion bounty hunters. They have attacked the linchpin of democracy by making it harder for Texans to cast ballots (the wrong Texans, that is). Abbott in particular has done his best to thwart efforts by schools, hospitals and local officials desperately trying to keep Texans from getting sick and dying in the midst of a pandemic. Abbotts monster is still missing a couple of limbs, but not for long. The governor will call lawmakers back into special session again soon to begin the process of redrawing district lines, not to ensure fair representation for his fellow Texans, but to keep the GOPs right wing in power for the next decade even as Republicans in an increasingly urban state fade into minority status. In addition to the care and feeding of the monsters redistricting mascot, an oddly shaped little creature known as the gerrymander, the governor and his minions are busy attaching yet another limb to their creation. Like the nativist former president they adore, they are scapegoating immigrants. They are intent on building a wall, a mighty Made-in-Texas wall or, at least, a fence that they say will thwart the proverbial hordes of undesirables surging across the Rio Grande. If Abbotts wall also showcases their so-called conservative bona fides for primaries and general elections to come, well, so much the better. Lawmakers approved nearly $2 billion (of our money) to fund so-called security operations. In total, the additional expenditure triples the $1.05 billion lawmakers approved during the spring. Abbotts director of budget policy, Sarah Hicks, told lawmakers the governors office would receive $1.02 billion from the funding bill for border security grants, including $750 million reserved for constructing a physical barrier. Thats in addition to a $250 million down payment the state made on a border wall this summer. Hicks said the Department of Public Safety has identified 733 miles where some kind of border wall may be necessary. She also said the total cost of the wall may exceed $1 billion, but the governors office thought it was a reasonable place to start. The Texas Military Department will receive $331 million (of our money) to pay for deploying 1,800 additional Texas National Guard soldiers along the border, bringing the total to 2,500. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice will get $273.7 million (of our money) to convert three state detention centers into jails for migrants caught up in Abbotts Operation Lone Star, launched earlier this year. The Texas Department of Public Safety will receive $154.8 million (of our money) to provide 79 special operations troopers to be deployed at the border, 52 weeks of overtime for border operations and six tactical patrol vessels. As with such law enforcement surges in the recent past, the most tangible result seems to be swarms of state troopers throughout the border region with nothing much to do but harass law-abiding motorists. Theres a crisis on our southern border with serious consequences extending throughout our state, state Rep. Greg Bonnen, R-Friendswood, author of the $2 billion border boondoggle, told the Texas Tribune. Texas must respond to the crisis that has been brought to our doorstep. Actually, if the man from Friendswood and friends truly believed that, they would have been working with Washington through the years in support of comprehensive immigration reform measures that include quality guest worker programs and employment verification procedures, a tough law enforcement response to drug smuggling and human trafficking, a reasonable path toward citizenship for the undocumented among us, protection for Dreamers and efforts to address basic causes of migration. Were guessing that Bonnen is not particularly interested in an ambitious effort to manage and protect our border. To be fair, thats not his job. Hes a state lawmaker whose focus ought to be protecting his fellow Texans from a rampaging pandemic; preparing for floods, hurricanes and other coming climate crises; educating our children; funding road and bridge construction; and encouraging widespread voter participation, among other responsibilities worthy of an elected representative of the people. Abbotts monster, whose creation has been aided and abetted by Bonnen and his fellow right-wingers, is set to make his debut as a model for the rest of the nation. His laboratory creators are also hoping he will function as something of a powerful vaccine, inoculating the state against the dreaded purple tide just over the horizon. Until torch-bearing Texans by whom we mean perpetually stunned Democrats, independents, traditional Republicans and newcomers from more progressive states rise up, the monster among us will continue to rampage. So far, the man who covets a third term as governor as prelude to a White House bid has little reason to be concerned. Regarding Opinion: I-45 rebuild supports growth and enhances safety, (Aug. 27): Greater Houston Partnership abdicated its role of historic leadership by supporting a dysfunctional widening of Interstate 45 and Texas Department of Transportations our way or the highway planning approach. Instead of using its considerable clout to push for a project that works for Houston, the GHP spent money helping TxDOT manufacture public consent for Tuesdays Texas Transportation Commission vote in favor of their current project. Mayor Sylvester Turner sponsored a public process that produced a safer, cheaper and less intrusive I-45 improvement proposal. GHPs support for TxDOT in the face of local government opposition is a continuation of their failure to lead on voting rights. Now, they want to sacrifice our health, homes and neighborhoods for self-interest. In the TxDOT survey there was a question about whether the respondent might benefit financially from the expansion. GHP members include engineering firms, contractor groups and car companies that will substantially profit from taxpayer money going into this project. Follow the money. GHP cares about lining supporters pockets not a livable future for Houston. Johnny Mata, Greater Houston Coalition for Justice presiding officer, and Joetta Stevenson, Super Neighborhood 55 president Though the freeways need to be maintained, we should be putting new capability into public transportation, bike paths and general walkability, instead of expanding I-45 and other freeways. Though the neighborhood where I live has sidewalks and trees, it is not practical to walk to shops and stores in the area. When we moved to Texas 41 years ago, I was appalled at the heavily traveled three lanes in one direction on the part of I-45 from Houston to Galveston. It was like a river of cars then, and now it is even worse with five lanes in the first part of that trip and an even stronger torrent of cars. I longed for a new rail connection between the two places, sporadically discussed but which never came to pass. Not only would life be more pleasant for all of us, but it would also be healthier for the planet. Sylvia Szucs, Houston President Joe Biden ceded the War on Terror in the most devastating, humiliating way possible. Taliban fighters now patrol the streets of Afghanistan using weapons and military equipment paid for by our tax dollars. Many of our fellow citizens and Afghan allies who served alongside U.S. soldiers for nearly two decades were unable to escape before the final U.S. plane departed. And last week, 13 service members lost their lives on the deadliest day for the U.S. military in more than a decade. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David Espinoza a fellow Texan was among the fallen. Biden tried to play the blame game, saying a Trump administration deal tied his hands. But the same principle didnt stop this administration from lifting sanctions against Iran, or reversing other Trump administration policies. Despite what the president has said, this outcome wasnt inevitable. When he announced the troop withdrawal deadline earlier this year, our service members were not in imminent danger, nor were their missions unsuccessful or ill-fated. Our troops drove out the Taliban in 2001 and killed Osama bin Laden in 2011. Over the past decade, they have worked tirelessly to prevent terror cells from reconstituting in Afghanistan and launching further attacks against the U.S. Its no coincidence that our country has not experienced another large-scale terror attack since 9/11. If not for the bravery and sacrifice of our troops including tens of thousands of Texans I have no doubt the past two decades in America would have looked much different. We owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to the men and women who served in Afghanistan and those who gave their lives to protect our country. Their sacrifices were not in vain, and their heroism will never be forgotten. Opinions vary on whether this was the appropriate time to leave Afghanistan, but most agree: we did not leave in proper fashion. The Biden administration failed to plan a complete evacuation of American citizens, allied forces and their families. Biden said our troops would stay in Afghanistan until every American was evacuated yet every day, my office receives frantic pleas for help from American families that are still trapped. Despite the clear need for more time to evacuate, the administration marched toward an arbitrary withdrawal date, creating a power vacuum already being filled by jihadists and terrorists. A series of unforced errors by the Biden administration led to this catastrophic reality, and the question is now, Whats next? In the short term, one of our most critical responsibilities is to support the Afghan refugees who now call America home. I recently visited Fort Bliss in El Paso, which now serves as a temporary home for refugees. I have faith that in the days ahead, communities across Texas will welcome our allies and their families with open arms, and extend gratitude for the sacrifices they have made for our freedoms. Biden has a big task ahead as he begins damage control both with the American people and our international allies who have been left in the lurch. The administration has described a vague over the horizon concept to remain engaged from afar, but the unfortunate reality is the lack of boots on the ground will make our counterterrorism missions incredibly difficult. Without even a small, consistent presence in Afghanistan, our ability to gather actionable intelligence will degrade rapidly. We have already seen ISIS-K reassert itself, and we can expect the growth of terror cells to go unchecked by the Taliban. We need more than feel-good phrases and clouded concepts to prevent Afghanistan from reverting to its pre-9/11 status as a terrorist sanctuary. Now, we need accountability. The administration must provide an accounting for why it did not consult Congress on the manner of withdrawal, and what the plan is to protect America from a Taliban-led Afghanistan. Congress needs to know what the presidents plans are so we can begin to right the wrongs of this debacle. The administration cannot fall asleep at the wheel once again, and it cant allow the Taliban to dictate our military strategy. We need a coherent plan to mitigate the grave security risks that may be over the horizon today, but could soon land in our own backyard. Cornyn is the senior United States senator for Texas, a seat he has held since 2002. PHOTO COURTESY OF PLANNED PARENT Estelle Griswolds surname is legally famous Griswold v. Connecticut, the 1965 Supreme Court ruling that recognized a constitutional right to marital privacy because she, like her colleague Dr. Lee Buxton, had the courage to openly violate Connecticuts criminal ban on contraceptive use and counseling. Planned Parenthoods previous test case challenges to the state statute had been rebuffed on technical grounds by the high court, so in late 1961 Estelle and Lee publicly opened a clinic, and to their delight New Haven police officers soon arrived to confirm that she and Buxton were indeed knowingly violating the law. At trial, both defendants were convicted, putting Buxtons medical license in jeopardy, and two state appellate courts confirmed their convictions while upholding the old 19th-century prohibition on contraceptives. Their appeal was taken to the U.S. Supreme Court, and this time, faced with two criminal defendants challenging their convictions, justices, such as liberal icon William J. Brennan who had previously ducked the issue, now signed on to a landmark ruling. Justice William O. Douglass majority opinion not only afforded nationwide constitutional protection for birth control, but its expansive privacy doctrine opened the door to the legal argument that constitutional privacy should protect womens desire to abort a pregnancy as well. In early 1973, in the Dallas case of Roe v. Wade, thats exactly what a 7-2 Supreme Court majority affirmed. Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. ADVERTISE Hypebot & MusicThinkTank With the internet and digital technologies driving rapid change within the music industry, articles about new releases and who has been hired and fired are no longer enough. Our up to the minute industry news alongside insightful commentary helps our readers sift through the rumors and developments to find the information they need to keep their businesses moving forward. Hypebot is read daily by more than 30,000 music industry professionals including executives and senior staff of music related tech firms, internet based music sites, every major label group and most indies as well as many managers, artists and members of the live music community: Contact us for the latesst stats, ad rates and sponosorship opportunites. We also offer combined rates with MusicThinkTank. A family attorney says a lawyer from a prominent South Carolina legal family who found his wife and son shot to death at their home three months ago has been shot and wounded Who would want to be Amy Silva, a DCI in the BBCs latest Sunday night must-watch, Vigil, given three days to investigate the suspicious death of a submariner while trapped five fathoms deep on an HMS submarine? For a start, who on board has the greater authority she as a detective leading a possible murder investigation, or the hostile navy crew who at any point can claim to be operating in the interests of national security? And how does Silva keep her mind intact when night feels the same as day, and where every wall is painted the same unending grey, the same depthless colour of the sea seething away on the other side? A lesser actor might show it all getting to Silva. To cap it all, she is also suffering a severe bout of PTSD following an accident involving her family, a car and a reservoir. The last place she needs to be, frankly, is on a submarine. Yet Suranne Jones perfectly cast in this chillingly moody six-parter from the Line of Duty production team prefers to reveal just the merest flicker of strain. Its all in the tight way she walks, dressed in perfunctory monochrome knitwear as though part of the paintwork; in her refusal to rise to each chippy little comment (to be fair to the crew, there is a lot going on); in her dogged, implacable determination to keep on doing her increasingly perilous job. Born in Oldham in 1978, Jones is fast emerging as one of our most accomplished and versatile screen actors although this will hardly be news to anyone who has followed her since she first appeared as the fabulously punky Karen McDonald on Coronation Street in 1997 (she joined the cast full-time for four years in 2000). In a career that included an early stint on Doctor Who, playing a humanoid manifestation of the Tardiss consciousness, alongside an acclaimed performance as a convicted police killer in Unforgiven (2009) and a Yorkshire detective in the longrunning Scott and Bailey (2011-2016), shes become particularly good at inhabiting women who go through the wringer in their determination to make themselves heard. Consider Anne Lister, the 19th-century lesbian landowner on whose diaries Happy Valley writer Sally Wainwright based her rompy BBC period caper Gentleman Jack, and in which Jones swaggered about 1830s Halifax in highwayman black, refusing with a radical sense of entitlement to play the furtive lesbian. Instead, she set about openly ensnaring the heiress Ann Walker while boasting of her likely success in cheeky asides to camera. The show broke new ground as a primetime LGBTQ+ drama that placed a complex, condoned relationship between two women centre stage, but it also gave Jones the chance, as the cocky, charismatic and deeply passionate Lister, to reveal a theatrical playfulness in a career previously dominated by classic British TV realism. There was Doctor Foster, too, the 2015 domestic thriller written by playwright Mike Barlett, which turned Jones from a respectable TV screen presence into a household name. Joness performance as beleaguered wife Gemma had viewers initially firmly on side as she accelerated with dizzying speed from calm, reliable family doctor to a character worthy of Greek tragedy after suspecting her husband Simon of having an affair. The second series lurched into melodrama but Joness mesmeric performance kept us watching all the same. Last month she made another vintage appearance in the eponymous and semi-improvised I Am Victoria, playing a woman struggling to keep it together while in the grip of nervous collapse. The Independents reviewer Alexandra Pollard called her performance an open wound. Shes appeared a few times on stage, playing Ruth Condomine in Blithe Spirit and the eponymous Orlando at Manchester Royal Exchange, and in an anniversary revival of Jonathan Harveys landmark Aids play Beautiful Thing at the Arts Theatre in 2013. In 2018, she took on a truly harrowing role in a West End revival of Bryony Laverys Frozen, playing a mother compelled to seek an interview with the paedophile convicted of murdering her child. Jones was riveting as Nancy, battling a toxic cocktail of contradictory emotions as she tried to reconcile understanding with furious, overwhelming grief. Jones is currently filming the second series of Gentleman Jack, and already there are rumours of a second series of Vigil. What next? Film? A lucrative small screen long-runner in America? It would be good to see her back on stage, too: the theatre has been largely deprived of her talents. You suspect, though, TV is her natural home: it seems to effortlessly generate the fiercely complex, arse-kicking female roles at which she excels. You just dont do victims, do you? observed an interviewer in 2018. No! she replied. Or if I think I do, then I turn them into really feisty characters. Long may it continue. Episode three of Vigil is on BBC1 on Sunday at 9pm The wife of Yidiresi Aishan last saw him on 19 July. The 33-year-old Uyghur was on his way to Europe, hoping to find a safer place for him, his wife Buzainuer Wubuli and his family after being repeatedly arrested in Turkey for years. He wanted to go to Europe to live a peaceful life because he had been arrested four times in Turkey, says Wubuli. But soon after he landed in Morocco, Aishan was arrested by police, based on a red notice issued against him by Interpol. The authorities then informed the Chinese embassy in Morocco on 20 July. Since Morocco and China signed an extradition treaty at the beginning of the year, Aishan faces being deported back to China, where experts fear that he wont be given a fair trial. A British pub and restaurant chain is on the hunt for a pro-tato tester who will be paid to review the latest addition to its Sunday roast menu. The Botanist, which has branches all over England, is taking applications for a paid roast reviewer to ensure its new sharing roast for families is always share-worthy. You can choose from five main roasts, including roast sirloin of beef, roast chicken, pot roast lamb shoulder, slow roast honey-glazed pork belly or celeriac, mushroom and pears barley Wellington. These will be served alongside a Yorkshire pudding and sharing boards of carrots, roast potatoes, minted greens and jugs of gravy. The successful applicant will be required to attend a tasting session on Sunday 19 September, and can bring up to five people with them to share the roast. The job also requires them to write a 500-word review of the meal or create an up to 60-minute social media video for TikTok or Instagram. According to the Botanists website, people should apply if they know what makes a special spud or a how-to build roast worth a boast. The role has been created to ensure our family-style sharing roasts are up to their Sunday Best, it added. But a Sunday feast is not the only perk on offer. The successful applicant will also receive 500 for their hard work, as well as a monthly roast for two people for a whole year. Interested roast enthusiasts must fill out a form on the website by 12 September, which involves writing 500 words on why you would be the perfect person for the job and informing the company where you would post your review. A post highlighting the opportunity on The Botanists Instagram page has garnered nearly 1,000 likes in under two hours, with dozens of people tagging their friends and saying they might apply in the comments. Facebook has apologized for putting a primates" label on a video of Black men, according to a report in the New York Times The newspaper said the video was posted by a tabloid in June and showed Black men in altercations with white civilians and police officers. After the video ended, an automatic message popped up that said keep seeing videos about Primates, according to the Times. Facebook turned off the artificial intelligence feature that showed the message, the Times said, and apologized for what it called an unacceptable error and told the newspaper that it would investigate further so that it doesn't happen again. Facebook on Saturday did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press. But a company spokeswoman told the Times that even though Facebook has made improvements to its artificial intelligence, its not perfect" and has more progress to make." Artificial intelligence has mislabeled people of color before. In 2015, Google apologized after it labeled a photo of two Black people as gorillas. The UK government has been using British taxpayers money to fund a Bahraini government institution accused of whitewashing the torture and rape of womens rights activists, The Independent can reveal. Freedom of information requests show the British governments secretive multi-million-pound support for nations in the Gulf region includes funding for a highly controversial body alleged to have covered up evidence of the rape and torture of two female activists in 2017. Najah Yusuf and Ebtisam Al-Saegh, the two campaigners who allege they were sexually assaulted by the Bahraini authorities, have now hit out at the UK government for funding the human rights investigatory institution in Bahrain, known as the National Intelligence Agency Ombudsman. Police have ended a major search of a lake as part of the murder investigation into the disappearance of university chef Claudia Lawrence after nothing of obvious significance was found in the area. Teams of police experts, search dogs, divers and forensic archaeologists spent two weeks scouring the lake and nearby woods at Sand Hutton Gravel Pits as part of an ongoing murder probe. Detectives believe Ms Lawrence, who worked at the University of York and went missing in 2009, was murdered, but no body has ever been found in the case. North Yorkshire Police said that a small number of items were recovered during the search, which concluded on Sunday. Although these items are being assessed for their forensic potential, no relevance to Ms Lawrences disappearance has been established so far, the force said. Detective Superintendent Wayne Fox, who is leading the enquiry, said that separate strands of information had been received by detectives, prompting the lake search. When we assessed these separate and independently-sourced pieces of information against the wealth of information already generated during the last 12 years, we found they correlated with other information pointing to the area of Sand Hutton, Mr Fox said. Armed with fresh information to the enquiry, that seemed to corroborate known facts, we were duty bound to conduct thorough searches of the area. He added: Not searching was not an option - not for Claudia, not for her family, and not for the wider public. The disappearance of Ms Lawrence, who was last seen on 18 March 2009 as she was walking towards her home on Heworth Road, York, has led to one of the longest-running missing person cases in the UK. No charges have ever been brought over the case, despite a number of people being questioned in connection with her disappearance. On Sunday, Mr Fox said he was grateful to members of the public who had come forward with new information following publicity surrounding the search. In the light of some media speculation, I would like to stress, however, that we are not liaising with any other police force in relation to these new lines of enquiry, he added. As I hope the events of the last two weeks demonstrate, we are committed to establishing what happened to Claudia and bringing closure for her family. You cannot fail to be moved by the ongoing suffering of a mother who does not know what has happened to her daughter. The detective superintendent also reiterated a call for anyone who knows what happened to Ms Lawrence to do the right thing, come forward and help end the torment of [her] family. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and pass details to the Force Control Room quoting Claudia Lawrence. Additional reporting by PA Ministers are expected to announce that Grenfell Tower will be demolished over safety concerns, more than four years after the fire tore through the west London block of flats and killed 72 people. The development has been met with shock by those affected by the tragedy who say they were promised no decision would be made without the full consultation of survivors and bereaved families. Structural engineering experts hired by the government have unambiguously and unanimously advised that the tower should be carefully taken down for the safety of the local community, The Sunday Times reported. Robert Jenrick, the housing secretary, was also told that the building poses a risk to nearby school, Kensington Aldridge Academy. Government officials have told bereaved families to expect a decision on the future of the tower block later this month. Grenfell Tower pictured in June 2021, four years after a fire in the residential tower block killed 72 people (AFP via Getty Images) The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) took over ownership of the building in 2018 and told families and survivors that the tower block would not be pulled down before the fifth anniversary of the fire in June 2022. In response to the latest development, Grenfell United, which represents survivors and bereaved families, said: The government has engaged in fewer than 10 of the bereaved and survivors on this matter and with such a wide range of viewpoints across all affected families, we struggle to understand why this would be pushed through so quickly. Criticising the limited legislation which has been passed since the Grenfell fire to keep people safe in their homes, the organisation said in a statement: How can the tower be demolished before the legal process concludes when no judge in the land can confirm it wont hinder future criminal prosecutions? Justice is important to us all and anything that may prevent justice must not be an option. It added that while many in the community accepted the demolition of the tower was inevitable, the timeline needs to be decided by survivors, the bereaved and the community. Since the Grenfell fire in June 2017, a number of proposals on what should happen to the tower have been put forward, including turning it into a vertical forest. An MHCLG spokesperson said: We know how important and sensitive this decision is and no decision has been taken. Following important independent safety advice from structural engineers, we are engaging closely with the community as we consider the evidence including the safety concerns raised, and what the future of the Grenfell Tower should be. We have now published this advice to ensure those most affected have access to the information that will inform a decision on the tower before one is reached. Warm weather is set to return to the UK after a damp August as parts of the country could see an official heatwave in the coming days, with temperatures expected to rise to almost 30C. The Met Office has said people in England and Wales could bask in sweltering heat and sunshine from Monday to Wednesday. Although a heatwave predicted for August failed to materialise, the national weather service is expecting temperatures to rise on Tuesday to around 28C in southern England before thunderstorms in the second half of the week bring an end to the hot spell. It is also predicted that temperatures could rise to as high as 30C on Tuesday and stay at 29C on Wednesday at Londons Heathrow Airport. The Met Office added that the storms later in the week will start in the western parts of England and Wales before moving east into next weekend. We are expecting temperatures to rise at the beginning of the new week, Annie Shuttleworth, a Met Office forecaster, said. Despite a cloudy start to Monday, conditions will be clear and bright with hot temperatures for large parts of England and eastern Wales as the result of continental air moving in from the south. This air will start to push through the country on Tuesday and Wednesday, dragging temperatures as high as 29C (84.2F) for parts of the southeast while Scotland and Northern Ireland will also move into the mid-twenties. Ms Shuttleworth added: It's going to be very warm for the time of year and could even be rather uncomfortable for people trying to sleep at night, with temperatures remaining at around 18C (64.4F) during the evening. An official heatwave is called when an area records a period of at least three consecutive days with high temperatures, set at 25C or above for central England and Wales, and 28C for London and southeast England. Ms Shuttleworth said there was a decent chance of an official heatwave being called for parts of central England and eastern Wales. The forecaster has also warned the public to be aware of the risk of sunburn, even though the UK is now past the peak of summer, as temperatures are likely to be higher than expected for this time of year. The sun is still fairly strong so if you're going to be in the sun for kind of a good length of time, wear a hat and some sun cream because even though it would be kind of past the peak of the summer, the sun can still burn you at this time of year, Craig Snell, a Met Office meteorologist, said on Saturday. For some of us, I think [temperatures] will probably be a good five degrees above average for the time of year. Additional reporting by PA Close UK border force jet skis conduct exercises at sea Boris Johnsons plan for what a former aide described as the worlds most stupid tunnel between Scotland and Northern Ireland has been ditched as the Treasury clamps down on spending. The prime minister initially proposed a 28-mile bridge connecting Stranraer in Scotland to Larne in Northern Ireland in 2018, but the 15bn project was widely derided by engineers because of the practical obstacles to construction in a stretch of water which is more than 1,000 feet deep in places. An unnamed government official with knowledge of Treasury spending negotiations told the Financial Times the plans are dead, at least for now. Elsewhere, the government will push back a number of post-Brexit border controls from October and January next year until July 2022, David Frost has confirmed. It came after the Brexit minister issued a fresh warning to the EU that Britain is not afraid to unilaterally suspend the Northern Ireland (NI) protocol agreed by Mr Johnson last year if officials continue to dismiss renegotiations. A man whose wife and 22-year-old son were killed at the familys hunting lodge three months ago has been shot in the head, in a shocking new development to a case that has gripped South Carolina. Alex Murdaugh, who survived the attack and is conscious in hospital, was able to tell his brother that he was shot when he stopped to change a tire on the side of the road. The familys tragedy has been the subject of intense speculation, and since no arrests have been made in the killings or the shooting of Mr Murdaugh, it remains a mystery. The Murdaughs are a wealthy South Carolina family and something of a legal dynasty, reports the New York Times. Mr Murdaughs father, grandfather and great-grandfather each served as the top prosecutor for much of the southern part of the state and Mr Murdaugh is also a prominent lawyer. Before he was killed, Mr Murdaughs son Paul, was involved in a 2019 boat crash that killed a 19-year-old woman and was awaiting trial on charges of boating under the influence. Police were accused of giving him preferential treatment, which they strongly denied. In June this year Mr Murdaugh pledged a $100,000 reward for any information that led to a conviction in the killing of his wife and son. After the killings, Mr Murdaughs brothers said in a television interview with Good Morning America that the family was hurting and that they felt they should have taken threats against Paul Murdaugh over the boating crash more seriously. On Saturday, Jim Griffin, the lawyer of Mr Murdaugh, said the shooting of his client had only added to the familys suffering. Its shocking and very disturbing, without a question, Mr Griffin said. It makes us all wonder what the hells going on. Critics of the proposed Line 3 pipeline - including the Squad" - gathered in Minnesota to protest its construction over environmental and tribal concerns. Representatives Ilhan Omar, Cori Bush, Rashida Tlaib, Ayanna Pressley and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will spend the weekend meeting with indigenous leaders at the pipeline's construction sites before holding a press conference in Minneapolis. On Saturday the group participated in a roundtable discussion to examine "treaty violations and the lack of tribal consent" for the project. The Line 3 pipeline has generated significant controversy as its proposed construction cuts through tribal lands protected by treaties between the US government and the Ojibwe nations. Its course will also run through hundreds of lakes, rivers, aqueducts and wetlands, raising pollutant concerns among environmental groups. The progressive politicians have called on Joe Biden to stop the construction of the pipeline. "President Biden has the opportunity and the responsibility in making good on his word to be the climate president, and must direct the Army Corps of Engineers to revoke the permit for Line 3, Ms Pressley said, calling the decision a "no brainer." The pipeline is meant to replace the existing Line 3 pipeline, which is operated by a Canadian energy firm called Enbridge. The proposed pipeline will replace the existing Line 3, which is 52 years old. The new line will not follow the original's course, however. Instead, the new line will run through indigenous land and natural area especially susceptible to damage from oil spills. The existing pipeline is no stranger to spills; in 1991, a leak near Grand Rapids, Michigan resulted in the largest inland oil spill in US history. The new pipeline will carry tar sands from Alberta, Canada to Superior Wisconsin. The pipeline is currently 90 per cent complete and will run for 350 miles, with the projected ability to transport 760,000 barrels of oil per day. Enbridge claims that concerns over spills is overblown, suggesting the new pipeline's improved construction - which includes thicker steel than its predecessor and corrosion-resistant coating - will offer greater leak prevention. Critics of the pipeline aren't sold on the promises from the oil company. "We have been encouraged by Joe Biden's boldness so far," Ms Omar said. "Now we have another chance to reject a moving pipeline. We hope you will act." A group of 63 elected officials sent Mr Biden a letter opposing the pipeline. The state's Democratic governor, Tim Waltz, responded to the letter with a point-by-point counter statement, calling the critics' information "false or misleading." The United Nations has also gotten involved in the fight. Earlier this week, the UN's Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination sent the US State Department a letter asking for an inquiry into claims that the pipeline will encroach on sacred tribal lands and threaten wild rice plants. The White Earth Band of Ojibwe have sued the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, naming Manoomin - the Ojibwe word for the wild rice plant - as the plaintiff. The indigenous group invoked the Rights of Manoomin, a law enacted in 2018 as part of the 1855 Treaty Authority, which grants the plant legal personhood. The lawsuit claims that Enbridge's pipeline project will use 10 times more water than it originally estimated. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources moved to have the lawsuit dismissed, but a federal judge rejected the motion. The case will proceed to tribal court, though it may not reach a verdict in time to stop the remaining construction on the pipeline. A group of American citizens and were reportedly trapped in the northern Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif on Sunday without permission to take off from Taliban officials, as it remains unclear whether the militant group currently has the ability to facilitate international flights. In a letter to members of Congress from the State Department obtained by CBS News, the agency confirmed that multiple charter flights were waiting to take off from Mazar-i-Sharifs international airport but had yet to receive permission to do so from local Taliban authorities. The agencys letter asserted that the US has no ability to control the airspace over Mazar-i-Sharif, and does not have personnel on the ground in the city to assist. It also characterized the grounding of the flights, numbering at least six according to CBS, as a decision made by the Taliban. "It is a Taliban decision to ground flights in Mazar-i-Sharif," the email read, according to CBS News. "We are, however, providing guidance and assistance to the extent possible and with an emphasis on safety to private entities working out of Mazar." The basic details of that report were corroborated by Rep Michael McCaul, the ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, who said on Fox News Sunday that Taliban officials were trying to extort the US while not providing any details or evidence of specific demands. Rep. Mike McCaul (R-TX), Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee: We have six airplanes at Mazar Sharif Airport, six airplanes with American citizens on them as I speak, also with these interpreters, and the Taliban is holding them hostage for demands right now. pic.twitter.com/L9bB9PoVsE Jason Rantz on KTTH Radio (@jasonrantz) September 5, 2021 In an emailed statement to The Independent, a spokesperson for the State Department stressed that the agency does not currently have a reliable means to confirm the basic details of charter flights, including who may be organizing them, the number of U.S. citizens and other priority groups on-board, the accuracy of the rest of the manifest, and where they plan to land, among many other issues. We will hold the Taliban to its pledge to let people freely depart Afghanistan, added the spokesperson. Other news reports on Sunday threw into question whether international flights would be possible from Afghanistan at all in the near future without international assistance. A report from The Washington Post detailed the multi-day efforts to get Afghanistans largest airport, Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, up and running again following the US withdrawal which apparently concluded leaving the airport unable to use radar or other technology necessary for takeoffs and safe airspace control; departing flights on Saturday and Sunday were using their own visual guidance for takeoffs. Theres no radar, no navigation systems in place, an official at the airport told the Post. The state of Kabuls airport could indicate that similar or even worse problems exist at Mazar-i-Sharifs airport, though the airport did see at least one successful landing on Saturday when a domestic flight from Kabul successfully touched down in the northern city. "The Taliban will not let them leave the airport," Mr McCaul asserted on Sunday. "We know the reason why is because the Taliban want something in exchange." "The U.S. airfield in Qatar that has been standing by, ready to receive, is now beginning to pack up," Marina LeGree, executive director of an NGO involved with two of the charter flights at the Mazar-i-Sharif airport told CBS News. "We hope visibility will add pressure to force a solution. Six days of talks are not encouraging." The Taliban have abruptly broken up a womens rights protest in Afghanistan, firing guns into the air and hitting demonstrators until they were bloody, according to demonstrators. The march on Saturday, the second in two days, was led by Afghan women in Kabul who were demanding that their rights to attend school, work, and be involved in government are respected. One protester said they fired tear gas, while another witness recalled that Tasers were also used. As the women marched up to the presidential palace, a dozen Taliban special forces ran into the crowd and fired shots into the air. A demonstrator who gave her name as Soraya told Reuters that the Taliban hit women on the head with a gun magazine and the women became bloody. Women-led Afghan media organisation Rukhshana Media said one protester, Narges Sadat, whose head was bleeding was wounded in the head as a result of violence by Taliban fighters. Several Taliban officials also waded into the crowd of protesters to ask what the women were demanding and Sudaba Kabiri, a 24-year-old university student, told one that they wanted their rights as stipulated in Islam. The Taliban has promised that women will have their rights honoured, but protesters still fear that any progress made over the last 20 years will be lost. Young women said that they were protesting despite their families concerns for their safety, with some having snuck out of their homes to take part. Farhat Popalzai, another 24-year-old university student, said she wanted to represent Afghanistans voiceless women: They think this is a mans country but it is not, it is a womans country too. Demonstrators also laid a wreath outside Afghanistans Defence Ministry to honour Afghan soldiers who died fighting the Taliban. On the same day, Pakistans intelligence chief General Faiz Hameed paid a visit to Kabul, which came as the Taliban was expected to announce the formation of its new unelected government. But the announcement has been postponed until next week, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said. Heavy gunfire erupted early Sunday near the presidential palace in Guinea's capital and went on for hours, witnesses said, raising security concerns in a West African nation with a long history of military power grabs and coup attempts. The Defense Ministry later said the presidential guard and other security forces had contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants. Security and sweeping operations are continuing to restore order and peace, the statement said. However, the statement couldn't be independently corroborated and there was no immediate comment from President Alpha Conde. State television carried music and other programming, but made no mention of the gunfire that had echoed through the Kaloum neighborhood of Conakry all morning. Conde has faced mounting criticism ever since he sought a third term in office last year, saying the two-term limit didn't apply to him because of a constitutional referendum he had put forth. He was ultimately reelected, but the move prompted violent street demonstrations in which the opposition said dozens were killed. Conde, who is 83, now could remain in power until 2030 if he wins again in 2025. He first came to power in 2010 in the countrys first democratic election since independence from France in 1958. Many saw his presidency as a fresh start for the country, which has been mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule. Opponents, though, say he has failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the countrys vast mineral riches. In 2011, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed. ___ Associated Press writer Krista Larson contributed to this report from Dakar Senegal A surfer has died after being fatally bitten by a shark in an attack off a popular beach on Australias east coast. The incident took place off Shelly and Emerald beaches in Coffs Harbour, about 330 miles north of Sydney on Sunday. Fellow surfers, bystanders and paramedics gave the man CPR but he died at the scene after sustaining a critical arm injury Chris Wilson, a New South Wales ambulance official said. The beach was closed after the incident, Coffs Harbour Lifeguards officials said. The incident took place off Shelly and Emerald beaches in Coffs Harbour, about 330 miles north of Sydney (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) Witness Aaron Armstrong said Emerald Beach was very popular and many locals were in the water enjoying and celebrating Fathers Day. Mr Armstrong told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation: Yeah, it will change the fabric a little bit for a little while in EB, thats for sure. He said it was the first shark attack in the community that he and other locals knew of. New South Wales state is under a coronavirus lockdown but people can leave their homes for exercise, including swimming. People from the same family can go to the beach for Fathers Day. Before Sunday, the most recent fatal shark attack in Australia was in May off the coast of Forster, 137 miles north of Sydney. Javed Akhtars recent comment on comparison of Taliban with the right wing organisation of India hasnt gone down well with Mumbai based BJP MLA Ram Kadam and other BJP followers. Twitter The politician wants him to immediately apologise for what he said or else he will never let his films screened in the land of Bharat. He reacted on Twitter, If Talibans ideology existed here, could he have made such statements? The answer to this question shows how hollow his (Akhtars) remarks are. Until he apologises to the members of the Sangh with folded hands, we wont allow any of his films to be screened in the land of Ma Bharti." Twitter What Javed Akhtar said. In an interaction with NDTV, Akhtar had said, I think people who support organisations like the RSS, VHP or Bajrang Dal need to do some introspection. Of course, Taliban are reprehensible they are barbarians. But the people whom you are supporting, how are they different from them (the Taliban).. Twitter Ever since his comment there has been protest against the lyricist and BJP followers wants him to apologise for what he said. While Javed Akhtar hasnt yet responded to the criticism and the ongoing protest against him. Whats your take on Javed Akhtars comments? Drop your thoughts in the box below. Amid an alarming number of COVID cases, a 12-year-old boy died due to Nipah virus infection at a hospital in Kerala, said state Health Minister Veena George. The samples of the boy, which were sent to the Pune National Institute of Virology, confirmed the presence of Nipah virus. The Central Government has rushed a team of the National Centre for Disease Control to the state, which will be reaching on Sunday. The team will provide technical support to the state. Reuters Nipah virus is spread by saliva of the fruit bats. Giving details of the case, the minister told reporters, "Unfortunately, the boy passed away at 5 in the morning. The condition of the child was critical on Saturday night. We formed various teams and have started the tracing. Steps have been taken to isolate those who were the primary contacts of the boy". The minister said the infection was confirmed by the Pune NIV on Saturday night. "Three samples-- plasma, CSF and serum-- were found infected. He was admitted to the hospital with a heavy fever four days ago. But on Saturday, his condition became worse. We had sent his samples for testing the day before yesterday," the minister said. #HealthForAll A case of Nipah Virus detected in Kozhikode district of Kerala Centre rushes team to Kerala to support State in Public Health Measures.https://t.co/532kXyFBzZ pic.twitter.com/S8A4nl45q3 Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) September 5, 2021 George added that none of the close contacts of the boy are showing any symptoms as of now and that the health department has already traced out the contacts of the child. Hospital sources said the boy will be cremated today itself following the health protocol. Police have cordoned off an area of three km radius around the house of the boy. Farmers protests have been going to year now which started in November last year against newly enacted farm laws. Today thousands of farmers from 15 states gathered in Muzaffarnagar to attend Kisan Mahapanchayat, demanding repeal of three farm laws. Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait in Muzaffarnagar said that the farmer's agitation will continue until the government listens to their demand. He said, "When the government of India will invite us for talks, we will go. The farmers' agitation will continue until the government fulfills our demands. The struggle for Independence continued for 90 years so I have no idea for how long this agitation will run.": Afghanistan will likely" erupt in civil war, according to the top US general while speaking to the US media, warning of a resurgence of terrorist groups there, as per AFP. As American forces withdrew, the Taliban took over Afghanistan quickly, with only the northern province Panjshir putting up resistance. My military estimate is that the conditions are likely to develop of a civil war," General Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told Fox News. He questioned whether the Taliban who are yet to declare a government would be able to consolidate power and establish effective governance. Reuters I think theres at least a very good probability of a broader civil war and that will then, in turn, lead to conditions that could, in fact, lead to a reconstitution of Al-Qaeda or a growth of ISIS or other terrorist groups," Milley said. Emphasizing that he could not predict what would happen next in Afghanistan, he nonetheless gave a bleak assessment. The conditions are very likely," Milley told Fox News, that you could see a resurgence of terrorism coming out of that general region within 12, 24, 36 months." AFP The United States invaded Afghanistan and toppled the first Taliban regime in 2001 in the wake of the 9/11 attacks by Al-Qaeda, which had sanctuary in the country. Western governments fear Afghanistan could again become a haven for extremists bent on attacking them. The United States has said it will maintain an over-the-horizon" capability to strike against any threats to its security in Afghanistan. SpaceX and Tesla founder and the unofficial king of Twitter Elon Musk kicks up a storm every time he logs onto the microblogging portal. As Tesla solidified its position as an industry leader, Musk emerged as a tech mogul who was willing to take radical risks to improve human life. With SpaceX's Starlink tech, Musk hopes to bring internet connectivity to remote regions on Earth via a constellation of satellites. Reuters Even with his ambitious plans, Musk has been called a spoiled millionaire who wants to colonise Mars, a claim he himself made. In fact, Elon Musk believes the future of humanity isn't the preservation of Earth, but colonisation of other habitable planets. Shocked already? This is just one many unusual claims made by the space-tech-guru who has single-handedly disrupted the space industry. Here's a list of the top 10 absurd claims by Elon Musk: 1. Video games are reality During a Vox Media Code Conference, Elon Musk claimed that human beings potentially exist in a video game. He added how video games would become indistinguishable from reality at some point in the future. Watch the roughly an hour-and-a-half long interview below. "It would seem to follow that the odds that we're in base reality is one in billions", he added. 2. The colonisation of Mars The space enthusiast has claimed that humanity could be saved by colonising other planets that offer the same characteristics as our Earth. But he went a step further by offering a conceptual framework for how Earth's neighbour Mars would be colonised. Read below 3. "I used to be an alien" Elon Musk's ambitious and sometimes far-fetched plans for space exploration are dubbed as either crazy or genius - there is no middle ground. And conspiracy theorists on social media have questioned whether Musk is actually an alien. In 2016, he dispelled all such claims. Read his Tweet below: And, no, I'm not an alien...but I used to be one Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 12, 2016 He followed up on the same just last week. Check it out below: Of course Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 29, 2021 4. Tesla's fake bankruptcy In 2018, Elon Musk created an elaborate thread proclaiming that his company Tesla had gone bankrupt. Later, it turned out to be an April Fools Day prank. But naturally, investors were not happy with his lack of seriousness. But does Musk have any care in the world? Check out his very convincing thread below: Tesla Goes Bankrupt Palo Alto, California, April 1, 2018 -- Despite intense efforts to raise money, including a last-ditch mass sale of Easter Eggs, we are sad to report that Tesla has gone completely and totally bankrupt. So bankrupt, you can't believe it. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 1, 2018 5. Artificial Intelligence, the dictator? Yikes, we know! Artificial intelligence is evolving slowly but surely, with software laden systems capable of a lot more than basic laptop tasks becoming smarter. AI algorithms are helping doctors, scientists, and teachers. But Musk once suggest AI could become a permanent dictator of humans. "If one company or small group of people manage to develop god-like super intelligence, they could take over the world," Musk said in a documentary which you can watch here. 6. Building a cyborg dragon For reasons we don't understand yet, Elon Musk loves to troll his followers on Twitter. Case in point? That one time he randomly announced that he was building a cyborg dragon. We just hope that he wasn't referring to the recently announced TeslaBot. Oh btw Im building a cyborg dragon Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 25, 2018 7. "Ford looks like a morgue" While discussing the production capabilities of Tesla in an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Elon Musk casually name-dropped the carmaker Ford. He said he was getting "good vibes" about Tesla's delivery while calling the atmosphere at Ford "like a morgue". I think theres a good vibeI think the energy is good; go to Ford, it looks like a morgue. Elon Musk, in an exclusive interview, and on his third day sleeping in the factory, was upbeat in production hell but concedes to mistakes. https://t.co/JA9ADfBX3D Scott Austin (@ScottMAustin) June 28, 2018 "I think there's a good vibe - I think the energy is good; go to Ford, it looks like a morgue," Musk had told WSJ. Not much later, Elon Musk also received a response from Ford. Check it out below: No doubt the vibe is funky in that makeshift tent, but its not bad either across the street at the #FordRouge plant where a high quality, high-tech F-150 rolls off the line every 53 seconds like clockwork. Come check it out @elonmusk #BuiltFordTough https://t.co/1KoEZIyf0D Mark Truby (@mtruby) June 28, 2018 8. A joke gone horribly wrong "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured", Musk wrote on Twitter. Not much later, SEC filed a lawsuit against Musk. The consequences were dire: Musk ended up paying $20 million to SEC and was forced to step down from Tesla's board of directors for three years. Am considering taking Tesla private at $420. Funding secured. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 7, 2018 9. People should have more sex to populate Earth Erm, yes! We know what you're thinking. When climate change and erratic weather patterns are becoming the norm, which sane person would urge others to partake in proactive procreation? Well, we present to you - Mr. Elon Musk! "Im trying to set a good example! Population collapse is a much bigger problem than people realize and thats just for Earth", he wrote jokingly, we assume. Im trying to set a good example! Population collapse is a much bigger problem than people realize and thats just for Earth. Mars has a great need for people, seeing as population is currently zero. Humans are the custodians of other life on Earth. Let us bring life to Mars! Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2021 PS: Musk has fathered seven kids (so far)! 10. A jibe at Jeff Bezos Elon Musk's SpaceX, Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic as well as Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin are directly competing with each other in what has been dubbed the billionaire space race. While Branson keeps low-key, Bezos and Musk are highly outspoken. Over the last few weeks, BlueOrigin has poked fun at Tesla's design multiple times and has disputed NASA's contract moon-lander contract with SpaceX, which has now been put on hold because of Bezos' lawsuit Musk wasn't going to sit back and have it. He hit out at Bezos and claimed that Amazon founder's full-time job was to file lawsuits against SpaceX. Read the Tweet below: Filing legal actions against SpaceX is *actually* his full-time job pic.twitter.com/XifRICQ62k Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 1, 2021 Elon Musk is the absurdist-in-chief and unafraid of making unconventional claims. And we're extremely sure there's more to come from the chronic disruptor! Did you enjoy reading this list? Don't forget to comment and share. If you want the latest on all that's happening in the world of science and tech, continue following Indiatimes.com. Tesla is not a typical automaker. Known for their auto pilot capabilities, Tesla cars keep grabbing attention for ever-evolving driver-assist technology. Their cars are renowned for their advanced autopilot or remote driving features that lets people control the vehicles without being behind the wheel. However, things could be about to change further if new developments are anything to go by. Tesla The electric mobility giant is now planning to make driving completely driver-less. Reports suggest that Tesla CEO Elon Musk shared plans with his employees to launch a $25,000 (Rs 18 lakh) electric car, without a steering wheel. Musk, during the Tesla Battery Day event last year, announced that the EV (electric vehicle) maker will be making a $25,000 car, which will be completely autonomous. electrek.co He made it clear that this new price point is achieved through Teslas new battery cell and battery manufacturing effort, which could reduce battery costs by over 50%. Unofficially monickered Tesla Model 2, the $25,000 car has been likened to a new electric hatchback that Tesla has been planning to produce at Gigafactory Shanghai in China and export globally. electrek.co Last year, Tesla announced plans to establish a new R&D center in China to build a Chinese-style electric car. As per the report in Electrek, the Tesla CEO intends to start production of the deployable self-driving electric car in 2023. The $25,000 price point could be a defining moment in Tesla's Indian story and could help the company gain a foothold in the country. Tesla recently got approval for four of its models from the Union transport ministry in India, but the names of the models were not revealed. The Association of Kerala Medical Graduates Aug. 13 held its 42nd annual convention in Atlanta, Georgia, with hundreds of fully-vaccinated Indian American doctors of Kerala origin and their families, as well as from Canada, attending the proceedings. (photo provided) Real-time social media posts from local businesses and organizations across Northern Virginia, powered by Friends2Follow. To add your business to the stream, email cfields@insidenova.com or click on the green button below. When Sinead Moriarty and Sarra al-Hariri met three years ago, it was friendship at first sight. And it is friendship which is at the core of the book that brought them together. Sinead met Sarra, who is originally from Syria and now lives in Wexford, when she had just completed the first draft of The New Girl, which tells the story of Ruby, an Irish girl, and Safa, a Syrian girl, who form a bond that enables them to face the different challenges in their lives. Sinead wrote the book, her first for younger readers, having seen the harrowing footage of refugees bodies being washed up on the beaches of the Mediterranean. I had written the first draft and I contacted the Refugee Council because I wanted to talk to someone who had actually experienced what it was like to be in this situation. They put me in touch with Sarra, who was doing her leaving cert at the time. I drove down to Enniscorthy on a filthy November night, and I met her, her mum and her sister. We sat down and chatted for hours and we have become really good pals. I am so proud of her, she is the most incredible young woman, says Sinead. The book has been a labour of love for the Dublin novelist, best known for her romantic fiction. She says initially she wanted to write something for her own three children now aged 16, 15, and 12 to help them understand the plight of refugees. I had seen those awful pictures of people being washed up on beaches. It was inconceivably horrific and I was trying to make sense of it myself and explain it to my own children and the way I make sense of things is by writing about them. I felt very much compelled to write a childrens book because I wanted to help them make sense of the world around them. The best way for a kid to understand somebody elses life is to try and get them to walk a mile in their shoes. And that is what I am trying to do with this book it is to show the power of compassion and empathy and the importance of kindness. It is so important that we get to kids early because they are such little sponges and they are so willing, open-minded, and sweet. I feel if we can open that compassionate valve in their heart early, that will stand to them in life. Sarra says the book captures how difficult it was for her when she arrived in Ireland, aged 17. After fleeing Syria, she spent time in Turkey before making the perilous trip to Greece in a rubber dinghy. After spending time in a refugee camp in Greece, she eventually arrived in Ireland with her mum and two sisters. They were initially sent to the accommodation centre in Mosney, Co Meath, and Sarra started fifth year in Our Ladys College in Drogheda. I love the book it explains really well how it is really hard to fit in. It was hard to find girls in school who understood what it was like to come from a totally different place and culture. All my life I have been travelling from one place to another, changing schools. For me, it has been a normal thing to change friends or change environment. "You come to a school and some of the girls have known each other for 13 years, so for them, it is their second home maybe. They dont know what it feels like to change environment and go to a new place. For me, it does give an overview of the struggle to make new friends or cope with a new environment. To fit in, you have to change your personality a bit, what you like and dislike. In The New Girl, education is very important to Safas family, echoing Sarras situation. It is testament to her dedication and resilience that she excelled in school and is now studying pharmaceutical science at TU Dublin. The book deals with Safas efforts to accommodate her new culture as a young Muslim girl, for example, when she can wear her hijab and her reluctance to wear shorts during PE class. There are also funny observations that echo Sarras own experience. Meeting Sarra helped me add that extra layer of authenticity to the book, says Sinead. One of the things that Sarra said, which I did use in the book, was she didnt understand why so many girls here painted their skin brown she found our obsession with fake tan hilarious. Sinead also enlisted her own children when it came to getting the tone of the book right. While keen to get the message of compassion and understanding across, she was also very conscious of not sounding preachy or condescending. All my kids were very involved in it, which was really helpful they read the book, and edited it and gave constructive criticism. There was one point where Safa makes this speech, and they were like that is too much, its too preachy, cut it out, kids are going to get bored. They helped me pare it all back and keep the momentum and engagement going. In the book, Safa is not the only one adapting to difficult circumstances. Ruby also struggles with her feelings for her brother Robbie, who has learning disabilities. This was also an issue which Sinead researched to get right. The book shows kids how no one ever really knows what is going on behind closed doors. Ruby would seem to have a lovely life but actually she is really struggling. As with all my adult books, research is really important and you have a responsibility as a writer to do that. So I did a lot of research into what it is like living in a family where there is a child with disabilities. There is a very common thread with siblings where they have this guilt because they love their sibling but they also slightly resent them for the fact that they take so much of their parents time and energy. I really wanted to convey what it was like to be in that very intense situation. While writing a book for young readers was a new challenge for Sinead, it was one she enjoyed immensely and hopes to repeat. It was very different. I felt so passionately about the subject that I really enjoyed writing about it. I knew exactly where I wanted to go and what I wanted to say and that is always a big help when you are starting out. I am really happy with the result and I am already working on a new one. It is definitely a space I would like to explore further. It has been a learning experience but it has been an absolute joy. For Sarra, it is still difficult to think about what is going on at home in Syria, and, in the maelstrom of 24/7 news, she feels that the plight of its people has been forgotten about. I have lots of family members still in Syria, mostly on my dads side. Most of my mothers side of the family, they all left the country. Even myself, I try my best not to go to the news all the time. We cant blame people for not hearing these stories, it is really complicated. While, when she first arrived, she would go to schools to give talks on her experiences, and was happy to tell people her story, now she is ready to move on. In the beginning, I really wanted people to know what it is like, how it felt and what I had been through. But as time is passing, I am trying to put that behind me. I am doing very well now in my studies and everything. Now, I want to put it behind me and just move on. For Sinead, the book is already achieving what she wanted. Anyone who has had advance copies, their children have come to them wanting to talk about it and that is music to my ears because that is what we are trying to do to open conversations, open minds and most of all, show the importance of compassion. Sinead cherishes the lasting friendship that has emerged from working on the book and says she has learned that good things happen when you go with your heart. When I met Sarra, I felt an instant affinity, I wanted her to be in my life. I knew she was going to be successful because she has an amazing inner strength, she is beautiful and calm. What I learned from writing the book is that if you are passionate and curious about something, go with it because there is a reason it is tapping you on the shoulder. You never know who you are going to meet along the way. Since 1963, Victor del Corral and his wife, Eloina Ruiz de Ugarrio, who emigrated from Havana and opened Victors Cafe on the Upper West Side, the place became one of NYCs hottest spots for authentic Cuban cuisine. In 1980, Victors moved to the Citys Theater District and continued to attract theatergoers. After being forced to close due to the coronavirus pandemic, and now run by Victors daughter, Sonia Zaldivar, and granddaughter, Monica Zaldivar, the iconic restaurant has reopened with a brand new decor that makes it one of the most colorful spots in New York, according to a FORBES report by John Mariani. There are now three dining rooms, each individually decorated with Cuban and modern art. For those concerned with safety, there is now an option to dine outside on the enclosed patio. There is also a snug Cuba Lounge up front, with live music and cocktails like a first-rate daiquiri and a range of mojitos. Being in New Yorks district, Victors is an ideal place to for a pre-show meal, choosing from a vast array of appetizers, or a sampling of several of them by ordering the 1492 Aperitivo Cubano for two ($32). Victors Cafe is also a great spot for a drink after the theater. For the complete FORBES article, click here. Hurricane Larry continues to be a large and dangerous Category-3 storm. As of 5 p.m. Sunday, Larry was located 1195 miles east of Bermuda, packing 125 sustained winds. Larry is moving NW at 13 mph. According to Accuweather, while the forecast calls for Larry to remain east of the US, the storm could make landfall in Atlantic Canada and AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys said, "Swells will then spread through the Bahamas during Monday and Tuesday, and then much of the Atlantic coast of the U.S. and Atlantic Canada during the middle and latter part of this week." According to Roys, impacts from Larry will be far-reaching even though the storm may stay hundreds of miles away from the Atlantic beaches from Florida to Maine. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecast little change in strength although fluctuations in intensity will be possible and Larry is expected to remain a major hurricane through the middle of the coming week. The NHCs 5 p.m. Sunday advisory said significant swells should reach the east coast of the United States by midweek, likely causing life-threatening surf and rip current conditions. For more, click here. This Week in Review A weekly review of the best and most popular stories published in the Imperial Valley Press. Also, featured upcoming events, new movies at local theaters, the week in photos and much more. Support Local Journalism Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by subscribing or making a contribution today. Subscribe or contribute Florida teen who was hospitalized with Covid-19 wants to get vaccinated and says others should get the shot too I've updated my resume in the last week. I've updated my resume in the last month. I've updated my resume in the last 3 months. I've updated my resume in the last 6 months. I've updated my resume in the last 12 months. It's been more than one year since I updated my resume. I have never updated my resume. I don't have a resume. Vote View Results Ray Ploof, 61, passed away in his home in Jacksonville, TX, Wednesday, August 25, 2021. He was born in Burlington Vermont August 20, 1960. Ray was a member of Central Baptist Church. He was a talented machinist who worked in maintenance. He was well loved by everyone he met. Left to cherish Teton County Reporter Billy Arnold has covered government and policy since January 2020, sitting through hours of Teton County meetings so readers don't have to. He moonlights as a ski reporter, helps with pandemic coverage and sneaks away to climb when he can. Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Sunday dismissed widespread criticism of the terrorism trial of the polarising Hotel Rwanda hero hailed for saving over 1,000 lives during the countrys 1994 genocide. He said Paul Rusesabagina, now a prominent Kagame critic whose detention and trial has raised global alarm, was in the dock not because of his fame but because people had died as a result of his later actions. Rusesabagina, 67, faces a verdict on September 20 on charges of being a terrorist mastermind who financed a rebel group behind a string of deadly attacks in the east African country. He and his family have long rejected the allegations and say the former hotelier whose actions during the genocide inspired the 2004 Hollywood film is the victim of a politically-motivated show trial. Prosecutors are seeking a life sentence for Rusesabagina, who they accuse of supporting the rebel National Liberation Front (FLN), a group blamed for attacks inside Rwanda in 2018 and 2019 that killed nine people. He is here being tried for that. Nothing to do with the film. Nothing to do with celebrity status, Kagame said in a nationally televised interview. It is about the lives of Rwandans that were lost because of his actions and because of the organisations that he belonged to or led, he said. What he is being tried for and accused of is having a hand in these armed groups and terrorists This man deserves to be fairly tried in the court of law and is going to be tried as fairly as that can be. Rusesabagina has denied any involvement in the attacks, but was a founder of the Rwandan Movement for Democratic Change (MRCD), an opposition group of which the FLN is seen as the armed wing. Love to hate Rwanda Hotel Rwanda told how the former manager of Kigalis Hotel des Mille Collines saved more than 1,200 people who sheltered there during the genocide in which an estimated 800,000 were slaughtered, most of them ethnic Tutsis. Rusesabagina, a Hutu, subsequently became an outspoken Kagame critic and lived in exile in the US and Belgium since 1996. He was arrested in August last year when a plane he believed was bound for Burundi landed in Kigali instead, a move his supporters describe as a kidnapping. He faces nine charges, including terrorism, but has boycotted proceedings since March, accusing the court of unfairness and a lack of independence. Kagame has been in power since 1994 and is accused by critics of crushing opponents and ruling through fear. In Sundays interview, he rejected allegations Kigali had used the Israeli malware Pegagus after an international media probe revealed more than 3,500 Rwandans including Rusesabaginas daughter were potential targets of the software. So on the question of whether we spy with this tool, the answer is no, and a big no in capital letters, he said. But like any other country in this world, Rwanda does collect intelligence and there are so many ways of doing that, he added. Among the numbers that appeared on the leaked records revealed by the media investigation in July was a cell phone belonging to Carine Kanimba, who has been leading the campaign to free her father. The media is awash with so many things about Rwanda that are not true. The media, especially Western media, love to hate Rwanda, said Kagame. Sign up for myFT Daily Digest and be the first to learn about the news in the United Arab Emirates. The United Arab Emirates has launched 50 economic initiatives aimed at improving the countrys competitiveness in order to diversify its oil-dependent economy, including attracting US$150 billion in overseas investment within nine years. Ministers announced some reforms on Sunday-these reforms constitute the Gulf States 50 project plan, marking its golden jubilee year. They include relaxing residence rules to attract and retain skilled workers; for decades, the emirate has linked residence and employment together, triggering the departure of expatriates during the economic recession. The ministers stated that the UAE was established in 1971 and will host a global summit next year to highlight investment opportunities. The goal is to attract US$150 billion for domestic projects by 2030. Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammad al-Gergawi said: In the past five years, the UAE has opened its doors, ports, sky and economic sectors as a destination for everyone. 50 projects show the world the next stage of development. Unify economic and investment status. Measures announced on Sunday include new visa categories for freelancers and entrepreneurs, allowing skilled workers more flexibility in sponsoring family members, and more time to find work if they are laid off before being required to leave the country . Other initiatives include the allocation of US$1.36 billion to a National Development Bank to support projects in the UAE, and an additional US$1.36 billion to fund industry adoption of advanced technologies to increase productivity by 30%. As part of the 14% increase in investment outflows by 2030, the country will also increase its exports to 10 major markets, including China and the United Kingdom, by 10%. This reform is the latest attempt by the UAE to diversify its hydrocarbon-dependent economy and prepare for a post-oil future. In the past year, the government has shifted its focus from regional geopolitics to economic development, with a view to boosting growth on the countrys path out of the coronavirus pandemic. These measures come as the Middle Easts largest economy introduces its own reforms to attract foreign investment. The Gulf countries, especially the regional business center Dubai, are facing increasing economic competition from its larger neighbor, Saudi Arabia. Respected Riyadh threatened Shut out multinational companies If they do not move their regional headquarters to the country and cancel tariff concessions on imports from the UAE, they will get lucrative government contracts. UAE has announced Social reform Make the country more attractive to expats, who make up 90% of the population of 10 million. These measures include allowing unmarried couples to live together, legalizing drinking, and allowing foreigners to use the countrys legal system for personal matters such as divorce. Since earlier this year, the country has also allowed foreigners to fully own businesses, abolished the requirement that domestic companies must be majority-owned by UAE nationals, and launched a golden visa last year, allowing technical expatriates to extend by 10 Years of residence period. Some faculty members at the University of Kansas have expressed concerns regarding COVID-19 policies and say they are feeling helpless when it comes to COVID-19 and the health of themselves and students. Just two days after a political win in its home state of California, Uber's third quarter earnings report shows the ongoing negative impact of the pandemic on its business. But the company is still setting its sights on profitability sometime in 2021. Jo In Sung wowed the K-drama fandom with his outstanding skills and not to mention his striking visuals, making several fans swoon over his intense cuteness. Because of his unique charisma and versatility, this made him one of the most coveted actors in South Korea. After his acting debut in 1999, the 40-year-old celebrity gained the public's attention in the 2001 melodrama "Piano" alongside Go Soo, Jo Jae Hyun, and Kim Ha Neul. However, the mega-hit K-drama "What Happened in Bali" with Ha Ji Won and So Ji Sub brought Jo In Sung the massive fame he truly deserved. With a slew of remarkable dramas and movies under his belt, as well as his accolade of achievements, there's no doubt how the Hallyu star is among the highest-paid stars and wealthiest Korean celebrities. That being said, let's deep dive into Jo In Sung's net worth and how much he earned every episode. Jo In Sung Rakes Hefty Amount of Money Every Episode His top rating dramas helped this versatile actor amass a good wealth, all thanks to his impeccable acting skills. Interestingly, several media outlets noted that the award-winning actor reportedly rakes $89,000 per episode. According to Tatler Asia, Jo In Sung currently sits fifth of the highest-paid K-Drama actors this 2021. Jo In Sung Net Worth 2021 When it comes to his financial status, the "That Winter, The Wind Blows" star made a whopping fortune in his 22 years in the industry. According to celebsagewiki.com, Jo In Sung's net worth is around $1 to 5 million through his appearance in dramas, movies, and a long list of endorsements. Jo In Sung Reportedly Made Millions in K-drama 'It's Okay, That's Love' Interestingly, one media outlet shared that the actor did not only take home the highly coveted top prize known as the Daesang award at the APAN Star Awards for the mega-hit K-drama "It's Okay, That's Love" but made a whopping $1 million fortune out of the series. Apart from it, several fans lauded his heartwarming speech thanking his co-star Gong Hyo Jin. "I think I received the award thanks to Gong Hyo Jin. I don't think I would have been able to act like that without her," he mentioned. Probably considered as one of the OG K-dramas, "It's Okay, That's Love" highlights the characters who were diagnosed with mental disorders. In the drama, Jo In Sung played a radio DJ and best-selling author named Jang Jae Yeol, who developed an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) due to a traumatic experience in his early years. On the other hand, award-winning actress Gong Hyo Jin is a psychiatrist Ji Hae Soo, who interestingly met Jae Yeol. Jo In Sung Current and Upcoming Projects The award-winning actor is currently starring in the blockbuster movie "Escape from Mogadishu" and making waves worldwide. Apart from this, he is set to make a comeback to the small screen with the upcoming K-drama "Moving" with Han Hyo Joo and Cha Tae Hyun. KDramastars owns this article. Written by Geca Wills "Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha", the newest romance comedy drama in South Korean television, which stars Shin Min Ah and Kim Seon Ho, who play the role of Yoon Hye Jin and Hong Doo Sik respectively, took its viewers on a rollercoaster ride with its third episode. Previously, dentist Yoon Hye Jin moved to Gongjin after resigning from her work in Seoul. In Gongjin, he meets a strangely mysterious man named Hong Doo Sik, who, for some reason, gets fond of her despite their differences in lifestyle. Yoon Hye Jin and Hong Doo Sik Go to Seoul With Gongjin's Elderly In the latest episode, Yoon Hye Jin orders a bunch of beautiful dresses, hooked with finding the perfect dress to wear to a wedding of one of her former colleagues. She wanted to attend the wedding with a presentable appearance. As Gongjin's all-rounder, Hong Doo Sik presents himself to deliver parcels to their clients' doors in his friend's stead. With much curiosity, he wonders why Yoon Hye Jin receives parcels day-by-day. On the day of the wedding, Hye Jin prepares with cautiousness. She wants to be beautiful so that she wouldn't be the laughingstock of the dental community, after she opened a dental clinic in the countryside. To much surprise, she gets taken aback when Hong Doo Sik invites himself and the three elders of Gongjin to a carpool. Since they are all going to Seoul on the same fateful day, he thinks that it was okay to barge into someone's business without prior notice - which made Hye Jin furious. The rest of the ride was okay, and all of them arrived at their destinations. Although, Hye Jin didn't enjoy the wedding, hence, she decides to leave early. Outside, she is welcomed by Doo Sik, who is waiting for her after he left his phone in her car. Hye Jin's friends and former college classmates swooned over Doo Sik, thinking that he was her boyfriend. Kim Gam Ri Invalidates Yoon Hye Jin's Job as a Dentist The Gongjin elder Kim Gam Ri, played by Kim Young Ok, endures a toothache which was revealed during their car ride to Seoul. Because of that, Yoon Hye Jin quickly offers her help. Because she was old and lived through the years without needing any professional help, she declined her help a little too strongly, which offended the dentist. Because of this Yoon Hye Jin spewed a bit too harsh words that hurt the elder, Hong Doo Sik then judges the dentist's character and coldheartedness. However, Hye Jin's heart isn't made of stone. When Hong Doo Sik did everything he could do to pay for the elder's treatment despite having no familial relations to Kim Gam Ri, Hye Jin wonders why. Hye Jin then visited the elder at her house, where she was fed with delicious food that Kim Gam Ri made. Her heart melted when she knew that Kim Gam Ri's favorite food was squid but because of her aching teeth, she couldn't eat it anymore. She then offered a favorable discount that delighted the elder. Yoon Hye Jin believes that enduring pain when there are ways to put a stop to it is useless and being "selfish", after losing her mother to sickness. The following day, Kim Gam Ri visited the dental clinic to get teeth implants. Pyo Mi Seon Sees Potential Romantic Partner in Gongjin Pyo Mi Seon, Hye Jin's best friend and dental assistant who moved with her to Gongjin when she knew her boyfriend cheated on her, finally found a new potential lover. The charming dental assistant, played by Gong Min Jeung, sees police officer Choi Eun Cheol, played by Kang Hyung Seok, in a romantic light. When the police officer visits the dental clinic to get a root canal treatment, the dental assistant puts on some make-up to impress the man. Hong Doo Sik and Yoon Hye Jin's Love-Hate Relationship: Will 'SikHye Couple' Become Real Finally? After knowing the reason why the dentist built walls around her, Hong Doo Sik's heart aches for her. Despite their endless bickering and annoyance, Doo Sik thinks of Hye Jin in a different light. He always thought he was a great judge of a character but he was wrong when he misjudged the misunderstood dentist. When Kim Gam Ri reveals she got implants from the dentist's clinic after she visited, Doo Sik grows a soft spot for the city woman. While taking a bath, the power comes off which alarmed the poor dentist. She then calls her landlady, who sends all-rounder Hong Doo Sik. The two shared a vulnerable heart-to-heart conversation that put the two characters into an unusually awkward yet comforting atmosphere. Their exchange of glances and apologies messed with each other's heads, as if igniting a new budding romance in the heart of the seaside village. When he left after contacting the electricity company, Hong Doo Sik texted Hye Jin to check her fuse box. The dentist thought that it would light up her house, but to her surprise, it lit up heart instead. In her shelf, there was the other pair of her shoes that was washed away to the ocean. The dentist was elated and quickly ran after the handyman. At the end of the episode, it was revealed that he saw the sparkly shoe drenched in salt while he was fishing. With his fondness over the dentist, he searched up ways on how to restore damaged goods to its original state. Although Doo Sik never shows his appreciation for the woman, with his own ways, he showed it through taking care of the dentist's shoe. Follow KDramastars for more Kdrama, KMovie, and celebrity news updates! KDramastars owns this article. Written by Elijah Mully. 9 Shares Share I feel like I have to educate my doctors about my gender identity and transgender health-related needs, including insurance coverage, my transgender male patient, V, told me on interview. A series of interviews with V for a community outreach project during medical school elucidated a plethora of health care barriers for transgender individuals. Vs list of unmet needs includes transgender-friendly mental health care and LGBTQ+ educated physicians, including complex gender-diverse language and medical knowledge about gender-affirming care. Fortunately, medical schools and residency programs are beginning to adopt more LGBTQ+ education into their curriculum. However, patient access to the already existing LGBTQ+ competent providers is limited, with insurance being a large root of the problem. My insurance limits who I can receive mental health and gender-affirming medical care from, V reinforced during our last interview. Transgender health care is an increasingly important topic that is gaining recognition as more individuals self-identify as transgender and seek help in medically transitioning. While medical transitioning is legal and accepted in some areas of the country, many barriers to health care remain unrecognized by the non-transgender community. Barriers to health care that transgender individuals experience include but are not limited to cost, inadequate or no health care coverage, and fear of discrimination. In a Colorado transgender health study in 2014, 40 percent of transgender Coloradans reported that cost was a barrier to accessing care. Another 31 percent cited the fear of discrimination as being another barrier. There were 23 percent of people that said that insurance does not provide adequate coverage, and 7 percent could not find a doctor who accepts their insurance. These barriers are greater than those experienced by cisgender individuals, or those who identify with the gender that they were assigned at birth. Several ways to eliminate these barriers include adding greater insurance coverage for transgender-related medical care, and financial coverage for training to teach physicians how to be transgender-inclusive. This can improve both mental and physical health outcomes for transgender individuals. Although this may seem costly, the improved health outcomes are likely to be correlated with overall less money spent on mental and physical health care. Fenway, a Boston community health center, is a program that exists as an example of a decentralized clinic with a series of referrals for transgender health care. They provide accessible care, including hormone administration, reproductive rights counseling, post-op care, behavioral health services, etc. A study by Reisner et al. (2015) concluded that creating such extensive and accessible health care for transgender people attracted more transgender individuals to show up to receive care. This study demonstrated that there are many people that were previously in need of more accessible care. The Boston community health center example shows that if you build it, they will come. Improving monetary coverage for insurance and transgender-friendly physician training will enable health care to become more accessible for transgender individuals. Greater access to health care will allow more people in need to show up for care to improve their mental and physical health. Ultimately, this will reduce costs. The Journal of General Internal Medicine published a study in 2016 which did a cost-effectiveness analysis to demonstrate the utility in providing health insurance coverage for medically necessary services for transgender people. These researchers discovered that in comparison to no health care benefits for transgender patients, insurance coverage for these medically necessary services came at a greater cost and effectiveness. Despite costs for medical transitions being between $10,000 to $22,000 with provider coverage at $2,175 per year, the negative outcomes are greatly reduced. These include a reduction in risk for HIV, depression, suicidality, and drug abuse. Therefore, this study successfully concluded that health insurance coverage for the U.S. transgender population is affordable and cost-effective with a low-budget impact on our society. Although not all transgender individuals choose to medically transition, where they use medical interventions such as hormones or surgeries, medical care was ultimately crucial for V and living authentically within his identity. While V had health insurance through Kaiser, he ultimately had to go out of network and pay the full amount of $11,000 for his top surgery, a subcutaneous mastectomy to remove his breast tissue: My insurance was going to cover it, but I was not comfortable with the one surgeon that they would cover. V further shared his disappointment about this surgeons lack of portfolio photo results and their admittance to having done only a handful of this particular surgery. Unfortunately, this is a common phenomenon that can be heard buzzing throughout the transgender community, leading individuals to go out of network and pay large amounts of money. In addition to enhanced medical trainee and provider education, it is essential that gender-affirming medical insurance coverage is increased and broadened. Dylan Herman is a medical student. Image credit: Shutterstock.com SALEM, Ore. Doctors and nurses have been vocal about the importance of getting the vaccine. Now, as they struggle to keep up with the overwhelming surge of COVID patients, theres another possible challenge on the horizon: the threat of more staff leaving as the October deadline for Oregon's vaccine mandate approaches. This is an ugly disease and the reality is we're losing this battle, said Salem Health CEO Cheryl Wolfe at a Chamber of Commerce meeting Thursday. The people that go into the ICU arent going home. So thats the grim reality, she said. Wolfe was honest about what health care workers are seeing right now as she spoke to business owners and leaders. Wolfe said she was frank as she spoke at the Chamber of Commerce meeting because she wants to call attention to whats happening inside hospitals. She hopes business leaders will help and encourage employees and community members to get vaccinated. When you see a young mother who's unvaccinated, who's pregnant, and you do a C-section on the young mother to save the baby and we know the mother's not going to make it, thats the reality of what's happening right now. I'm not going to sugar coat this for you, said Wolfe. Wolfe said at this stage of the pandemic, ages of patients with COVID are skewing younger. She said the elderly population has a good vaccination rate. Unfortunately, Wolfe also said theyve seen more pediatric cases. In our community weve seen an increase in the number of pediatric patient cases that have to be hospitalized, and weve sent two to specialty hospitals because they are so sick and beyond the capability of what we are able to take care of. So, this is real, she said. CORONAVIRUS Health care workers running on fumes as Oregon vaccine mandate's Oct. 18 deadline looms This is devastating. I don't know how long we can keep this up to be honest with you, Salem Health CEO Cheryl Wolfe said. Author: Christine Pitawanich Published: 8:39 PM PDT September 3, 2021 Updated: 9:03 PM PDT September 3, 2021 Facebook Twitter SALEM, Ore. Doctors and nurses have been vocal about the importance of getting the vaccine. Now, as they struggle to keep up with the overwhelming surge of COVID patients, theres another possible challenge on the horizon: the threat of more staff leaving as the October deadline for Oregon's vaccine mandate approaches. 00:33 / 00:53 Carbohydrates: Pros&Cons FEATURED BY This is an ugly disease and the reality is we're losing this battle, said Salem Health CEO Cheryl Wolfe at a Chamber of Commerce meeting Thursday. The people that go into the ICU arent going home. So thats the grim reality, she said. Wolfe was honest about what health care workers are seeing right now as she spoke to business owners and leaders. Wolfe said she was frank as she spoke at the Chamber of Commerce meeting because she wants to call attention to whats happening inside hospitals. She hopes business leaders will help and encourage employees and community members to get vaccinated. RELATED: Oregon nonprofit aims to educate people on safety, effectiveness of vaccines When you see a young mother who's unvaccinated, who's pregnant, and you do a C-section on the young mother to save the baby and we know the mother's not going to make it, thats the reality of what's happening right now. I'm not going to sugar coat this for you, said Wolfe. Hospitals deal with more COVID patients and more deaths On Thursday, Wolfe said she had 93 COVID-positive patients in the hospital, the vast majority unvaccinated. In just one day, that number went up to 102. On Friday, she said 22 people were in the ICU with 16 of them on ventilators, something theyve never seen before. Wolfe said the ICU is full and important surgeries like cancer removal are getting canceled. RELATED: Elective surgeries postponed in Oregon because hospitals are filled with COVID patients Wolfe said at this stage of the pandemic, ages of patients with COVID are skewing younger. She said the elderly population has a good vaccination rate. Unfortunately, Wolfe also said theyve seen more pediatric cases. In our community weve seen an increase in the number of pediatric patient cases that have to be hospitalized, and weve sent two to specialty hospitals because they are so sick and beyond the capability of what we are able to take care of. So, this is real, she said. Wolfe said the average age of people diagnosed with COVID is about 52 years old. She said that average is also reflected in the ICU. Wolfe said there are a lot of people are dying. Many of them are unvaccinated. Were losing many more people than weve ever lost before in this pandemic, and its taken its toll on our staff, said Wolfe. This week, Wolfe signed a contract for a refrigerated truck that would be used to hold people who have died. Wolfe said she hopes they wont have to use it, but they are preparing. Our anticipation, based on what weve already seen, is that we wont have enough room for all the people that pass away in the next couple of weeks, said Wolfe. All the death and disease takes a mental toll on health care workers, some of whom have left the profession. Because visitors arent allowed into the ICU, a nurse will often hold a device allowing family members to see the patient on a video call. The nurses other hand is wrapped around the hand of the dying patient. I'm talking to you as a nurse today, said Wolfe at the meeting. This is devastating. I don't know how long we can keep this up to be honest with you. Now, more staff who disagree with the states vaccine mandate for health care workers may leave too. Wolfe said about 25% of all staff are currently unvaccinated. The deadline for health care workers to be fully vaccinated is Oct. 18. Some of them will leave. Theres no doubt about that, said Wolfe. We have 6,000 employees, so it is close to 1,200 people that are unvaccinated right now. Addressing staffing concerns Wolfe said shes recently hired on more nurses and hopes the addition of Oregon National Guard members may help. Other hospitals are also facing the precarious staffing situation in the midst of a deadly COVID surge. The amount of work that truly the COVID crisis has put on to our staff is really significant, said Lisa Vance, president of operations and strategy for Providence in Oregon, Alaska, Montana and Washington. The high death rate of patients that move to the ICU takes a toll on people, Vance said. In addition, Vance confirmed that before the pandemic, across the United States there was a staffing shortage. It was exacerbated by the pandemic. Now, Providence has announced a $220 million investment to retain staff and fill positions. Its offering sign-on and referral bonuses as well as giving out $1,000 for all Providence caregivers as a way to thank employees. Its been very well-received, I would say, and sometimes its not even just the amount but the intention that were all trying to do this together, said Vance. Vance said right now, Providence is looking for all levels of caregivers to join the health systems ranks. We need caregivers to be able to care for this pandemic and the caregivers at Providence are our number priority. I would also say, please, get the vaccine," she said. Wolfe echoed the importance of vaccination. Like many doctors and nurses, Wolfe, who is a registered nurse herself, said anyone eligible to get vaccinated should do it. While the vaccine doesnt necessarily prevent someone from getting COVID, it is likely to prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death. She is in support of the governors vaccine mandate for health care workers. I need my health care workers healthy and able to work. And if they get a breakthrough infection, they can go home recover, have their 10-day quarantine and be back at work. I need them, said Wolfe, who also emphasized that unvaccinated health care providers could accidentally pass the virus onto patients. CORONAVIRUS Health care workers running on fumes as Oregon vaccine mandate's Oct. 18 deadline looms This is devastating. I don't know how long we can keep this up to be honest with you, Salem Health CEO Cheryl Wolfe said. Author: Christine Pitawanich Published: 8:39 PM PDT September 3, 2021 Updated: 9:03 PM PDT September 3, 2021 Facebook Twitter SALEM, Ore. Doctors and nurses have been vocal about the importance of getting the vaccine. Now, as they struggle to keep up with the overwhelming surge of COVID patients, theres another possible challenge on the horizon: the threat of more staff leaving as the October deadline for Oregon's vaccine mandate approaches. The Top 10 Healthiest Vegetables FEATURED BY This is an ugly disease and the reality is we're losing this battle, said Salem Health CEO Cheryl Wolfe at a Chamber of Commerce meeting Thursday. The people that go into the ICU arent going home. So thats the grim reality, she said. Wolfe was honest about what health care workers are seeing right now as she spoke to business owners and leaders. Wolfe said she was frank as she spoke at the Chamber of Commerce meeting because she wants to call attention to whats happening inside hospitals. She hopes business leaders will help and encourage employees and community members to get vaccinated. RELATED: Oregon nonprofit aims to educate people on safety, effectiveness of vaccines When you see a young mother who's unvaccinated, who's pregnant, and you do a C-section on the young mother to save the baby and we know the mother's not going to make it, thats the reality of what's happening right now. I'm not going to sugar coat this for you, said Wolfe. Hospitals deal with more COVID patients and more deaths On Thursday, Wolfe said she had 93 COVID-positive patients in the hospital, the vast majority unvaccinated. In just one day, that number went up to 102. On Friday, she said 22 people were in the ICU with 16 of them on ventilators, something theyve never seen before. Wolfe said the ICU is full and important surgeries like cancer removal are getting canceled. RELATED: Elective surgeries postponed in Oregon because hospitals are filled with COVID patients Wolfe said at this stage of the pandemic, ages of patients with COVID are skewing younger. She said the elderly population has a good vaccination rate. Unfortunately, Wolfe also said theyve seen more pediatric cases. In our community weve seen an increase in the number of pediatric patient cases that have to be hospitalized, and weve sent two to specialty hospitals because they are so sick and beyond the capability of what we are able to take care of. So, this is real, she said. Wolfe said the average age of people diagnosed with COVID is about 52 years old. She said that average is also reflected in the ICU. Wolfe said there are a lot of people are dying. Many of them are unvaccinated. Were losing many more people than weve ever lost before in this pandemic, and its taken its toll on our staff, said Wolfe. This week, Wolfe signed a contract for a refrigerated truck that would be used to hold people who have died. Wolfe said she hopes they wont have to use it, but they are preparing. Our anticipation, based on what weve already seen, is that we wont have enough room for all the people that pass away in the next couple of weeks, said Wolfe. The mental toll on health care workers All the death and disease takes a mental toll on health care workers, some of whom have left the profession. Because visitors arent allowed into the ICU, a nurse will often hold a device allowing family members to see the patient on a video call. The nurses other hand is wrapped around the hand of the dying patient. I'm talking to you as a nurse today, said Wolfe at the meeting. This is devastating. I don't know how long we can keep this up to be honest with you. Now, more staff who disagree with the states vaccine mandate for health care workers may leave too. Wolfe said about 25% of all staff are currently unvaccinated. The deadline for health care workers to be fully vaccinated is Oct. 18. Some of them will leave. Theres no doubt about that, said Wolfe. We have 6,000 employees, so it is close to 1,200 people that are unvaccinated right now. Addressing staffing concerns Wolfe said shes recently hired on more nurses and hopes the addition of Oregon National Guard members may help. Other hospitals are also facing the precarious staffing situation in the midst of a deadly COVID surge. The amount of work that truly the COVID crisis has put on to our staff is really significant, said Lisa Vance, president of operations and strategy for Providence in Oregon, Alaska, Montana and Washington. The high death rate of patients that move to the ICU takes a toll on people, Vance said. In addition, Vance confirmed that before the pandemic, across the United States there was a staffing shortage. It was exacerbated by the pandemic. Now, Providence has announced a $220 million investment to retain staff and fill positions. Its offering sign-on and referral bonuses as well as giving out $1,000 for all Providence caregivers as a way to thank employees. Its been very well-received, I would say, and sometimes its not even just the amount but the intention that were all trying to do this together, said Vance. Vance said right now, Providence is looking for all levels of caregivers to join the health systems ranks. We need caregivers to be able to care for this pandemic and the caregivers at Providence are our number priority. I would also say, please, get the vaccine," she said. Wolfe echoed the importance of vaccination. Like many doctors and nurses, Wolfe, who is a registered nurse herself, said anyone eligible to get vaccinated should do it. While the vaccine doesnt necessarily prevent someone from getting COVID, it is likely to prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death. She is in support of the governors vaccine mandate for health care workers. I need my health care workers healthy and able to work. And if they get a breakthrough infection, they can go home recover, have their 10-day quarantine and be back at work. I need them, said Wolfe, who also emphasized that unvaccinated health care providers could accidentally pass the virus onto patients. Addressing what people have been saying In addition, during the Chamber of Commerce meeting, concerns about mask wearing were brought up. Wolfe reiterated the importance of mask wearing, saying that data indicate that wearing a mask reduces the overall spread of the virus, whether its an N95 or cloth mask. Wolfe also addressed a conspiracy theory calling into question the cause of death for some people whose deaths are attributed to COVID. When youve got 16 people on ventilators because of COVID, somebody may have cancer, [but] they didnt die from cancer. Theyre dying from COVID, she said. Wolfe has also seen callous statements online directed at health care workers. I do want to make one statement there are a lot of statements out there about how we in health care signed up to do this work and stop whining. Were not whining. We didnt sign up for a pandemic and we didnt sign up to, every single day, lose people and not be able to save people. We save people. We lose some. Were losing a lot, said Wolfe. At the end of the day, Wolfe said they're still taking care of patients who come in needing help. But it's taxing staff with emotions running high and resiliency low. EUGENE, Ore. -- Eugene-Springfield Fire officials have confirmed that one person was killed and pronounced dead at the scene after a serious single-vehicle crash Sunday morning on I-5 South. Two people were taken to the hospital -- one with critical injuries and another with serious injuries. Officials said it was originally reported as a two-vehicle rollover crash. Crews responded to the crash around 8:15 a.m. ODOT said Southbound I-5 is open south of Coburg. All lanes of I-5 southbound were closed just south of Coburg at milepost 198.5 until about 12:45 p.m. They remained closed while the death investigation was being conducted, officials said. Roberts Road and Selby Way were also closed to that area. Traffic was detoured to southbound OR 99 at milepost 209, the Harrisburg exit. Coburg Fire, Eugene-Springfield Fire, Oregon State Police and Oregon Department of Transportation responded to the crash. This is a developing story. Stay with KEZI for the latest. Don't pack away the summer gear just yet as revised weather forecasts are predicting warm weather pushing up from Spain and France with temperatures reaching as high as 27 degrees in Ireland next week. According to the Weather Alerts Channel, temperatures are forecast to hit 25 to possibly 27 degrees in some areas. Sunshine is also predicted along with the warm air. While short-term forecasts are predicting a dip in temperatures and some rain over the weekend, there have been much more positive forecasts for next week. Typically, there was a short Indian summer as children returned to schools this week, but now it looks like the good weather hasn't gone away just yet. The warm weather is set to stretch into the middle of next week, at the very least. Meanwhile, Met Eireanns weather report for the month of August shows it was a mostly mild and changeable month. There was some heavy rainfall and thundery showers at the start of the month. It became mostly dry and settled from the 22nd up to the end of the month as high pressure built to the north of Ireland, blocking any active weather fronts from approaching. A lot of warm sunny weather followed between August 23 and 28, especially in the west, but as the high pressure moved slightly to the northwest of Ireland towards the end of the month, cloud, mist and night-time fog become more common. Junior Eurovision is back! After a year that we all want to put behind us, the singing competition for kids aged 9-14 from all across Europe, could be the breath of fresh air we need. The search for Ireland's entry for 2021 is on and on 19th December the new Irish star will grace the stage and sing their hearts out for the nation. It will be up to the judges Niamh Ni Chroinin and Fiachna O Braonain who will choose that lucky person that will represent us in Paris later in the year, along with guest judges Niamh Kavanagh, Brian Kennedy, Mickey Joe Harte, Jedward, Lesley Roy and Linda Martin, with new show presenter Louise Cantillon. So, does your child have the voice of an angel? Do you know someone who can hit those notes? Or are you someone who knows they can rock the audience at this years Eurovision? If so, head over to the TG4 website for more information on how to apply, and you could be on your way to Eurovision stardom! FLOYD COUNTY, Iowa - Two people were killed and two others were injured Saturday during a collision in Floyd County. The Iowa State Patrol said Chris Andersen, 77, of Mason City, and Anita Andersen, 76, of Mason City, were killed in the crash. Casey Lindahl, 28, of Charles City, and a 3-year-old child were both injured. The Iowa State Patrol said their lives were saved by wearing a seatbelt. The crash happened at 2:09 p.m. at Underwood Ave. and 140th St. near Colwell. Authorities said a 2012 Ford Edge driven by Lindahl crossed the centerline and struck the Andersen vehicle. ALBERT LEA, Minn.- Labor Day Weekend might mean wrapping up summer at the pools, lakes, and barbecues but for a group of people in Albert Lea, it means fundraising for the Make-A-Wish foundation. For the past nine years, campers at Hickory Hills Campground have spent their holiday weekend raising money for the non-profit. "We started out with a group of friends and the previous owners put it together in a month. We were hoping to raise a thousand dollars and we raised over 3,000 dollars. We've just done it every year as a big fundraiser out here," says Angie Hallum, one of the event organizers. Hallum's mother and stepfather motivated her to start the tradition. "They were very involved with Make-A-Wish in Iowa and we reached out to Make-A-Wish in Minnesota and they said go for it." This year, around 100 people attended including Tara Yokiel who was once a Make-A-Wish recipient. "It's awesome. It's wonderful. It's cool everyone can give back." Throughout the fundraiser, campers participated in bean bag tournaments, auctions, and raffles. Jennifer Burmeister and her family own the campground. She is happy event organizers host the fundraiser there. "Honestly there's really not enough words for that. What happens here, the people that are seasonals along with our 10 recreational sites, they come, they donate, they buy everything back and 100 percent of the proceeds are donated to Make-A-Wish." Ninety percent of the attendees have been attending since the event started including Kari Wannarka and Jena Lombard. "It's grown substantially over the past few years. It gives these young children opportunities that they may not have in their families with difficult situations that they're dealing with," says Lombard. Last year, $42,000 was raised. This year, the goal is to beat that. A healthcare worker prepares doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine at a mobile vaccination clinic at a high school in Los Angeles, California. President Joe Biden, pictured here on August 31, in Washington, traveled to Walter Reed medical center in Maryland to visit wounded US service members. Kokomo, IN (46901) Today Considerable clouds early. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. High 79F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight A mostly clear sky. Low 53F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Polk County, Fla., Sheriff's officials work the scene of a multiple fatality shooting Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, in Lakeland, Fla. Four people are dead including a mother who was still cradling her now deceased baby in what Florida sheriff's deputies are calling a massive gun battle with a suspect. (Michael Wilson/The Ledger via AP) By Andrew Hammond The stand-out diplomatic highlight each September is usually the annual U.N. General Assembly meetings in New York; yet this month sees much stronger competition in a massive month of global summitry that includes the BRICS referring Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) forums, as well as potentially a special Afghan meeting of the G20, including South Korea. The SCO summit on Sept. 16-17, which will see the Taliban takeover in Kabul feature highly, will see leaders from Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan convene. The SCO is still a relatively little-known grouping, but covers some 60 percent of the Eurasian continent, on which 3 billion people reside, accounting for almost half of the world's population. And it could yet grow further, with Mongolia, Belarus and Iran observers in the group, while Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal and Sri Lanka have received dialogue partner status. As important as the SCO is, however, it is the BRICS that continue to capture much more of the international limelight. The reason is, partly, that the five powers are increasingly flexing their muscles on the world stage, pushing for a world order that includes a bigger role for developing nations. While the origin of the SCO lies in defense and security, it is economics that drove the formation of the BRICS, reflecting the fact that the five powers account for around a quarter of the global GDP, and over 15 percent of world trade. In its first decade, the bloc became a more cohesive force, with a strong desire to advance the member countries' development strategies by coordinating macroeconomic policy. Yet, the bloc is increasingly seeing political cooperation rise to the fore, and that is exemplified by this year's Indian presidency. The four priorities for New Delhi in 2021, with the leadership summit on Sept. 9, include enhancing intra-BRICS anti-terrorism cooperation, and enabling greater people-to-people interaction. India's other priorities include delivering the Sustainable Development Goals, reform of the multilateral system to deliver on what the BRICS countries say is a common ambition of the sovereign equality of all states, and respect for territorial integrity. This emphasis on reforming the multilateral order is also showcased in broader BRICS projects, including in the creation of the New Development Bank, an alternative forum to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. The bank finances infrastructure and other projects in the BRICS, along with a related 100 billion dollars special currency reserve fund. One driver is the perception that it will allow BRICS to better promote their interests abroad, strengthening positions and opinions that are sometimes ignored by their western colleagues. Another recent initiative, perceived to challenge American and wider western preponderance in information technology, was agreed upon when the BRICS signed a letter of intent to cooperate in the sector. These examples underscore the hunger of the BRICS to become even bigger political players, rising fears in some quarters that the bloc could, ultimately, become a unified anti-Western alliance. However, such a scenario is most unlikely in the immediate future, and the bloc will probably not decisively move beyond an increasingly institutionalized forum for emerging market cooperation any time soon. Part of the reason for this situation is the bloc's diverse interests, as showcased by Beijing's periodic tensions with New Delhi. These tensions have been one driver behind the meetings of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) network of powers, comprising India, the United States, Japan and Australia. At the same time that the BRICS are stepping up their political cooperation, there is growing skepticism of the relevance of the group as an economic club given the diverging long-term economic trajectory of the powers. Pre-pandemic, there was generally robust economic performance in China and India over the past two decades, contrasting with disappointing results in Brazil, Russia, and South Africa. However, even India went into recession in 2020, while China was the only major global economy to grow. Yet, despite the member countries' diverging fortunes, the BRICS' share of the global GDP has grown by over 10 percentage points from around a decade ago, and this share is having a major global impact. World Bank research, for instance, has shown that, for the first time in some two centuries, overall global income inequality between countries appears to be declining, driven by the emerging market powers. At the same time, however, there is an opposing force: growing income inequality within many countries. Such worsening inequality has assumed growing political salience, helping to fuel populist, nationalist politicians including Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro. With these countervailing pressures pushing against each other, the net global trend for the past 200 years has been toward greater overall income inequality. Yet, there is evidence in the last two decades that the "positive effect" of growing income equality between countries is superseding the "negative effect" of increasing inequality within nations. Especially post-pandemic, it is unclear whether this dynamic has sufficient momentum to keep driving forward a more equitable world order. This issue will therefore be one of the major agenda items at September's summit, given the concerns that the fragile process could yet go into reverse, post-pandemic, especially if growth in China and India flattens significantly. ) is an associate at LSE IDEAS at the London School of Economics. Andrew Hammond ( andrewkorea@outlook.com "The war in Afghanistan is now over." With these simple but heavy words, President Joe Biden drew a line Tuesday under America's longest war. It was a 20-year conflict that stretched across four presidencies, took the lives of 2,400 U.S. service members and at least 71,000 Afghan civilians, and cost our nation more than $2.3 trillion. The rapid, chaotic fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban, the terrorist group that brutally dominated the country from 1996 until a U.S.-led invasion of 2001, is a tragedy for not only 38 million Afghans but for an international community that tried over two decades to remake the landlocked Central Asian country into a flourishing democracy that respects women's rights and other human rights. This editorial board has supported Biden's decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, but not the rushed, chaotic manner of that withdrawal, which has resulted in loss of innocent lives, pain and suffering, and raises serious questions about intelligence and planning that merit congressional scrutiny. Over the past several weeks, some 100,000 Afghan contractors, interpreters, translators and administrative personnel who helped our military, our diplomats, our aid workers, our charities and our media organizations over the past 20 years have been airlifted to safety, along with 5,500 American citizens. Tragically, many more at least tens of thousands more are still stuck in Afghanistan, fearful that schools, freedoms, opportunities and safety will vanish. The images of Afghans running alongside military planes and in at least two cases, falling from a military plane as it took off will never fail to horrify and shock us. We agree with the difficult, essential decision to end this war. The truth is, 20 years of ruinous conflict in Afghanistan and Iraq have left America weaker, not stronger. Terrorism and extremism, both foreign and domestic, remain major threats to our national security, but far greater threats loom over the long term: China's challenge to American economic dominance, the unpredictable impacts of a warming atmosphere and pandemics like the COVID-19 crisis that has shut down much of the world over the past 18 months. Attention must now turn from the folly of the war to the moral imperative to help the Afghan people. Just as the United States took in hundreds of thousands of refugees from Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos after the Vietnam War, America and its allies must open their arms to the courageous women and men who helped in Afghanistan, along with their families. There is a humanitarian case to embrace those fleeing persecution, and there is a strategic rationale too, given our obligation toward those who helped us. But there is also the reality that the Afghan refugees will make America's communities stronger: opening businesses, earning degrees, teaching children, supporting the elderly. Immigrants have always given expression to America's highest ideals, and Afghan Americans must be given the opportunity to do so. It is the least we can do after a generation of warfare that has at times seemed futile. The cold, sad truth, as Biden said Tuesday, is that the U.S. had only one real aim in invading Afghanistan following the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. "What is the vital national interest?" he asked. "In my view, we only have one: to make sure that Afghanistan can never be used again to launch an attack on our homeland." The U.S. was legally obliged to withdraw under the February 2020 deal between the Trump administration and the Taliban. Moreover, an earlier evacuation would have only accelerated the collapse of the Afghan government. War, sadly, is messy. Are we fearful of another catastrophic terrorist attack like the suicide bombing that ISIS-K, an Islamic State affiliate in Afghanistan, launched last week outside the Kabul airport? Of course. But we agree with what Biden said. "The best path to guard our safety and our security lies in a tough, unforgiving, targeted, precise strategy," he said. "That goes after terror where it is today, not where it was two decades ago." It will take time for America, and the world, to process the trauma of the past several months. The U.S. is out of Afghanistan, but the U.S. cannot leave behind the people of Afghanistan. We must support Afghans through diplomacy, international influence and humanitarian aid. We must work with regional powers even countries like Iran and Russia that have tense relationships with the U.S. to ensure that Afghanistan does not once again become a hub for terrorism and lawlessness. America must continue to pursue human rights through multilateral institutions, and through the power of our example, not through endless military deployments. This editorial appeared in the Los Angeles Times and was distributed by Tribune Content Agency. By Ricardo Hausmann CAMBRIDGE Over the past 60 years, some development gaps across countries have narrowed impressively. But others have persisted. And one has widened, with ominous implications for the future. On the positive side, life expectancy in low-income countries has risen from 55 percent of U.S. levels in 1960 (when it was 70 years) to over 80 percent now (when it is 78.5 years), while in many middle-income countries including Chile, Costa Rica, and Lebanon people live longer than Americans do. A similar story can be told about education. Even as tertiary school enrollment in the United States increased from 47 percent in 1970 to 88 percent in 2018, many countries have dramatically narrowed the gap. Latin America, for example, went from less than 15 percent of the U.S. level in 1970 to 60 percent of today's much higher U.S. enrollment rate, with some countries (such as Argentina and Chile) reporting enrollment rates higher than the U.S. In the same period, Arab countries went from less than 13 percent of U.S. levels to more than 36 percent today. But other gaps remain stubbornly large. While U.S. per capita income more than tripled between 1960 and 2019 (at purchasing power parities), the income gap between it and Latin America, South Africa, and the Arab world did not narrow. Incomes in these regions are less than one-quarter of U.S. levels (after adjusting for differences in purchasing power). Sub-Saharan Africa has remained at about 6 percent of U.S. levels, and India at about one-tenth. Only in some East Asian and East European countries have income gaps narrowed significantly vis-a-vis the U.S. That brings us to the problem with ominous implications. A narrowing education gap without a narrowing income gap suggests a widening technological gap: The world is developing technology at a rate faster than many countries can adopt it or adapt it to their needs. Economists often disregard this issue, because they think of technology as something that is embedded in machines and thus capable of flowing naturally into countries unless governments do things like restrict trade, competition, or property rights. But technology is better understood as a set of answers to "how-to" questions. And because different people do things differently, technological adoption requires some adaptation to local conditions, which in turn requires local capabilities. One metric of such capabilities is the rate at which countries file patents. As with all metrics, this one is imperfect for many reasons (not all solutions to how-to questions get patented; not all patents are equally useful; and not all industries are equally likely to patent their innovations). Nonetheless, the numbers are so stark that they cannot be dismissed as mere measurement quirks. For its part, the US patent rate has more than tripled over the past 40 years, from around 270 patents per million people per year in 1980 to around 900 in recent years. And it is not even the world leader. South Korea's patent rate has increased by a factor of almost 100 in the past 40 years, from 33 to 3,150 per million; it is now patenting at a rate over three times higher than that of the U.S. Japan patents at twice the U.S. rate, and China has increased its patenting rate by a factor of more than 250 going from less than four per million in 1980 to more than 1,000 today. Countries like Austria, Germany, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Norway, New Zealand, and Singapore patent at a rate at least one-quarter that of the U.S. And other countries, such as Australia, Canada, Switzerland, Iran, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Slovenia, come in at just above one-seventh the U.S. rate. In this context, it is remarkable just how low patenting rates can be in some middle-income parts of the world. In Latin America and South Africa, for example, the patenting rate is 70 times lower than in the U.S., while in the Arab world it is 100 times lower. These incredibly low rates are notable for three reasons. First, they far exceed the gaps in university enrollment. Second, the patenting gap is huge relative to the gaps in scientific publications. One would expect very low rates of scientific publications if the problem was a lack of scientists. But in Latin America, the Arab world, and South Africa, the patent gap is, respectively, nine, ten, and 13 times larger than the gap in scientific publications vis-a-vis the U.S. Finally, these gaps are large relative to other countries that, until recently, were less developed in terms of income, university enrollment, or scientific development. China, Malaysia, Thailand, and even Vietnam now outrank Latin America, South Africa, and the Arab world in the World Intellectual Property Organization's Global Innovation Index. It is always convenient to blame governments for bad outcomes. But, in this case, the dearth of patents in middle-income countries with large university systems seems to be the fault of businesses and universities themselves. It is a symptom of an unexploited synergy between these two domains. Universities in middle-income countries tend to be focused on teaching, because they are concerned with keeping education costs down. Their better research scholars direct their efforts toward scientific publications, because they prefer that to dirtying their minds with worldly practical problems on behalf of for-profit firms. At the same time, businesses, especially large ones, invest astonishingly little in research and development, partly because they never have made such investments before, but also because they assume that they will not have any university partners with whom they can transform money into innovations. They may not be wrong in that belief: most universities are not set up to accommodate this kind of work. But in a properly functioning innovation ecosystem, business investment in R&D would translate into large cashflows that universities could use to fund a significant and effective R&D capacity, without raising tuition fees. For that ecosystem to emerge, universities in middle-income countries need to change their mindset, structure, governance, and hiring practices; and businesses need to learn the value of investments in R&D from their more successful colleagues in other countries. Unless business and university leaders can drive new thinking about technological adoption, adaptation, and innovation, the income gap between countries and the rich world will persist. ). Ricardo Hausmann, a former minister of planning of Venezuela and former chief economist at the Inter-American Development Bank, is a professor at Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government and director of the Harvard Growth Lab. This article was distributed by Project Syndicate ( www.project-syndicate.org Brian Howey is publisher of Howey Politics Indiana at howeypolitics.com. Find him on Facebook and Twitter @hwypol. Kendallville, IN (46755) Today Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High near 75F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low 53F. Winds light and variable. SALEM, Ore. (KPTV) - Six people who are required to get COVID-19 vaccines to keep their jobs are suing Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and the state Health Authority, citing "natural immunity" as the reason they won't get a shot. WASHINGTON COUNTY, OR The Washington County Sheriffs Office said one man died in a road rage shooting Friday night near Beaverton. Road rage incident leads to shooting in Hazel Dell HAZEL DELL, WA (KPTV) The Clark County Sheriffs Office said a road rage incident turned into a shooting in Hazel Dell on Friday. WCSO said just before 7 p.m. Friday, deputies and Beaverton police officers responded to a shooting on Southwest Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway and Southwest 103rd Avenue. When they arrived, they learned two men had been involved in a road rage incident that continued on the side of the road. Both men got out of their vehicles armed with handguns. The sheriffs office said multiple shots were fired and one man died at the scene. He has been identified as 51-year-old Mark E. Stadamire of Salem. The other man remained on scene and was cooperative. The investigation continues and no arrests have been made. I think we already asked the residents to pay for the building, and I dont believe its right, in 2023, that we add an extra burden to the people who already paid for the renovations, Fesenmaier said. Alderwoman Cindy Flower said she agrees that the rates should not be increased for the residents since they are helping to fund the Riviera with their taxes. Flower said maintaining the rates for residents also may encourage them to rent the building more often for events. We really didnt do too much in terms of fundraising on the renovations, and we slammed it all on the taxpayers, Flower said. I think we owe it to them. Mayor Charlene Klein said she feels residents would be willing to pay the rate increase since the cost to maintain the Riviera will increase during the next two years. I know they realize the cost for personnel to clean the building and security, all those costs are going to go up, Klein said. Were talking about two years down the road. I dont think this is a significant increase for our residents at all. I think they would be most understanding about this. Yes, I'm still hung up on Jan. 6 and what one letter writer, Ms. Swatek, calls a "small group of insurgents." I'm not sure what would be defined as small in this case, but at least she calls them insurgents therefore, showing some recognition of the seriousness of what happened on Jan. 6. Afghanistan: Agree, our withdrawal definitely could have been done better. At least Biden has said, " I bear responsibility." Refreshing to hear from a president of the United States. History books don't call Afghanistan the "graveyard of empires" for no reason. Biden is the fourth U.S. president elected since we entered Afghanistan. Trump promised he would get us out. He started, but didn't finish the job. Biden will finish. Please don't talk about "cutting and running." How many more American lives is staying worth? Is it worth your child's life? Oftentimes, it takes more courage to leave than stay. Support Local Journalism Your membership makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} As the season begins to wind down, folks are scouting their fields to assess crop progress. This effort, of course, includes inspecting plants and opening husks, and some people are finding insects and damage, which is concerning. June isn't just Dairy Month, it's also Pollinator Month. Why not celebrate by doing what you can to protect our pollinators? A senior military commander of the pro-government #Yemeni forces was killed in an explosion in the country's southern port city of Aden, a security official said. Photo: IANS (File) pic.twitter.com/Rp1DNwDOte IANS Tweets (@ians_india) September 5, 2021 (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) Realme will launch two new smartphones under its popular Realme 8 series in India on September 9, 2021. Dubbed as Realme 8s 5G and Realme 8i, these smartphones will go official this week alongside the Realme Pad, Realme Pocket Speaker, and Realme Cobble Speaker. The Chinese tech brand will be hosting a virtual launch event at 12:30 pm IST. The company is leaving no stones unturned to keep the buzz going around these devices. Realme Pad Android Tablet Confirmed To Get 10.4-inch WUXGA+ Display Realme India and Europe CEO - Madhav Sheth has been teasing the devices on his official Twitter account. In a recent teaser, Realme has officially confirmed that the Realme 8i will sport a 120Hz display. He also mentioned in his tweet that Realme 8i is the only smartphone in its price segment to come equipped with this display. Our latest #realme8i is the only smartphone in this price segment that is equipped with 120Hz Ultra Smooth Display. It not only gives you a faster refresh rate but also sharper animations. Gear up for an #InfinitelySmooth experience! pic.twitter.com/uxBP1Ejtzv Madhav Sheth (@MadhavSheth1) September 5, 2021 Ahead of the launch, a new image has surfaced online that reveals full specifications, colours and other details of both handsets. The leaked image suggests that Realme 8s 5G will get a 90Hz display, 64MP quad rear camera setup, 16MP selfie camera, 5000mAh battery with 30W Dart Charge, MediaTek Dimensity 810 5G SoC and more. It will come in two colour options - Universe Blue and Universe Purple. As for variants, there will be two variants to choose from - 6GB + 128GB and 8GB + 128GB. The phone will also get an extended RAM feature with expansion up to 13GB. Realme 8i (Photo Credits: Realme) Realme 8i, on the other hand, will come equipped with MediaTek Helio G96 SoC, 50MP triple rear camera, 16MP selfie shooter, 120Hz display, 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging, and more. The phone will come in two shades - Space Black and Space Purple. It also gets an extended RAM feature, but it will be limited to 10GB. The handset will be available in storage configurations - 4GB + 64GB and 6GB +128GB. Realme 8s 5G Smartphone (Photo Credits: Realme India) The Chinese smartphone brand will announce prices and availability details of the devices during the launch event, which will happen on September 9. The display specifications mentioned on the leaked image is in line with the one revealed by Madhav Sheth. Expect Realme to disclose a few more details of the phones as we approach the launch event. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 06, 2021 12:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). The former U.S. president, Donald Trump, is well-known as a leader who never bothers to say what's on his mind. Even after his term, he is still getting involved in some political discussions of the United States government. Now, it seems like he is not done yet when it comes to sharing his opinions and beliefs as he released a three-word statement this 2021 Labor Day. According to The Daily Mail UK's latest report, another viral statement of Trump was seen in an email message of Save America PAC. "FIX 2020 FIRST" said the former American leader in the email message. On the other hand, the "Donate To Save America" is still at the bottom of the message so that interested individuals can send some donations to the leadership PAC, which the recent U.S. president himself specifically created. On the other hand, Save America PAC's email messages also serve as the main communication channel of Donald Trump since he is still banned from using Twitter, Facebook, and other social media platforms. Donald Trump 2021 Labor Day Message's Meaning As of the moment, Trump hasn't specified what his message is referring to. Many critics said they don't have any idea what the problem he wanted to fix back in 2020. READ MORE: Pres. Joe Biden Flip-Flops on When Life Begins in Abortion, Says Life Does Not Begin at Conception Contradicting Past Claims However, various enthusiasts said that the latest Labor Day message of the past U.S. leader could be referring to the election accusation against the current U.S. President Joe Biden. Trump and his supporters are still claiming that Biden stole the position from the former leader. "This election is about great voter fraud, fraud that has never been seen like this before. It's about poll watchers who were not allowed to watch," said Donald Trump back in December 2020. "So illegal. It's about ballots that poured in and nobody but a few knew where they came from. ... It's about the machinery that was defective, machinery that was stopped," added the iconic American leader. Trump's Labor Day Statements are Not Unusual The statements of Trump during Labor Days are not uncommon since he already released some words, which many people find unsettling, way back in 2020. CNN Edition reported that during his 2020 Labor Day speech, he said some statements targeting Biden, nuclear weapons, and COVID-19 vaccines. But, most of his opinions about Joe are usually negative. Since he is still not over with his loss, it seems like he would still share his thoughts on the next 2022 Labor Day. READ NEXT: Donald Trump Says He's 'Going to Run' in 2024 Presidential Election Following Afghanistan Mess: GOP Rep. Jim Jordan Portlaoise cannot become Ballymun a county councillor insisted at a meeting last week where councillors moved to ban the building of new apartment blocks in Laois. The public representative reached the decision to insert the clause in the draft Laois County Development Plan 2021-27 at the end of a more than six hour meeting where nearly 160 submissions were considered. The issue over apartment blocks was raised when the Office of the Planning Regulator submission was being discussed. While it does not recommended high rise nor is it included in the plan, councillors felt a limit should be set to stop big apartment blocks springing up in towns especially Portlaoise. Councillors were told that a recent direction from Government allows councils flexibilities to have lower living densities in certain areas such as the outskirts of towns. However, council officials attempted to reassure public representatives that higher density housing would only be considered where appropriate and where it would fit in with existing building. The were told that the maximum settlement allowed would be 35 people per acre in Portlaoise and Graiguecullen right down to 10-12 per hectare in the smaller settlements. Laois County Council's Chief Executive John Mulholland said climate action is a factor as are resources such as spending money on getting resources like water to out of town areas. He added Laois has no registered high rise, (six stories or higher), apartment block at present. But councillors would not be persuaded. Cllr Willie Aird, Portlaoise, said he was completely 'taken aback' and had 'huge reservations'. "It has Dublin written all over it...We are being pressurised as public represenatives to agree with developments of four and five storey high buildings," he said. Cllr Aird claimed such development has not been seen previously in Portlaoise. He said there has to be a proper mix of housing which exists in Portlaoise. He said five-storey housing is being proposed in Portlaoise's outskirts which he described as "absolutely ludicrous". He also said apartments should not be used to house familes. Cllr Caroline Dwane said she had huge concerns. She claimed that proposals have been made to house elderly people in apartments. "We should not be putting our elderly people in apartments," she said. Cllr Noel Tuohy said high rise is not the way forward. "We do not want a mini Ballymun or Ballyfermot in Portlaoise. It is just not on is not what the people," he said. Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, liked the idea of building up the town centre but belives a restrict on height is needed. She reminded officials that high apartment blocks already exist up to two miles from the centre of Portlaoise. "The horse has bolted," she said. Other councillors were also against the move. Cllr Aisling Moran said Laois is a rural county and people should not be piled into towns. Cllr Ben Brennan said a new development is being built in Graiguecullen which will see a 19 bed apartment block built overlooking other houses. Cllr John King said Dublin is very different from Laois. Cllr Padraig Fleming also felt a height needs to be placed on apartments. Councillors suspended agreement until the end of the meeting. When the matter was raised again councillors unanimously backed a motion from Cllr Dwane Stanley to amended the plan stating that new apartments bocks higher than three-storey would not be permitted in Laois. The councillors were advised that the decision would be returned to the Office of the Planning Regulator which can subsequently advise the Minister. Based in lovely Leitrim, Dromod Boxty is justifiably proud of its heritage. Starting out as a grocery shop in the heart of the village, customer numbers were dwindling but from this downfall started the growth of Dromod Boxty. They first began making Boxty from a family recipe which had been passed down through generations. Shortly after setting up, they began making more products such as pancakes and potato bread which they still continue to make fresh daily. They are now an artisan second generation family run business that has been in operation for over 30 years, employing locally and sourcing ingredients as local as possible. Things are ever changing in the business. From expanding the market by supplying to independent stores, restaurants, cafes, Supervalu, Aldi and are also exporting to USA. They have also undertaken huge upgrades to the premises with a lot of assistance from the Local Enterprise Office. Entering a class of its own is a goal Dromod Boxty always want to achieve. They have received a Great Taste award and a Blas NaHEireann award for their products. They have become a Guarantee Irish member and most recently becoming a Runner-up in the National Enterprise Award. Dromod Boxty are well on the way to achieving their goal. With Boxty being a traditional dish dating back to famine times, especially in the North-West of Ireland, Dromod Boxty is very proud of its Leitrim location and to be part of the revival of the potato pancake. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider subscribing to our ePaper and/or free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. Blacklion's celebrity chef Neven Maguire, returns television next week on Wednesday September 8. Neven will present his fourth series of Nevens Spanish Food Trails. This year the popular series sees Neven exploring the Balearic Islands of Mallorca and Menorca. Each of the seven programmes take place on a specific part of the islands, and this new series starts with Neven's visit to Palma Bay on board a motor yacht. The yacht, which once belonged to the Belgian royal family, presents fantastic views of Palma, the Cathedral, and the Tramuntana mountains in the distance. I love making the Spanish Food Trails series as there are so many new things to see, dishes to try out, and chefs, cooks and producers to meet. And of course I love the opportunity to share the places we visit with the viewers, Neven said of the adventure. The variety, as always, is amazing we visit city centre tapas bars, wine and brandy bodegas, a really cool bakery, and meet world class chefs and producers. We also visit a Mallorcan Black Pig farm, a 200-year-old gin distillery, and an almond grove, he told. This brand new series of Nevens Spanish Food Trails takes Neven to many stunning locations, including the pretty village of Deia, the historic towns of Soller, Mahon and Cuitadella, and the Tramuntana mountains. I enjoy creating and adapting recipes on location, having been inspired by what Ive seen, Neven says. Neven starts his trek in Palma, the capital of Mallorca. Here he joins motor yacht Falcao Uno for a trip around the Bay of Palma, and an introduction to Mallorcan food with chef Ronny Portulidis. Food guide Deborah Pina shows Neven how to make 'coca' - a popular Mallorcan snack and street food favourite. Neven meets Spanish TV chef Santi Taura at his modern tapas bar Cor in the centre of Palma. Neven then cooks some tapas of his own in this first programme - Patatas Bravas with a Spicy Tomato Sauce, and Baked Mushrooms Neven's Spanish Food Trails will be on RTE 1 on Wednesday September 8, 2021 starting at 8.30pm. leitrim's county town Carrick-on-Shannon has been named in the 20-strong longlist in the Irish Times Best Place to Live in Ireland 2021 competition, which is supported by Randox Health. More than 2,400 members of the public nominated 470 locations in every county in Ireland. Each place is judged on criteria including natural amenities; buildings; community initiatives and spirit; the presence of clubs, societies and activities; good local services; diversity; a welcome for outsiders; transport links; employment opportunities; the price of property and housing supply; cost of living; digital links for distance working; safety and security. The winner will be announced in late September. Carrick-on-Shannon Population: 4,062 Average house price: 121,421 (144,846 when a recent group sale is excluded.) Nominated by: Lola Gonzalez Total nominations 12 What the pitch says: Carrick-on-Shannon is the best place to live because of its natural beauty and tranquillity. Im a migrant who arrived six years ago to lovely Leitrim and I felt its magic from the first day. I was charmed by its unspoiled beauty. I was swayed by the spirit of its people. Its a slow pace of life but so much better for the soul. A great part of Ireland to connect with nature. What The Irish Times says: The river and the surrounding scenic countryside make it special. For its size, it has a very vibrant atmosphere, complemented by a good community spirit. People in Carrick are welcoming to newcomers and visitors, and the Kurdish community in the town speak about how so many locals went out of their way to make them feel at home. FOR the fifth year in a row, a unique series celebrating Limericks food and culture will take place this and next month. Pigtown is flying again in Limerick, as local food producers, restaurants, and the unique industry here enjoys the spotlight. Developed by the Limerick Food Group and supported by the local authority, Pigtown took place against the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic 12 months ago. But with restrictions eased somewhat since then, the festival looks to be getting back to some sort of normality. Sadly, the famous giant pig which leads the Culture Night Pigtown Parade around the city wont be present its hoped he will be back next year there will be many other attractions to make up for it. Were very exited to see the work @lumensttheatre is creating for us progress, the piggy family is growing! #pigtownlimerick @LimerickArts pic.twitter.com/B9rmJrCAGA September 3, 2021 Chef Tom Flavin, who chairs the organising committee said: Obviously we are missing the annual Pigtown Parade through the city that is always a big colourful family event for us, but hopefully that will be back next year - instead we will have a Culture Night Pigtown Party in the Milk Market this year with our giant piggy. Culture Night takes place on Friday, September 17, but there are many more attractions prior to it, including an 061 Dinner the night before, focusing on six local restaurants, with Treaty City producing a special Pigtown Pilsner to go with the night. For more information and a calendar of events for the two-month long festival, visit pigtown.ie. MAYOR of Limerick city and county, Cllr Daniel Butler has paid tribute to the late Dolores ORiordan ahead of what would have been her 50th birthday on Monday. The Cranberries iconic frontwoman and Ballybricken native passed away on January 15, 2018 at the age of 46. "Everyone in Limerick is so proud of the Cranberries and particularly Dolores ORiordan and all that she achieved in her lifetime," said Mayor Butler. "Despite all her success as an international star, she never forgot where she came from and loved coming home to Limerick. Her great gift of music will live on for many generations and fans all around the world adored her and her incredibly unique voice. "Im thinking especially of her mother Eileen, her family and her band mates as they remember Dolores in their own way to commemorate what would have been her 50th birthday," he continued. The Mayor said hes looking forward to a special livestream event featuring the Cranberries band members Fergal Lawlor and Mike and Noel Hogan who will gather in Limerick on Monday for a special livestream event on the Cranberries Facebook page starting at 7pm. "Ill be tuning in to hear the band speaking about the Cranberries songs and hearing their stories about what reminds them of Dolores as well as some new content," said Mayor Butler. "Im a huge Cranberries fan, Dolores was an inspiration to me and so many across the world and it was a privilege to listen to that powerful musical tribute on RTEs Late Late Show on Friday night with Limericks own Emma Langford, Kellie Lewis and the Irish Chamber Orchestra playing such an integral part. Happy 50th birthday Dolores, well never forget you." The sexual-assault scandal at Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. that spurred a backlash online about workplace culture is driving other Chinese companies to confront, or create, their own policies on sexual harassment. Following the allegations in early August, Shanghai-based online travel platform operator Trip.com Group Ltd. said it adopted a code of conduct against sexual harassment. iQiyi Inc., a Netflix-like video streaming company, updated its codes of conduct to explicitly oppose sexual harassment, according to an internal email viewed by The Wall Street Journal. Sina Corp., which operates the Twitter-like microblogging platform Weibo, added similar measures to its employee handbook, according to Chinese media. Sina and iQiyi didnt respond to requests for comment. Meanwhile, consulting firms said they have fielded an influx of queries from Chinese companies seeking help on anti-sexual harassment training and corporate policies. Alibaba announced steps to prevent sexual harassment, such as a zero-tolerance policy and regular training, after a female employee accused a co-worker of sexual assault and claimed that other managers mishandled her complaints. The accused employee was fired, and two managers resigned. The e-commerce giant said it is institutionalizing positive workplace measures including establishing a team dedicated to examining and eradicating inappropriate workplace behavior reported by employees. The accusations, in which the accuser said she was forced to drink heavily on a business trip and then was assaulted by both her manager and a client, spread quickly on social media and sparked a firestorm of public criticism. They also highlighted the lack of codified recourse for many employees experiencing sexual harassment, including at Chinas largest and most well-known companies. It was definitely a wake-up call," said Jill Tang, co-founder of the Shanghai-based organization Ladies Who Tech, which promotes gender diversity in Chinas tech industry. It caused a lot of discussion and made a lot of companies realize they dont have even a basic setup" for dealing with such complaints. Chinese laws against sexual harassment in the workplace are relatively nascent. An article in Chinas new civil code, which went into effect at the start of the year, stipulates that companies and other workplaces should take reasonable measures to prevent sexual harassment. However, the code lacks specific penalties for companies that dont comply, which could challenge widespread adoption and enforcement of such policies, said Darius Longarino, senior fellow at Yale Law Schools Paul Tsai China Center. The law with regards to employer liability for sexual harassment is quite vague, and thus, weak," he said. The Alibaba accusations and subsequent backlash sent many companies scrambling to adopt more stringent rules and training against sexual harassment. iQiyi sent out a letter to its employees and interns in mainland China on Aug. 13 to announce the changes in its employee handbook, and said the company firmly opposes" any harmful unspoken rules"a euphemism for sexual harassment at the workplace. With the nine rules iQiyi added, the company specifically forbids any form of harassment, and encourages employees to come forward and report inappropriate or harmful behavior. Penalties for breaking each of the rules are listed in a separate internal document. Trip.com announced its code of conduct against sexual harassment in an Aug. 16 email to its China team; it featured the mascot, a cartoon dolphin, encouraging employees to oppose sexual harassment, whether in the form of speech, electronic message, text, photo or physical contact. A spokeswoman for Trip.com said the policy is to ensure that employees feel safe at work and can come forward with any concerns. Labours, a Chinese consulting firm that advises companies on issues related to labor law and management, said several major tech companies in China have reached out since the Alibaba scandal broke, seeking advice on how human resources should handle sexual assault claims. EnGender, an organization that offers consulting services including on sexual harassment, has received more than 2,000 inquiries in the past few weeks, according to co-founder Shaw Wang. He said that compares with about three to five inquiries every month before the Alibaba scandal. Mr. Wang estimated that about half of companies reaching out to EnGender dont have policies against sexual harassment. For those that do have them, they could be included in a code of conduct or labor contract but often arent very specific, he said. The challenge for companies is to ensure initial efforts translate into sustained action, he added. Some employees at companies including Pinduoduo Inc., Xiaomi Corp. and Tencent Music Entertainment Group said they have recently received reminders from managers about antiharassment rules. An employee on Pinduoduos marketing team said her manager asked the team to handle business relationships with clients, partners and suppliers carefully, and report any wrongdoings internally to management. Meanwhile, a Xiaomi employee said that during a recent team meeting, a manager brought up the Alibaba scandal and asked team members to be careful and not let similar things happen in their team. Pinduoduo, Tencent Music and Xiaomi didnt respond to requests for comment. On Chinese social media, an online post by an intern at Tencent Holdings Ltd. went viral after he shared screenshots of his messages to Tencent founder Pony Ma and President Martin Lau asking them to address issues of sexual harassment. Mr. Lau responded, saying that while Tencent is very different from Alibaba, he would forward the request to the companys human resources division, which was implementing related measures. A Tencent spokesperson said it doesnt tolerate harassment of any kind, including sexual harassment, and has long-established channels for employees to share concerns confidentially. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. India Meteorological Department ( IMD ) has predicted another spell of rain in Delhi for four days starting Monday. The downpour, however, will not be as heavy as the national capital has witnessed over the past few days, the weather department said. A light rain spell will be starting on the morning of September 6 or 7. It will not be similar to the downpour witnessed on September 1 and 2 earlier. We are expecting light showers. On September 7 and 8, moderate rainfall has been predicted. This trend will continue till September 9," Senior IMD scientist Dr RK Jenamani told news agency ANI. He further stated that Delhi will another rain spell will commence on September 10 which might bring heavy rainfall. "In Delhi, there is no orange alert till September 9. Drizzling will continue and temperature will not increase," he added. The IMD senior scientist also mentioned that information about the second rain spell forming on September 10 will be clearer by September 8 or 9. Calling the monsoon trend in Delhi this year "peculiar", Dr Jethmalani said, "In June, there was a rainfall deficit. However, in July it was comparatively more. In August, it reduced. But in September, we witnessed record-breaking rainfall. In the entire monsoon season, Delhi received about 980 mm rainfall, which is more than 50 per cent of normal." Dr Jenamani also noted that in 2010, the rainfall was much more than this year's record rainfall. "If we consider rainfall after 2011, 2021 had the highest rainfall. Perhaps, September is yet to end. We are not seeing monsoon withdrawal in the near future. If light rain spell continues, a few millimetres will be added. If 2021 will be breaking the 2010's record, we will be able to figure it out in future." "The impact of the rainfall was high this year with a lot of waterlogging, traffic and water entering houses," he noted. Noting the effects of climate change, the senior scientist said, "Due to climate change, events of intense and heavy rainfall in a short span of time are increasing. This year, this trend is clearly visible in Delhi. Maximum rainfall of this season has been contributed by intense rain spell." Discussing the monsoon situation in other parts of the country, he said, "In north Punjab, there will be heavy rainfall on September 8 or 9. There will be no heavy rainfall in Haryana till September 10. Low pressure is forming in Bay of Bengal. On September 6 and 7, Odisha will receive heavy rainfall and in Andhra Pradesh, there will be very heavy rainfall." Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. In another milestone, India administered more Covid-19 vaccine doses than all of G7 nations put together, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The ministry informed that over 18 crore (180 million) vaccine doses were administered in the month of August. Yet another achievement! With more than 180 million vaccine doses administered in the month of August, India leaves a mark on the Global map of leading its way in vaccinating its population on priority. #LargestVaccineDrive," the government's social media handle MyGovIndia tweeted. Yet another achievement! With more than 180 million vaccine doses administered in the month of August, India leaves a mark on the Global map of leading its way in vaccinating its population on priority. #LargestVaccineDrive pic.twitter.com/ftvdHVIWMk MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) September 5, 2021 The G7 nations included Canada, the UK, the US, Italy, Germany, France and Japan. Canada administered 3 million doses and Japan 40 million doses in the two lowest and highest ranges, respectively, according to data tweeted out. Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Sunday informed that more than 4.37 crore (4,37,83,160) balance and unutilised COVID vaccine doses are still available with the States and UTs to be administered. According to a press statement, more than 66.89 crore (66,89,80,635) vaccine doses have been provided to States and Union Territories so far through the government of India (free of cost channel) and through the direct state procurement category. Further, more than 1.56 crore doses (1,56,96,450) are in the pipeline. As part of the nationwide vaccination drive, the government of India has been supporting the States and Union Territories by providing them COVID vaccines free of cost. In the new phase of the universalization of the COVID-19 vaccination drive, the Union government will procure and supply (free of cost) 75 per cent of the vaccines being produced by the vaccine manufacturers in the country to States and UTs. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Symptoms of Nipah virus infection have emerged in two health workers, informed Kerala Health Minister Veena George after a high-level meeting on Sunday. These two healthcare workers were among the 20 high-risk contacts of the 12-year-old boy who succumbed to the virus earlier today. The death of a 12-year-old boy has been confirmed due to Nipah virus. We have already started contact tracing, and assessing the situation. The team from NCDC is also coordinating with us," George said. We have identified 188 contacts till now. The surveillance team have marked 20 of them as high risk contacts. Two of these high risk contacts have symptoms. Both are health workers. One works with a private hospital, while the other is a staff member of Kozhikode Medical College hospital," she added. The Kerala Health Minister stated that all 20 high-risk contacts will be shifted to the Kozhikode Medical College by evening. Other contacts have been asked to remain in isolation. The pay ward at the Medical College Hospital has been completely converted into a dedicated Nipah ward, George further said. Earlier today, a 12-year-old boy from Mavoor died of the Nipah virus at a hospital in Kozhikode. The National Institute of Virology, Pune, has confirmed the presence of the virus in the boy's samples. The authorities have declared a health alert in the district and cordoned off about three kilometres around the house of the deceased child. The hospital where the boy was being treated is on alert and the situation there is being closely monitored. The staff of the local hospital in Omaserry near Mavoor, where the child was first taken for consultation after he developed severe fever late in August, has also been alerted. The state need not be concerned about the spread of Nipah infection as preventive measures like use of masks and PPE kits are already in place due to Covid-19 and intensive contact tracing was going on, George said. The central government has rushed a team from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to provide support to Kerala amid the Nipah outbreak. There have been 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases as of June 1, 2018. The outbreak was contained and declared over by June 10, 2018. Thereafter, in June 2019, a new case of Nipah was reported from Kochi and the sole patient was a 23-year-old student, who later recovered. With this year's reporting of a case, it is the fifth time the virus has been detected in India and the third in Kerala. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Kabul: About 600 Taliban have been killed in Afghanistan's northeastern province of Panjshir, Sputnik reported citing the Afghan resistance forces as saying on Saturday. "About 600 Taliban have been liquidated in various districts of Panjshir since morning. More than 1,000 Taliban have been captured or surrendered themselves," the resistance forces' spokesperson Fahim Dashti tweeted. The spokesperson further added that the Taliban had problems with getting supplies from other Afghan provinces, Sputnik reported. Meanwhile, the Taliban offensive against Panjshir resistance forces has slowed down due to the presence of land mines in the area. A Taliban source said fighting was continuing in Panjshir but the advance had been slowed by landmines placed on the road to the capital Bazarak and the provincial governor's compound, reported Al Jazeera. Panjshir is the stronghold of the National Resistance Front, led by Ahmad Massoud, the son of late ex-Afghan guerrilla commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, and ex-Vice President Amrullah Saleh, who had declared himself caretaker president. In Panjshir, former Vice-President Amrullah Saleh holed out alongside Ahmad Massoud - the son of anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud - admitted the perilous position of the NRF. "The situation is difficult, we have been under invasion," Saleh said earlier in a video message. "The resistance is continuing and will continue." Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Sao Paulo: Brazil has suspended beef exports to China after confirming two cases of atypical mad cow disease in two separate domestic meat plants. The temporary suspension that took effect on Saturday was announced by Brazil's Department of Inspection of Products of Animal Origin (Dipoa). This ban was declared in compliance with bilateral health protocols signed between the two countries. The measure will remain in place "until the Chinese authorities complete the evaluation of the information on the cases that has already been delivered," said a statement, as quoted by Sputnik. China, along with Hong Kong accounts for about 60 per cent of Brazil's beef export shipments, according to the Beef export tracker. Brazil's Agriculture Ministry said the two cases were reported in the city of Belo Horizonte in the state of Minas Gerais and in Nova Canaa do Norte in the state of Mato Grosso. Moreover, Brazil officially notified the World Organization for Animal Health after the disease was confirmed. According to the Russian news agency, the last case of atypical mad cow disease in Brazil was recorded in 2019, and exports to China were also suspended temporarily at that time. The ministry further said these current cases are the fourth and fifth atypical mad cow disease cases recorded in the country's 23 years of surveillance of the disease. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. KABUL : Afghanistan's Taliban rulers resumed some domestic passenger flights to and from Kabul on Sunday, as the religious militia's fighters stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. Since the takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast the group as a different from its 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and enforced strict controls across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. Kabul's streets are again clogged with traffic, as Taliban fighters patrol in pickup trucks and police vehicles brandishing their automatic weapons and flying the Taliban's white flag. Still, some signs of normalcy have returned: women are on the streets, schools have opened, and moneychangers work the street corners. Traffic police have returned to duty, and giant cement barriers sealing off upscale neighborhoods have been removed. As Taliban leaders hold meetings and promise a government in the coming days, technical teams from Qatar and Turkey are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said Kabul station manager Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. In response to the growing humanitarian needs in the war-ravaged country, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will convene a high-level humanitarian conference for Afghanistan on September 13. Taking to Twitter, Guterres said that Afghan children, women and men need support and solidarity from the international community. "Now more than ever, Afghan children, women & men need support & solidarity from the international community. I will convene a high-level humanitarian conference for Afghanistan on 13 September to advocate for a swift scale-up in funding & full, unimpeded access to those in need," Guterres tweeted. Earlier on Friday, United Nations spokesperson Stephane Dujarric informed that Guterres will travel next week to Geneva, Switzerland, to hold a ministerial meeting in response to the growing humanitarian needs in Afghanistan. "As the United Nations continues to stand in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan, the Secretary-General will travel to Geneva to convene on September 13 a high-level ministerial humanitarian meeting to address the growing needs in the country," Sputnik quoted Dujarric as saying. The spokesperson also said the conference will advocate for a swift "scale-up in funding so the lifesaving humanitarian operation can continue; and appeal for full and unimpeded humanitarian access to make sure Afghans continue to get the essential services they need." Secretary-General Guterres, in a statement on Tuesday, expressed his deep concern about the humanitarian and economic crisis in Afghanistan and the threat of a total collapse in basic services. The situation in Afghanistan has been deteriorating after the Taliban seized control of the war-ravaged country. On August 15, the Afghan government fell soon after President Ashraf Ghani left the country. The US completed the withdrawal of its troops from Afghanistan, ending one of its longest wars. In a matter of few weeks, US and Coalition forces evacuated more than 123,000 civilians out of Afghanistan and slightly more than 6,000 of them were US citizens. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. A delegation led by Pakistan ISI chief Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed visited Afghanistan to meet Taliban leaders and discuss security issues and government formation in the country. As per Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, Hameed participated in talks about the recent changes, ranging from the Taliban takeover as well as rebuilding activities at Kabuls airport. After arriving in Kabul to meet the Taliban, Hameed was asked by Britains Channel 4 News: Will you be meeting senior people in the Taliban?" He replied: "No, Im not clear" He was then asked by the reporter: What do you hope is going to happen now in Afghanistan?" I have just landed," Hameed said, adding We are working for peace and stability in Afghanistan. Dont worry, everything will be okay." A day later, Pakistan on Sunday hosted a virtual meeting of the special representatives and envoys of Afghanistan's neighbouring countries, including China and Iran, during which the participants agreed that peace in the war-torn nation is crucial for security and stability of the region. The meeting chaired by Pakistan's Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq was attended by representatives of China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, the Foreign Office said in a statement. "During the meeting, views were exchanged on the latest situation in Afghanistan," it said. Ambassador Sadiq, welcoming his counterparts, highlighted the importance of evolving a regional approach to address common challenges and to realise the new opportunities arising from a stable Afghanistan, it said. He added that a prosperous and peaceful Afghanistan would provide impetus to economic integration, strong people-to-people linkages, enhanced trade, and regional connectivity. "Colleagues from Iran, China, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, were unanimous that peace in Afghanistan is vital for security, stability and prosperity of the entire region," Sadiq said. On the day, a suicide bombing in the restive province of Balochistan on Sunday killed four people and left 20 wounded, Liaqat Ali Shahwani, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government, said in a text message. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan group claimed responsibility for the attack, which targeted a checkpoint of paramilitary forces in the provincial capital of Quetta. In a post on Twitter, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the TTP attack and paid tribute to security forces for thwarting foreign-backed terrorist designs." Condemn the TTP suicide attack on FC checkpost, Mastung road, Quetta. My condolences go to the families of the martyrs & prayers for the recovery of the injured. Salute our security forces & their sacrifices to keep us safe by thwarting foreign-backed terrorists' designs. Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 5, 2021 Pakistan wants the Taliban to form an inclusive government in Afghanistan, with the group holding talks with different political stakeholders and carrying out a military crackdown on Panjshir, a stronghold against it. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. A hammerhead shark that is preserved in alcohol in the East Wing of the Natural History Museum in Berlin, Germany. (Image credit: Sean Gallup/Getty Images) I've you've ever visited a laboratory or museum and admired a pristine eyeball or a tiny deceased critter floating in a glass jar, you've seen the preservation power of alcohol. The formal name of this technique is fluid preservation. Scientists have been relying on it since the 1600s to preserve their curious specimens. And, if done correctly, it can sustain a sample for hundreds of years, according to the American Museum of Natural History . But, how does it work? "The long and the short of it is that it's toxic to the kinds of microorganisms that would cause decay," Bill Carroll, an adjunct professor of chemistry at Indiana University Bloomington, told Live Science. He used wine as an example. It's made as yeast eats sugar from grapes and then excretes alcohol. But the yeast excrete so much alcohol that the concentration becomes toxic and kills the yeast, he said. And that alcohol content around 14% helps delay the growth of bacteria for years (many wines also contain additional preservatives like sulfur), according to the California Wine Advisor . Related: Does salt make water boil faster? Preserving other organic material such as DNA , tissues or even entire animals requires a higher alcohol concentration, said Katherine Maslenikov, the fish collections manager at the Burke Museum in Seattle. Maslenikov typically relies on alcohol, specifically ethanol, for long-term storage. For example, Maslenikov might take a fish specimen, remove some tissue samples for DNA analysis and inject the fish with formalin (a solution of formaldehyde gas dissolved in water) to stop the internal biological processes, such as enzymatic reactions and tissue degradation. Then, she might immerse the fish specimen in a jar of 70% alcohol, 30% water. For long-term storage, "70% seems to be that magic number," Maslenikov said. There's enough water in the solution that the tissues will stay hydrated, which helps the animal or specimen hold its shape, and there's enough alcohol to prevent mold and bacterial growth, she said. Alcohol at even higher concentrations, for instance 95% ethanol, works as a dehydrant, meaning it removes and replaces the water in the cell, tissue or whole-body specimen with alcohol. The lack of water causes changes to water-sensitive proteins; they unfold, or denature, and harden in place next to one another, fixing the specimen's shape, according to Ask a Biologist , a series run by Arkansas State University. This technique is a common way of preserving DNA, according to a 2013 study in the journal PLOS One . It can be tricky deciding what percentage of alcohol to use. Using too much or too little can affect the sample's shape and flexibility, or even lower its ability to preserve the sample in the solution. High concentrations of alcohol used to dehydrate a specimen will preserve it. But Maslenikov said this process can also leave a specimen shriveled (from the loss of water) and brittle (from the hardened proteins). Sometimes that's OK; it all depends on what you are trying to preserve. Meanwhile, a specimen might deteriorate quickly if it retains too much water. "If an organism has enough water in its tissues, it can dilute the alcohol," Christopher Rogers, an associate research professor at the Kansas Biological Survey and Center for Ecological Research at the University of Kansas, told Live Science in an email. If this happens, the alcohol concentration might not be potent enough to kill lurking microorganisms that might be harbored deeper in the specimen, somewhere like the gut of a whole-animal specimen. Those missed bacteria can decompose the specimen. "This is why it is important to change the alcohol [about] 24 hours after pickling the critter," because it boosts the solution's alcohol concentration, Rogers said. When it comes to using alcohol as a preservative, Carrol said you're looking for a concentration sweet spot: "A concentration such that you inhibit microorganisms, but not destroy the cell structure of what you're looking at." Originally published on Live Science. Click here to read the full article. Until watching Kenneth Branaghs wistfully autobiographical Belfast, I dont think I realized that one of Britains greatest living actors a talent whos embodied everything from Henry V to Hercule Poirot, Kurt Wallander to Laurence Olivier had been born in Northern Ireland. Maybe thats because his family got out and moved to Reading, England, when he was 9 years old, just as the Troubles were coming to a boil, which spared him the accent and what could have been a premature end. That escape makes it easy to guess on which side of the nationalist divide the Branaghs found themselves (hint: the reunification-minded Catholics wanted to cut ties with England, while the loyalist Protestants clung tight to its bosom). Though the conflict has been depicted to the point of exhaustion on-screen typically as an escalating cycle of senseless brutality, complete with preachy violence begets violence sermon Belfast avoids many of the cliches in favor of a more personal look back, through childs eyes. The affectionate cine-memoir is rendered all the more effective on account of young discovery Jude Hill and its portrayal of a close-knit family (Ciaran Hinds and Judi Dench and stay-put grandparents) crowded under one roof. Even half a century later, Belfast still represents home to Branagh, if only in the heart. As fresh divisions erupt around the globe, and a pandemic lockdown brought comparisons to a time when his neighborhood barricaded itself against possible attack, the writer-director felt compelled to share his experience. Shot mostly in black and white and bookended by a pair of real-life street riots, the project will undoubtedly strike some as Branaghs Roma, by way of John Boormans WWII-set Hope and Glory. (At one point, Dench describes drawing seams down the back of her legs to look like nylons, a detail straight out of that 1987 classic.) His execution might not always be the most original, but Branagh is a gifted filmmaker with an instinct for connection. Years onstage have taught him how to move and manipulate an audience, and those instincts make this a far more accessible coming-of-age story than Cuarons which, it should be said, was less about the kids than their indigenous nanny, serving as a late-life homage to an underappreciated second mother. Branagh goes for a more populist approach, relying on sentimentality and the sound of Van Morrison (eight familiar songs, one new) to trigger the desired emotions. Where Roma built to the Corpus Christi Massacre, keeping the worst of the uprising out of frame, Belfast opens with a bang (following a brief, full-color tour of modern-day Belfast): Aug. 15, 1969, mere weeks after the moon landing and the day the Northern Ireland riots touched Branaghs neighborhood. Transitioning neatly to black and white, the camera cranes above a contemporary wall mural to reveal the council estate where Buddy (Hill) and his family live in a rented row house. The 9-year-old rounds the corner to see a mob of anti-nationalist Protestants gathering at the end of his street. Theyve come to torch the Catholic houses (at the time, the two groups were still integrated in certain areas), and Buddy stands frozen in their way, holding a garbage pail lid as a makeshift shield. Its a stunning opening, making it easy to understand why such an incident would mark a child for life. Buddy finds it confusing, and so do we, as all this business of Catholics and Protestants (plus an early scene in which Buddy goes to church) makes it sound like the Troubles are about religion, not allegiance to the crown. Spewing fire and brimstone from the pulpit, Buddys Protestant minister commands his congregation to choose the right path between good and evil, heaven and hell, he means, but the bewildered boy sees it as a metaphor for the choice facing his family. His pa (Jamie Dornan) already works remotely, traveling to England for a wage barely adequate to keep a roof over his familys head. The tax man is constantly calling (if memory serves, thats one of the reasons the United States declared its independence from England, though this family doesnt see the burden as cause to secede), but Buddy doesnt quite understand such grown-up things. Ma (Outlander star Caitriona Balfe) does most of the parenting in her husbands absence, and Branagh presents her as both resilient and uncommonly beautiful an elegant Cate Blanchett type among the extras puffy, working-class faces. What mother is not a goddess in her sons eyes at that age? Buddy looks up to his elders with adoration, and its charming to watch his interactions with each of them, scripted and played in a slightly artificial way, where heavily accented characters wait their turn to talk, volleying the conversation back and forth as they might onstage. As Pop, Hinds helps Buddy with his math homework and advises the boy on how to get a pretty Catholic classmates attention (Olive Tennant plays Catherine). Denchs Granny eavesdrops on their conversations and gives the boy coins with which to buy sweeties, while neighborhood girl Moira (a memorable Lara McDonnell) talks him into robbing the local candy shop. There are consequences to pay for that, as Ma invites the policeman in to teach Buddy a lesson. The boy beams every time Pa tells him, Be good, and if you cant be good, be careful a line that assumes a different edge, now that acts of terrorism threaten innocent lives. Through it all, there are movies: High Noon, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, One Million Years B.C. and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang the latter two shown in color, the joy of discovery illuminating the characters black-and-white faces. Seen on TV, the Westerns speak to whats happening in the streets, such that The Ballad of High Noon plays out over a climactic standoff, when Buddy and Ma are held at gunpoint during a riot. Through Buddy, Branagh also remembers seeing Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol performed onstage, and were led to understand that though his talent flowered far away, the seeds of his career were planted there in Belfast, amid such tough soil. Reviewed at Telluride Film Festival, Sept. 4, 2021. (Also in Toronto Film Festival.) Running time: 97 MIN. Running Time: Running time: 97 MIN. Production (U.K.) A TKBC production, in association with Northern Ireland Screen. Producers: Laura Berwick, Kenneth Branagh, Becca Kovacik, Tamar Thomas. Crew Director, writer: Kenneth Branagh. Camera: Haris Zambarloukos. Editor: Una Ni Dhonghaile. Music: Van Morrison. With Caitriona Balfe, Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Ciaran Hinds, Colin Morgan, Jude Hill. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Egyptian producer Mohamed Hefzys production shingle Film Clinic at Venice with Amira, Mohamed Diabs drama about Palestinian children conceived behind bars with smuggled sperm is getting a financial boost that will triple its resources just as two new film and TV projects go into production. Film Clinic is having an outstanding festival presence this year. They recently took the top Cannes Critics Week nod with Omar El Zohairys Feathers, and are now in the Venice Horizons section with Amira (pictured); it will soon be in Toronto with Hany Abu-Assads Hudas Salon. Now the company will have the financial muscle to take things to the next level thanks a new partner, government-affiliated outfit Ergo, which is taking a 49% stake in Film Clinic, while Hefzy and other partners will retain control of the remaining 51%. Hefzy underlined that while the seed money comes from a government bank, the company is private, managed by Egyptian private equity fund NI Capital, which is the investment arm of Egypts National Investment Bank. Film Clinic, which besides its film and TV production core business also has a separate film distribution side, is now being restructured under a single Abu Dhabi-based holding company. The investment is going to help foster our production, development, as well as our distribution activity, said Hefzy, adding that it will triple our resources, given that there is equity investment and also credit facility that we can tap into. When it comes to negotiating with streaming giants, having broader shoulders means that Film Clinic will be able to have more control over the IP that we are producing, since to do that you need capital, rather than just be executive producers. They recently made Arabic supernatural drama Paranormal for Netflix. On the big-screen side, Film Clinic is going to continue to balance its slate between star-driven commercial films for the local market and the more prestige titles for the international market that its been taking to festivals. In terms of new movies, shooting will start in a week on feature Cairo Mecca, directed by Hani Khalifa (Sleepless Nights) about the many struggles of women in Egyptian society. Pic stars Mona Zaki, who will also soon be seen in the Arabic adaptation of hit Italian dramedy Perfect Strangers, on which Film Clinic is a co-producer. There are also two smaller films by first-time Egyptian female directors, still being kept under wraps. On the series side, Hefzy said Film Clinic is in production on Bimbo, a noirish comedy show set in Cairo co-directed by Amr Salama (Paranormal) and Omar Roushdy. The show is commissioned by MBCs Shahid VIP streaming platform. They also have two other series projects in development with top streamers, one of which for Genomedia. Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. A singular new voice born in Cameroon and based in New York, Ellie Foumbi is set to shine on the international scene at the Venice Film Festival, where her feature debut, Our Father, the Devil, will be presented as part of the Biennale College-Cinema section. Foumbi, who is represented by UTA, is the second Black female helmer to be selected in the festivals history, following Regina Kings feature debut One Night in Miami in 2020. A redemption tale weaving drama and psychological thriller, Foumbis film follows Marie, a reclusive African refugee (Babetida Sadjo) whose quiet existence in a sleepy mountain village in the south of France is overturned when she meets the charismatic new parish priest (Souleymane Sy Savane), whom she suspects to be the warlord that slaughtered her family and recruited her as a child. Through her protagonists journey, Foumbi sheds light on the lesser-known issue of how former childs soldiers struggle to overcome trauma and their difficult path towards rehabilitation in society. There arent a lot of films about child soldiers, some have looked at the process of how they are brought in, the horrors they experience, but no one ever asks how they start over, says Foumbi, adding that she was inspired to tell this story partly due to her fathers work at the United Nations. My dads job at the UN was to find aid and rehabilitation for these children and try to give them a second chance, reprogram themselves. A lot of them by rescued by NGOs but there is a very high suicide rate among them; finding out all this made me want to investigate more and do something, explains the helmer. Foumbi says she was drawn to make this film after reading a New York Times article in 2015 about Catholic nuns who were responsible for massacring innocents in Rwanda, and sought asylum in Germany under false identities. They lived there in a tiny town for over a decade, working as nuns and pretending to be charitable, until a man from Rwanda who was visiting a friend went to the local church and recognized one of the women, says Foumbi. Ultimately, the women were arrested and put on trial. In the ambitious feature debut, Foumbi also tackles sex, love and violence and the difficulty that rape survivors experience in reclaiming their bodies and building romantic ties. The film also explores the attraction-repulsion relationship between a victim and her perpetrator. Foumbi enlisted the casting director who worked on the Sundance prizewinning film Cuties to come up with a strong cast, including Sadjo, the Guinean-Bissau Belgian actress who starred in Pieter Van Heess Waste Land, and Sy Savane, the West African actor of Goodbye Solo, with whom Foumbi previously worked on a short film. Foumbi is already a well-rounded artist who holds an MFA in directing at Columbia University, studied classical French theater at the French-American School of New York and was selected to participate in several prestigious fellowship programs, including the IFP Marcie Bloom program and the Hedgebrook-Humanitas Screenwriters Lab. She also participated in the New York Film Festivals Artist Academy. Foumbis production credits include Nocturne in Black, the 2016 Gold Student Academy Award-Winning film which went on to be shortlisted for the Oscars in the Live-Action Short category. Zenith, her thesis film at Columbia made it into the Student Academy Awards Semifinals and garnered a nomination for an African Movie Academy Award. Her short film Home was commissioned by Netflix and premiered on Netflix Film Clubs YouTube channel. The helmer also made her TV debut on BETs hip-hop anthology Tales. Foumbi has also starred in films, including Say Grace Before Drowning and Evolution of a Criminal. Foumbi is now developing a feature film expanding on her thesis short film. She will star in the long-gestated passion project as an adopted black Mennonite who leaves the rural white community she was raised in and travels to an inner-city neighborhood in Philadelphia to find her biological mother. The project was part of Tribeca Untold Stories program in 2019. This film will explore identity and race and what it means to be Black in America, said Foumbi, who moved to the States when she was 5 and went to French school. Growing up, I had so many issues about my identity as a Black woman, so theres a lot of me in this story. Click here to read the full article. In the span of a year when everyones been on edge, prolific Mexican director Michel Franco managed to nuke our comfort zones not once, but twice, delivering separate provocations at back-to-back editions of the Venice Film Festival. In 2020, he won the Silver Lion for powder-keg thriller New Order, and now, he returns with the relatively understated but still shocking Sundown. While both are icy examinations of violence, inequality and explosive class conflict in contemporary Mexico, Franco could hardly be accused of repeating himself. Where New Order was in-your-face, Sundown returns to the controversial auteurs earlier, arms-length approach. The movie unfolds entirely in Acapulco, where a man (Tim Roth), a woman (Charlotte Gainsbourg) and two grown kids (Albertine Kotting McMillan and Samuel Bottomley, who appear to be just shy of drinking age) are shown consuming: They swim; they sail; they eat out at posh restaurants where the waiter brings out the steaks for your approval before cooking them. These four are a family, but perhaps not in the way audiences might think. If youre confused by how they relate, or why they behave as they do, rest assured, thats Francos intention. The high-minded directors most successful film to date, conceptually speaking, Sundown is an intricate, unconventional puzzle a mystery, complete with murder, in which the solution isnt nearly so important as the process of putting it all together. Franco is deliberately stingy with details early on, confident that viewers will leap to their own conclusions, and in so doing, their personal prejudices (a loaded term but not necessarily a negative one) will shape how they view the situation. As more information comes out over the movies short 83-minute running time, audiences will not only understand the story better but ideally themselves as well, recognizing how false assumptions may have affected their initial reading of certain elements. Take the first twist: The vacation is going fine until Alice Bennett (Gainsbourg) receives a call. From the little we gather, it seems as if her mother has been rushed to the hospital. Alice insists that everyone pack and head to the airport, receiving an update en route that devastates her. She passes the phone to Neil Bennett (Roth), who isnt nearly as upset by the news. When they get to the check-in counter, Neil realizes that he has forgotten his passport, telling the others to go ahead. Then he hails a cab and takes it to a cheap hotel, thereby extending his vacation. Roughly an hour later a couple weeks in story time Neil is stuck behind bars, and a representative from the British consulate poses the proverbial million-dollar question: Why didnt you go home for your mothers funeral? Unpack the consul reps wording carefully, and at least one connection becomes clear. But the point remains: What kind of man lets his family handle such an ordeal on their own? In the interim (and its important not to reveal too much here), Neil has been spending his days at the beach, drinking Dos Equis and soaking up the sun. He makes friends with the busboys and makes love to Berenice (Iazua Larios), a local shopkeeper whose spirit seems a million times lighter than whatever weight Neil is carrying on his shoulders. How should we feel about his behavior? As in all six of his previous films, Franco withholds judgment, but this time, he encourages us to fall for the most superficial of stereotypes, then obliges us to reconsider as new intel comes in. While nearly every filmmaker working today is trying, at some level, to create a pleasant experience for audiences, Franco is committed to challenging them. Sundown is no exception: The directors mission is to throttle us out of our comfort zones, which he does by downplaying the more melodramatic aspects of his stories (putting him in the company of Michael Haneke and Ruben Ostlund), using a style certain to frustrate and divide. Over the years, Franco has come to recognize a certain elitism among the film-fest and art-house crowds that turn out for his movies, and he plays our presumed privilege to his advantage here weaponizing our concern, as it were. Do we empathize with the Bennetts? When a character is shot dead mere feet from Neil on the beach, how do we react? What does that say about us? As the Bennetts millionaire heirs to a slaughterhouse fortune and attractive targets for gang scouts known as halcones (hawks) Roth and Gainsbourg deliver performances at opposite ends of the spectrum. Neil comes across nihilistically detached, whereas Alice is histrionic. Hes a passive zombie. She screams; she sobs; she makes proactive decisions. She also calls and texts constantly. What would she think if she could see what we do? Well soon find out, but again, she knows things that we dont, and vice versa. Their lack of healthy communication skills is one of the films themes. Perhaps Franco could be accused of the same, but theres a difference between ambiguity and confusion, and the director is aiming for the former. This far into his career, working in a consistently withholding register, he understands that audiences project themselves in the vast spaces between clear answers one reason so much depends on the first viewing. Yes, Sundown is a mystery, but its also a Rorschach test. No two people will see the film the same way. Reviewed online, Sept. 4, 2021. (In Venice, Toronto film festivals.) Running time: 83 MIN. Running Time: Running time: 83 MIN. Production (Mexico-France-Sweden) A Teorema production, in co-production with Luxbox, Commonground Pictures, Film I Vast, with the support of Eficine Produccion. (World sales: The Match Factory, Cologne.) Producers: Michel Franco, Erendira Nunez Larios, Cristina Velasco L. Co-producers: Jonas Kellagher, Caroline Ljungberg, Hedi Zardi, Fiorella Moretti. Executive producers: Tim Roth, Lorenzo Vigas. Crew Director, writer: Michel Franco. Camera: Yves Cape. Editors: Oscar Figueroa Jara, Michel Franco. With Tim Roth, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Iazua Larios, Henry Goodman, Albertine Kotting McMillan, Samuel Bottomley, Jesus Godines. (English, Spanish dialogue) Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Bills introduced in the last Texas legislative session became law on Wednesday, Sept. 1, and 81 of those new laws come from bills introduced by Texas State Senator Zaffirini. In total, Zaffrini passed 106 bills during the 87th Regular Legislative Session, with 81 of those proposed bills becoming law. The bills introduced by the state senator focused on pandemic recovery, public safety improvement and guardianship reform. Zaffirini said the pandemic and Winter Storm Uri were the main motivators of these new policies to be considered as they are safeguards for future emergencies like this faced by the state. 2020 presented novel challenges that compelled my staff and me to adapt our legislative approach, Zaffirini said. Flexibility, collaboration and problem-solving enabled our productive session. Zaffrini said while the emergencies faced fueled the motivation for these bills, many are ones she has been working on for years. I look forward to monitoring the implementation of these laws to ensure Texans benefit from their effect, she said. Im delighted to see the bills my staff and I devoted months and, in many cases, years to finally improving the quality of life for Texans in Senate District 21 and throughout our great state. Two bills that focused on both the pandemic and the winter storm were Senate Bill 930 which requires the disclosure of the occurrence and number of cases of a communicable disease in long-term care facilities, and House Bill 1423 which mandates regular, unannounced inspections of these facilities. Other laws written and passed by Zaffirini that became state law focused on crime, which she said is a growing area of concern for Texans in the past few years. These policies include SB 957 which prevents crime victims from being denied benefits from the Crime Victims Compensation Fund for failure to talk to the police at the crime scene or the hospital, HB 103 which establishes a statewide Active Shooter Alert System, HB 39 which ensures protective orders are enforced adequately and issued in a timely manner, and HB 375 which makes the sexual abuse of a person with a disability who cannot consent a first-degree felony. Other new laws taking effect in September include a suite of guardianship reform bills that adopt recommendations from probate court judges (SB 615) and the Real Estate, Probate and Trust Law Section of the State Bar of Texas (SB 626), the establishment of a guardianship mediation training course (SB 1129) and the creation of specialized guardianship courts (HB 79). According to a press release sent out by Zaffirinis office, some other bills she helped pass include: SB 45 that extends sexual harassment protections to employees of businesses with 15 or fewer employees, SB 884 which transfers The UT Health Science Center at San Antonios Laredo Campus to The UT System, SB 959 that requires the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to consider achievement in qualified continuing workforce education programs when recommending performance-based funding, and SB 1019 which is focused on disaggregating student loan data demographically, including by race and gender. Other important bills she has helped make into law include HB 33 which facilitates the award of postsecondary course credit leading to workforce credentialing based on military experience, education and training, HB 119 that prohibits discrimination against organ donors on the basis of disability, HB 428 which mandates health insurance coverage of ovarian cancer screenings, and HB 604 that requires animal shelters to scan pets in their custody for microchips. Other bills include HB 700 that awards college credit to foster youth who complete the Preparation for Adult Living Program, HB 780 which establishes a statewide bone marrow donor recruitment program, HB 1434 which requires a doctor to obtain a patients informed consent before performing a pelvic exam, HB 2058 which helps in ensuring children in the foster care system have access to age-appropriate normalcy activities, and HB 3529 that helps in amending the civil definition of identity theft to include coerced debt. Zaffirinis work is not done yet as her office also stated they have already finished writing a resolution to honor Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza who was one of the 13 United States service members killed in last weeks attack in Afghanistan. It will be one of the last bills she pushes for during the special legislative session. jorge.vela@lmtonline.com The City of Laredo announced on Friday night that the body of the local Marine who died in Afghanistan will be transported back to the Gateway City next week. Ceremonies for Lance Cpl. David Lee Espinoza will be held starting next weekend. Espinozas body is scheduled for a dignified transfer to the airport which will be closed to the public on Friday, Sept. 10. However, while this event is closed to the public, the family has invited the community to participate in a welcome home procession. A dignified transfer is the process by which the remains of a fallen Military Member are transferred from the aircraft to a waiting vehicle that will proceed to the funeral home, the City of Laredo said in a statement. The dignified transfer is not a ceremony, rather it is a solemn movement of transfer case by a carry team of military personnel from the fallen members service. Citizens can park in areas alongside the route which runs from the Hillside Road exit to McPherson Road, E. Del Mar Boulevard, N. Bartlett Road and finally Jacaman Road where it will end at the Joe Jackson North funeral home at 1410 Jacaman Road. For the procession which does not have an official start time yet the city is encouraging the community and business owners to wave American flags during the procession to show respect for the fallen local hero. Saturday, Sept. 11 will be a family viewing at the facility. This will be closed to the public. Instead, a public viewing is set to be held on Sunday, Sept. 12 at Joe Jackson North. The family has invited the community to pay their respects on this day as they can arrive at any time from 8 a.m. through midnight. Finally, military honors will take place on Monday, Sept. 13. A religious ceremony at St. Patrick Catholic Church will be held at 10 a.m. which will be streamed live at facebook.com/saintpatrickchurchlaredotx. The mass will then be followed by the funeral procession heading at 11 a.m. to Espinozas alma mater of Lyndon B. Johnson High School. Finally, the procession will depart to the City of Laredo Cemetery. During this time, the family is again inviting the public to line up along the route from LBJ to the city cemetery to pay their respects. I would like to invite the community to join me in paying our respects to Lance Cpl. David Lee Espinoza and his family, Rep. Henry Cuellar said. The family requested that David be flown to his hometown of Laredo, where he will arrive next Friday, Sept. 10, avoiding the possibility of additional travel from San Antonio. David gave the ultimate sacrifice to defend our rights of life and liberty we must honor that sacrifice today and each day moving forward by putting community first, just like David would have done in our shoes. The city asks that anyone seeking more details visit joejacksonfuneralchapels.com/obituary/LanceCorporalDavid-LeeEspinoza. zdavis@lmtonline.com CONAKRY, Guinea (AP) Mutinous soldiers in the West African nation of Guinea detained President Alpha Conde on Sunday after hours of heavy gunfire rang out near the presidential palace in the capital, then announced on state television that the government had been dissolved in an apparent coup detat. The countrys borders were closed and its constitution was declared invalid in the announcement read aloud on state television by army Col. Mamadi Doumbouya, who told Guineans: The duty of a soldier is to save the country. We will no longer entrust politics to one man. We will entrust it to the people, said Doumbouya, draped in a Guinean flag with about a half dozen other soldiers flanked at his side. It was not immediately known, though, how much support Doumbouya had within the military or whether other soldiers loyal to the president of more than a decade might attempt to wrest back control. The junta later announced plans to replace Guinea's governors with regional commanders at an event Monday and warned: Any refusal to appear will be considered rebellion against the country's new military leaders. The West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS quickly condemned the developments, threatening sanctions if Conde was not immediately released. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres tweeted that he strongly condemned any takeover of the government by force of the gun. The U.S. State Department warned against violence and urged authorities in Guinea to avoid extra-constitutional actions that will only erode Guineas prospects for peace, stability, and prosperity. Spokesman Ned Price added in a statement that the junta's actions could limit the ability of the United States and Guineas other international partners to support the country. Condes whereabouts had been unknown for hours after the intense fighting Sunday in downtown Conakry until a video emerged showing the 83-year-old leader tired and disheveled in military custody. The junta later released a statement saying Conde was in contact with his doctors. But they gave no timeline for releasing him other than to do say: Everything will be fine. When the time comes, we will issue a statement." Conde, in power for more than a decade, had seen his popularity plummet since he sought a third term last year, saying that term limits did not apply to him. Sundays dramatic developments underscored how dissent had mounted within the military as well. Doumbouya, who had been the commander of the army's special forces unit, called on other soldiers to put themselves on the side of the people and stay in their barracks. The army colonel said he was acting in the best interests of the nation, citing a lack of economic progress by leaders since the country gained independence from France in 1958. If you see the state of our roads, if you see the state of our hospitals, you realize that after 72 years, its time to wake up, he said. We have to wake up. Observers, though say the tensions between Guineas president and the army colonel stemmed from a recent proposal to cut some military salaries. On Sunday morning, heavy gunfire broke out near the presidential palace and went on for hours, sparking fears in a nation that already has seen multiple coups and presidential assassination attempts. The Defense Ministry initially claimed that the attack had been repelled by security forces, but uncertainty grew when there was no subsequent sign of Conde on state television or radio. The developments that followed closely mirrored other military coup detats in West Africa: The army colonel and his colleagues seized control of the airwaves, professing their commitment to democratic values and announcing their name: The National Committee for Rally and Development. It was a dramatic setback for Guinea, where many had hoped the country had turned the page on military power grabs. Condes 2010 election victory the countrys first democratic vote ever was supposed to be a fresh start for a country that had been mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule and political turmoil. In the years since, though, opponents said Conde too failed to improve the lives of Guineans, most of whom live in poverty despite the countrys vast mineral riches of bauxite and gold. The year after his first election he narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his home overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. Rocket-propelled grenades landed inside the compound and one of his bodyguards was killed. Violent street demonstrations broke out last year after Conde organized a referendum to modify the constitution. The unrest intensified after he won the October election, and the opposition said dozens were killed during the crisis. In neighboring Senegal, which has a large diaspora of Guineans who opposed Conde, news of his political demise was met with relief. President Alpha Conde deserves to be deposed. He stubbornly tried to run for a third term when he had no right to do so, said Malick Diallo, a young Guinean shopkeeper in the suburbs of Dakar. We know that a coup detat is not good, said Mamadou Saliou Diallo, another Guinean living in Senegal. A president must be elected by democratic vote. But we have no choice. We have a president who is too old, who no longer makes Guineans dream and who does not want to leave power. Guinea has had a long history of political instability. In 1984, Lansana Conte took control of the country after the first post-independence leader died. He remained in power for a quarter century until his death in 2008, accused of siphoning off state coffers to enrich his family and friends. The countrys second coup soon followed, putting army Capt. Moussa Dadis Camara in charge. During his rule, security forces opened fire on demonstrators at a stadium in Conakry who were protesting his plans to run for president. Human rights groups have said more than 150 people were killed and at least 100 women were raped. Camara later went into exile after surviving an assassination attempt, and a transitional government organized the landmark 2010 election won by Conde. ___ Larson reported from Dakar, Senegal. Associated Press writers Babacar Dione in Dakar, Senegal, and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report. Officials from the City of Laredo and Webb County reported on Friday an additional 313 positive cases of COVID-19 and three related deaths from the past two days. The additions bring Laredo to 50,478 positives and 914 deaths historically dating back to the beginning of the pandemic locally. Its been an eventful last few reports from the city. Last Fridays update featured the city hitting the 900-death milestone for the first time, while Wednesday saw the city break 50,000 positive cases. Mondays report brought some good news with positives dipping to 156 new cases the fewest in a non-daily report in the past 14 updates but the week saw the next two rise again back up above 300 each time. With the new cases, Laredo finishes this week with 779 positive cases. Thats fewer than each of the past four weeks, but higher than the preceding 24 weeks. Deaths, however, remain elevated. With 14 fatalities this week, its tied with last week for the most since Feb. 13-19 which featured 51 the second-most ever during the pandemic. With the increased deaths, Laredo has eclipsed double-digit fatalities for the third time in four weeks after it hadnt done so in 20 of 21 weeks. And with Fridays results, Laredo has announced three or more deaths in 10 of the past 13 updates, compared to the previous 13 of 14 non-daily reports which had fewer than three deaths. The most recent three deaths were all elderly females that were in their 60s, 70s and 80s. They all died on Wednesday or Thursday. Laredo just emerged from a month featuring 46 deaths, the sixth-highest from the pandemic. It was a major increase from the 15 deaths in July and five from June. The city has seven deaths reported so far in September. COVID-19 Metrics in Laredo Positives: 50,478 Deaths: 914 Hospitalizations: 74 ICU: 29 Fully Vaccinated: 82.9% Recoveries: 48,964 Total Tested: 408,140 7-Day Positive Rate: 6.3% Source: City of Laredo Health Department See More Collapse Laredos rolling seven-day positivity rate is currently 6.3%. This saw a significant drop due to a major dump of tests reported by the city, announcing 7,988 new tests Friday alone from the past two days the most ever reported in a single report. The previous two days of the week featured 4,316 tests and last week featured 8,754. Texas rolling positivity rate is 15.2% while the United States is at 10.5%. Active cases fell from 759 on Friday to 486 to begin the week Monday due to actives typically dropping in total coming off the weekend counts and the lower positive total from that day. However, Wednesdays increase brought that figure back up to 544. With Fridays update, active cases have rose to 600 up from 544 on Wednesday and 486 on Monday. Of the current active cases, the city states that the majority come from the population below 30 years of age. A total of 203 are from those younger than 17, 138 are those between 18-30, 154 are between 31-49 and 105 are above the age of 50. The city also stated that of just the currently investigated active cases, 58.4% are non-vaccinated individuals. Serious COVID cases still overwhelmingly belong to the unvaccinated population, as only 56 fully-vaccinated persons this year have been hospitalized with a breakthrough case. Hospitalizations have fallen for the fourth straight report down to 74 Friday. They sat at 79 Wednesday and were as high as 86 on Aug. 25 the highest total since Feb. 18 had 97. Unfortunately, the more serious ICU cases have not fallen over that time despite the death total being elevated. There are currently 29 in intensive care, the same figure as Wednesday and one more than Monday. The COVID-19 hospitalization rate dropped from 18.4% to 16.7%, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services most recent data for Thursday. This is a bit of a welcome sight as the rate is at its lowest point since Aug. 7. Texas continues to struggle with hospitalization rate with only five of the 22 total listed regions having a better figure than Laredo, according to the DSHS. Four Texas regions are above 30% including Lufkin (39.6%), Waco (34.9%), Corpus Christi (33.8%) and Galveston (30%). Laredo still holds the record for highest-recorded hospitalization rate in a single day at 48.8% on Jan. 16. Despite this, Laredo still continues to have the worst capacity issues in the state, however, with only nine beds available as of Thursdays data. Only four other regions are below 100 including Bryan/College Station (20), Waco (54), Belton/Killeen (90) and Lufkin (99). After three days with some available ICU beds following a stretch of 25 straight days with none, the city has been back at zero beds for two straight days. As Laredo is medically underserved and with facilities understaffed, its hospital capacity has been diminished despite being nowhere near its previous high in hospitalizations of 249 in January when it was receiving help from the state, something that has been denied this time around. This is why local experts continue to tout being vaccinated as vital, even despite the areas success in that regard, as its current lack of resources has curtailed that success. The City of Laredo reported on Wednesday that it now has 179,063 people fully vaccinated, which equates to about 82.9% of the total eligible population. Additionally, a total of 220,391 people have received at least one dose of the vaccine, around 102.1% of the eligible population. Laredo officials have stated that its eligible population figures are based off U.S. Census data, and due to the citys past of having its population undercounted, its true 100% figure may be more difficult to identify. Additionally, around a third of Laredos total population is below the age of 18. That means that a significant segment of the citys actual population may not be vaccinated, as those under 12 are unable to do so. As for its elderly, the city reports that 26,020 people age 65 and up have been at least partially vaccinated, around 96.4% of the eligible population. Over the course of the pandemic, 408,140 tests have been administered. An estimated 48,964 people have recovered from a previous infection. zdavis@lmtonline.com COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP) The mother of an Islamic State-inspired extremist who stabbed shoppers in a New Zealand supermarket said her son was radicalized by neighbors from Syria and Iraq who helped him recover from an injury. The attacker, Ahamed Samsudeen, was a 32-year-old Tamil Muslim from Sri Lanka. He arrived in New Zealand 10 years ago on a student visa, and applied for refugee status on the basis of being persecuted back home in the island nation off the southern coast of India. Samsudeen was shot and killed by police, who said five people were stabbed and two others injured in the chaos of last weeks attack in Auckland. His mother, Mohamedismail Fareetha, said his descent into extremism began after he fell several stories in 2016 while attending university. Because he did not have anyone there, it was people from Syria and Iraq who helped him. It looks like they brainwashed him. Then he started posting on Facebook," Fareetha said in a phone interview Saturday with a local TV station from her home in eastern Sri Lanka. He changed only after going abroad, she added. Police first noticed Samsudeens online support for terrorism in 2016, and the following year he was arrested at Auckland Airport. He was headed for Syria, authorities say, presumably to join the Islamic State insurgency. He was later released on bail. After being arrested in 2017, he talked less with us, it was about once every three months, Fareetha said, adding that two of her other sons were angry with him and scolded him." In a statement Saturday, Fareethas son Aroos said his brother would hang up the phone on us when we told him to forget about all the issues he was obsessed with. Then he would call us back again himself when he realized he was wrong. Aathil was wrong again yesterday. Of course we feel very sad he could not be saved." In 2018, Samsudeen was jailed for three years after he was found with Islamic State videos and knives, and the following year, his refugee status was canceled after authorities found evidence of fraud. Immigration authorities tried to argue he should remain behind bars, but in July, Samsudeen was set free. Police trailed him around the clock, fearing he would launch an attack, but unable to do more. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said her government will change the laws this month to enhance penalties for terrorist plots. Samsudeen's family is from Kattankudy, a coastal city 220 kilometers (135 miles) northeast of the capital, Colombo, which police view as a hotbed for extremism. Since Sri Lanka's decades-long conflict between the majority Sinhalese and minority Tamils ended in 2009, a religious divide has taken hold. The alleged mastermind of Sri Lanka's 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, Mohammed Zahran, preached an increasingly extremist version of Islam in Kattankudy glorifying the killing of nonbelievers. Two local Muslim groups that had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State group were blamed for the six near-simultaneous suicide bomb attacks on three churches and three hotels. However, it was not immediately clear whether Samsudeen had any links to extremist groups in his home town. Rishvin Ismath, the spokesman for the Council of Ex-Muslims of Sri Lanka, said the government should focus on broad-based rehabilitation, such as making changes to what is preached in mosques and reforming school textbooks, which he said still contain extremist material. If they focus only on identified terrorists, they are not going to finish this problem, he said. Asanga Abeyagoonasekera, the former head of Sri Lanka's Institute of National Security Studies, said extremist militants across South Asia could become emboldened after seeing Taliban fighters quickly capture most of Afghanistan last month and the departure of U.S. forces. I dont see China or Russia taking that place to balance the regional security architecture. The vacuum that is being created will have ripple effects to many nations," he said. He also cautioned lawmakers in New Zealand against taking overly drastic steps when reforming their anti-terror laws, which he said could spark further radicalization. By locking up hundreds of people, jails themselves could turn into breeding grounds for extremism, he said. CETINJE, Montenegro (AP) Arriving in a military helicopter, the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro was inaugurated in the state's old capital on Sunday amid clashes between police and protesters who oppose continued Serb influence in the tiny Balkan nation. Hospital officials in the city of Cetinje said at least 60 people were injured, including 30 police officers, in clashes that saw police launch tear gas against the demonstrators, who hurled rocks and bottles at them and fired gunshots into the air. At least 15 people were arrested. Sundays inauguration ceremony angered opponents of the Serbian church in Montenegro, which declared independence from neighboring Serbia in 2006. Since Montenegro split from Serbia, pro-independence Montenegrins have advocated for a recognized Orthodox Christian church that is separate from the Serbian one. Evading road blockades set up by the demonstrators, the new head of the Serbian church in Montenegro, Metropolitan Joanikije, arrived in Cetinje by a helicopter along with the Serbian Patriarch Porfirije. TV footage showed the priests being led into the Cetinje monastery by heavily armed riot police holding a bulletproof blanket to shield their bodies. Patriarch Porfirije later wrote on Instagram that he was happy that the inauguration was held, but added that he was horrified by the fact" that someone near the monastery wanted to prevent the ceremony "with a sniper rifle. The claim could not be immediately independently verified. The demonstrators set up barriers with trash bins, tires and large rocks to try to prevent church and state dignitaries from coming to the inauguration. Chanting This is Not Serbia! and This is Montenegro!, many of the protesters spent the night at the barriers amid reports that police were sending reinforcements to break through the blockade. Tires at one blockade were set on fire. Montenegrins remain deeply divided over their countrys ties with neighboring Serbia and the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is the nations dominant religious institution. Around 30% of Montenegros 620,000 people consider themselves Serb. Metropolitan Joanikije said after the ceremony that the divisions have been artificially created and we have done all in our power to help remove them, but that will take a lot of time. In a clear demonstration of the sharp political divide in Montenegro, President Milo Djukanovic, the architect of the states independence from Serbia, visited Cetinje while the current pro-Serb Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic went to Podgorica to welcome the Serbian patriarch. While Krivokapic branded the protests as an attempted terrorist act, Djukanovic said the protesters in Cetinje were guarding national interests against the alleged bid by the much larger Serbia to impose its influence in Montenegro through the church. Djukanovic accused the current Montenegrin government of "ruthlessly serving imperial interests of (Serbia) and the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is a striking fist of Serbian nationalism, all against Montenegro. Montenegros previous authorities led the country to independence from Serbia and defied Russia to join NATO in 2017. Montenegro also is seeking to become a European Union member. In Serbia, President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been accused by the opposition in Montenegro of meddling in its internal affairs in conjunction with Russia, congratulated Joanikije on his inauguration and praised the government for going ahead with the ceremony despite the clashes. Cetinje is a town where some 90% of the people are against the Serbian Orthodox Church, where there is hate towards everyone who is not Montenegrin," Vucic said in Belgrade. "This is not a real hate, its hate that is induced by certain politicians in Montenegro, so it was quite logical to expect what happened there. The U.S. government urged all sides to urgently de-escalate the situation." Religious freedom and the freedom of expression, including to peacefully assemble, must be respected, the U.S. Embassy said. Joanikijes predecessor as church leader in Montenegro, Amfilohije, died in October after contracting COVID-19. ___ Dusan Stojanovic and Jovana Gec contributed from Belgrade, Serbia. Laredo has been deemed medically underserved for decades. And COVID-19 has highlighted the needs for a response for this ongoing issue. The data is staggering. And it shows that of the latest hospital capacities for Texas 22 hospital regions, Laredo has been unable to keep up with the rest of the state. Excluding the six largest hospital regions in the state which have figures that put them in their own class, Laredo ranks third in overall population out of the remaining 16 cities at 262,491 people according to the 2019 U.S. Census. However, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services as of its most recent data from Friday, its total hospital capacity to serve that area is dead last of all hospital regions in Texas at 446 total beds. To put that in perspective, Midland-Odessa sits just above Laredo in population at 269,372 people yet has a total hospital capacity of 1770, and Lubbock is right below Laredo at 258,862 and has 1,395 beds. Even the smallest population of the DSHS listed hospital regions is Paris at 24,847 people, and despite being over 10 1/2 times smaller, it has more than double Laredos hospital capacity listing 873 total beds. With this in mind, it is no surprise through the pandemic that Laredo has been in dire need of additional health care services. As the pandemic rages through the community over a year and a half after it touched down in Laredo the current circumstances have shown that speedy and long-lasting change is needed in order to properly attend to the current and future generations of Laredo. However, being medically underserved is the cause of a multitude of factors which cannot be addressed by a simple city council meeting or throwing money at the problem, officials say. District IV Councilmember Alberto Torres said that Laredo being medically underserved has more than one root cause, but the high percentage of an uninsured population is a factor that creates additional difficulties. The latest census data estimates the Laredo population is 95.4% Hispanic which have been said to be more susceptible to the virus serious effects and approximately 30% of the Laredo community below 65 years of age does not have health insurance while the poverty rate is at 26.7%. This is based on the 2019 census data, but it is still unclear just how much of an impact COVID has had on these stats. A less insured population represents a reduced market for potential medical offices, general and specialties, to generate revenue, Torres said. Doctors and hospitals must provide uncompensated care every day. People receive healthcare in hospitals and clinics but do not pay. According to Torres, the solution to the matter centers on government support for the market and private entrepreneurs, to invite health care organizations to Laredo, to expand medical services and to provide medical practitioners and the services provided with incentives. He adds that opening a hospital district area could even be another potential fix. Act on previously held discussions to begin the development of a hospital district, Torres said. This is a county-driven initiative. Torres acknowledges that change is difficult, but he does believe that the city could start with small gains such as supporting available health care resources, making partnerships with other agencies throughout Webb County and proposing innovative self-sustaining health services which could lead to the change needed to optimize local health care services. Regardless, decades of being medically underserved had Laredo on its last leg, once again getting hit hard by the delta variant. As a multi-factored set of complex issues, understanding the cause and effect is vital to moving forward. Explaining the factors, Tesoro Medical Care General Counsel Victor D. Trevino Jr. said that staff shortages, private hospital alternatives and economic disadvantages all play a role in deficiencies for the communitys health care needs. Regarding the staffing issues, Trevino said that earlier in the pandemic, approximately 500 state-appointed medical professionals arrived at Laredo. Thats like another hospital or two of personnel that had to be here to basically support our operation, he said. This could give the impression that the hospital was crowded, but Trevino said that there was enough room to accommodate the additional staff. Still, once gone, it has proved difficult to get the hospital to the same number of staff members that the previous assistance brought. This has led to an extremely critical shortage of beds, with Laredo in the latest data from Friday according to the Texas Department of State Health Services having only four available beds in the hospital region. This is the fewest in Texas with only three others of the 22 listed by the DSHS having fewer than 100. Laredo has also had no available ICU beds for three straight days and 28 of the past 31. The issue in Laredo, and elsewhere, is not a lack of physical beds and hospital rooms, DO Family Medicine Resident Physician Dr. Tyler King said. The issue is a lack of nursing and auxiliary staff to properly and safely treat our patients. In previous years, more doctors were available that helped cope with the overall health needs of the city, Laredo Health Authority Dr. Victor Trevino said. But over time as doctors have retired, their numbers have dwindled, and it has proven difficult to retain current doctors in the local hospitals. This is where external factors play a role as everything from the language-barrier, excessive Laredo heat, distance from major cities, the culture and wages can be a deciding factor for nurses and doctors to leave or stay in the area. Doctors and nurses may face long-term commitments that will undoubtedly affect their private life, thus having to think about these external factors. Casa de Misericordia Executive Director Sister Rosemary Welsh believes another reason more doctors are not relocating to the area is because of how parts of the community perceive Laredo as a city not worth staying. Even people that live here state there is nothing to do in Laredo, Welsh said. But we have everything from harmonics to a very active theatre group, we have absolutely wonderful parks. And before we had this connection with Mexico as people used to like going into Mexico, and sometimes we would even bring new people to town and take them to another persons house and discuss why they would like to come to Laredo, and they would always get asked, Why would you want to come here? I dont think that we ourselves sell our community as much as we should do, more of talking up our community for people to come into town. However, Gateway Community Health Center CEO Elmo Lopez and LMC CEO Jorge Leal said in response to the issue that their hospitals share a residency program where they are training 24 family medicine physicians and 24 internal medicine physicians. Lopez said this is the first time the hospitals are creating their own physicians, and once they graduate, they hope those graduates stay in Laredo. Another major factor involving the residents is the means to pay for medical services and how their insurance plays a crucial part in their decision to see a doctor. In some cases, it can be easier to ignore the problem. In others, finding a more affordable alternative is prioritized. Luckily, more affordable health care can be provided in Nuevo Laredo. Trevino Jr. said that it is important to understand that LMC, Doctors and various clinics are private enterprises that may base facilities on what is profitable. He referenced a pediatric ICU, which costs millions to create and millions more to maintain. It may prove a difficult decision to invest in equipment if residents are unlikely to use them or will cross into Mexico for the treatments. Another solution that attempts to address the issue, despite targeting a specific number of residents, is the new Webb County Employee Medical and Wellness Center. County Risk Management Director Dr. Pedro Alfaro said that the clinic will provide available medication and serve the general healthcare needs in an effort to divert easily treated illnesses away from hospitals. With 1,500 employees and their dependents reaching approximately 2,300 covered under the county insurance, a sizable portion now has a starting point in case they get sick where they dont have to pay out of pocket and amid the pandemic can get their COVID tests and vaccine in one spot. We are investing in the people, which are the greatest assets of Webb County, and thats our responsibility, Alfaro said. Still, city leaders and medical professionals have gathered recently to start work on building a plan to finally improve the short-, mid- and long-term situations. In August, a plan by medical professionals and hospital leadership was created to address the long-standing concern over the risk the delta variant had on children. This involved a three-tier step to curb any further overpopulating in the hospitals with pediatric cases. The outpatient/inpatient plan would see children and adults with mild and/or treatable symptoms to Gateway Community Health Center, while more serious cases would be seen at Doctors Hospital or Laredo Medical Center. The health authority advised the community that a pediatric intensivist would overlook a pediatric holding area at LMC, but he cautioned that the city does not have the capacity to treat severe cases without the use of transferring to external hospitals. As concerns mount, the routine stays the same. Families and individuals are tasked with taking care of one another by getting vaccinated and wearing masks. People are dying every day deaths that are preventable if they would have simply rolled up their sleeves and taken the jab, King said. Dont let you or your family be next. As students return to school, Trevino said that as the health authority, he and the Texas Health Commissioner advised that surges are expected in the coming weeks, and the citys circumstances increase the concerns had by medical professionals. Additionally, the circumstances spread to Nuevo Laredo as scarce information regarding their vaccine, infection and death rates worry him as it gets closer to the day the borders are reopened. And despite five vaccine clinics, with more planned, vaccinating a city with donated doses is a daunting task. On Tuesday, discussion will take place during the Laredo City Council meeting to bring up details regarding a potential hospital district. This would set up the first of more meeting items over the next several years. Jorge Vela contributed to this report. cocampo@lmtonline.com The woman who died in a head-on crash along U.S. 83 near Zapata has been identified. The Zapata County Sheriffs Office announced Saturday that Melanie Valenzuela was killed in the accident. The 19-year-old woman was a jailer at the Zapata County Sheriffs Office. She was reportedly on her way to work when the incident occurred. With a heavy heart I extend my condolences to Melanies family, Sheriff Raymundo Del Bosque Jr. said. The Zapata County Sheriffs Office employees and I are deeply saddened and sorry about the loss of one of our own. As we grieve her loss, we are remembering and honoring her. We will remember her in many positive ways with a big smile and a big sense of humor. The Zapata County Sheriffs Office stated that it received notification of a major car accident at around 6:50 a.m. on Friday. Deputies arrived at the scene north of Zapata on U.S. Highway 83 around one mile north from the high rest area when they found three victims from the incident. A female, Valenzuela, was declared dead at the scene. I am speechless and heartbroken, Del Bosque said in a statement to his staff. May God receive her young soul with open arms in heaven. May she rest in peace! Melanie you will be missed dearly! Del Bosque also asked the community to pray for the two other males who were involved in the fatal crash. The father and son duo of Abelardo Dominguez III and Abelardo Dominguez Jr. were transported to Laredo Medical Center. Dominguez III has since been flown to a hospital in Corpus Christi and Dominguez Jr. has been flown to a hospital in San Antonio as both are in critical condition. The two were also reportedly going to work at the time of the incident. The U.S. Border Patrol passed along its condolences following the news of Valenzuelas death and its well wishes to the other injured parties. The Laredo Sector joins our partners at the Zapata County Sheriff's Office in mourning the death of Jailer Melanie Valenzuela, the U.S. Border Patrol said. She was on her way to work early this morning when she tragically lost her life in a two-vehicle accident on US Highway 83 north of Zapata, Texas. We wish the other motorists that were injured in the accident a quick recovery. zdavis@lmtonline.com A group of teachers at a north San Antonio elementary school have tested positive for COVID-19, though the school staff did not alert the community at large. All kindergarten teachers at Kinder Ranch Elementary, part of Comal ISD, tested positive, according to a report from mycanyonlake.com. The COVID-19 cases were confirmed and news was shared on Open Comal Schools Safely, a Facebook page dedicated to updates on the school district. Improving the energy efficiency of county Longford homes through retrofitting and installation of heat pump systems could cost in excess of 692m. Thats according to a new report published last Thursday, August 26 by Liquid Gas Ireland (LGI) on The role of LPG and BioLPG in a Just Transition for Co Longford. The report sets out how 630m can be saved if the 12,360 homes in the county currently using high carbon fossil-based fuels such as oil, coal, and turf for home heating and as an energy source switch to a lower carbon alternative such as LPG or BioLPG instead of retrofitting for installation of heat pump systems. The savings were based on an average cost of 56,000 for a full scale retrofit including heat pump installation and an industry estimate of 5,000 for switching to a gas boiler with standard system upgrades. Commenting on the report, Chair of LGI Brian Derham said: If the Government is serious about achieving Irelands climate targets, it is critical that people living in both urban and rural communities are brought on the decarbonisation journey. Rural communities should be engaged by ensuring they are given the technology choices that meet their unique needs through secure, clean, and efficient lower-carbon fuels like LPG and BioLPG. The Governments revised Climate Action Plan must therefore provide for the delivery of a mixed technology approach to decarbonisation which works for rural Ireland, particularly for those living in or operating off-grid rural homes and businesses. At the core of the Climate Action Plan is a commitment to install 600,000 heat pumps and retrofit 500,000 homes for improved energy efficiency. However, we continue to express our concern that this one size fits all approach to decarbonisation is putting significant pressure on those living in rural communities. It simply does not consider the unique economic and infrastructural challenges these areas face in achieving a just transition, where over two-thirds of homes currently rely on oil boilers for heating and fuel. Many of these homes are classified as hard-to-treat houses meaning the cost of a retrofit would be 80 per cent more expensive. This prohibitive expense is proved by the continued low uptake of retrofitting grants outside urban centres. The report, which was conducted using CSO census data names Ballymahon, Meathas Truim, Longford Rural, Fair Gate, and West Gate as the five electoral areas within Co. Longford most reliant on high carbon fossil-based fuels for home heating and energy. Of the 10,330 dwellings in these areas, 51% (5,351) use oil, coal and turf while by contrast only 10% (981) have transitioned to heat pump technology. With no connection to the national gas grid and a proposed ban on gas boilers, households in these five rural areas alone will face a combined estimated cost of 299,656,000 to transition to heat pump technology, if this is the only lower carbon heating solution available to them. Today Rain. Potential for flooding rains. High 79F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near an inch. Tonight Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers late. Low 71F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Tomorrow Thunderstorms likely. Potential for heavy rainfall. High 82F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. According to figures from the national Office for Asylum and Refugees (OAR), there were 1,614 requests for international protection in the Balearics in 2020. For the whole of Spain, the figure was 88,826. The number has risen sharply. In 2019 in the Balearics there were 884; 2018, 494; 2017, 207. The OAR, which comes under the interior ministry, is the body in Spain that is responsible for requests for asylum and for recognition of refugee status. Last year, and regardless of the pandemic, Spain was one of the countries in Europe which had the highest number of requests. Although illegal migration from and via Algeria attracts a great deal of attention, the highest numbers of asylum seekers are from South America - Colombia and Venezuela in particular. This was certainly the case in 2019, when there were 371 requests by Venezuelans and 365 by Colombians. From Central America, there were 39 requests by Nicaraguans. This year, the office notes that there have thus far been two requests by Afghanis. The main reason for seeking protection (33% of cases) is political. Others include sexual orientation and belonging to specific social groups. Nationally, the number of requests in 2020 decreased from a record 118,446 in 2019. Of the 2020 number (88,826), over 77,000 were by citizens of American countries. While there were requests from people from 111 countries in all, just under 80% were from five countries - Venezuela, Colombia, Honduras, Peru and Nicaragua. In 2015 and 2016, there were high numbers of requests from people fleeing conflict - Syrians, Iraqis, Afghanis. But the numbers are now biased very much more to South and Central America. Over the first six months of this year, the OAR had 77,360 requests. Mankato, MN (56001) Today Sunshine and some clouds. High 77F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm after midnight. Low 62F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account to continue reading. To subscribe, click here. Already a subscriber? Click here. Robert Elton Rector, 84 yrs of Wilburton, Ok passed away at His home in Wilburton, Ok on Friday, September 3, 2021. Memorial Services will be on Friday, October 1, 2021 at 2 pm at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel in Wilburton, Ok Officiating will be Mr. Jay Caudill. Services are under the dir Offer a personal message of sympathy... You'll find individual Guest Books on the page with each obituary notice. By sharing a fond memory or writing a kind tribute, you will be providing a comforting keepsake to those in mourning. . From a Guest Book, you may log in with your user account to leave a message. If you have an existing account with this site, you may log in with that. Otherwise, it's simple to create a new one by clicking on the Create "Sign up" button and following the simple steps on the Sign Up page. Advertisement The model also helps to study arthrosclerosis, where the cholesterol and inflammatory cells form plaque on the blood vessel and constricts the blood flow leading to cardiovascular diseases. In the study two compounds; Vitamin D and metformin were seen to prevent smooth cell migration and inflammation.The study found that as oxidative stress increases the smooth muscles that are found in the middle layer of the arteries move inward and cause inflammation on the inner layer of the artery.According to Assoc Prof Dalan "Despite significant advances in treatment, the mortality and morbidity associated with atherosclerosis remain high. There is an unmet need to understand the disease mechanisms and processes of atherosclerosis in a typical patient who is suffering from multiple diseases, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. "The development of this "arterial wall-on-a-chip" enables us to study the process of atherosclerosis under various conditions as well as the possible impact of therapeutics and drug combinations, which will have wide applications."Researchers say that theSource: Medindia Art and culture helps communities across the world connect with each other. Cinema, in particular, helps break barriers. For instance, we have seen many Pakistani shows and they probably have seen many Bollywood movies too. India and Pakistan might have a dark history but people connect on social media and share their mutual love for movies like Shah Rukh Khans DDLJ and Fawad Khans Zindagi Gulzar Hai. There are a few Bollywood movies, however, that have been banned by the Pakistani government citing several reasons like cultural issues and showing the country in a bad light. Heres a list of 5 such popular Bollywood movies banned by the country: 1: PadMan Akshay Kumars movie PadMan is based on the story of Arunachalam Muruganantham, a social activist from Tamil Nadu and the inventor of a low-cost sanitary pad. It addresses taboos surrounding menstruation in India. A movie like this should have been appreciated but the Pakistani government felt the topic of the movie was against culture and religion. "We can't allow our film distributors to import films which are against our traditions and culture," Federal Censor Board member Ishaq Ahmed told PTI. 2: Raanjhanaa There was anyway nothing to be celebrated about Dhanush and Sonam Kapoors Raanjhanaa. It was celebrated as a love story but it glorified stalking. It was banned in Pakistan as they found Sonam Kapoors character problematic for the portrayal of a Muslim girl. 3: Baby Akshay Kumars espionage thriller Baby, which centers around an Indian spys mission to capture a terrorist from a West Asian nation, has been banned in Pakistan for its negative portrayal of Muslims. A representative of the film's Pakistani distributor said, Censor boards in Islamabad and Karachi have decided to ban the film because it portrays a negative image of Muslims and the negative characters in the film also have Muslim names. 4: Bhaag Milkha Bhaag Farhan Akhtar starrer Bhaag Milkha Bhaag has been banned from releasing in the neighbouring country. The reason for the ban was one of Farhan's dialogues where he says: Mujhse nahi hoga. Main Pakistan nahi jaonga. 5: Phantom Saif Ali Khan and Katrina Kaifs movie Phantom was banned because JuD chief and Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed was portrayed in a negative light. Click here to log in and see all of our other subscription options for the Mesabi Tribune, including online only & auto-renewal subscriptions. 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 Governor Whitmer on Michigan's Job Growth and Decreasing Unemployment Governor Whitmer on Michigan's Job Growth and Decreasing Unemployment FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 18, 2021 Contact: Press@Michigan.gov Governor Whitmer on Michigan's Job Growth and Decreasing Unemployment Governor celebrates decrease in unemployment rate to lowest level since March 2020, makes case for further investments in job creation, small businesses LANSING, Mich.-Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement after the release of Michigan's latest jobs and unemployment numbers. The state's unemployment rate in July was down to 4.8%, well below the national average of 5.4%. Michigan added 31,000 non-farm jobs in July, with the largest increase coming from the leisure and hospitality sector. "Michigan's job numbers are headed in the right direction. Our unemployment rate is below the national average and businesses are staffing up fast. Despite our seven months of decreasing unemployment, however, we still have a lot of work left to do to help every family, community, and small business participate in our economic jumpstart. Right now, we have an unprecedented opportunity to use the massive influx of federal funds we have received to make tangible, lasting investments in the kitchen-table issues that impact Michigan families and small businesses most-childcare, skills training, job creation, housing, and more. I will continue putting Michiganders first and will work with anyone to get this done for everyone. Together, we can power our economy to new highs and usher in a new era of prosperity for our state." Throughout the pandemic, the state of Michigan unveiled dozens of economic relief programs for businesses that supported more than 25,000 companies and retained more than 200,000 jobs. Michigan's economy grew 7.6% in the first quarter of 2021, the best in the Midwest, and an independent analysis from the financial publication Credible states that Michigan's economic recovery is the 2nd strongest nationwide. The state also went from a projected $3 billion deficit to a $3.5 billion surplus and continues to lead in automotive manufacturing as it remains a top state for business growth. ### FLAT ROCK, Mich. (AP) A Ford plant is the source of benzene vapor in sewers that forced the evacuation of 10 homes and a school in the Detroit suburb of Flat Rock, according to state and company officials. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy confirmed Friday that the source of the flammable vapor is a fuel leak at the Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant. SRINAGAR, India (AP) Police in Indian-controlled Kashmir opened a case against family members of late resistance leader Syed Ali Geelani under a harsh anti-terror law for allegedly raising anti-India slogans and wrapping his body in the Pakistani flag, officials said Sunday. Geelani, who died Wednesday at age 91, was the emblem of Kashmirs defiance against New Delhi and had been under house arrest for years. His son, Naseem, said Indian authorities buried Geelani's body in a local cemetery without any family members present after police snatched his body from the home. Police denied that and called it baseless rumors by some vested interests. A video widely shared on social media purportedly showed Geelanis relatives, mostly women, frantically trying to prevent armed police from forcing their way into the room where his body, wrapped in a Pakistani flag, was being kept. It showed women wailing and screaming as police took the body and locked his family and relatives inside the room. Police said they registered a case against unspecified family members and some others Saturday and began probing the case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. They have not yet been taken into custody. Critics say such police cases are sometimes brought to silence or intimidate opposing voices. The anti-terror law was amended in 2019 to allow the government to designate an individual as a terrorist. Police can detain a person for six months without producing any evidence, and the accused can subsequently be imprisoned for up to seven years. Rights activists have called the law draconian. Geelani's son Naseem said Sunday that a police officer visited the family on Saturday and informed them a case had been registered. Naseem did not provide further details about the meeting, but said there were scuffles as the police removed his father's body. Amid the chaos, we didn't really know what was happening. We were mourning," said Naseem. Kashmir has long been a flashpoint between India and Pakistan, which administer parts of the Himalayan region while claiming it entirely. Geelani spearheaded Kashmirs movement for the right to self-determination and was a staunch proponent of merging Kashmir with Pakistan. For many in Kashmir and beyond, he was an enduring icon of defiance against India. India describes the armed rebellion as Islamabads proxy war and state-sponsored terrorism. Most Muslim Kashmiris consider it a legitimate freedom struggle and support the rebel goal that the territory be united, either under Pakistani rule or as an independent country. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan slammed India's removal and hasty burial of Geelani's body as well as the case against the family, calling it shameful in a tweet Sunday. Rebels have been fighting against Indian rule since 1989. The region is one of the most heavily militarized in the world. Tens of thousands of civilians, rebels and government forces have been killed in the raging conflict. Tensions flared in the region in 2019 after New Delhi stripped Kashmirs semi-autonomy, scrapped its statehood and removed inherited protections on land and jobs. Authorities have since brought a slew of new laws, which critics and many Kashmiris fear could change the regions demographics. Meanwhile Sunday, authorities eased some restrictions that had been imposed since Geelani's death, allowing private vehicles on roads and vendors to operate in some parts of Srinagar. However, most shops and businesses stayed closed as government forces patrolled roads and streets in the city. Mobile phones were restored late Friday, but mobile internet and restrictions on the assembly of people continued in many parts of the Kashmir Valley. Paramilitary soldiers remained stationed outside the graveyard where Geelani was buried. Ruwa Shah, Geelani's granddaughter, wrote on Twitter they were horrified by what followed after our old man passed away. His home was a jail for over a decade and now his graveyard is a jail too, she said. ___ Follow Aijaz Hussain on Twitter at twitter.com/hussain_aijaz Elkton residents welcomed back their Autumnfest with plenty of fun weekend activities. Those included a parade through the village center, inflatables for kids to play on, and a kiddie tractor pull. BERLIN One person was killed and two other were injured in a crash Saturday evening involving several motorcycles on Mill Street, local police said. Officers were sent to Mill Street near the Route 9 ramp around 6 p.m. for reports of a motorcycle crash, police said. STRATFORD The towns health department has fielded 22 noise complaints in the past three years, and more than half of them have been about one specific issue. Roosters. The dozen poultry-related complaints the town has received and investigated havent been concentrated in any one particular locale but they have become more frequent recently, according to Environmental Health Supervisor Maureen Whelan. Roosters have become more of a source of discomfort for people in the last five years, Whelan said, guessing that some who have chickens for eggs dont realize hens will lay them whether a rooster is around or not. Or they dont realize that roosters are going to be so noisy. The towns zoning regulations allow for the keeping of chickens (and pigeons) on lots of at least 5,000 square feet, with the proviso that they be confined in a building and that no manure or dust producing fertilizer shall be stored in the open. Zoning Commission Chairman Christopher Silhavey said he hasnt received much feedback on the issue. He recalled looking up the rules when a friend with a neighbor who kept a chicken asked him if it was legal years ago. Thats the only time Ive ever heard it brought up, he said. A local noise ordinance on the books since the mid-1980s sets limits as to how loud the animals (or other noises) can be between residential properties, 45 decibels between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m., and 55 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Up close, Whelans noise meter has measured roosters at up to 95.7 decibels, according to documents released by the town in response to a Freedom of Information request from Hearst Connecticut Media seeking all of the noise complaints the health department received since 2019. Thats a far cry from eardrum-rupturing 150 dBs, but it is as loud as a power lawnmower another source of multiple early morning noise complaints. Whelan said that in most cases rooster-related complaints are resolved without the need for noise readings. The first step is to send the property owner an advisory just letting them know that Stratford does have a noise ordinance, she said. If that does not work and Im still getting complaints from neighbors, I will go out there with the noise meter and use it to see how many decibels the rooster is. Which is often easier said than done. It can be kind of tricky because roosters arent always crowing, Whelan said. Sometimes Im there for five minutes. Sometimes Im there for 45 minutes, waiting for the rooster to be known. If necessary, the health department can issue an order to cease and desist, with the cases referred to housing court for enforcement but that doesnt happen often, she said. Whelan said the town tries to be sensitive to all those involved those making complaints and the animals owners. One measure of the emotions at play not one complainant contacted by Hearst Connecticut Media wanted to speak publicly about the issue, for fear of upsetting neighbors or reopening old wounds. Theyre not just livestock to people, Whelan said. The cases Ive dealt with, people are passionate about them. Theyre considered part of the family, which makes it difficult for them to have to get rid of them. I understand peoples passion when they call me up and say Ive just received a letter from you, are you saying I have to get rid of my pet? I try to be sensitive to that, but theres not many ways you can keep your rooster from making noise, she said. Its not a major issue in town, but Whelan said the town could consider banning roosters outright like neighboring Bridgeport which would save the step of having to trot out the noise meter. Its not a huge problem in Stratford, Whelan said. Its a few cases here and there. But if we were to reopen the noise ordinance and revamp everything, that would definitely be one of the things I would change. The head of the Town Councils Ordinance Committee, Laura Dancho, R-10, said the towns lawyers are looking at revamping the noise ordinance but likely not as it relates to animals. We are planning to look at revisiting noise as it pertains to more activities moving to outdoor facilities due to the current health advisories, Dancho said in an email Friday. Noise as it relates to nuisance animals such as roosters are referred to the Health Director in the current ordinance. I don't believe this will be changed should the ordinance be updated in the near future. Unless a lot of people start crowing about it. That being said, when the noise ordinance is referred back to Town Council and then Ordinance (Committee), it will come before a public hearing as all ordinances do, and residents are welcome and encouraged to speak either for or against any part of it, Dancho said. MILFORD, Neb. (AP) The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating after a Milford police officer fired at a vehicle that police said was trying to flee. No one was injured in the shooting Thursday at a Super Storage business in Milford, the patrol said in a news release. The House Armed Services Committee approved a bill this week that would take the decision to prosecute sex crimes away from commanders and hand it to attorneys -- a proposal that matches the Defense Department's current reform plan but falls short of Senate legislation on the issue. Following a vote Wednesday, the version of the fiscal 2022 National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, that will go to the full House for a vote calls for giving prosecutorial decisions on sexual assault, domestic violence, most crimes against children and other special victims offenses to independent military prosecutors. But the Senate NDAA calls for giving military attorneys the prosecutorial decisions for all serious crimes, including rape, kidnapping, murder and other serious felonies -- a measure that sets the stage for debate when the two bills are reconciled later this year. California Democrat Rep. Jackie Speier, chairwoman of the House Armed Services personnel subcommittee and one of the most consistent voices in the Capitol for reforming the way the military handles sexual assault and other crimes, previously advocated for the more comprehensive legislation passed in the Senate. But after continued opposition, she reached consensus with Republicans to advance the sexual assault measure while requiring the Defense Department to form an independent group to study whether other felony decisions should be included. Read Next: Lawmakers Try to Ban Dishonorable Discharges for Troops Who Refuse Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccines "This [bill] is a great first step," Speier said before passage of the proposal Wednesday. In the Senate, Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., has worked for eight years to remove prosecution decisions on sexual assault from the chain of command, part of an ongoing effort to eliminate sexual assault in the ranks and hold offenders accountable for their crimes. Since 2014, Gillibrand has favored removing the decision on prosecuting all serious military crimes from commanders, but the proposals on sexual assault garnered the most attention as reports of that crime among actively serving military personnel have risen by 112% in the past eight years to 6,290 reported incidents in 2020. The number of reports is thought to be lower than the actual number of assaults, since many victims are hesitant to talk to authorities. A survey conducted in 2018 found that 20,500 service members said they had experienced sexual assault. Gillibrand and supporters of her more expansive legislation say it is needed to address racial bias in prosecution decisions by commanders for a wider array of cases. "We have a bright line at all serious crimes. And that is an important bright line," Gillibrand told reporters earlier this year. "We want to make sure that whether you're a plaintiff or a defendant, that you have access to a military justice system worthy of your sacrifice." Based on recommendations of an independent commission established to study the issue, the DoD plans to implement reforms by 2023, to include removing decisions on crimes such as sexual assault and harassment, stalking, posting photos without permission and domestic abuse from the chain of command. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks said earlier this year that transferring most felony cases to attorneys could "swamp and diffuse our efforts" on sexual assault prosecution reform. "The question is around the scope of the set of offenses that would move outside the chain of command, which is, at once, a very large issue and, at the same time, not really related to the sexual assault/sexual harassment scope that we're trying to push," Hicks told the House Armed Services personnel subcommittee. Military commanders and some military attorneys also oppose the idea, noting that command authority is the foundation of the contemporary military justice system. The Joint Chiefs of Staff penned a letter in June saying the changes could hurt the military's ability to maintain order and discipline without improving how the services prosecute serious crimes. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Mark Milley said the removal "may have an adverse effect on readiness, mission accomplishment, good order and discipline, justice, unit cohesion, trust and loyalty between commanders and those they lead." Diane Mazur, professor emeritus at the University of Florida College of Law and vice president for legal research at the Palm Center, a public policy think tank, said the decision to remove sex crimes alone from the system "sends a message to military leaders that preventing sexual assault is not a core part of military discipline." "It tells leaders that 'women's issues' are uniquely outside their ability to manage, and that's simply wrong," Mazur wrote in an email to Military.com. She added that more must be done to more broadly change how commanders address offenses since most military discipline is conducted below the level of court-martial. "In a perfect world, I'd rather see military leaders at all levels held accountable for their failure to enforce discipline. But that's the one remedy we've never seriously tried. By the time of a charging decision -- whether for sexual assault or another felony offense -- we're well past the point where actual leadership or 'good order and discipline' could have made a difference. It's time to hand the keys to legal professionals," Mazur said. The bills are expected to come before the full House and Senate in late September, according to lawmakers. Then, the different versions must be reconciled in conference prior to becoming law. -- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Monster.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime. Related: Army Disciplines 13 Leaders, Confirms Murdered Soldier Vanessa Guillen Was Sexually Harassed Lansdale, PA (19446) Today Partly cloudy skies. High 88F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Thunderstorms during the evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 66F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Did you know the way children are parented in their early years of life has a huge impact on their future behavior. 90% of brain development happens by the age of five before most children even start school. With new children starting school every year, teachers get to experience how different types of parenting affect childrens behavior. Helicopter Parenting: Helicopter parents pay extremely close attention to their childs experiences and problems, often as a way to protect them. This type of parenting can be a positive thing for any children especially if the child has a good relationship with their parent and the parent has a good relationship with the teacher. However, if either of those relationships is broken, things quickly take a turn for the worse. If a child can see that their parent and the teacher don't get along then this can reflect on their relationship with their teacher. Authoritarian parenting: Authoritarian parents are strict and stern. Their focus is on unquestioning obedience, discipline, and control enforced through rules and punishment. If parents are too snappy, too strict then what happens is it triggers childrens fight, flight, or freeze response while being in school. Permissive parenting: Permissive parents rarely give or enforce rules and overindulge their children to avoid conflict. When children have no structure at home, things can go one of two ways at school. Children with permissive parents will either thrive, because at school they have the structure and boundaries theyve been missing, or they will defy the teachers. Pushy parenting: Pushy parents try to live vicariously through their children and push their attitudes and ambitions onto their children. Pushy parenting has a similar impact to helicopter parenting when the relationship between the parent and child is fractured. In both cases, theyre pushing for something and not taking in the childs preferences and opinions and this can lead to withdrawn children. Source OCKLAWAHA [mdash]Elizabeth Lynn Keigans, 55, of Ocklawaha, formerly of Moultrie, died Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at her home. Born on December 20, 1965, in Moultrie, she was the daughter of the late Joe Ellis Keigans, Sr. and Ruby Lynette Conger Keigans. She is survived by her daughter, Cara Let's start with the obvious: "Basket of deplorables" is a weird turn of phrase. There are baskets and there are deplorable people, but pairing the two is the oddest of linguistic odd couples. Hillary Clinton said those three words in the final months of her 2016 presidential campaign, making rhetorical and political history. There were two kinds of Donald Trump supporters, she explained: Voters who feel abandoned and desperate, who she placed in one metaphorical basket, and those she called "racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic and Islamophobic" - her "basket of deplorables." Trump - the same man who announced his candidacy by calling Mexican immigrants "rapists" - clutched his proverbial pearls, aghast that his opponent had uttered such a shocking slander. His campaign turned that insult into an asset; supporters wore hats and shirts proudly declaring themselves deplorable. Pundits seized on the phrase, debating who does and doesn't deserve to be called that. Five years later, many believe "deplorables" - figuratively and literally - are here to stay. This is not a cautionary tale: Clinton probably didn't lose the White House because of a figure of speech. But it's a lesson in how politicians make unforced errors. And, in a nation where half the country thinks the other half is wrong and possibly even deplorable, it's about how we talk about each other. - - - On Sept. 9, 2016, Clinton was the opening act for Barbra Streisand at a glitzy fundraiser in New York City. A group of LGBTQ supporters were gathered at Cipriani restaurant, and the Democratic candidate had one job: to fire up her donors. "I am all that stands between you and the apocalypse," Clinton told the cheering crowd. She launched into all the things she found "deplorable" about Trump: He threatened marriage equality, cozied up to white supremacists, made racist and sexist remarks - all things she found "so personally offensive." She warned there were two months left in the race and no one should assume he wouldn't be elected anyway. "Just be grossly generalistic, you could put half of Trump's supporters into what I call the basket of deplorables. Right?" There was laughter and applause. The people in this basket, emboldened by Trump's tweets, were "irredeemable," she said. But there was another basket: Trump supporters who just felt the government had let them down and wanted change - and Democrats had to empathize to win these voters. "Basket of deplorables" was not in Clinton's prepared remarks. She often improvised in speeches. Reporters jumped on it, as did the Trump campaign, which immediately slammed Clinton for not running "a positive campaign." Clinton apologized the next day in a very Clintonesque manner: "I regret saying 'half' - that was wrong," she said in a statement. What was the magic number? She didn't say. She did, however, double down on calling out Trump's bigotry and racism. "It's very hard to say you have a message of civility and then turn around and talk about how essentially a quarter of the country is, in your view, a basket of deplorables," said Jonathan Allen, author of "Shattered," a study of Clinton's 2016 campaign. "That is a screeching conflict of her overall message, which is we have a civilized country and we need to be stronger together - that this should be a kinder, gentler, unified country." It's easy to get careless at fundraisers: The crowd is pumped up, the mood hopeful. In April 2008, Barack Obama told a San Francisco donor audience that working-class voters in the Rust Belt "cling to guns or religion" as a way to express their frustrations. (Clinton, in the last days of her failed bid for the Democratic nomination, said she was "taken aback by the demeaning remarks Senator Obama made about people in small-town America. His remarks are elitist and out of touch.") Mitt Romney got into trouble for his "47 percent" slip, which was secretly taped during a 2012 fundraiser that was closed to the media. The Republican nominee explained to wealthy donors that almost half of American voters would pick Obama because they were dependent on government handouts. "I'll never convince them that they should take personal responsibility and care for their lives," he told the crowd. Clinton made the classic campaign mistake of playing pundit by explaining strategy to donors. She wasn't writing off all Trump supporters; those who were scared and jobless might be won over. It was a delicate rhetorical dance: Have compassion for some, be afraid of others. Trump repeatedly mocked Clinton voters, but his fans never worried it would hurt him. In fact, they loved him for it, as well as his attacks on the media, the candidates in his own party, John McCain's war record and the judge in one of his lawsuits. "The more offensive and insulting he could be, the happier he was with it," Allen said. That was Trump being Trump. Clinton's deplorables comment, Allen said, seemed to reveal a private thought that she had never dared state in public. In that way, it "ended up being symbolic of one of the things that her critics said they hated about her, which is that they believed that she's inauthentic. And oddly, I think that was a pretty authentic moment." When asked about "deplorables," Nick Merrill, Clinton's spokesman, said she was never afraid to denounce racism - just two weeks earlier, she gave a significant speech deconstructing the alt-right and the "quest to preserve white maleness" in America. "The deplorable comment may have been politically less than ideal, but it has been proven right again and again over the last five years." - - - More sophisticated than "disgusting," more biting than "unforgivable," "deplorable" carries judgment with a side of self-righteousness. It comes from Latin, then re-emerged in 17th-century France, where throwing shade is a national sport. Clinton would use "deplorable" in statements when she was secretary of state, but as an adjective, not a noun. Washington jargon traditionally puts things in "buckets," Clinton shifted that to "baskets" in the month leading up to the Sept. 9 fundraiser. She used "deplorables" the day before her speech, in an interview with Israeli TV: "You can take Trump supporters and put them in two big baskets. There are what I would call the deplorables - you know, the racists and the haters." "It's worth remembering that when Hillary Clinton comes up with a phrase she likes, she tends to repeat it a lot and she can be very biting and she can be quippy," Allen said. "It would have been different if she had said, 'Half the Trump voters are behaving deplorably.' It's a small thing, but it's a big thing." In Slate, linguist Ben Zimmer speculated that "baskets of deplorables" was inspired by a "parade of horribles" - a legal term that Clinton would be familiar with, referring to the negative consequences of a judicial decision. Several weeks later, Clinton joked about it at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner: "I just want to put you all in a basket of adorables." But the damage was done. "I knew the first time I heard that phrase that she was very, very stupid for using it," Republican strategist Frank Luntz said. "It is as insulting as any word in the English language. To be deplorable means you have no excuse as a human being. If you're a deplorable person, it is saying that there is no redeeming quality to you whatsoever." Luntz knew it would be an opportunity for Trump to galvanize his base. "I thought she had committed a potentially fatal error: Insult your opponent, attack your opponent, criticize your opponent, even condemn your opponent, but never, ever, ever condemn your opponent's supporters because you need their votes." Luntz tested "deplorable" in focus groups and found that it didn't make voters more pro-Trump. "But it hardened opposition to her instantly as someone who had no heart, who was too ideological and dismissive of people who disagreed with her." A consultant to Clinton's campaign agreed. Writing in the Boston Globe shortly after the election, Diane Hessan said that she tracked undecided voters and their reaction to "deplorable" was stronger than the controversy over Clinton's emails or FBI Director James Comey's comments about them. "There was one moment when I saw more undecided voters shift to Trump than any other, when it all changed, when voters began to speak differently about their choice," she wrote. In "What Happened," Clinton's memoir of the campaign, she acknowledged that generalizing was almost always unwise and wrote that she regretted handing Trump "a political gift" by insulting well-intentioned people. "But too many of Trump's core supporters do hold views that I find - there's no other word for it - deplorable." Of course, voters are notoriously harder on female politicians, regardless of what they say. As Rebecca Traister stated in a 2017 New York magazine profile of Clinton, "A competent woman losing a job to an incompetent man is not an anomalous Election Day surprise; it is Tuesday in America. To acknowledge the role sexism played in 2016 is not to make excuses for the very real failings of Clinton and her campaign; it is to try to paint a more complete picture." In hindsight, how did "deplorables" play into all this? "It is impossible to say, 'People reacted this way because of sexism,' " Traister said this week. "That's not how it works. But you also cannot take sexism out of the equation whenever you're talking about Hillary Clinton." - - - And Trump? The Republican nominee, always looking for an applause line, said he was offended on behalf of all his supporters. "While my opponent slanders you as deplorable and irredeemable, I call you hard-working American patriots who love your country," he told his audience at an Iowa rally. The campaign rushed out an ad in battleground states: "You know what's deplorable? Hillary Clinton viciously demonizing hard working people like you." Mike Pence jumped into the fray: "For Hillary Clinton to express such disdain for millions of Americans is one more reason that disqualifies her to serve in the highest office," he told reporters. During an interview with CNN's Wolf Blitzer, Pence condemned Clinton but, when pressed, declined to call any Trump supporter deplorable, even, say, former Ku Klux Klan Grand Wizard David Duke, who endorsed Trump. "No," answered Pence. "I am not in the name-calling business, Wolf." MAGA fans could buy official "deplorable" merchandise from Team Trump - and they did happily. The term was "so mean that the only way for them to respond was to actually embrace it," Luntz said. "And that's how I realized she was in real trouble: If your strongest attack against your opponent is embraced by your opponents, that removes the sting." Five years later, you can purchase hats, T-shirts, hoodies and other gifts for the deplorables in your life. Patriot Depot, one of several online stores selling to Trump fans, offers a "Deplorables Club - Lifetime Member" cap for $19.95, The sales blurb explains: "Being a Deplorable is now a mark of pride among God-fearing, gun-loving, hard-working Americans." Clinton's unusual turn of phrase foreshadowed an increasingly polarized America. We're not just divided along ideological lines - we don't even like each other very much. The Pew Research Center found that from December 2016 to September 2019, the shares of both parties that viewed members of the other "somewhat" coldly or "very" coldly increased, as did the percentage that viewed them as "immoral." Those assessments were undoubtedly influenced by the 2017 Charlottesville, Va., rally and have been hardened by pandemic restrictions, Black Lives Matter protests and the Jan. 6 storming of the U.S. Capitol. "I'm proud that Secretary Clinton called out racism and bigotry in 2016, especially when that wasn't the politically safe thing to do," campaign speechwriter Dan Schwerin said. Now, many of her fans believe she was prescient about "half" of Trump's base. "After four years of President Trump," Allen said. "I think that there are a lot of Democrats and some Republicans who would say that was an undercount." MARRERO, La. (AP) Amid the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida, there was at least one bright light Sunday: Parishioners found that electricity had been restored to their church outside of New Orleans, a small improvement as residents of Louisiana struggle to regain some aspects of normal life. In Jefferson Parish, the Rev. G. Amaldoss expected to celebrate Mass at St. Joachim Catholic Church in the parking lot, which was dotted with downed limbs. But when he swung open the doors of the church early Sunday, the sanctuary was bathed in light. That made an indoor service possible. Divine intervention, Amaldoss said, pressing his hands together and looking toward the sky. A week after Hurricane Ida struck, many in Louisiana continue to face food, water and gas shortages as well as power outages while battling heat and humidity. The storm was blamed for at least 17 deaths in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. On Sunday, state health officials announced that the death toll in Louisiana has climbed to 13, including a 74-year-old man who died of heat during an extensive power outage. In the Northeast, Idas remnants dumped record-breaking rain and killed at least 50 people from Virginia to Connecticut. As Mass began Sunday, Amaldoss walked down the aisle of the church in his green robe, with just eight people spread among the pews. Instead, the seats brimmed with boxes of donated toothpaste, shampoo and canned vegetables. For all the people whose lives are saved and all the people whose lives are lost, we pray for them, he said. Remember the brothers and sisters driven by the wind and the water. Through the wall of windows behind the altar, beyond the swamp abutting the church, the floodgates that saved the building could be seen. The Gospel was the story of Jesus bringing sight to a blind man, and throughout the tiny church, stories of miracles were repeated. Wynonia Lazaro gave thanks for newly restored power in her home, where the only casualties of Ida were some downed trees and loosened shingles. We are extremely blessed, she said. Some parishioners suffered total losses of their homes, or devastating damage. Gina Caulfield, a 64-year-old retired teacher, has been hopping from relative to relative after her cousins trailer, where shed been living, was left uninhabitable. Still, she was grateful to have survived the storm. "Its a comfort to know we have people praying for us, she said. Some parishes outside New Orleans were battered for hours by winds of 100 mph (160 kph) or more, and Ida damaged or destroyed more than 22,000 power poles, more than hurricanes Katrina, Zeta and Delta combined. More than 630,000 homes and businesses remained without power Sunday across southeast Louisiana, according to the state Public Service Commission. At the peak, 902,000 customers had lost power. Fully restoring electricity to some places in the state's southeast could take until the end of the month, according Phillip May, president and CEO of Entergy, which provides power to New Orleans and other areas in the storm's path. Entergy is in the process of acquiring air boats and other equipment needed to get power crews into swampy and marshy regions. May said many grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses are a high priority. We will continue to work until every last light is on, he said during a briefing Sunday. In Jean Lafitte, a small town of about 2,000 people, pools of water along the roadway were receding and some of the thick mud left behind was beginning to dry. At St. Anthony Church, the 4 feet (about 1.2 meters) of water once inside had seeped away, but a slippery layer of muck remained. Outside, the faithful sat on folding metal chairs under a blue tent to celebrate Mass. Next door, at the Piggly Wiggly, military police in fatigues stood guard. In times such like these, we come together and we help one another, the Rev. Luke Nguyen, the churchs pastor, told a few dozen congregants. Ronny Dufrene, a 39-year-old oil field worker from Lafayette, returned to his hometown to help. People are taking pictures of where their houses used to be, he said. But this is a chance to get together and praise God for what we do have, and thats each other. In New Orleans, many churches remained closed due to lingering power outages. But First Grace United Methodist Church opened its doors and held service without power. Sunlight from large windows brightened the sanctuary, where about 10 people sat. Whatever situation youre in, you get to choose how you see it, said Pastor Shawn Anglim, whose first time pastoring the congregation was after the church recovered from Hurricane Katrina 16 years ago. You can see it from a place of faith, a place of hope and a place of love, and a place of possibility. Jennifer Moss, who attended service with her husband, Tom, said power had been restored to their home on Saturday. Weve been blessed throughout this entire ordeal," she said. That storm could have been a little closer to the east, and we wouldnt have a place to come and worship." In Lafitte, about 28 miles (45 kilometers) south of New Orleans, animal control officer Koby Bellanger experienced his own little blessing after he heard the sounds of an animal crying as he rode through the flooded streets with a sheriff's deputy. Bellanger waded through the water and found a tiny, green-eyed black kitten clinging to the engine of a car outside a devastated house. He hoisted the animal up, to the delight of Lafayette Parish Deputy Rebecca Bobzin. Bring him! Bobzin screamed in delight. Louisianas 13 storm-related deaths included five nursing home residents evacuated ahead of the hurricane along with hundreds of other seniors to a warehouse in Louisiana, where health officials said conditions became unsafe. On Saturday, State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter ordered the immediate closure of the seven nursing facilities that sent residents to the warehouse. Edwards was briefed Sunday about a cluster of thunderstorms near Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula, but said forecasters "dont see much potential at all for it developing into a storm of any real significance and we're very, very thankful for that. He said it does have the potential to bring some rain to coastal Louisiana and southeast Louisiana. ___ Morrison reported from New Orleans. Associated Press writer Denise Lavoie in Richmond, Virginia, contributed. NEW YORK - Inside Trump Tower, swank suit-maker Marcraft Clothes once rented the entire 18th floor, outfitting its offices with fireplaces, mahogany-lined closets and two bars for schmoozing customers. But then Marcraft fell $664,000 behind on rent and went out of business last year - its assets having dwindled to $40.75 in a checking account and "1,200 damaged coats," according to court filings. One floor up, a business school once led by Kardashian family matriarch Kris Jenner was consumed by lawsuits, falling $198,000 behind on payments to Trump Tower by October 2020, according to court papers. And on the 21st and 22nd floors, the company that made Ivanka Trump shoes racked up $1.5 million in unpaid rent, according to a lawsuit that the Trump Organization filed this year. But through all that - as Trump Tower has dealt with imploding tenants, political backlash and a broader, pandemic-related slump in Manhattan office leasing since last year - it has been able to count on one reliable, high-paying tenant: former president Donald Trump's own political operation. Starting in March, one of his committees, Make America Great Again PAC, paid $37,541.67 per month to rent office space on the 15th floor of Trump Tower - a space previously rented by his campaign - according to campaign-finance filings and a person familiar with the political action committee. This may not be the most efficient use of donors' money: The person familiar with Trump's PAC said that its staffers do not regularly use the office space. Also, for several months, Trump's PAC paid the Trump Organization $3,000 per month to rent a retail kiosk in the tower's lobby - even though the lobby was closed. Campaign-finance experts said the payments do not appear to be illegal. This kind of PAC has very few restrictions and no expiration date, so Trump is free to spend its money at his own properties as long as he wants. But they said Trump is continuing a practice that was a hallmark of his presidency by exploiting loose regulations - and his own supporters' trust - to convert political donations into private revenue for himself. "He's running a con," said Paul S. Ryan, a campaign-finance expert at the watchdog group Common Cause. "Talking about political expenses - but, in reality, raising money for self-enrichment." The Trump Organization did not respond to questions. A spokeswoman for Trump's political operation, Liz Harrington, defended the spending. "We are paying market rate for leased office space used to help President Trump build a financial juggernaut to help elect America First conservatives and flip both the House and Senate to the Republicans in the midterm elections," Harrington said. Harrington said that the PAC had also paid for the lobby kiosk for several months, even though the lobby was closed, because it had inherited the kiosk from Trump's 2020 campaign and "all of the campaign merchandise was still in the space." Harrington said officials expected the lobby to reopen, but - when it remained closed - the PAC stopped paying. The last payment was made in early May. Trump Tower, a 58-story glass tower on Fifth Avenue, served for years as Trump's primary home, the headquarters of his business and a kind of physical avatar of his success. Its was the set for TV's "The Apprentice," and the backdrop for Trump's announcement of his 2016 presidential campaign. But, in its midsection, Trump Tower is something more prosaic: a Manhattan office building, with 12 floors available for lease. The Trump Organization's headquarters occupies two other office floors. The leased floors serve as part of the collateral for one of Trump's biggest outstanding debts, a $100 million loan with the full amount due next year, according to data kept by the real estate analysis firm Trepp. Trump still owns his businesses, including this one, but says that his sons Eric and Donald Trump Jr. manage them day-to-day. To assess the financial health of Trump Tower - and the importance of the revenue it receives from Trump's own PAC - The Washington Post examined filings with New York taxing authorities, as well as loan documents, campaign-finance records and lawsuits involving Trump Tower tenants. In the years before he became president, Trump reported to New York City that the tower's office spaces produced income of between $8 million and $11 million per year in rent. Those filings were obtained by The Post after a public-records request. The most recent filing that the city provided to The Post covered 2017. The Post could not find detailed figures on rental income from the office spaces after that. But it is clear that some of Trump's customers have recently fallen into turmoil, and at times ended up behind on their rent. One was Marcraft, a clothing-maker that offered $1,400 Trump-branded suits in the heyday of "The Apprentice." Its 18th-floor suite included a golden Buddha in the elevator lobby and a bar decorated with "a colorful light display for after-hour cocktail parties," according to an archived news release from its architects. It was luxe enough that the New York Times wrote about it in 2006. Potential customers "look at it with the feeling, 'You are cool, this is interesting,' " a Marcraft executive told the Times. But Marcraft fell on hard times. Last year, it entered insolvency proceedings in a New Jersey - a kind of state-court version of bankruptcy - saying in court filings that it had more than $30 million in debts, including $664,000 in unpaid rent at Trump Tower. "It was, for lack of a better word, a carcass," said Morris Bauer, a New Jersey attorney whom the company assigned to take over its meager assets and deal with its creditors. Bauer said he wasn't sure what happened to the Trump Tower suite, but he knew Marcraft had vacated it. The company, Bauer said, "exists in name, but it's not operating." One floor up from Marcraft, on Trump Tower's 19th floor, are the offices of the Legacy Business School, which once boasted Kris Jenner as its chairwoman. (She reportedly resigned a few months after the school opened in 2016.) The school is expensive - its $70,000 annual tuition is $19,000 higher than Harvard University's. But Harvard doesn't hold classes in Trump Tower. "It is not just an educational campus," the school's website says, making the tower one of its main selling points. "It is studying at the most powerful building in the world." But that school also appears to have fallen into turmoil. In February, investors who claimed to be the Legacy's majority owners sued the school's founder, Alessandro Nomellini, demanding Nomellini give up control of the school and its offices. The investors included documents showing that, as of last year, the school owed $198,000 in unpaid rent, taxes and fees to Trump Tower. They asked a judge to cancel the lease entirely. Nomellini has challenged these claims in court. Nomellini's attorneys declined to comment to The Post - and then, on Wednesday, asked to withdraw from the case, saying that Nomellini had not paid their bills. Nomellini himself did not respond to questions from The Post. Another major Trump Tower tenant - occupying all of the 21st floor and part of the 22nd - had been Marc Fisher Footwear, the manufacturer of shoes for Ivanka Trump's now-shuttered brand and others. But earlier this year, the Trump Organization sued Marc Fisher Footwear for unpaid rent. The suit said the shoemaker had stopped paying rent in November 2020, and owed more than $1.4 million. That lawsuit was settled on undisclosed terms in April. A person familiar with the suit said that Marc Fisher Footwear had vacated its spaces at Trump Tower. The firm did not respond to requests for comment from The Post. Trump Tower does have office tenants still in place: Gucci still rents the massive retail space facing Fifth Avenue. The foundation of Trump friend Stewart Rahr still occupies space on the 24th floor, according to its website. The hops seller Hopsteiner moved in. The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China still rents office space, though it reportedly downsized in 2019. The bank did not respond to questions from The Post. In the first quarter of this year - the latest for which data was available - Trump Tower's commercial spaces were 75 percent occupied, according to Trepp data. That is lower than the occupancy rates for the tower from any year going back to 2013, Trepp reported. Citywide, this is not a good time to be trying to lease out office space. The effects of the coronavirus pandemic, combined with the construction of new buildings, have created an unusual glut of available space: A recent report by the firm Savills found that 18.4% of Manhattan office space was for rent, the highest level in decades. One office has remained rented and producing income throughout this tumultuous time: Suite 1501. This 5,490-square-foot space was leased for years by Trump's 2020 campaign, even though the campaign's main headquarters was in Virginia. After Trump left office, his PAC moved in, according to the person familiar with the PAC. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the committee's finances. The rate Trump's PAC is paying Trump's company for space in Trump's tower appears to be about $85 per square foot annually. That's close to the average for midtown Manhattan, according to Savills, though it's less than the $122 per square foot that Trump got from Marc Fisher Footwear. At Trump Tower, the former president's PAC appears to be a quiet tenant. Under typical office conditions, with about one worker per 175 square feet, that much space might hold 30 people. But the PAC's latest campaign-finance filing only listed three employees at that address as of June. And even those three don't always work there, according to the person familiar with the PAC: They work from home, or follow Trump to his clubs in Palm Beach, Fla., and Bedminster, N.J. Even when Trump does visit Trump Tower, the person said, he doesn't use the PAC's rented space. He works out of his old office up in the Trump Organization's headquarters on the 25th and 26th floors. One recent weekday, a Post reporter sought to visit the PAC's office - but was turned away by a security guard, who said there was no point. Nobody would be there. Even if Trump's PAC was a loud tenant, it seems unlikely that the neighbors would notice. Trump's own marketing materials indicate the other office space on the 15th floor is vacant. - - - Fahrenthold, O'Connell and Dawsey reported from Washington. The Washington Post's Isaac Stanley-Becker and Alice Crites contributed to this report. Timothy Joel Murr, Passed away on August 23rd, 2021 at the age of 67. Funeral services will be at Keefeton Free Will Baptist Church on Saturday, September 18th, 2021 at 2pm. Fashion fads come and go. But rarely do they lead to violence. Rarer still do they trigger a riot. Yet thats exactly what happened exactly 99 years ago this month. Its a tale both hard to believe and almost totally forgotten: This is the story of New Yorks Straw Hat Riot. The early 1900s saw its share of style innovations. For men, one involved a new type of summer headgear. It was a huge no-no for a man to be seen in public with an uncovered head back then. One old-timer said, Leaving your house without a hat was as bad as going outside naked. More Information Holy Cow! History is written by novelist, former television journalist and diehard history buff J. Mark Powell. Have a historic mystery that needs solving? A forgotten moment worth remembering? Send it to HolyCow@insidesources.com. See More Collapse A significant amount of the bodys heat escapes through the scalp, meaning when the mercury shot up in summertime it was trapped under the brim of a mans chapeau. In the days before air conditioning, that was the last thing any guy needed. The straw boater came to the rescue. It was lightweight, letting the dreaded warmth easily escape and so was much cooler for the wearer. Because it was made from straw it was affordable for almost every budget, too. The boater soon became the rage, growing so popular so suddenly many communities had an unofficial Straw Hat Day, a specific date when it was socially acceptable for men to put away their felt hats for the summer and break out the boaters. There was also another equally unofficial, yet strictly observed, custom: Sept. 15 became Felt Hat Day. That was when men were supposed to switch back to wearing winter hats. A man sporting a boater from that day on was like someone wearing white after Labor Day a serious faux pas. Men observed that tradition as though it were a religious commandment. In the early 1920s, a new twist began developing. Adolescent males considered it open season on anyone caught wearing a boater on Felt Hat Day. At first, they would taunt and ridicule the unfortunate fashion violator. That turned into knocking the offending hat off the head with a stick. Things only got worse from there. In September 1922, boys began roaming New York streets in gangs. For some reason lost to history, the kids went after boaters on Sept. 13 that year, two days ahead of schedule. They started out by stomping straw hats worn by factory workers in the Mulberry Bend neighborhood of lower Manhattan. Then they shifted to the waterfront. But the burly dockworkers fought back, and soon a full-scale brawl was underway. It spilled onto the Manhattan Bridge and brought traffic to a stop. The police were called, and they eventually restored some measure of order. Until that evening. Teenage gang members carrying sticks with nails in them went on the hunt for any man sporting a boater. Some 1,000 swarmed Amsterdam Avenue, snatching hats left and right and beating anyone who resisted. The situation dissolved into chaos. But there were moments of comedy, too. When a youth tried to grab the hat of one acting detective Brundizo, he took after the boy on foot. Fellow police Officer Sigmund Cohn tried to stop him, whereupon Brundizo arrested Cohn for interfering with an officer in the discharge of his duty. (Cohn later convinced the judge he didnt know the man was a brother cop until Brandizo brandished his gun.) Police began rounding up boys. Victims held three rioters themselves to hand over to authorities. In all, some one dozen youths were arrested. Seven others were taken into custody and, when it was found they were under age 15, their parents were called to mete out justice. But it was no laughing matter. Many people were hurt, with some requiring hospitalization. In another round of hat-related violence in 1924, a boater wearer was even beat to death. What made the kids go Medieval on straw boaters? Class distinction was partly to blame. Many rioters were poor, and the boater was strongly identified with prosperous young stockbrokers, a symbol of the emerging Roaring Twenties nouveau riche set. Fashion swept in the boaters, and fashion eventually carried them away. By 1930 they were passe, replaced by the more stylish Panama hat for mens summer attire. The bizarre violence went away with them, too. Surviving straw boaters are now prized collectibles. But if you happen to have one, you may want to keep it in the closet after the 15th. You cant be too safe. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) Saudi Arabia intercepted a ballistic missile fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels and debris that fell on a neighborhood near Dammam wounded at least two children, the kingdom said Sunday. Images published by the state-run Saudi Press Agency showed glass and debris across a townhouse there, which is in the kingdoms eastern reaches and near the headquarters of the state-run oil giant Saudi Aramco. At least 14 homes in the area sustained damage, the agency reported. The Houthis launched three bomb-laden drones and three ballistic missiles in the attack, military spokesman Brig. Gen. Turki al-Malki said. Houthi military spokesman Yahia Sarei said in a tweet the rebels launched a military operation deep in Saudi Arabia. In a statement later Sunday, the rebels claimed they sent at least eight explosive-laded drones and fired one ballistic missile on Aramco facilities in the city of Ras Tanura, about 55 kilometers (34 miles) north of Dammam. The Houthis also claimed they targeted Aramco facilities in the cities of Jeddah, Jizan and Najran with five ballistic missiles and two explosive-laden drones. The rebels did not offer evidence supporting their claims. The U.S. Consulate in nearby Dhahran sent an alert to American citizens warning them about the attack, which it described as targeting the area around Dhahran, Dammam and Khobar. Stay alert in case of additional future attacks, the consulate said. Saudi Arabia is mired in a yearslong, deadlocked war backing Yemen's toppled government against the Iranian-backed Houthis. The Saudi-led war, which began in March 2015, has seen an uptick in recent months amid a Houthi effort to capture the city of Marib. That also has seen renewed, long-range attacks by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia. A bomb-laden drone on Tuesday crashed into the kingdom's Abha airport, wounding eight people and damaging a civilian plane. Airstrikes and ground fighting in Yemen have killed more than 130,000 people and spawned the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. The weekend attacks on Saudi Arabia came as Swedish diplomat Hans Grundberg took up his post Sunday as the United Nations envoy for Yemen. Grundberg said in a message to Yemenis that he accepted the post with the full understanding of the magnitude of the task, the complexity of the situation and the challenges that lie ahead. Grundberg, who served as the European Unions ambassador to Yemen for almost two years, succeeded Martin Griffiths of Britain. Griffiths recently took up his new post as U.N. undersecretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator. LOS ANGELES (AP) Andy Farquhars plans for an outdoor adventure have gone up in smoke twice this summer. The retired attorney and teacher from the Philadelphia area had planned to hike with a friend for several weeks on the Pacific Crest Trail north of Lake Tahoe until the second-largest fire in California history stampeded across the Sierra Nevada, closing a 160-mile (257-kilometer) stretch of the trail and blanketing the region in thick smoke. I saw a satellite view of where we were going, and all it was was fire, he said. The two scrambled and chose a seemingly fireproof backup plan: canoeing a massive network of lakes and bogs on the Minnesota-Canada border. That plan went poof when lightning-sparked fires forced the closure of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Were batting zero now, Farquhar said. Untold numbers of camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, rafting and biking adventures have been scrapped as U.S. wildfires have scorched nearly 7,900 square miles (20,460 square kilometers) this year in forests, chaparral and grasslands ravaged by drought. The vast majority are on public lands in the West that also serve as summer playgrounds. More than 24,000 camping reservations out of 3.2 million so far this year have been canceled due to wildfires, according to data kept by Recreation.gov, which books campsites on most federal lands. That does not account for no-shows or people who left early. All national forests are closed in California to prioritize fighting blazes, including the Caldor Fire near Lake Tahoe, a year-round outdoor paradise that attracts skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, boaters and paddleboarders. Lassen Volcanic National Park also is closed because of the Dixie Fire, the blaze that forced Farquhar to cancel his plan to hike from the Lake Tahoe area to the Oregon border. In June, fires closed several national forests in Arizona, derailing plans Kristin Clark made with family to camp by Lynx Lake in Prescott National Forest for her mother's 70th birthday. She reserved the campsite in February. As the vacation neared, she watched as wildfires grew, bringing new closures. She knew her trip was over before it began. That is the reality in Arizona. More and more frequently, we get wildfires, Clark said. I was bummed. My husband was bummed. We were really looking forward to a week in nature to kind of disconnect." Intense wildfires have coincided with a sharp uptick in people trying to find serenity in the wild after being cooped up during the coronavirus pandemic. Competition for online campground and backpacking permit reservations is stiff, and they can fill up six months in advance, leaving less flexibility for spontaneous trips or easy rescheduling. One of the toughest tickets to score in California is a pass to summit Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Hundreds who managed to win a permit and trained for the arduous hike were foiled in June when a fire broke out near the main trailhead in the Inyo National Forest. The trail was closed 10 days, preventing up to 1,850 people from hiking, said Debra Schweizer, a forest spokeswoman. In addition to forest and park closures that have required people to cancel or change plans, plenty of other trips have been altered by approaching fires and the omnipresent pall of smoke that has created a respiratory hazard for millions nationwide. Kerry Ellis of Boise, Idaho, and her family didnt do anything last summer because of COVID-19. So they were excited for a July rafting trip on the Salmon River with friends. After a daylong drive, they arrived to find the area blanketed in smoke that made it uncomfortable for Ellis, who has asthma, to breathe. The outfitter described scenarios of the fire jumping the river, embers flying and smoke making it impossible for guides to see. They pointed out that once you push off, youre committed for the entire six days, Ellis said. You have no cell service. Its Idaho backcountry. With that level of wildfire and smoke, the chances of evacuation would be difficult. The outfitter canceled the trip. It was disappointing, but Ellis said it was the right decision. Wildfire smoke has increasingly become a fixture on the Western landscape, ranging from a strong campfire odor in its most mild form to a serious health hazard that causes coughing fits and headaches. Satellite images show plumes from fires pouring into the sky and spreading widely, even reaching the East Coast. For many, though, smoke appears to be an irritating but tolerable inconvenience when pricey or hard-to-get plans have been made. Even as smoke shrouded the Tahoe basin last week before evacuations were ordered at the south end of the lake people in masks walked the beach or pedaled bikes along the shore. A study of 10 years of campground bookings on federal land found relatively few cancellations or departures when smoke was present. The study by Resources for the Future, an independent nonprofit research institution, suggested campers were less likely to pull out of popular destinations like Glacier National Park in Montana or Yosemite National Park in California. Limited visitation seasons at northern parks like Glacier, as well as competitive reservations at popular parks like Yosemite, could lead campers to brave the smoky conditions rather than forego a trip altogether, the authors said. Those patterns could change, particularly after the past two years of severe, pervasive fires that were not accounted for in the study, said Margaret Walls, a senior fellow with Resources for the Future who co-authored the study. She thinks the potential for smoke could factor into future plans. In the past, maybe you just went. You didn't think about the smoke, Walls said. "You used to be able to say, itll be all right around the Grand Canyon. Not anymore. When the Boundary Waters in Minnesota's Superior National Forest was closed last month, Farquhar was one of hundreds of paddlers who lost out. The outfitters who rent canoes, sell supplies and help them plan their trips also were hit hard. Typically, the parking lot of Sawbill Canoe Outfitters is full of cars in August and all its roughly 200 canoes are in the wilderness, said Clare Shirley, the third-generation owner. Despite a blue sky and no smell of smoke recently, the boats were all on their racks late last month and the parking lot was nearly empty. Its very, very quiet around here, which is eerie, said Shirley, who estimated she was losing tens of thousands of dollars. Were definitely missing out on a big chunk of our peak season. Farquhar has pivoted once again. He and his friend were fixing up a canoe last week for a trip to the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Maine. The state's forest service designated that area with its lowest rating for fire danger. Carrell Bill Powell says hes proud to be known as the Watermelon Man. Powell normally sells the treats from a truck at Hwy. 30 and Hwy. PP in High Ridge. US supports 2 Canadians marking 1,000th day in Chinese cells View Photo OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sunday that people are not bargaining chips, adding the U.S. stands with Canada in calling for the release of two Canadians detained in China for 1,000 days. Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were detained in China in what many countries label hostage politics after Canada arrested an executive of Chinese tech giant Huawei in 2018 on a U.S. extradition request. Kovrig, a Canadian diplomat on leave to an international organization, and Spavor, an entrepreneur, were arrested in apparent retaliation. Both have since been convicted of spying in closed Chinese courts a process that Canada and dozens of allies say amounts to arbitrary detention. Today marks the 1,000th day of the arbitrary detention of Canadian citizens Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig by the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), Blinken said in a statement. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Canada and the international community in calling for the PRC to release, immediately and unconditionally, Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig. He added: The practice of arbitrarily detaining individuals to exercise leverage over foreign governments is completely unacceptable. People should never be used as bargaining chips. The arrest of Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of Huaweis founder, infuriated Beijing, which sees her case as a political move designed to prevent Chinas rise. The U.S. accuses Huawei of using a Hong Kong shell company called Skycom to sell equipment to Iran in violation of U.S. sanctions. Spavors and Kovrigs relatives and supporters are pushing for some sort of political resolution that could bring them home. They staged a march in Ottawa on Sunday seeking to replicate the 7,000 steps that Kovrig has tried to walk every day in his cramped jail cell to maintain his physical and mental well-being. Its an extremely difficult milestone, but one that we want to mark in this way, in part, to honor the strength and resilience that Michael and Michael Spavor have shown, Kovrigs former wife, Vina Nadjibulla, said. Spavor was sentenced to 11 years in prison on national security charges. Chinas government has released few details other than to accuse Spavor of passing along sensitive information to Kovrig. Both have been held in isolation and have had little contact with Canadian diplomats. We worry about him, but we find strength from all the support we get, said Paul Spavor, his brother. China says Spavor and Kovrig committed serious crimes against its national security and, although denying a direct link with Mengs case, routinely mention her when referring to the detention of Canadians in the country. The Chinese Embassy in Canada on Sunday protested comments by Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau referring to arbitrary detention and a lack of transparency in the Chinese judicial process. Those remarks grossly infringed on Chinas judicial sovereignty and violated the spirit of the rule of law, the embassys statement said. Three Canadians convicted in separate drug cases were sentenced to death in 2019. In one, Robert Schellenberg had received a 15-year sentence initially that was abruptly increased to death in January 2019 following Mengs arrest. Canada and other countries face trade boycotts and other Chinese pressure in disputes with Beijing over human rights, the coronavirus and control of the South China Sea. The U.S. has warned American travelers face a heightened risk of arbitrary detention in China for reasons other than to enforce laws. China has tried to pressure Canadas government by imposing restrictions on imports of canola seed oil and other products. JERUSALEM (AP) Israels president met with the Jordanian king this past week, in a new sign of improved relations between the two countries, the presidents office said Saturday. At the kings invitation, new President Isaac Herzog met King Abdullah II at his palace in the Jordanian capital, Amman, Herzogs office said in a statement. The two discussed a series of political and economic issues including energy and sustainability. Jordan is a very important country. I have immense respect for King Abdullah, a great leader, and a highly significant regional actor, Herzog was quoted as saying following the meeting. Last weeks meeting came less than two months after Abdullah II and the Israeli Prime Minister, Naftali Bennett, met in secret following years of fraught relations under former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In the week following, Jordan and Israel signed two breakthrough water and trade deals. In his statement, Herzog spoke of improving regional relations and the success of the so-called Abraham Accords in which Israel last year normalized diplomatic ties with Bahrain, Morrocco, Sudan and the United Arab Emirates. On Thursday, King Abdullah II along with the president of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas attended a trilateral summit held by Egypts president, Abdel Fattah el-Sissi. The leaders discussed the elusive two-state solution to the conflict with Israel, vowing their commitment for Palestinians to have a right to an independent state. Israel and Jordan made peace in 1994 and have close security ties. However, diplomatic relations have been strained in recent years over tensions at the Al-Aqsa compound in Jerusalem, and Israels expansion of Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank. The Latest: Top Republican says Taliban holding Americans View Photo WASHINGTON The top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says some Americans who have been trying to get out of Afghanistan since the U.S. military left are sitting in airplanes at an airport ready to leave but the Taliban are not letting them take off. Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas says there are six airplanes at the Mazar-e-Sharif airport with American citizens on board, along with their Afghan interpreters, and the Taliban are holding them hostage right now. A worker at the Mazar-e-Sharif airport confirmed several aircraft he believes were chartered by the U.S. are parked at the airport. Taliban have prevented them from leaving, saying they wanted to check the documents of those on board, many of whom do not have passports or visas. The airport official did not want to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject. McCaul, speaking on Fox News Sunday, says the Taliban have made demands. He gave no specifics but said hes worried Theyre going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan. He said the aircraft have been at the airport for the last couple days. ___ MORE ON AFGHANISTAN: Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace US: Afghan evacuees who fail initial screening Kosovo-bound Rescue groups : US tally misses hundreds left in Afghanistan US expects to admit more than 50,000 evacuated Afghans Afghan women demand rights as Taliban seek recognition ___ Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: BERLIN Germanys chancellor says the country must engage with the Taliban in order to help evacuate Afghans who had worked for them. Angela Merkel told reporters on Sunday that we simply have to talk to the Taliban about how we can get the people who used to work for Germany out of the country and to safety. She added: They are the ones one needs to talk to now. She said it was also in Germanys interest to support international aid organizations who are helping improve the humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan. She called it a good signal that the airport in Kabul was re-opened, allowing medical aid into the country again. Some western countries have been reluctant about talking with the Taliban. Merkels remarks came after a spokesman for the Taliban told a German newspaper that his group was ready for full diplomatic relations with the Germans, and had forgiven them their past cooperation with the Americans in the country. Merkel did not refer to his remarks, nor did she talk about establishing any kind of official diplomatic relations. ___ DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Qatar has sent a plane carrying food and medical goods to Kabul, part of an effort to provide badly needed supplies to Afghanistan as the country faces a halt in most Western aid. Qatars Foreign Ministry said the plane had landed at Kabul airport on Sunday with 26 tons of medical and food aid, the second such shipment in as many days. The tiny Gulf state of Qatar has taken an outsized role in evacuation efforts as U.S. forces completed their withdrawal from the country last week. Its also expected to play an important political role in what comes next for Afghanistan. ___ BERLIN The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, or ICRC, has arrived for a three-day visit in Afghanistan. Peter Maurer arrived Sunday and plans to visit medical facilities, rehabilitation centers for victims of violence and disease as well as ICRC staffers. The relief group said in a statement that Maurer also plans to meet with local Afghan authorities. Maurer said: Afghans have suffered from 40 years of conflict and they now face years of work to heal and recover. The International Committee of the Red Cross is dedicated to staying here to help that recovery. The ICRC president also stressed that the future of Afghans relies on the continued investment from the outside world. ___ VATICAN CITY Pope Francis is encouraging countries to welcome Afghan refugees who are seeking a new life. During his appearance to the public in St. Peters Square on Sunday, Francis also prayed that displaced persons inside Afghanistan receive assistance and protection. In these tumultuous moments, in which Afghans are seeking refuge, I pray for the most vulnerable among them, I pray so that many countries welcome and protect all those seeking a new life, Francis said. The pope didnt cite the Taliban or their policies, but added: may young Afghans receive an education, which is essential for human development. He concluded by expressing hope that all Afghans, whether in their homeland, in transit, or in countries taking them in, may be able to live with dignity, in peace, in brotherhood with their neighbors. ___ BERLIN Angelina Jolie has expressed concern about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan. The actress, who is also a special envoy to the U.N.s high commissioner for refugees, told a German newspaper Sunday she doesnt think the incoming government in Afghanistan could simply turn back the clock so that everything would be like 20 years ago. But she still has big worries about the situation for women there. Jolie told the weekly Welt am Sonntag: Im thinking of all the women and girls who dont know now if they can go back to work or school. And Im thinking of the young Afghans who are worried that they will lose their freedom. Taliban fighters captured most of Afghanistan last month and celebrated the departure of the last U.S. forces after 20 years of war. The insurgent group must now govern a war-ravaged country that is heavily reliant on international aid. ___ BERLIN A Taliban spokesperson has told a German newspaper that his group wants to establish diplomatic relations with Germany. Zabihullah Mujahid tells the weekly Welt am Sonntag that we want strong and official diplomatic relations to Germany. The newspaper reported Sunday that the Taliban also hope for financial support from Germany as well as humanitarian aid and cooperation regarding Afghanistans health care system, education and agriculture. The German government has been reserved about establishing official ties with the Taliban. Officials say talks are needed to get the remaining former Afghan staffers who worked for the Germans out of the country. According to the newspaper, Mujahid said it was unfortunate Germany had cooperated with the Americans during the war but that has now been forgiven. ___ KABUL, Afghanistan Some domestic flights have resumed at Afghanistans international airport in Kabul, with the state-run Ariana Afghan Airline operating flights to three provinces. Shershah Stor, the airlines station manager at the airport, told The Associated Press on Sunday that the flights took place Saturday to western Herat, southern Kandahar and northern Balkh provinces. He said the flights were conducted without a functioning radar system at the airport. Stor said three more flights are scheduled Sunday to the same provinces. A team of Qatari and Turkish technicians arrived in Kabul last week to help restart operations at the airport, which the U.N. says is crucial to providing the country with humanitarian assistance. It remains to be seen, however, whether any commercial airlines will be willing to offer service. ___ WASHINGTON The top U.S. military general has thanked members of the 10th Mountain Division for their service in Afghanistan during the evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others over the past several weeks. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, met with military police soldiers at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Germany on Saturday. Standing outside talking to a group, he asked them, You were there for the bombing? Heads nodded and a chorus of voices answered, yes, sir. A suicide bombing by the Islamic State group near a gate at the Kabul airport more than a week ago killed 13 U.S. service members as well as 169 Afghans who were crowded around the entry, desperate to get on flights out of Afghanistan. You guys did an incredible job, all of you Army, Navy, Marines, the Air Force flying out 124,000 people. Thats what you saved, Milley told the soldiers. He said they showed enormous courage discipline and capability, working together. Its something you should always be proud of This will be a moment that youll always remember. The Associated Press Since July 14, I've dressed in my favorite swimsuit and rocked the goggles every Tuesday evening to have a 17-year-old instructor teach my scared self how to swim. It's a skill I didn't learn growing up. I nearly drowned twice in my teen years. Those experiences (which I go into detail about in this article) traumatized me enough to stay away from the fun water slides, the adventurous scuba diving, and cool kayak rides. But not anymore. After eight rough classes and nearly $300, my patient instructor, Eileen Robinson at Emler Swim School on Huebner, showed me the ropes before she headed back to high school. I now can freestyle and tread water without a life vest or flotation device. It wasn't easy though. In my adult class, two other grown-ups started the journey with me but didn't finish. Robinson says no-shows occur more often for weekday lessons, as older individuals have a busier schedule than their usual younger clients. For me, I had to get over the embarrassment I felt walking into a school filled with children trying to learn the same skill I wished I had years ago, not at 28-years-old. If I didn't get over that initial hurdle, I probably wouldn't have shown up either. The first three sessions consisted of trying to understand the technique of the freestyle. On one Tuesday, I ended up treading water the entire time (with breaks, of course) so I can stay afloat if I'm ever in deep water. In the last few sessions, Robinson stripped away my floaties and pushed me to swim on my own. Yes, I cried. Emler Swim School During this process, I swallowed lots of water, like too much. I felt defeated after only lasting three seconds in my freestyle form. I grew tired and nearly gave up. I wasn't perfecting it like the kiddos next to me in another class. By the second to last session, I got it. I finally got the hang of a freestyle stroke. Robinson was so proud, and so was I. And yes, I cried tears of joy to my mom about it. For years, I've been scared of saying yes to pool party invites or boat trips. Now, it's all I want to do. During my journey, people on social media reached out to me saying they can't swim either. And, realistically, I know many can't cough up hundreds of dollars for swim classes but I found a program that's affordable and successful with their adult lessons. After a year of hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, the city's parks and recreation department started offering swim lessons again this summer. While the free summer classes are over, the department will start its fall semester in October. Group classes are $30 and private sessions are $50. Individuals meet three days a week for two weeks. Each class is 45 minutes. Veronica Rodriguez, the aquatics lead for the swimming program, tells MySA most of her adult students finish the program learning how to swim. She says the program normally teaches eight at a time so the instructor can work with each individual efficiently. "When we couldn't offer our program for a year, my mind kept worrying about those we can't reach because learning how to swim is such an important part of life," Rodriguez says. "It's never too late to learn. Once you learn, you not only save your life but you could possibly save someone else's." I'll still wear my life vest if I'm heading into deep water because drownings do happen. I reported about them this summer and the rise in drownings officials saw during the pandemic. However, I won't be scared to jump in anymore and that to me is everything. HUIXTLA, Mexico (AP) Mexican border agents and police broke up a caravan of hundreds of migrants Sunday who had set out from southernmost Mexico the fourth such caravan officials have raided in recent days. The group of about 800 largely Central Americans, Haitians, Venezuelans and Cubans had spent then night at a basketball court near Huixtla, some 40 kilometers (25 miles) up the road from the border city of Tapachula where they had been kept awaiting processing by Mexican immigration officials. But shortly before dawn, immigration agents backed by police with anti-riot gear went into the crowd, pushing many into trucks. Hundreds of the migrants escaped running toward a river and hid in the vegetation. They began to hit me all over," a woman said amid tears, alleging that police also beat her hustband and pulled one of her daughters from her arms. Until they give me my daughter, I'm not leaving," she told an Associated Press camera crew. But immigration agents surrounded the woman, her husband nd other child and detained them. The group was at least the fourth to be broken up over the past week after heading out in a caravan north, frustrated by the slow pace of of The government has insisted that excessive force against a Haitian migrant caught on camera the past weekend was an aberration and two immigration agents were suspended. Mexico has faced immigration pressures from the north, south and within its own borders in recent weeks as thousands of migrants have crossed its southern border, the United States has sent thousands more back from the north and a U.S. court has ordered the Biden administration to renew a policy of making asylum seekers wait in Mexico for long periods of time. President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Thursday the strategy of containing migrants in the south was untenable on its own and more investment is needed in the region to keep Central Americans from leaving their homes. Thousands of mostly Haitian migrants stuck in Tapachula have increasingly protested in recent weeks. Many have been waiting there for months, some up to a year, for asylum requests to be processed. Mexicos refugee agency has been overwhelmed. So far this year, more than 77,000 people have applied for protected status in Mexico, 55,000 of those in Tapachula, where shelters are full. Unable to work legally and frustrated by the delay and poor conditions, hundreds have set out north. International Nepal govt warns citizens against any action that may hurt friendly nations Sher Bahadur Deuba KATHMANDU, SEP 5 (PTI) | Publish Date: 9/5/2021 11:45:16 AM IST The Nepal government on Sunday warned its citizens against carrying out any reprehensible and disgraceful actions that may hurt the dignity of the friendly nations after some people burnt effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during protests in the country. In a statement, Nepals Home Ministry said that in the past few days, the activities of chanting slogans, holding demonstrations and protest and burning effigies to tarnish the image of the neighbouring friendly nations Prime Minister has caught its attention. The home ministry statement, however, did not identify the leader. But it expressed objection towards such reprehensible and disgraceful actions. The strong statement came after some students and youth organisations belonging to both the ruling alliance and the Opposition burnt effigies of Prime Minister Modi during protests over the death of a Nepalese youth when he was crossing the Mahakali river near the border with India in July. The Government of Nepal wishes to have a friendly relationship with all friendly nations and is determined not to let any activities that may harm the national interest. We request everyone not to carry out any action that may hurt the dignity and respect of the friendly nations, the statement said. Nepal has a long tradition of solving the dispute with the neighbouring nation through diplomatic channels and mutual dialogue, the statement said. In future as well, diplomatic initiative and mutual discourse will be utilised while solving any dispute, it said. The Home Ministry will take action to control the activities targeted against the friendly neighbouring nation and will punish those who involve themselves in such unlawful activities, it warned. Jaya Singh Dhami, 33, of Byas rural municipality in Darchula district, is stated to have jumped into the river from the carriage of the tuin (a makeshift ropeway with a box attached for seating) he was clinging to after he saw an approaching patrol of the India-Nepal border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Officials in India said the man was crossing over to the Indian side illegally using the tuin and was coming from Darchula in Nepal to Gasku in Dharchula in Uttarakhands Pithoragarh district. A Nepalese committee investigating the death of Dhami has concluded that the incident occurred in the presence of Indian security personnel. By Jerri-Lynn Scofield, who has worked as a securities lawyer and a derivatives trader. She is currently writing a book about textile artisans. The following ABC news report caught my eye an unintentional parody of the lack of urgency governments are collectively devoting to prevent drowning ourselves in plastics waste, Countries take steps toward curbing plastic waste in oceans: An intergovernmental conference has taken early steps toward drawing up an agreement to curb plastic pollution and marine litter around the world, which can choke off sea life, harm food safety and coastal tourism, and contribute to climate change. A draft resolution presented by Peru and Rwanda, and backed by the European Union and several other countries, at the end of a two-day Geneva conference on Thursday amounts to a procedural step, but one that aims to build momentum for drawing up language as early as next year on a binding global deal. The draft, which mostly aims to set up a committee to negotiate the language of a possible accord, is expected to be considered at a U.N. Environment Assembly meeting in February. Supporters hope to unify fragmented efforts to curb such waste around the world. They hope to take into account the full lifecycle of plastics from production to consumption to waste management, treatment and prevention. Conference organizers say up to 12 million tons of plastic waste ends up in the oceans each year, and the flow is expected to triple by 2040. So far, nearly 5 billion tons of plastic produced since the early 1950s has ended up in either landfills or in the natural environment, they said. The end goal, or the target, is to have zero waste, said Oliver Boachie, a special adviser to the government of Ghana, which co-organized the conference with Ecuador, Germany and Vietnam. More than 1,000 representatives from over 140 countries took part, along with advocacy groups. Boachie told reporters there were no holdouts among countries, but that some unspecified countries were still assessing prospects for an accord and drawing up national policies on the matter. There were no fixed positions, he said, expressing optimism that countries will eventually come around. An agreement could be built around legislation in more than 120 countries including European Union member states and nearly three dozen African countries that restricts or bans single-use plastics. But some countries are hesitant: For example, Japan has expressed opposition to a binding deal preferring a voluntary solution and the United States has resisted calls for a ban on single-use plastics. There was no illusion that this would be a piece of cake, Boachie said. Jerri-Lynn here. No, no piece of cake. One cant say these talks are going nowhere, but where ever theyre going, its at a snails pace. I found this news out of Geneva to be profoundly depressing especially the resistance from the U.S. and Japan to ban single use plastics. Yet recent plastics news out of Moscow and London is marginally more encouraging although unfortunately, the scope and timing also doesnt respond to the urgency of the situation. Per The Moscow Times, Russia to Fully Ban Single-Use Plastic Products By 2024 Minister: Russia plans to ban the use of disposable plastics by 2024, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Alexander Kozlov said Thursday. Banned goods would include disposable plastic straws, plates, glasses, lids and appliances; coffee capsules; cotton swabs; opaque and colored PET (thermoplastic polyester) bottles; boxes and packs for tobacco products; blister packaging (except for medicines); egg cartons; and several types of bags. Were proposing to introduce the ban gradually so production can be reorganized. In 2024, the ban should be final, the state-run TASS news agency quoted Kozlov as saying on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok. Kozlov said his ministry and the Industry and Trade Ministry are coordinating on the list of 28 disposable plastic products that would fall under the ban He also suggested finding alternatives to single-use plastics such as packaging made from natural materials like wood or paper. We suggest replacing opaque plastic bottles with transparent ones that are easy to recycle. Disposable plates can be made from pulp cartons; straws can be made of wood or replaced with special paper ones. All these technologies exist and are already being used, Kozlov said. In May, Deputy Prime Minister Viktoria Abramchenko said the government plans to impose a legislative ban on certain types of plastic products, including straws, cotton swabs and disposable tableware. The UK has moved forward with a more modest ban, on single use plastic cutlery, according to the BBC, Government to ban single-use plastic cutlery: The government has announced plans to ban single-use plastic cutlery, plates and polystyrene cups in England as part of what it calls a war on plastic. Ministers said the move would help to reduce litter and cut the amount of plastic waste in oceans. A consultation on the policy will launch in the autumn although the government has not ruled out including other items in the ban. But environmental activists said more urgent and wider action was needed. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland already have plans to ban single-use plastic cutlery, and the European Union brought in a similar ban in July putting ministers in England under pressure to take similar action. On average, each person in England uses 18 single-use plastic plates and 37 single-use plastic items of cutlery every year, according to government figures. I understand that banning single use plastics is only a first step towards slowing the plastics juggernaut. Perhaps its mere virtue signalling. I prefer to think of it as plucking low-hanging fruit. Yet even this limited measure wont be enacted immediately. Per the BBC: But the ban may take over a year to become law, with legislation needing to go through Parliament, and it is understood it could be April 2023 before it comes into force. Jo Morley, from the campaign group City to Sea, told the BBC she welcomed the news but it was just the tip of the iceberg. She added: We need the government to go much, much, much further, we are facing a plastics crisis and we need to turn off the tap. We are really facing an environmental crisis, our oceans are full of plastic, and theyre killing marine life, they are damaging our eco-systems and they are actually threatening human health. Kierra Box from Friends of the Earth echoed the concerns. She said: We need government to take an overall approach to say that what we are going to do is bring an end to all plastic pollution, and what were going to do is drastically reduce the amount of all single-use products, not just a fork followed by a spoon followed by a cup. A far, far more difficult challenge than adopting these single use plastics bans would be eliminating or at least drastically curtailing the use of unnecessary plastics packaging. Im old enough to remember a world where everything wasnt swathed in superfluous plastic. I also remember quite clearly my high School English teacher, Mr. Gordon Muir, lamenting the waste in fast food packaging when the first McDonalds opened in Newton, NJ, in the mid-1970s. We lived without plastic packaging before. And we can do so again. Some companies are already showing how. Others would no doubt follow if governments were to ban most plastics packaging or to make users of plastic packaging responsible for its disposal. Allow me to close with an anecdote. Last week, I ordered some canning jars from Weck. I like Weck Jars. They secure their glass lids via removable clips. The advantage of this system is that it allows the user to place jar and lid in the dishwasher, without corroding the fasteners. Anyway, when I opened the large box containing the jars, I was pleased with what I saw. Weck packs its jars inside cardboard boxes, 6 or 12 jars to the box (depending on the size of the jar), and these boxes are then surrounded by corrugated cardboard and placed inside the larger shipping box. The cardboard cushions the contents against jostling in transit. Alas, this system still produces waste. But at least its not plastics waste. And I cant think of a better way of shipping fragile glass containers. Ive stopped introducing any new plastic into my kitchen; Weck jars are also useful for storing leftovers. So, Wecks packaging system shows what can be done if a company decides to eschew plastic packaging. And if their system works to protect fragile glass jars, it could be more widely applied to other products. (Natural News) Stand-up comedian and UFC commentator Joe Rogan, known for his wildly popular podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, just blew the minds of thousands of vaccine pushers all over the world. How dare someone that popular, and that healthy at 54 years of age, fight Covid and beat it quickly, in just three days, without using or even mentioning vaccines. This is America, where were all supposed to trust 100 percent in everything the FDA and CDC proclaim, without ever questioning anything, even spike protein bioweapon injections for the Chinese Flu. The Joe Rogan Experience is available on Spotify, but maybe not for long, after embarrassing the vaccine industry Nothing gets you banned faster (and usually permanently) from popular media platforms, including social media and music in America, than informing people vaccines are useless and ill-advised. Though Joe Rogan is not anti-vaccine nor anti-science, he will surely be labeled as such after beating Covid with ivermectin, monoclonal antibodies and vitamins, then airing a podcast all about it, never even mentioning vaccination at all. Spotify just signed an exclusive deal with Rogan, a multiyear licensing agreement worth more than $100 million, not fully processing that Rogan asks very keen, intellectual questions about anything and everything, including vaccines. The famous UFC commentator, comedian and former actor has his podcast downloaded 200 million times per month. After his recent post about coming down with Covid during his comedy tour, mass media fake news had no choice but to blast him as a conspiracy theorist, vaccine skeptic, and someone who takes horse medicine thats ill-advised by the FDA. Rogan already blasted vaccines before he got Covid, citing peer-reviewed science studies that reveal vaccinated people are the ones spreading the virus and making the variants more virulent. The internet was flooded with cover stories, blasting Rogan for not being a moronic, gullible yes-man to the vaccine industry. Even though Ivermectin is not an antiviral drug, it is approved for humans and has proven very effective at beating down Covid-19 infections, but MSM is using the livestock de-wormer lingo to turn America away from using it, since vaccines are deadly and the overarching goal of the CDC and Biden Regime is to kill off as many Americans as possible in order to fully install Communism. Here are some other screenshots of what youll find if you Google Joe Rogan Covid or anything close to that. Heres blowback for Joe from MSM and the VIC (vaccine industrial complex). Watch out for those MSM WMDs Weapons of Mass Deception. Vaccines are faith-based medicine unproven to fight infection or reduce transmission of Covid, but Ivermectin actually works and is backed by science and practice By now, every natural health advocate in the world knows that the Covid vaccines are bogus, unsafe, ineffective, quack treatment, dangerous, blood-clotting, dirty and deadly. Joe Rogan has pointed out the obvious in his latest podcast by simply omitting vaccines from his entire description of how he beat Covid rather easily with the right combination of safe (or at least safer) therapeutic treatments. Rogan may have begun his career in Hollywood, as the host of Fear Factor, but Hollywood hates him now, because hes not pro-vaccine. The media will now do everything in their power to discredit him, ban him, censor him and vilify him. Dont be surprised if Spotify somehow cancels or backs out of his contract. Rogan is so popular, though, after the news of his deal with Spotify hit the airwaves, Spotify shares skyrocketed over 10 percent. Spotify is now caught between a rock and a hard place, where they must weigh out their popularity and money versus exposing the vaccine industrys fraud and outright bio-terrorism via Rogans podcast. Its so obvious that even the WHO (World Health Organization) had to place a disclaimer at the bottom of Rogans podcast on Instagram warning the world about harm that might come from using Ivermectin, but no mention of blood clots and death from Covid vaccines. Heres the video link to Rogans Instagram coverage of his quick Covid recovery. Tune your truth news dial to Pandemic.news for updates on the war against dirty vaccines and socialism, and how to keep your family happy, healthy and safe. Stay frosty my friends. Sources for this article include: TheGatewayPundit.com Pandemic.news NaturalNews.com TruthWiki.org NaturalNews.com (Natural News) As of this writing, nearly one million energy customers in Louisiana are still without power due to Hurricane Ida, and officials are warning that it could take up to a month to get things fully restored. In the meantime, most of New Orleans is blacked out, as are other nearby communities that were slammed by one of the worst hurricanes to hit the area since Katrina back in 2005. New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell and Police Superintendent Shaun Ferguson held a joint press conference following the storm to impose a citywide curfew aimed at deterring mass looting. An anti-looting task force is also being deployed alongside the National Guard to help protect local businesses. On social media, area residents uploaded footage showing some businesses being looted in the aftermath of the storm. Several looters were caught and arrested, but others got away with stolen goods. While tens of thousands of New Orleans residents fled the city prior to Idas arrival, many others stayed in place hoping to just ride it out. This turned out to be a really bad call as the storm turned out to be much worse than many expected. Several transmission lines reportedly fell into the Mississippi River and nearby lakes, and electric crews are now trying to replace them. The situation is difficult, though, as many areas are still underwater and impossible to access by vehicle. Are you prepared should the grid go down in your area? With temperatures in the upper double and even triple digits, many Louisianans are now baking inside their homes during the heat of the day. A heat advisory was issued for much of the deep south due to lingering high temperatures following the storm. All this next week, by the way, Mike Adams, the Health Ranger will be hosting a Resilient Prepping series to teach people how to prepare for a grid-down situation like this in their own area. Check out Brighteon.tv to view the lineup schedule. What Louisianans face at the state level right now could soon be what Americans face on a national scale. Are you prepared? Do you have water and storable food on hand? What about a backup generator? The Health Ranger will help you navigate all that so you will not get caught off guard in a worst-case scenario. The damage from Hurricane Ida has eliminated much of the redundancy built into the transmission system, which makes it difficult to move power around the region to customers, reported Entergy, which provides power to millions of customers in Louisiana, about its system. Gov. John Bel Edwards told residents the other day that there is no estimated date yet for when all power to the affected areas will be restored. This means that anyone who did not plan for an extended outage will have to rely on neighbors or the local government for help, assuming help can be found. The devastation left behind in the wake of Hurricane Ida should be a wake-up call for all Americans, and really all people everywhere. Preparedness is critical to survival, so consider all the things you might need should the power go out and do what you can to keep those things readily accessible. Installing solar plus battery backup saves you money and gives you electricity when the grid goes down, wrote one commenter at Zero Hedge about one option, though this would not work in the event of a hurricane. Get a natural gas / propane powered generator, wrote another as additional option. To learn more about how to prepare for the worst so you suffer the least, check out Survival.news. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com Brighteon.tv (Natural News) A newly released study may give us all some insight into why our major urban centers are populated with left-wing lunatics who continue voting for the same like-minded people who continue to push the same failed policies, making those cites less habitable and far more dangerous. According to the research, increased exposure to air pollution can also lead to a rise in mental illness, The Guardian reported, citing the most comprehensive study of its kind to date. Researchers studied 13,000 people in London and found that there is a relatively small increase in being exposed to nitrogen dioxide, which then led to a 32 percent increase in the risk of requiring community-based mental health treatment and an 18 percent increase in hospital treatment for the same issues. The scientists conducting the study said that their findings are likelier to apply to those living in larger cities of developed countries, adding that cutting out air pollution could eventually benefit millions. Air pollution is modifiable, and on a big scale as well, reducing population-level exposure, Joanne Newbury, of the University of Bristol, part of the research team, told the media outlet. We know there are interventions that can be used, such as expanding low-emission zones. Mental health interventions at the individual level are actually quite difficult. The outlet added: The study used the frequency of admission to hospital or visits to community doctors and nurses as a measure of severity. The researchers calculated that a small reduction in one pollutant alone could reduce illness and save the NHS tens of millions a year. Levels of air pollution in London have fallen in recent years but there is no safe level, said Ioannis Bakolis, of Kings College London, who led the research. Even at low levels of air pollution, you can observe this kind of very important effect, Bakolis told The Guardian. The study appears to build on previous research that found even incremental increases in air pollution can lead to often significant elevations in anxiety and depression other factors that appear more common in left-wing city dwellers. Dirtier air has also been attributed to higher suicide rates and that kids that are raised in polluted air environments are more likely to develop mental disorders. Air pollution can also lead to a huge reduction in overall intelligence and may even be a contributor to dementia, which could help explain our current presidents condition after having spent so much time in crowded Washington, D.C., for the bulk of his adult life. And in 2019, a global meta-analysis of data found that air pollution could also be damaging all other bodily organs besides just the brain, The Guardian reported. The most recent study, which was published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, followed patients in south London from the first time they were in contact with mental health services while utilizing high-resolution estimates of the air quality at their homes. The link was strongest for NO2, which is largely emitted by diesel vehicles, but was also significant for small particle pollution, which is produced by burning all fossil fuels, The Guardian reported, citing the data. The researchers noted: Identifying modifiable risk factors for illness severity and relapse could inform early intervention efforts and reduce the human suffering and high economic costs caused by long-term chronic mental illness. Cost evaluations currently only factor in physical health, but were seeing more studies demonstrating links with mental health, added Newbury. We think it can be important to include these, because it could tip the scales and make it clearer that investing in reducing air pollution is cost-effective. Now, this could be just another study aimed at reducing overall use of fossil fuels, which the left hypocritically pushes for while relying on fossil fuel-burning processes to travel and live more comfortably. But theres no doubt that burning fossil fuels does produce pollutants, which tend to gather in greater concentrations in cities which are all run by leftists. Still, there is a solution: Get out of the cities and live a cleaner, fresher life even if you drive a gasoline-powered car and heat and cool your home year round. The fresh air will do your mental health good and you wont come to see our modern life as such a bad thing. And youll vote for saner people. Sources include: TheGuardian.com ClimateAlarmism.news (Natural News) American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) staffers David Cole and Daniel Mach have penned an opinion piece for The New York Times that claims Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine mandates are a major victory for civil liberties. The guest column suggests that forcing people to take experimental Big Pharma drugs under duress is the embodiment of what it means to be free because there is no equally effective alternative available to protect public health. In fact, far from compromising civil liberties, vaccine mandates actually further civil liberties, the duo contends. They protect the most vulnerable among us, including people with disabilities and fragile immune systems, children too young to be vaccinated and communities of color hit hard by the disease. Forcing people to roll up their sleeves and modify their DNA because Tony Fauci says so also helps to safeguard workers, Cole and Mach allege, because by doing so, all of our most basic liberties which are right now being deprived from us, by the way will be fully restored once everyone complies. Vaccines are a justifiable intrusion on autonomy and bodily integrity, the piece reads unironically. That may sound ominous, because we all have the fundamental right to bodily integrity and to make our own health care decisions. But these rights are not absolute. They do not include the right to inflict harm on others. Oh, but pregnant women have the right to murder their unborn children This ethos of not having the right to inflict harm on others stops at the unborn, though. Children still living inside their mothers wombs are not to be protected, as their mothers do, according to the left, have the right to harm them through murder. As for people outside of the womb, the government should be free to medically rape all of them with mystery needles, Cole and Mach believe. School children should also be forced to take experimental vaccines if Fauci decides that this is the best way to flatten the curve. Schools, health care facilities, the U.S. military and many other institutions have long required vaccination for contagious diseases like mumps and measles that pose far less risk than the coronavirus does today, the Times article further reads. It goes on to present false data claiming that 600,000 people have died from the Chinese Virus in the U.S. as justification for forced medical rape. There are almost no circumstances in which a person should not be forced to take a drug needle against their will, the ACLU insists. As for religious exemptions from forced vaccination, the ACLU opposes these as well because its executive staff believes that Donald father of the vaccine Trumps Operation Warp Speed injections are absolutely essential in order to stop the plandemic. The real threat to civil liberties comes from states banning vaccine and mask mandates, the ACLU further alleges, adding that these bans directly endanger the public health and make more deaths from the disease inevitable. In other words, tyranny is freedom. War is peace. Men are women. Life is death. You are me. Lies are truth. These are among the dystopian opinions of the ACLU, which claims to defend your right to make your own choices for your own body. The ACLU: Now theres an outfit whose demise is long overdue, wrote one commenter at Summit.news. It is my civil liberty not to be worried about others, wrote another. That is not my job. That is not my responsibility. I am an individual and refuse to be bullied into taking responsibility for the collective. I leave that to the communists. The latest news about Chinese Virus injection tyranny can be found at VaccineJihad.com Sources for this article include: Summit.news Archive.is Archive.is (Natural News) The Biden administration recently directed federal agencies to scrub their websites of official reports detailing the $82.9 billion in military equipment and training provided to the Afghan security forces since 2001. Between 2003 and 2016, the U.S. supplied 208 aircraft, almost 76,000 vehicles and 600,000 weapons, according to a 2017 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. The vehicles included 22 Humvees, 50,000 tactical vehicles and nearly 1,000 mine-resistant vehicles, while the weapons included 350,000 M4 and M16 rifles, 60,000 machine guns and 25,000 grenade launchers. The scrubbed audits and reports included a detailed accounting of what the U.S. had provided to Afghan forces, down to the number of night vision devices, hand grenades, Black Hawk helicopters and armored vehicles. Reports and documents have been pulled from a string of websites detailing U.S. spending in Afghanistan. In recent days, visitors to the website of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) found several links to reports detailing spending and misuse of funds to return 404 error messages. State Department makes call to remove reports The Department of State (DOS) admitted to removing the reports but justified the move to protect Afghan allies. (Related: Biden knew Afghan military collapse was eminent: He told Afghan president that both needed to create perception Taliban wasnt winning whether its true or not.) The safety of our Afghan contacts is of utmost importance to us, said a spokesperson. The State Department advised other federal agencies to review their web properties for content that highlights cooperation/participation between an Afghan citizen and the USG or a USG partner and remove from public view if it poses a security risk. The move came as Taliban fighters took what was left into their possession. Taliban fighters stood aboard captured Humvees and armored SUVs as they paraded through Kandahar, where propaganda video has circulated of a Black Hawk flying overhead. According to reports, Taliban chiefs have ordered their troops to hunt down pilots from the disbanded Afghan Air Force. Those pilots received expensive training from the U.S. and its allies to fly high-tech warplanes and choppers. In all, they are believed to have seized an air force worth tens of millions of dollars. Before Kabul fell, planes and helicopters were disabled by U.S. troops, while others were flown overseas But those were just a dent in the extraordinary bounty that the Taliban fighters have collected as they plowed across the country, capturing 10 major airfields from Bagram to Mazar-i-Sharif. Taliban fighters were seen clambering into the cockpit of a $14 million Hercules transport jet after capturing the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul on Tuesday, Aug. 31. Taliban fighters now have more air power than a third of NATO members According to the June 30 tally by SIGAR, the Afghan Air Force had 43 MD-530 helicopters, 33 Black Hawks, 32 Mi-17s, 33 C-208 propeller planes, 23 A-19 turboprop light attack planes and 3 Hercules C-130s. Gen. Frank McKenzie, commander of the U.S. evacuation mission, said that his troops have disabled 73 aircraft before finally leaving Afghanistan. Uzbekistan also confirmed that 46 Afghan aircraft, including 24 helicopters, had arrived in the country in order to prevent them from falling into the hands of the Taliban. That leaves as many as 48 aircraft seized by the Taliban, giving them more air power than 10 of the 30 members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), namely: Albania, Bosnia, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Slovenia. It is unclear how many former pilots the Taliban fighters have been able to recruit. A recent video emerged on social media showing a group of militants flying in a Russian-made Mi-17 chopper. Another video showed a Black Hawk heading to the contested Panjshir Valley north of Kabul, where the countrys last stand is being fought by the Northern Alliance resistance fighters. (Related: Video shows the Taliban operating US-made Black Hawk military helicopter that Biden and the Pentagon handed over.) It is unlikely that an amateur would be able to get such a helicopter off the ground, let alone be able to land it. Follow MilitaryTechnology.news for more news and information related to military technology and weapons of war. Sources include: BlacklistedNews.com DailyMail.co.uk (Natural News) A McDonalds in Oregon was seen displaying a banner asking 14- and 15-year-olds to apply for work due to staffing issues. The stores operator, Heather Coleman, explained that raising the minimum wage didnt attract new applicants; however, lowering the hiring age to 14 brought in about 25 new applicants in two weeks. She stated that while there have always been staffing issues in the restaurant industry, this is unheard of. She also said that adding younger employees has been a blessing in disguise, as they have the drive and work ethic. They also know the technology, so they catch on faster. The company declined to comment about the move but said that franchises were using a range of measures to tackle staff shortages, such as better pay, sign-on bonuses, and new benefits. It also recently announced that it will raise its hourly wages to $15 per hour at company-owned restaurants in the U.S. McDonalds is not the only fast-food chain thats hiring young teens. The Texas chicken chain, Laynes Chicken Fingers, is even promoting teenagers into management positions and reportedly paying them salaries of around $50,000 annually. CEO Garrett Reed said that the biggest challenge for small companies to grow is the labor force. While his restaurants have pending deals to lease locations in the Dallas area, he is holding off on signing the because he may not be able to attract the number of workers necessary. They are so thin when it comes to leadership positions that they cant stretch out to open more locations. However, they have good 16- to 17-year-old workers who, in another year or two, could be seasoned enough to run stores. A Burger King in Ohio also posted a sign that they are looking to hire 14- or 15-year-olds. (Related: Big Tech companies, electric car manufacturers profiting off child labor in Congo.) Child labor laws in the US vary per state While child labor laws vary from state to state, Oregon allows children from 14 years to work in non-hazardous jobs such as food service as long as their hours are limited. They should still be able to accommodate their schooling and get adequate rest. The Department of Labor is the only federal agency that monitors child labor and enforces child labor laws. The most sweeping law that restricts the employment and abuse of child workers is the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which contains provisions that protect the educational opportunities of youth and prohibit their employment in jobs that are detrimental to their health, safety and schooling. For 14- and 15-year-old employees in various jobs, they are allowed 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week when school is not in session, but they are allowed only 3 hours per day or 18 hours per week when school is in session. Underage workers are not allowed to operate certain dangerous equipment as well. This includes riding in the back of trucks and operating chainsaws. They are also not allowed to work in manufacturing and construction, and they cant assist with or operate power-driven machinery. Lifeguarding in lakes, rivers, oceans, and other natural environments are likewise prohibited. Other hazardous jobs include using ladders and scaffolding, cooking, baking, loading goods off or onto trucks, building maintenance, and warehouse work, unless it involves only clerical duties. When it comes to their work hours, children ages 14 and 15 are also not permitted to work before 7:00 AM or after 7:00 PM after labor day and before June 1, while they can work until 9:00 PM in the summer months. Exceptions are made for special work experience programs, and minors who work for non-hazardous family businesses. Read more about the challenges businesses face during the pandemic and recession at NationalDebt.news. Sources include: WashingtonExaminer.com WSJ.com BBC.com DOL.gov Blog.ConcannonMiller.com (Natural News) Cameroonian-American physician Dr. Stella Immanuel recently talked about cures for the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19). She elaborated on these drugs used to treat COVID-19 during the Sept. 1 edition of The Dr. Stella Immanuel Show on Brighteon.TV. In addition, the Texas-based doctor also shared two key tips on preventing COVID-19 from worsening. Immanuel said: People call me from the hospital all the time because they are sick and the hospital is refusing to give them the medication that they need. She then shared a story of a COVID-19 patient she gave ivermectin (IVM) to and how she got into the crosshairs of medical authorities despite the patient recovering. According to the doctor, she once had a male COVID-19 patient in a state where she had a newly obtained license. He also suffered liver disease but did not divulge it to her. That would have been a death sentence, Immanuel said. Nevertheless, she recommended that the patient take IVM and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) afterward and the patient got well. However, Immanuel received a complaint from the states medical board for treating the COVID-19 patient with HCQ and IVM. The complaint said the two drugs would have put the patient at risk of liver failure. Immanuel nevertheless defended her decision to prescribe the two drugs. The patient is alive [and COVID-19] would have taken [him] out, she said. Her espousal of IVM came in stark contrast to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which warned people about using the anti-parasitic drug against COVID-19. It said that aside from not being approved as a COVID-19 treatment, many patients required medical attention, including hospitalization, after self-medicating with animal-grade IVM. Immanuel: Treating COVID-19 calls for multi-drug approach The doctor also shared her thoughts on the long-term use of IVM and HCQ. There are many doctors that will give you HCQ and IVM [for prevention.] I know theres a whole thing going on about IVM right now, but as to HCQ it is a better medication for prevention. HCQ [being used] long-term has been tried and tested for a long time, Immanuel said. She mentioned her recommended use of IVM for treating COVID-19. I actually give IVM for sick patients and I give it for two [to] three days. I do it for day one, three and five and I stop it. I dont prefer IVM for long-term [use], Immanuel elaborated. Given that the use of the anti-parasitic drug only began in April 2020, there was not much data regarding its long-term use, she argued. (Related: Arkansas Medical Board investigates doctor for SAVING thousands of lives with ivermectin because only VACCINES and ventilators are allowed.) Immanuel also had strong words for doctors espousing the use of one drug alone to treat COVID-19. You are doing the patient a disservice. All these things work in conjunction with each other. Its a multi-drug approach. It is not one-drug only. That does not make sense, she said. Her remarks were directed at doctors recommending IVM-only, HCQ-only or budesonide-only approaches. When a patient gets sick, we put them on HCQ, IVM, Zithromax [or] budesonide; we put them on a steroid; we give them albuterol if they need to, Immanuel noted. She added that fifteen months into taking care of COVID-19 patients, I pretty much have developed cocktails that work. (Related: Study shows triple treatment including hydroxychloroquine and zinc leads to fewer hospitalizations.) Immanuel shares two tips for people The Texas-based physician shared two tips for everyone to be healthy and not get into a situation of desperation. First, she recommended that sick patients stay hydrated. Immanuel recommended that patients drink electrolyte beverages side from water alone. She said: Even if you dont feel like drinking [or] eating, please make sure youre eating [or] drinking. Force yourself to do it. If you dont, youre [going to] get dehydrated and the disease is [going to] get worse. Second, she warned that patients should go see a doctor as soon as they experience any symptoms of COVID-19. When you have that first sniffle, dont stay home [and] think, this is just a cold that is [going to] go away. Please try and just get to a doctor, get to us before we get to a place where youre too sick for us to take care of you, Immanuel said. Pandemic.news has more stories about HCQ, IVM and other common drugs that can cure COVID-19. Sources include: Brighteon.com FDA.gov (Natural News) Dr. David Martin warned the public that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine that does not exist. When members of the mainstream suggest that this approval has suddenly put what is sitting in freezers around the world into an approved status, thats actually not true, Martin said during his appearance on Brighteon Conversations. There are still manufacturing guidelines that were not required for the EUA that would be required for a full-approved product. He told Health Ranger Mike Adams that the FDA has approved a unicorn. Comirnaty does not exist, Martin said, referring to the brand name of the Pfizer vaccine granted full approval by the federal agency. The approval is for future production of COVID vaccine. (Related: FDA fraudulently grants full approval to Comirnaty covid vaccine, skipping stage 3 trials and ignoring data on injuries and deaths.) Martin related that some vital information had been redacted in the approval letter that Pfizer had, as well as in its official publication from the FDA. The section of where it can be manufactured and when it can be manufactured is redacted, which is unusual given the fact that an approval letter is supposed to be a public announcement that makes these things visible, Martin said. COVID-19 vaccines should lose EUA protections Both Adams and Martin agreed that the confusion brought by the approval was compounded by the extension of the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine used for children between the ages 12 and 15, as well as for the Moderna and the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines. The mandate for EUA has to live inside of no clinical alternative, said Martin. The moment there is an approval, then the EUA protections for Moderna and Johnson & Johnson would cease to exist instantaneously. In its approval letter, the FDA acknowledged that there is a significant amount of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine produced under EUA still available for use. The FDA ruled that Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine under the EUA should remain unlicensed but can be used interchangeably with Comirnaty. Under the circumstances, it was clear that the granting of full approval was a calculated move by the government to encourage businesses and schools to impose vaccine mandates and enable Pfizer to unload inventories of its COVID-19 vaccine under EUA. Martin said the Biden administration is pushing to get students vaccinated in time for the start of the coming school year. Difference between fully approved and under EUA products There is a huge real-world difference between products approved under EUA compared with those fully approved by the FDA. EUA products are experimental under U.S. laws. Both the Nuremberg Code and federal regulations state that no one can force a human being to participate in the experiment. Under U.S. laws, it is unlawful to deny someone a job or an education because they refuse to be an experimental subject. Potential recipients have an absolute right to refuse experimental vaccines. On the other hand, U.S. laws permit employers and schools to require students and workers to take licensed vaccines. EUA-approved vaccines have an extraordinary liability shield under the 2005 Public Readiness and Preparedness Act. Vaccine manufacturers, distributors, providers and government planners are immune from liability. The only way an injured party can sue is if he or she can prove willful misconduct and if the U.S. government has also brought an enforcement action against the party for willful misconduct. No such lawsuit has ever succeeded. The Comirnaty vaccine is subject to the same product liability laws as other U.S. products. Licensed adult vaccines, including Comirnaty, do not enjoy any liability shield. People injured by the Comirnaty vaccine could potentially sue for damages. Jury awards could be astronomical, so Pfizer is unlikely to allow any American to take a Comirnaty vaccine until it can somehow arrange immunity for the product. Public misled by mainstream media Members of the mainstream media were quick to report that vaccine mandates are now legal for military, healthcare workers, college students and employees in many industries following the full approval given by the FDA to Comirnaty on Aug. 23. The Pentagon promptly announced it will go ahead with its plan to force members of the military to get vaccinated against the virus, while New York City announced on the same day that all public school teachers and other staffers will have to get vaccinated. (Related: Pentagon orders ALL members of the armed forces to be vaccinated, essentially ordering thousands to die from blood clots and vascular damage.) One of the first to implement the requirement was the State University of New York (SUNY) system, which has nearly 400,000 students and more than 85,000 faculty members spread across its 64 campuses. Several other prominent institutions are expected to impose vaccine mandates after consultation with their Boards of Trustees and state officials. Fauci started all the madness decades ago According to Martin, this madness all started in 1999. It was when National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Director Anthony Fauci came up with the idea of creating an infectious replication-defective form of coronavirus. Fauci paid researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to invent a pathogen that did not exist, Martin said. Fauci essentially asked the researchers to create a bioweapon. You cannot manufacture a bioweapon and not say that youre trying to kill people. Thats what a bioweapon is for, Martin said. Kizzy Corbett, the person behind the development of COVID-19 vaccines using mRNA technology, once said: Its really cool because you dont even need much of lab. You can build one of these on your computer at home. That, Martin said, is an admission of biological warfare. We are not talking about a virus. We are talking about an engineered pathogen, Martin said. We are not talking about a vaccine. We are talking about the introduction of a computer-simulated code in the form of mRNA not to stimulate your immune system, but to turn your body into a factory producing S1 spike proteins similar to those found in coronavirus. Watch the full episode of Brighteon Conversations with Mike Adams and Dr. David Martin here: Follow Immunization.news for more news and information related to coronavirus vaccines. Sources include: Brighteon.com ChildrensHealthDefense.org NYTimes.com (Natural News) President Joe Biden said that he would follow the science regarding the coronavirus policy, but according to two Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials, there is political pressure to push for coronavirus booster shots. The two top FDA vaccine regulators, Marion Gruber and Philip Krause recently resigned from the agency over what they saw as uncomfortable similarities between the Biden teams top-down booster plan and former President Donald Trumps attempts to goad FDA into accelerating its initial authorization process for Covid-19 vaccines and push through unproven virus treatments. Before he was inaugurated, President Biden unveiled his team of scientific advisers and promising to help restore the faith of Americans in science and discovery. During his inauguration, he also said that he will allow his administration to be guided by the best science. The Federal Government must be guided by the best science and be protected by processes that ensure the integrity of Federal decision-making. It is, therefore, the policy of my Administration to listen to the science, the president said. According to officials in the FDA, however, Bidens approach to science was more political. As many as 11 current and former FDA officials said that they have grown frustrated over the administrations process regarding booster shots. In August, the U.S. Health and Human Services released a joint statement with medical health officials, announcing the release of the COVID-19 booster shots by September 20, but health officials noted that political appointees within the White House steered the statement instead of the FDA. The FDA officials also met with confusion Bidens abrupt shift from suggesting that boosters be recommended eight months after the first shots, to five months after. This suggestion allegedly came after he met with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett. Despite the resignations, however, acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock sent a memo expressing support for the current process, citing complexity issues over the matter. (Related: Even the WHO says booster shots are unnecessary, but Bidens White House prefers to listen to Big Pharma: BOOSTER covid shots coming to the USA.) Bidens oppressive booster plan facing FDA resistance Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE, filed for authorization for the last extra COVID-19 shot last month. Some short-term data from Israel supports the use of the booster shots, but the public push by the White House to roll out the boosters has raised concerns, with many believing that the administration is rushing ahead without enough data and regulatory oversight. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia and a former member of the CDCs advisory panel of outside experts that evaluates vaccine data for the agency, said that he would be very surprised if the CDC recommends a third dose of the vaccine to the general population. The committee was said to have planned for the evaluation of the boosters at an August 24 meeting that was postponed, and then delayed to the middle of September. Instead of the expected vote on the shots, CDCs Sara Oliver set out guidelines for considering boosters, pushing that the current vaccine regimens are safe and that they prevent deaths and hospitalizations. The original plan is for people to get boosters eight months after their second shot of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. This would put older people and health workers first in line. The policy for booster doses should take into account the benefit and risk balance, said Oliver. It is critical to wait for additional safety data and regulatory allowance before pushing through with booster doses. With the delta strain ravaging the U.S., the booster shots are seen as a potential key in controlling the surge. Still, debates regarding the need for, and the effectiveness of the boosters are ongoing. Booster advocates said that breakthrough infections among the vaccinated show that standard regimens are not enough to stop the spread of the delta variant. The vaccine panel is still waiting for more data to determine the best approach for booster doses. Find more updates about the COVID-19 vaccine at Pandemic.news. Sources include: Breitbart.com Bloomberg.com (Natural News) The Texas House Bill 2211 came into effect on Wednesday, Sept. 1, barring hospitals across the state from prohibiting in-person visitation with a patient unless required by federal law or a federal agency during that period. However, one provision of the bill states that in-person visitation may not be allowed if the attending physician determines that visiting a particular patient may lead to the transmission of an infectious agent that poses a serious community health risk. For the record, we call patients being held hostage without visitors medical kidnapping. And its not okay, neonatal nurse practitioner Michelle Rowton told Dr. Bryan Ardis in The Dr. Ardis Show on Brighteon.TV. They deserve visitors, they deserve an advocate especially if youre telling me theyre that sick. They should have an advocate there with them. Rowton was referring to patient advocates who help patients communicate with their healthcare providers to get the information they need to make decisions about their health care. Patient advocates may also help patients set up appointments for doctor visits and medical tests, and get financial, legal and social support. Five days is a critical time in COVID-19 treatments at hospitals A determination made by a patients physician to not allow a visitor is valid for up to five days more if renewed. It didnt bode well for Rowton. If I have a loved one in a hospital and you have an order saying that I cant come in, Im probably going to turn you in to the Texas Medical Board for emotionally abusing your patient. Ardis pointed out that five days is a critical time in the treatment of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) at hospitals. The only approved treatment for the disease involved remdesivir, and its a five-day treatment protocol. Ardis said 8 to 31 percent of patients who received remdesivir have developed multiple organ failure and/or acute kidney failure. Its disgusting. In my mind, somebody was saying theres a five-day window where we can drug them to death with remdesivir,' Ardis said. This thing is super dangerous. The government knew it and Anthony Fauci knew it before they mandated it as the only treatment protocol allowed in hospitals [against COVID-19]. (Related: Did Fauci knowingly fast-track approval of drug with deadly COVID-like side effects?) Remdesivir is an antiviral medication that targets a range of viruses. It was originally developed over a decade ago to treat hepatitis C and a cold-like virus called respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Remdesivir wasnt an effective treatment for either disease, but it showed promise against other viruses. It works by interrupting production of the virus. Coronaviruses have genomes made up of ribonucleic acid (RNA). Remdesivir interferes with one of the key enzymes the virus needs to replicate RNA, preventing the virus from multiplying. Researchers began a randomized, controlled trial of the antiviral in February 2020 to test whether remdesivir could be used to treat SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. By April, early results indicated that remdesivir accelerated recovery for hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19. It became the first drug to receive emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat people hospitalized with COVID-19. Now, it is approved for use in adults and children at least 12 years old who weigh at least 88 pounds (40 kilograms). WHO against the use of remdesivir in hospitalized patients But in November last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a conditional recommendation against the use of remdesivir in hospitalized patients, regardless of disease severity, as there was no evidence that the drug could improve survival and other outcomes in those patients. The recommendation was part of a guideline on clinical care for COVID-19. It was developed by an international guideline development group that included 28 clinical care experts, four patient-partners and one ethicist. The evidence the group had at the time suggested no important effect on mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, time to clinical improvement and other patient-important outcomes. The group recognized that more research was needed to provide higher certainty of evidence for specific groups of patients. COVID-19 patients are being poisoned Ardis also noted on his show that dexamethasone and vancomycin were added to remdesivir on the treatment protocol for COVID-19 patients. Each of those can cause kidney failure, as well as multiple organ failure which they say is whats causing the deaths of COVID-19 patients in hospitals, Ardis said. Theyre dying because theyre being poisoned by those drugs. No vaccine, no problem While it had not been highlighted on Ardis show, Rowton wasnt fond of vaccine at all despite being a neonatal nurse practitioner for years. She has worked in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) with premature and sick babies. In her undergraduate training to prepare her to be a nurse, the only thing she was taught about vaccines was how to give the injections. When she was in graduate school studying for her masters degree to become a neonatal nurse practitioner, she was taught coercive rhetoric to get the parents to agree with vaccines. All of Rowtons three children were unvaccinated and never been on antibiotics. On his show next week, Ardis will talk about vaccines specifically polio vaccines and their lifelong side effects. He will discuss the possible polio-like outbreak that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been announcing since last year. Watch The Dr. Ardis Show live on Brighteon.TV every Wednesday at 10-11 a.m. Follow MedicalTyranny.com for more news related to bad practices in the medical profession. Also see this related podcast from Mike Adams: Sources include: Brighteon.com NIH.gov WHO.Int VaccineImpact.com (Natural News) A public health expert from the University of California, San Francisco has condemned the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions call for children ages two and up to wear masks in school. Vinay Prasad, an epidemiologist at UCSF, said that wearing masks can do more harm than good to a childs development, adding that forcing children to wear masks could hinder their language, social and cultural development skills. He also said that the trade-off for the minimal protection offered by masks against COVID-19 was not worth it. No scientific consensus exists about the wisdom of mandatory-masking rules for schoolchildren. The World Health Organization, which recommends that children 12 and older wear masks under the same circumstances that adults do, specifically advises against masking kids age 5 and younger, he said. Concerns of children not being able to breathe properly behind their masks are exaggerated and so is the idea that masks provide significant benefits to fight COVID in the classroom. Among his criticisms include the fact that the popular surgical masks do little to contain aerosols. A study from the University of Waterloo found that the blue masks were only 10 percent effective at filtering aerosols from the mouth and nose, while the tighter-fitting N95 and KN95 masks filtered more than 50 percent. A separate study from Spain looked at infection rates between masked and unmasked students. The results showed that older masked students still transmitted aerosols at rates higher than their younger, unmasked counterparts. The CDC guidelines also urged masks to be worn by vaccinated caregivers who work in infant day-care centers. Prasad noted that many studies actually support the importance of children seeing their caregivers faces, and many professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, strongly agree with this. Moreover, two out of every five parents oppose all masks in schools, no matter the childs vaccination status, and over half of U.S. K-12 parents prefer masking not to be mandatory in the classroom. A small number of parents also said that mandates should only be applied to unvaccinated children. Meanwhile, 38 percent of parents prefer that teachers not be masked, and 13 percent want mandates to apply only to unvaccinated teachers. He urged researchers to test policies that mandate all kids to wear masks so that they can fully understand the effects of doing so, and weigh them against the dangers of COVID. (Related: Health experts raise concerns regarding COVID-19 vaccination for children.) Masking poses problems for children There are three potential problems masks may pose for children when it comes to interacting with their classmates or teachers, according to Kang Lee, a professor of applied psychology and human development at the University of Toronto, who also studies the development of facial recognition skills in children. First, he said that children under the age of 12 may have difficulty recognizing people because they often focus on individual features. Second, he noted that a lot of the emotional information we display, we do so through the movement of our facial muscles. Because those specific muscles, and therefore, information that comes with it will be obscured by a mask, children can have issues with emotional recognition and social interaction. Finally, he said that children may have problems with speech and recognition. He shared that even though we tend to think of speech communication as an auditory process, a great deal of information can also be communicated visually. David Lewkowicz, a senior scientist at the Haskins Laboratories and Yale Child Study Center, also studied lip-reading in babies, and he said that around the age of six to eight months, as babies start to babble, they change the ways that they look at people who are speaking to them. He said that babies spend a lot of time looking at that persons mouth, trying to master their own native speech, getting not only auditory cues but visual. Babies whose caretakers are masked will miss visual cues, and they may have trouble differentiating one persons voice from another. Masks are not great for communication with young children, Lewkowicz said. However, he noted that the time they spend at home with people who are not masked could give them a chance to practice picking up visual cues. He suggested that parents and teachers could encourage children to communicate more through gestures or create games that could help them find ways of communicating with their hands and bodies. Learn more about how COVID-19 is affecting daily lives at Pandemic.org. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk NYTimes.com (Natural News) To stop public school districts from continuing to tyrannize students, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt has filed a lawsuit to stop all mask mandates. According to the suit, children are losing their facial expressions because of the masks, as well as their ability to read facial cues from their peers and teachers. If this goes on for too much longer, children will lose their entire identities, which Schmitt is hoping to prevent. There have been no deaths under the age of 10, Schmitt says. There have been five under the age of 18. Of the hospitalizations, one in 200,000 is a kid related to Covid-19. You balance that with what we know as a growing body of evidence of potential psychological and emotional issues that kids suffer from having to wear a mask all day long and some of the learning difficulties. In an announcement on Twitter, Schmitt emphasized that families should be making these types of important medical decisions, not government bureaucrats with an axe to grind. Columbia Public Schools is the main district being sued by the state, but Schmitt says that there are multiple defendants in the reverse class action. The Missouri legislature back in the spring passed new rules to limit public health orders, but some school districts have taken it upon themselves to violate them. If our class is certified, the ruling will bind other public school districts that have mask mandates, announced spokesman Chris Nuelle. So essentially, we filed the reverse class action against all public school districts in the state that have mask mandates. Biden regime condemns Schmitt for trying to free Missouri schoolchildren from mask tyranny The filing states that some 50 school districts across Missouri are trying to impose mask mandates, including St. Louis Public Schools and every district in St. Louis County. I am committed to fighting back against this kind of government overreach, Schmitt indicated in a statement. Americans are free people, not subjects. The offending school districts, on the other hand, believe otherwise. Columbia Public Schools, for instance, wrote on its website that forcing children to wear masks for eight hours a day or more is one mitigation strategy that will provide an additional layer of protection to keep all students and staff safe and in school. We know not everyone will agree with this decision, the district went on to admit. We have listened closely and intentionally to many voices and opinions. This decision is not a forever decision, but it is a decision that is currently necessary. A spokeswoman from Columbia Public Schools whined that she is extremely disappointed in Schmitts lawsuit, as she personally believes that medical fascism is a great way to keep everyone safe against the Chinese Virus. (RELATED: Science has shown that masks are killing children.) Numerous school districts across Missouri and across our country made the same safety decision based on what is needed in their communities during this period of time, Michelle Baumstark complained. The decisions made are based on guidance and recommendations from local, state and national health experts, including the CDC. The Biden White House was also critical of Schmitts lawsuit, calling it completely unacceptable. The Pedophile-in-Chief along with his cabinet believe that children should remain fully muzzled at all times in order to stop the spread. Weve seen, including recently I think today or yesterday in Missouri, additional steps taken that in our view put more kids at risk, whined White House press secretary Jen Psaki during a recent briefing. The president thinks thats completely unacceptable. The latest news stories about Chinese Virus face covering tyranny can be found at Fascism.news. Sources for this article include: CitizenFreePress.com Archive.is NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Hospitals like to use certain plasma that is made up of antibodies from people who have recovered from the China flu to help new China flu victims recover, but the Covid vaccines wipe out those antibodies, rendering their plasma useless. That means only people who have NOT received the blood-clotting, spike protein injections can donate convalescent plasma to save the new China flu victims. So now herd theory has completely flipped, where the vaccinated are hurting their own kind by becoming harmful donors, should their vaccinated cohorts need blood or organ transplants. In other words, the Covid-19 vaccines, as admitted by the Red Cross themselves, wipes out any natural antibodies that any persons body has created to fight Covid-19 or its variants, so those people cannot help others fighting and/or dying from the China flu. So if America were to reach the 100 percent vaccinated goal that the tyrannical government wants to reach SO badly, then there would be nobody left who could donate plasma, blood or organs to anyone ever again, including their own offspring or family members with the same blood type. Convalescent plasma is a therapy using antibodies from blood of people recovered from a disease to save other people from dying of the disease Western Medicine is so corrupt that theyre willing to corrupt the blood of everyone who accepts vaccination for Covid to the extent that they can never safely donate plasma, blood or organs. Autopsies of patients who were vaccinated for Covid reveal billions, and sometimes trillions, of spike proteins spread throughout the entire body, including capillaries, the brain, the heart and vital cleansing organs like the pancreas, lungs, liver and kidneys (the most popular organ donations). These organs and tissues are no longer fit to be donated to someone else, whos body is likely to reject them as foreign pathogens or will simply not be able to use them because theyre already failing due to spike protein invasion. The survivors plasma is useless and would be harmful and dangerous for surgeons to replace sick peoples organs with other sick peoples contaminated organs. The special proteins are now invaded, infected and damaged by toxic spike proteins. There will be no immunity built against Covid-19 from vaccines, as the vaccines wipe out your natural antibodies, as the Red Cross warns us. More than 60% of all Americans have no clue their plasma, blood and organs are UNSAFE to donate due to spike protein pollution Plasma makes up the largest part of your blood, carrying salts, water, enzymes, nutrients, hormones and proteins to parts of the body that require them to function. The plasma also acts as a janitor that removes cell waste products from the body. Covid survivors plasma contains special proteins generated by the immune system, but that all ends now, as Covid-19 vaccine-injected humans now have blood thats corrupted with billions of virus-mimicking spike proteins, completely unfit for donating plasma, blood or organs to anyone, anywhere. To donate convalescent plasma to people suffering from Covid or those so weak already from cancer, diabetes or heart disease, individuals must have a prior diagnosis of Covid-19 but not have received even a single Covid vaccine. Who knows this right now? A few truth bloggers? Natural health advocates take heed. You may be the only humans left on earth that can ever donate blood or organs again, to anyone, ever. Tune your truth news dial to Pandemic.news for updates on the war against dirty vaccines and socialism, and how to keep your family happy, healthy and safe. Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news NaturalNews.com TruthWiki.org NaturalNews.com (Natural News) Conservative talk show host Pete Santilli lauded the parents in Sacramento, California, for actively opposing the indoctrination of their children to communism. The move follows a Project Veritas report that exposed a local high school teacher who keeps an Antifa flag in his classroom and encourages students to protest. Parents showed up in droves Wednesday night, Sept. 1, at the intense Natomas Unified School Board meeting to demand justice for their children and call for the firing and even criminal prosecution of Inderkum High School teacher Gabriel Gipe. What happened last night is, first of all, truly representative of the sentiments that we Americans it could be Republicans and Democrats have. Nobody wants communism in our school system, Santilli said during the inaugural airing of The Pete Santilli Show Thursday, Sept. 2, on Brighteon.TV. In the Project Veritas video, Gipe said that he intends to radicalize students into supporting Marxist ideas by using the public school system as an avenue to incentivize them to participate in fringe extracurricular events. I have 180 days to turn them [students] into revolutionaries, Gipe said. I post a calendar every week. Ive had students show up for protests, community events, tabling, food distribution, all sorts of things. When they go, they take pictures, write up a reflection thats their extra credit. Aside from the Antifa flag, the video also caught Mao Zedong posters in Gipes classroom. Gipe allegedly also purchased rubber stamps depicting Josef Stalin, Fidel Castro and Kim Jung Un with insensitive phrases. The district said it found Gipe had used those stamps to mark student work on at least 13 different days. No end in sight in battle against communism Deb Jordan, Santillis co-host in the 30-minute program, thinks that the parents still have a lot of work to do. I dont think its over yet. Theyre indoctrinating children now at an earlier age, and then were sending them off to these universities where theyre going to be indoctrinated anyway, Jordan said. (Related: The White House wont admit Cubans oppose communism because the Biden regime LOVES Communism.) I think it comes back to the parents. The responsibility is going to be laid at the feet of the parents to either get their kids out of the school systems or make sure that their kids have the full armor of God and the United States Constitution before sending them off to universities. Natomas Unified School Superintendent Chris Evans sent a letter to the community Wednesday saying the district will be taking the proper steps to terminate the teacher. The district said it is taking the legally required next steps to place the teacher on unpaid leave and remove him from the staff. It said that the evidence gathered so far shows the teacher violated the districts political action guidelines. Santilli felt that wasnt enough. The school board has to be held accountable, the superintendent, the principal. They all need to get fired, he said. All signage and posters have reportedly been removed from the classroom, and the district said it believes the best course to rebuild the learning environment is a fresh start. There is no excuse for communism on American soil, said Natomas resident David Aria. The principal, the vice principal and the board has to go. Parents seek full investigation and changes in policy Dozens of angry parents are concerned with what their children are being taught. Not only does his termination need to be taken effective immediately but I believe a criminal investigation needs to happen, said one parent during public comment. This does not begin and end with him. He was enabled for years. Complaints were filed and nothing was done, said another parent, Richard Gilbert. Parents like Monique Hokman called for a full investigation into the teacher and district and changes in policy. They are also concerned with claims made by Gipe that he is not the only teacher that is teaching his viewpoints inside the classroom. (Related: Virginia education plan for third graders appears to celebrate communism, as hard-left indoctrination of our kids continues apace.) I have a problem with people teaching our kids things without our knowledge, said Hokman. The one teacher is not just the problem. We would like to see some steps that are going to protect all our children now and all the ones that are coming up in the future. The meeting was abruptly stopped in the middle of public comment. A lawyer representing the district said the meeting was stopped because of a lack of decorum and would be rescheduled for a later date. Board members left the meeting out of the back side of the building. Watch the full episode of The Pete Santilli Show below. The program is aired live every Thursday from 10-10:30 a.m. on Brighteon.TV. Follow MindControl.news for more news related to communism and political indoctrination. Sources include: Brighteon.com CaliforniaGlobe.com Sacramento.CBSLocal.com (Natural News) Groundwater near at least six military sites in the Great Lakes region contains high levels of toxic yet widely used forever chemicals. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reported that perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have contaminated water in the Great Lakes. PFAS are a risk to people who eat fish caught within the polluted waters. Forever chemicals traced to firefighting foam The EWG also warned that Pentagon documents show at least 385 military installations across America are polluted with PFAS. The toxic chemicals mostly come from firefighting foam often used in training exercises. Scott Faber, senior vice president of government affairs, warmed that citizens who use well water and are near one of these bases where PFAS has been confirmed in the groundwater should be concerned. He added that citizens should be alarmed if they are near one of the hundreds of bases where PFAS is suspected but have yet to be confirmed. Hundreds of bases contain water polluted with PFAS Data from a review of department records revealed that PFAS was detected at shocking levels of up to 213,000 parts per trillion at the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda, Michigan, which closed in 1993. State officials first detected the contamination in 2010. While the Air Force is already treating PFAS-contaminated groundwater at several sites in Michigan, local residents and members of Congress criticized the actions as insufficient and called for a more prompt and stricter approach. The EWG said that its study recorded high readings at five other Great Lakes bases: Combined levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), two of the most commonly used PFAS, reached as high as 1.3 million parts per trillion (ppt) at Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station in Niagara County, New York. 135,000 ppt of the compound perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) at General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee. 82,000 ppt of PFOA and PFOS at Alpena County Regional Airport (Michigan). 17,000 ppt of PFOS at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Mount Clemens, Michigan. 5,400 ppt of PFHxS was recorded at Duluth International Airport (Minnesota). A lot of civilian airports also have firefighting foam containing PFAS. Melanie Benesh, the groups legislative attorney, said that some of the foam is often released to the environment during emergency fire suppression and training. While federal regulations require airports to be equipped with foams meeting military specifications, Congress has mandated the Federal Aviation Administration to use foams that dont contain PFAS. The Biden administration is developing national standards for timely PFAS cleanups in drinking water and groundwater. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently has a non-enforceable health advisory level of 70 ppt for PFOS and PFOA for drinking water. Why are PFAS a cause for concern? PFAS compounds were first developed in the 1940s. These chemicals are used in many commercial and household products like non-stick cookware. PFAS are called forever chemicals because they dont break down once released in the environment. Once ingested, PFAs can also accumulate over time within the human body. If youre worried about PFAS, avoid common sources like: Drinking water, especially near a firefighter training facility or wastewater treatment plant. Food packaged in PFAS-containing materials, prepared using equipment that used PFAS, or grown in soil or water contaminated with PFAS. Commercial household products, such as cleaning products, nonstick products like Teflon, paints, polishes, stain- and water-repellent fabrics and waxes. Theres a chance that youve already been exposed to PFAS. Studies suggest that exposure to PFAS may have negative effects on your health. The most-studied PFAS chemicals are PFOA and PFOS and results suggest that both may have developmental, liver and kidney, reproductive and immunological effects in animal subjects. Research has also confirmed that both PFOA and PFOS have caused tumors in animals. Findings also showed increased cholesterol levels among exposed populations, with more limited findings linked to cancer (PFOA), thyroid hormone disruption (PFOS), low infant birth weights and impaired immune health. Read TapWater.news for more information about PFAS and other toxic chemicals in tap water. Sources include: StrangeSounds.org APNews.com EPA.gov In the past three years, a state-sanctioned pheasant protection program that pays South Dakota adolescents and adults $10 for every raccoon, skunk, or other predators they catch has resulted in the death of more than 134,000 animals, despite no scientific proof that the program is effective. The Nest Predator Bounty Program, which began in 2019 and is now in its third year, aims to improve pheasant and duck populations by paying trappers to kill creatures that devour the eggs and hatchlings of pheasants and ducks. The program runs for a few months during the spring pheasant nesting season and has been extended until 2022. There is little common ground to be found in evaluating the program's benefits or tactics, which have been regarded as both a wildlife-management success and a cruel, mindless killing of wild creatures. A "Practical Approach" Some state officials, like Gov. Kristi Noem, who initiated the program, and new Game, Fish & Parks Secretary Kevin Robling, view the reward program as a practical approach to minimize pheasant predation while encouraging young people to switch from video games to trapping as a pastime. The profitable but gradually diminishing pheasant shooting business in South Dakota produced over $300 million in direct spending in 2016, with non-resident hunters accounting for most of it. According to Noem, Robling, and a majority of members of the state Game, Fish & Parks Commission, the initiative should be continued, which sets policy for state wildlife management. Youth involvement in the bounty program has recently increased, according to Robling. "When it comes to promoting our trapping traditions and outdoor history, it's truly a success story," he added. Related Article: Despite Pressure, Wisconsin Allows Hunters to Kill Up to 300 Wolves During the Fall Hunt Lacking Data Although there is no data or solid proof that the bounty program has increased pheasant or duck numbers or increased successful nesting rates, Robling is sure that it does. Opponents of the program, including some influential members of the South Dakota wildlife management community, are skeptical that paying children and adults to kill five different kinds of animals is the best approach to increase pheasant and duck populations. Gary Jensen, a lawyer from Rapid City, just finished his term on the GFP Commission. He was the Commission's chair most recently, and he voted against the proposal to continue the reward program. Jensen stated, "There is no research that supports that." "The department has no proof that the bounty program is raising pheasant populations, and it has no methodology in place to evaluate if it is increasing pheasant numbers." Noem launched the reward program in 2019 as part of her Second Century Initiative, which aims to conserve and grow pheasant habitats and populations in the state. Overall Cost The program, supported by hunting, fishing, and trapping license fees, has cost the state roughly $2.4 million. Around $1.2 million, half of the expenditures were covered by bounties awarded to program participants (payouts were $10 per animal in 2019 and 2021 and $5 per animal in 2020). In the first year, $960,000 was spent on a scheme to give away 16,500 free traps to approximately 5,000 persons who requested them. Personnel costs totaled about $217,000 over the first two years. Half of the expenditures, roughly $1.2 million, were paid to program participants in bounties (payments were $10 per animal in 2019 and 2021; they were $5 per animal in 2020). Another $960,000 was spent on a program that gave away 16,500 free traps to roughly 5,000 persons who requested them in the first year. Over the first two years, personnel costs amounted to over $217,000 altogether. Hunting "Predators" Raccoons are the most commonly hunted animals, but skunks, opossums, red foxes, and badgers are common targets. The animals' carcasses, which are unfit for consumption, are dumped, but some may have their pelts removed beforehand. The state encourages participants to bury the bodies, but it is not required, according to Robling. Fifty-four thousand four hundred seventy-one animals were killed in 2019, the first year of the bounty scheme; 26,390 animals were murdered in 2020, and 53,728 animals were killed in 2021. Raccoons account for over 80% of the 134,600 animals killed so far under the program. The East River region of South Dakota, where pheasants are most abundant, accounted for over 91 percent of the bounties given. Minnehaha County program participants have consistently been the top bounty recipients. Opposition Over time, public resistance to the program has risen. According to a poll conducted by the state early in the program, after questioners explained its purpose, 78 percent of approximately 400 random respondents strongly or moderately approved of it. However, 62% of those polled indicated they had no prior knowledge of the initiative before contact. Also Read: Poachers Arrested for Slaughtering Pregnant Moose, Cutting 3 Babies Outside the Womb For the most recent updates from the animal kingdom, don't forget to follow Nature World News! New Castle, PA (16103) Today Thunderstorms likely in the morning. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 73F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Cloudy early, becoming mostly clear after midnight. Low near 55F. Winds light and variable. YMCA to host events at Norwich community hub YMCA to host events at Norwich community hub YMCA Norfolk have announced plans to host a number of events at their brand-new Aylsham Road community hub, which consists of Williams Kitchen, Explorers Soft Play, Muddy Puddles Nursery and staff HQ. Newburyport, MA (01950) Today Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. High 84F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms in the evening, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low near 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%. Help support your local hometown newspaper/website. Independent local news reporting matters. Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription, for as little as $3, so we can continue to provide independent local reporting on our communities. The Caldor Fire, which has threatened the popular tourist spot of Lake Tahoe, came under better control this weekend, and some evacuation orders have been downgraded. The growth of the fire burning along the California and Nevada border has slowed significantly. In the 24-hour period between Friday night and Saturday night, the fire grew by only 842 acres, according to CNN's analysis of information from Cal Fire. That's a far cry from its explosive start, when the blaze grew to nearly 100,000 acres in its first week. Firefighter efforts are now focused on the mop-up operation and continuing to strengthen and maintain the containment lines, Cal Fire said, rather than the forceful suppression efforts of the early days of the fire. As the situation evolves, some of the evacuation orders have been downgraded for the 214,112-acre wildfire, which is now 43% contained, according to Cal Fire. The containment increased by 11 percentage points from a day earlier. The fire is expected to be fully contained by September 27, the agency said Sunday. On Saturday, officials in Douglas County, Nevada, downgraded their mandatory evacuations to precautionary evacuation warnings and lifted the evacuation warnings that had been in place, according to an announcement posted on the county's website. The move opens the door for some residents to begin returning to their homes. In parts of El Dorado County, California, the evacuation orders were downgraded, and the evacuation warnings were also lifted, according to a news release from Cal Fire. In the city of South Lake Tahoe, California, the mandatory evacuation orders did not change. They remain in effect with all the roads closed, the city said on Facebook. The Caldor Fire is only one of a number of massive fires that have broken out across the American West this summer due to a severe drought in the region. "Above normal significant fire potential is forecast to continue through September for much of the Northwest, Northern Rockies, and northern portions of the Great Basin and Rocky Mountain Geographic Areas," the National Interagency Fire Center wrote in an outlook report last month. As of Saturday, more than 14,690 personnel are on the frontlines of 13 active large wildfires, Ca lFire said. Meanwhile, a firefighter assigned to fight the massive Dixie Fire has died due to an illness, the agency said. The Dixie Fire has been burning in northern California for more than a month and a half. As of Sunday morning, the fire is about 894,000 acres and is 56% contained. The agency previously reported injuries to three first responders fighting the blaze but has not reported any civilian casualties or injuries. There are 3,820 personnel assigned to that incident, which is burning in five counties and has grown to become the second largest wildfire in California history. The-CNN-Wire & 2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. A new COVID-19 testing site has been opened at Pikeville Medical Center in order for the hospital to continue in the fight against the virus. 'You take one of the most important days of someones life and anybody who has planned a wedding knows how stressful that can be, and then tell them that basically, you cant get married.' One of Editor & Publishers 10 That Do It Right 2021 Reporter Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk). Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death. Submit Then-U.S. Magistrate Judge David G. Bernthal presides over a naturalization ceremony on Nov. 4, 2011, at Lincoln Square Mall in Urbana. Natives of 36 different countries officially obtained their U.S. citizenship at the ceremony. Brett Kepley is a lawyer with Land of Lincoln Legal Aid Inc. Send questions to The Law Q&A, 302 N. First St., Champaign, IL 61820. Ray Elliott is an author and former high school teacher who lives in rural Urbana. He can be reached at rayelliott23@att.net. Which concept should the city use for an entryway monument in South Longview? You voted: The four Chief Medical Officers will provide further advice on the COVID-19 vaccination of young people aged 12 to 15 with COVID-19 vaccines following the advice of the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). The independent medicines regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has approved the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for people aged 12 and over after they met strict standards of safety and effectiveness. The JCVI has advised that the health benefits from vaccination are marginally greater than the potential known harms. It has advised the government to seek further input from the Chief Medical Officers on the wider impacts. This includes the impact on schools and young people's education, which has been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. UK health ministers from across the four nations have today written to the Chief Medical Officers to request they begin the process of assessing the broader impact of universal COVID-19 vaccination in this age group. They will now convene experts and senior leaders in clinical and public health to consider the issue. They will then present their advice to ministers on whether a universal programme should be taken forward. People aged 12 to 15 who are clinically vulnerable to COVID-19 or who live with adults who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus are already eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine and are being contacted by the NHS, to be invited to come forward. The JCVI has advised that this offer should be expanded to include more children aged 12 to 15, for example those with sickle cell disease or type 1 diabetes. Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: Our COVID-19 vaccines have brought a wide range of benefits to the country, from saving lives and preventing hospitalizations, to helping stop infections and allowing children to return to school. I am grateful for the expert advice that I have received from the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. People aged 12 to 15 who are clinically vulnerable to the virus have already been offered a COVID-19 vaccine, and today we'll be expanding the offer to those with conditions such as sickle cell disease or type 1 diabetes to protect even more vulnerable children. Along with Health Ministers across the four nations, I have today written to the Chief Medical Officers to ask that they consider the vaccination of 12 to 15 year olds from a broader perspective, as suggested by the JCVI. We will then consider the advice from the Chief Medical Officers, building on the advice from the JCVI, before making a decision shortly." Scottish Health Minister Humza Yousaf said: I want to thank the JCVI for today's advice regarding vaccination for 12 -15 year olds. While the JCVI has agreed that the benefits marginally outweigh the risks they are not yet prepared to recommend universal vaccination of 12-15 year olds, however, they have suggested that Health Ministers may wish to ask their respective CMOs to explore the issue further, taking into consideration broader educational and societal impacts. Therefore, I have agreed with the other three UK Health Ministers to write a letter asking the four Chief Medical Officers to consider this latest guidance and explore whether there is additional evidence to suggest it would be beneficial to offer vaccination to all 12 - 15 year olds. We have asked for this further work to be conducted as soon as possible. A further update will be issued once these discussions have taken place. In the meantime, we will offer the vaccine to those children and young people currently recommended. The recent increase in cases of COVID-19 means it remains crucial that everyone who is offered a vaccination takes up the offer." Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann: I welcome the extension of the vaccination programme to include a wider group of children aged 12-15 years of age with underlying medical conditions. The importance of vaccination is evident and I would urge those who are eligible to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help protect themselves and those around them. I am also grateful for the JCVI advice on 12-15 year olds and agree that this issue warrants further consideration. It is entirely appropriate that our most senior medical advisers take forward this piece of work urgently. I look forward to seeing their considerations in the near future." Welsh Government Health Minister Eluned Morgan said: I would like to thank the JCVI for fully considering the issue of vaccinating 12-15 year olds and for taking the care to form a balanced view. Our intention as it has been from the start of the pandemic is to follow the science and evidence, and I have asked my Chief Medical Officer to provide guidance at the earliest opportunity on the clinical and wider health benefits of vaccinating this age group." The Health and Social Care Secretary, Sajid Javid, has asked the NHS to put preparations in place to roll out vaccinations to 12 to 15 year olds, should it be recommended by the Chief Medical Officers. If this group is offered the vaccine, parental or carer consent will be sought, just as with other school immunization programmes. The vaccination programme has so far provided protection to over 48 million people over the age of 16 across the UK - including over 48 million first doses and over 43 million second doses. The latest data from Public Health England and Cambridge University shows vaccines have saved more than 105,000 lives and prevented 143,600 hospitalizations and 24 million cases in England. As resources for people experiencing domestic violence in Chicago's South Side dwindled during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic stay-at-home order, so did reporting of violence within the home, according to new research published in JAMA Network Open. While it's likely that cases of intimate partner violence, along with other types of violence in the home, did not actually decrease, researchers found that Black communities reported fewer cases of violence to police. In contrast, there was no significant change in reporting among White majority neighborhoods on Chicago's North Side. Recently, nationwide awareness of police brutality against communities of color increased. We hypothesize that an increased reticence of Black communities to call the police, combined with a stark reduction of resources to get help, led to this underreporting of domestic violence." Louisa Baidoo, study first author and third-year University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine student According to the researchers, domestic violence tends to increase during times of stress. Scholars theorize it may be linked to negative coping mechanisms. This seems especially likely given the context of the pandemic, when more people are experiencing prolonged contact with abusers alongside financial stressors. This is occurring as emergency and community resources have been overwhelmed. "When we started this, we expected to see reporting of domestic violence increase," said study senior author and UChicago Medicine Assistant Professor of Medicine Elizabeth Tung, MD, MS. "Instead, we saw this paradoxical drop in reporting in Black communities. Unfortunately, we realized it made a lot of sense given the current reality of policing and mistrust in communities of color." According to Tung, underreporting of domestic violence already existed before the pandemic. Lack of legal support, fear of escalation, and stigma all contribute to the underreporting of cases. That makes domestic violence particularly difficult to track. But the team did not expect to see the racial disparity in underreporting widen to the extent that it did, with a 10-fold drop in police reporting for Black communities relative to White communities. The team looked at six months of police data before and following Chicago's March 2020 stay-at-home order. Domestic violence, which has been a public health concern during the pandemic and beyond, includes any physical, sexual, psychological or other violent behavior perpetrated by a family member, partner or other household resident. Support and resources from the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence can be obtained anytime from 800-799-SAFE or thehotline.org. Only a quarter of countries worldwide have a national policy, strategy or plan for supporting people with dementia and their families, according to the WHO's 'Global status report on the public health response to dementia', released today. Half of these countries are in WHO's European Region, with the remainder split between the other Regions. Yet even in Europe, many plans are expiring or have already expired, indicating a need for renewed commitment from governments. At the same time, the number of people living with dementia is growing according to the report: WHO estimates that more than 55 million people (8.1 % of women and 5.4% of men over 65 years) are living with dementia. This number is estimated to rise to 78 million by 2030 and to 139 million by 2050. Dementia is caused by a variety of diseases and injuries that affect the brain, such as Alzheimer's disease or stroke. It affects memory and other cognitive functions, as well as the ability to perform everyday tasks. The disability associated with dementia is a key driver of costs related to the condition. In 2019, the global cost of dementia was estimated to be US$ 1.3 trillion. The cost is projected to increase to US$ 1.7 trillion by 2030, or US$ 2.8 trillion if corrected for increases in care costs. Dementia robs millions of people of their memories, independence and dignity, but it also robs the rest of us of the people we know and love. The world is failing people with dementia, and that hurts all of us. Four years ago, governments agreed a clear set of targets to improve dementia care. But targets alone are not enough. We need concerted action to ensure that all people with dementia are able to live with the support and dignity they deserve." Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization More support needed, particularly in low- and middle-income countries The report highlights the urgent need to strengthen support at national level, both in terms of care for people with dementia, and in support for the people who provide that care, in both formal and informal settings. Care required for people with dementia includes primary health care, specialist care, community-based services, rehabilitation, long-term care, and palliative care. While most countries (89%) reporting to WHO's Global Dementia Observatory say they provide some community-based services for dementia, provision is higher in high-income countries than in low- and middle-income countries. Medication for dementia, hygiene products, assistive technologies and household adjustments are also more accessible in high-income countries, with a greater level of reimbursement, than in lower-income countries. The type and level of services provided by the health and social care sectors also determines the level of informal care, which is primarily provided by family members. Informal care accounts for about half the global cost of dementia, while social care costs make up over a third. In low- and middle-income countries, most dementia care costs are attributable to informal care (65%). In richer countries informal and social care costs each amount to approximately 40%. In 2019, carers spent on average five hours a day providing support for daily living to the person they were caring for with dementia; 70% of that care was provided by women. Given the financial, social and psychological stress faced by carers, access to information, training and services, as well as social and financial support, is particularly important. Currently, 75% of countries report that they offer some level of support for carers, although again, these are primarily high-income countries. New initiative to better coordinate dementia research A series of unsuccessful clinical trials for treatments for dementia, combined with the high costs of research and development, led to declining interest in new efforts. There has, however, been a recent increase in dementia research funding, mainly in high-income countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. The latter increased its annual investment in Alzheimer's disease research from US$ 631 million in 2015 to an estimated US$ 2.8 billion in 2020. "To have a better chance of success, dementia research efforts need to have a clear direction and be better coordinated," said Dr Tarun Dua, Head of the Brain Health Unit at WHO. "This is why WHO is developing the Dementia Research Blueprint, a global coordination mechanism to provide structure to research efforts and stimulate new initiatives." An important focus of future research efforts should be the inclusion of people with dementia and their carers and families. Currently two-thirds of countries reporting to the Global Dementia Observatory involve people with dementia "rarely" or not at all. Good progress in awareness-raising campaigns More positively, countries in all regions have made good progress in implementing public awareness campaigns to improve public understanding of dementia, with strong leadership by civil society. Two-thirds of countries reporting to the Observatory have run awareness-raising campaigns. And two-thirds have taken action to improve the accessibility of physical and social environments for people with dementia and to provide training and education to population groups outside the health and social care sector, such as volunteers, police, fire services and first responders. Licensing productive transcription through RNA polymerase II stability Play Video Credit: Northwestern University Northwestern Medicine scientists have identified a critical checkpoint in transcription elongation, the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template, according to findings published in Molecular Cell. According to the study, the presence of a protein called SPT5 serves as a "passport," determining whether a polymerase complex is allowed to proceed down the length of DNA or is instead degraded and destroyed. Ali Shilatifard, PhD, the Robert Francis Furchgott Professor and chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, was senior author of the study published in Molecular Cell. "Only RNA Polymerase IIs with SPT5 are allowed to leave the station," said Ali Shilatifard, PhD, the Robert Francis Furchgott Professor, chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics and senior author of the study. Many molecular biology experiments operate by deleting a gene, or the protein that gene codes for, and observing the impact, which suggests the function of that gene. However, these methods often produce other mutations or require waiting as long as 72 hours before observation, allowing for other transcription processes to occur. "By that point, you are reporting on the quaternary effect of the knockdown," said Shilatifard, who is also a professor of Pediatrics, director of the Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics and a member of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. The new experimental method, called auxin-inducible degradation, allows immediate observation of the effects of protein depletion. In the study, investigators used this method to interrogate the role of the protein SPT5 in transcription elongation. During transcription elongation, the RNA polymerase II complex "walks" along one strand of DNA, copying genetic elements to a strand of RNA. Shilatifard's laboratory has previously discovered pauses in this process linked to regulatory checkpoints. Now, using this new method of gene deletion, they've discovered a crucial checkpoint before elongation even starts. In cells with SPT5 depleted, polymerase never begin its journey down the strand of DNA. Instead, it is recognized as faulty and degraded. How exactly it is recognized remains unknown, but it's clear that SPT5 serves as a badge of approval, according to Yuki Aoi, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow in the Shilatifard laboratory and lead author of the study. Yuki Aoi, PhD, a postdoctoral fellow in the Shilatifard laboratory and lead author of the study published in Molecular Cell. If there are issues here, and the polymerase is allowed to go, there could be more issues down the line. It's only allowing polymerases that are certified to leave because they have SPT5." Yuki Aoi, PhD, Study's Lead Author The investigators also discovered that a protein called CUL3 is part of the pathway that destroys polymerases lacking SPT5. The gene that codes for this protein and its associated genes are mutated in many cancers possibly allowing malformed polymerases to begin their transcription journey, resulting in aberrant cells that could contribute to cancer. This is a pathway of great interest, according to Aoi. "We need to examine this link to cancer," Aoi said. Ghana's long-term prosperity is central to the UK-Ghana partnership and security and stability is essential to the country's growth. Together, the UK and Ghana are partnering to tackle shared threats through a new Ministerial security dialogue, law enforcement partnerships and peer-to-peer training. To strengthen the UK-Ghana security partnership, Minister Duddridge will use his visit to announce a further 250,000 to fund 4 vital security and stability projects that will bolster Ghana's capability to combat threats. This funding is in addition to the existing 1 million of UK funding to support the country's counter-terrorism capability. Arriving in Ghana, UK Minister for Africa James Duddridge MP, said: Ghana's stability is essential for growth and prosperity in both Ghana and across West Africa. Through our flagship Conflict, Stability and Security Fund we are launching 4 new projects in Ghana worth 250,000, to support the ongoing safety and stability on the northern border. The UK is clear that it is in our shared interest to support a strong, and peaceful Ghana, both now and in the years ahead, and our new package of support will empower communities, the country's security agencies and civil society organizations to continue to uphold stability along the border, across the country and within the region." These new 4 security and stability projects will: grow the capacity of Ghana's national crisis response model provide specialists to help deliver Ghana's nationwide security exercise fund the important work of on-the-ground civil society organizations through STAR Ghana Foundation, working directly with communities across the country that are most vulnerable to insecurity During his visit, Minister Duddridge will meet with key partners and stakeholders including honorable Ministers, leaders in Ghana's art and tourism sectors, as well as representatives from business and industry. The Minister will also visit Accra's iconic Christiansburg castle, tour Gallery 1957 and meet British-Ghanaian diaspora driving business and innovation in Ghana. Minister Duddridge last visited Ghana in January 2021, where he attended His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo's Presidential Inauguration, met virtually with His Excellency Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia during the recent UK-Ghana Business Council held in June this year and finally met His Excellency President Akufo-Addo with other senior officials and honourable Ministers during the recent Global Education Summit held in London in July. Further information The Security Bureau today issued a solemn warning to an organisation which has stated openly its intention to refuse to comply with a police request to provide information under the National Security Law. The bureau said endangering national security is a serious and damaging crime, adding that action must be taken to prevent and suppress the act. To effectively prevent and suppress offences endangering national security, law enforcement officers need to obtain relevant information about certain foreign or Taiwan political organisations and agents. It reiterated that actions taken by law enforcement agencies are based on evidence, strictly according to the law, for the acts of the people or entities concerned. The bureau said it supports Police in taking law enforcement actions in accordance with the law. To avoid bearing the legal risk, the organisation concerned should immediately turn back before it is too late. Polices National Security Department issued notices in writing to various organisations on August 25 requesting information, pursuant to Schedule 5 of the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the National Security Law. The force reiterated that failing to provide information in time will be liable to a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for half a year. If any information provided is false, incorrect, or incomplete, the person is liable to a fine of $100,000 and two years' imprisonment. (Newser) In one sense, it's a crime story with a familiar ring: DNA evidence results in charges in a decades-old killing. In this case, 72-year-old Dennis Bowman of Holland, Michigan, will go on trial in January in the death of a 14-year-old girl who disappeared in 1989. But the story by Nile Cappello in Atavist magazine takes one twist after another. For one thing, the girl who was killed was Aundria Bowman, who was adopted as an infant by Bowman and his wife. For another, one of the amateur sleuths who took up the case to figure out what happened was Aundria's biological mother, Cathy Terkanian. In 2010the first time she learned of her daughter's disappearanceshe teamed up with Carl Koppelman, another amateur sleuth who had stumbled upon Aundria's case. story continues below It didn't take long for the pair to zero in on Dennis Bowman as a suspect. Before Aundria disappeared, he already had a criminal record of sexual assault against young women. They also discovered that Aundria had told friends and even school officials that Dennis Bowman had been sexually assaulting her. Police were interested but said they never had enough evidence. The break in the case came, incredibly, when he was arrested and charged with the rape and murder of yet another woman, one who was killed nine years before Aundria disappeared. As it turns out, police had his DNA evidence on file because he had come into the station to complain that Terkanian was harassing him, and a detective kept his water bottle. In custody, he confessed to killing Aundria and burying her body under a concrete slab in their yard, though he maintains the death was accidental. Prosecutors don't believe that. (Read the full story.) (Newser) Alice Robb thought she was digging into the story of a ballet company that debuted in 2017 and rapidly crashed and burned. "I had no idea that I would be spending the next three years piecing it together, or that it was a story only in the earliest stage of unfolding," she writes for Vanity Fair. Robb's lengthy piece begins with a ballet focus: The newly formed American National Ballet, founded by Doug and Ashley Benefield, promised to do what other companies didn'twelcome talented, racially diverse dancers who were "physically unconventional" for their field (one female was 5-foot-10, another was "more muscular" than typical). The dancers descended on Charleston, South Carolina, that fall; within two months, the company had collapsed, the promised $2.5 million in funding never having materialized. story continues below But from there, Robb digs into the whirlwind romance, marriage, and extreme unraveling of the Benefields. The two met in 2016 at the home of former presidential candidate Ben Carson. Ashley was a 24-year-old former dancer who loved guns and was part of Donald Trump's campaign entourage; Doug was a 54-year-old widow with a 15-year-old. The two married 13 days later. The tale that follows is soap opera-like: tension over Doug's closeness with his daughter; gushy love that gave way to the stress of starting the ballet company; a gun allegedly thrown against a wall in anger; another allegedly fired into the ceiling; separation; allegations of poisoning; a baby; a tracking device and private investigator; a fraught reconciliation; and ultimately, a fatal shooting. (Read the wild tale in full here.) (Newser) Cellphones across New York and New Jersey pulsed with urgent warnings of catastrophic flooding as the fury of Hurricane Ida's remnants, carrying torrential rains, approached upper New Jersey and New York City on Wednesday. The first alerts of severe weather blared across millions of phones at 8:41 that night, the AP reports, from the National Weather Service. Officials would issue three more alerts, late into the night, urging people to immediately head for higher ground and to stay out of rising floodwaters. A barrage of alerts from other apps lit up phone screens throughout the nightprompting some to wonder if people were just too inundated with information to take the threat seriously. story continues below Experts call it "warning fatigue," and no one can be sure what role it might have played in a disaster that killed scores of people across the Northeastmany drowning in basement apartments or cars. The weather service acknowledged that alerts at times have been pushed out too often. There's been handwringing over how to get more people to heed them. "It's either they don't believe the information that theyre hearingthey can't verify itor there's some other reason that is completely out of anybodys control," said Ross Dickman, the meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service in New York. "It's up to that individual," he said, "but I think we need to do more work in understanding why people make the decisions that they do when they receive information." Last year, the weather service revamped its criteria, mindful that it might have been overusing the Wireless Emergency Alert system, which broadcasts urgent warnings to more than 300 million devices. The weather service established a three-tier system in which alerts would only be sent out for the most severe flooding. Wednesday was the first time it issued an alert for the most catastrophic level for flash floods in New York and New Jersey, Dickman said. Cellphones are a key tool for informing the public of dangerous weather, including hurricanes and tornadoes. The system also issues Amber Alerts about missing children, and alerts about dangerous people being sought, including a terrorist who set off a bomb four years ago in New York City's Chelsea district. New York City's wireless alert system has a million subscribers. If they get warnings about flooding, said Irwin Redlener of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University, "What is it that we actually want people to do? ... Do we want them to go to shelters? If so, do we have shelters for them to go?" A plan should go out with the warnings, he said. Two weeks ago, urgent warnings preceded Tropical Storm Henri, which caused little loss of life, Jeannette Sutton, a disaster expert, pointed out. So when the next warnings go out to New Yorkers, she asked, "Do they take it seriously?" Not James Mielke, a Manhattan video game designer. He "figured out how to turn off those alerts so I could just, you know, not have a heart attack every time the big siren went off on my phone." (Read more flooding stories.) (Newser) While the full impact of the SCOTUS ruling that protects a Texas law banning most abortions remains unclear, one large US city wants to cut ties with the state. Per Oregon Public Broadcasting, the City of Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler said Friday that Portland City Council will vote this week on whether to ban all city business and travel in Texas. "This law does not demonstrate concern for the health, safety, and well-being of those who may become pregnant. This law does not recognize or show respect for the human rights of those who may become pregnant. This law rewards private individuals for exercising surveillance and control over others bodies," the mayor's office said in a statement. story continues below The statement urged other cities and officials around the country to join them in condemning Texas for its abortion law, now the most restrictive in the country . Portland said, should their emergency resolution pass, it will remain in effect until the state of Texas withdraws its "unconstitutional ban on abortion" or until it is overturned in court. "We stand with Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Elena Kagan, Justice Stephen Breyer, and Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who fought to block this attack on the reproductive rights, freedom, and autonomy of people across the country," the statement read. A deeply divided US Supreme Court left the law in place in a 5-4 vote last week. However, the justices also suggested that their order likely isn't the last word on whether the law can stand because other challenges to it can still be brought. The Texas law, signed by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in May, prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity, usually around six weeks and before many women know theyre pregnant. (Read more texas abortion law stories.) (Newser) The murder of a prominent South Carolina attorney's wife and son has gone nearly twelve weeks without any arrests but there's new startling twist: the attorney himself was shot in the head Saturday after experiencing car trouble on the side of the road. Per the New York Times, Alex Murdaugh's lawyer, Jim Griffin, said Murdaugh was changing a tire when someone in a truck drove past him, turned around, then shot him in the head. Murdaugh was able to recall his story from a hospital bed in Charleston, but his wife and son weren't as lucky when he found them fatally shot near the dog kennels on their family property in June, per NBC News. Maggie Murdaugh, 52, and her 22-year-old son Paul were both shot several times. No arrests have been made, and state police have released little information, even going to court to fight public records requests. story continues below Alex Murdaugh said on a 911 call he had just returned home and in a later TV interview said he was out checking on his terminally ill father when his wife and son were killed, per the AP . The Murdaughs are one of South Carolinas most prominent legal families. Alex Murdaugh was a volunteer prosecutor in the same office where his father, grandfather and great-grandfather spent more than 80 years combined as the area's top prosecutors. Other members of the family are prominent civil attorneys. Part of the intrigue in the case come s from the fact that Paul Murdaugh was awaiting trial for boating under the influence causing death in a February 2019 crash that killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach. All six passengers, ages 18 to 20, were thrown from the 17-foot boat as it struck a column of a bridge while traveling along a creek in the early hours of Feb. 24, 2019. Beach's body was found a week later. A police report described the five survivors, including Paul, as "grossly intoxicated." Police named Paul as a possible driver of the boat, which is owned by Alex Murdaugh. Alex and his father, Randolph, reportedly showed up at the hospital that night and blocked the young people from cooperating. No one took sobriety tests, but Paul was later charged with three felony counts, including boating under the influence resulting in death, regardless. Paul pleaded not guilty and was out on a $50,000 personal recognizance bond when he was killed. He received death threats following the incident, family said. But in the wake of his death, state police have started looking into the investigation into another fatal crash, this one an apparent hit-and-run that killed 19-year-old Stephen Smith in 2015 and remains unsolved. Investigators initially said Smith may have been shot before deciding he'd been killed in a hit-and-runa story Smith's mother didn't buy. In 2015, she said she believed several youths from prominent families had killed her son for being gay. "Rumors hinting at a cover-up and the possible involvement of one or more members of the Murdaugh family" had spread soon after Smith's death and again after Mallory Beach's death in the 2019 boating accident, per the Augusta Chronicle. Authorities haven't released information about why the case was reopened. As for the shooting of Alex Murdaugh, police have thus far remained mum on that, too. In a statement to the Island Packet Saturday, the family said: The Murdaugh family has suffered through more than any one family can ever imagine. We expect Alex to recover and ask for your privacy while he recovers. (Read more unsolved mystery stories.) (Newser) Amid the dramatic devastation caused by Hurricane Ida, there was at least one bright light Sunday near New Orleans: Parishioners found that electricity had been restored to their church, a small improvement as residents of Louisiana struggle to recover. In Jefferson Parish, the Rev. G. Amaldoss expected to celebrate Mass at St. Joachim Catholic Church in the parking lot, which was dotted with downed limbs. But when he swung open the doors of the church early Sunday, the sanctuary was bathed in light. That made an indoor service possible, the AP reports. "Divine intervention," Amaldoss said. story continues below As Mass began, Amaldoss walked down the aisle of the church, with just eight people spread among the pews. Instead, the seats brimmed with boxes of donated toothpaste, shampoo, and canned vegetables. "For all the people whose lives are saved and all the people whose lives are lost, we pray for them," he said. "Remember the brothers and sisters driven by the wind and the water." Some parishioners suffered total losses of their homes, or devastating damage. Others' were barely touched. Gina Caulfield, a 64-year-old retired teacher, has been hopping from relative to relative after her cousins trailer, where shed been living, was left uninhabitable. "It's a comfort to know we have people praying for us," she said. More than 630,000 homes and businesses remained without power Sunday across southeast Louisiana, according to the state Public Service Commission. At the peak, 902,000 customers had lost power. Louisiana's 12 storm-related deaths included five nursing home residents evacuated ahead of the hurricane along with hundreds of other seniors to a warehouse in Louisiana, where officials said conditions became unsafe. The state health officer ordered the immediate closure of the seven nursing facilities that sent residents to the Tangipahoa Parish warehouse facility. "The lack of regard for these vulnerable residents' wellbeing is an affront to human dignity," said Dr. Joseph Kanter. "We have lost trust in these nursing homes to provide adequate care for their residents." (Read more Hurricane Ida stories.) Shamokin, PA (17872) Today Partly cloudy early with thunderstorms becoming likely during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 82F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Thunderstorms during the evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Shamokin, PA (17872) Today Partly cloudy early with thunderstorms becoming likely during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 83F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Let us know what you're seeing and hearing around the community. Submit here Louisiana National Guard members in high-water vehicles and boats work with St. John the Baptist Parish officials to rescue people stranded in their homes in the wake of Hurricane Ida. (Louisiana National Guard) This glowing history nugget has been proudly brought to you by the Fairbanks Igloos of the Pioneers of Alaska, who wish to remind you that additional History Nuggets are posted on our website at pioneersofalaskafairbanks.org. Since the late 1970s, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute has provided this column free in cooperation with the UAF research community. This year is the institutes 75th anniversary. Ned Rozell ned.rozell@alaska.edu is a science writer for the Geophysical Institute. David James is a freelance writer who lives in Fairbanks. Creating Alaska is an ongoing series documenting the lives of artists and creators in Fairbanks. Feedback and suggestions for future interviews can be emailed to nobugsinak@gmail.com. Angela Linn is senior collections manager, ethnology and history at the University of Alaska Museum of the North. For more information about the museums collections, programs and events, visit www.uaf.edu/museum or call 474-7505. Sources: Holy Transfiguration of Our Lord (Orthodox) Chapel, National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. Very Reverend Archpriest Joseph P. Kreta. National Park Service. 1977 Released to Reside Forever in the Colonies: Founding of a Russian-American Company Retirement Settlement at Ninilchik, Alaska. Katherine L. Arndt. In Adventures through Time: Readings in the Anthropology of Cook Inlet. The Cook Inlet Historical Society. 1996 The Russian Population of Alaska and California: Late 18th Century 1867. Svetlana G. Fedorova. The Limestone Press. 1973 Ray Bonnell is a freelance artist, writer and longtime Fairbanks resident. See more of his artwork at www.pingostudio.us. The Daily News-Miner encourages residents to make themselves heard through the Opinion pages. Readers' letters and columns also appear online at newsminer.com. Contact the editor with questions at letters@newsminer.com or call 459-7574. Community Perspective Send Community Perspective submissions by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Submissions must be 500 to 750 words. Columns are welcome on a wide range of issues and should be well-written and well-researched with attribution of sources. Include a full name, email address, daytime telephone number and headshot photograph suitable for publication (email jpg or tiff files at 150 dpi.) You may also schedule a photo to be taken at the News-Miner office. The News-Miner reserves the right to edit submissions or to reject those of poor quality or taste without consulting the writer. Letters to the editor Send letters to the editor by mail (P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks AK 99707), by fax (907-452-7917) or via email (letters@newsminer.com). Writers are limited to one letter every two weeks (14 days.) All letters must contain no more than 350 words and include a full name (no abbreviation), daytime and evening phone numbers and physical address. (If no phone, then provide a mailing address or email address.) The Daily News-Miner reserves the right to edit or reject letters without consulting the writer. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Anxious parents, students, teachers and schools are on their last-minute back to school prep after a long hiatus brought forth by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. But as desperate parents rush through checklists for the new school terms, equally busy behind the scene are yet another group of people. They were working tirelessly, day and night, for the past several weeks to make the way clear for the kids. The Ministry of Works, the General Directorate of Traffic, The Interior Ministry and countless other officials and workers were busy drawing up and implementing plans to handle the upcoming back to school rush. Schools in Bahrain are reopening on Tuesday for the new 2021-2022 academic year, after closing doors on the 26th of February last year. There will be a significant difference in the traffic situation compared to the previous period, as the students, staff and workers in the government and private agencies make their way back, said the Ministry of Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning. Easing congestion and providing a safe environment for students and road users, the ministry said, called for implementing several improvements projects in the road sector, especially on those in the vicinity of schools. Priority was for the construction of sidewalks and medians, the ministry said. Accordingly, the ministry conducted upgrading works on Abdul Rahman Al-Fadil Street near Abdul Rahman Al Nasser School in Muharraq, on the corridor leading to the entrance to Rabaa Al-Adawiya School in Al-Qudaibiya, and roads adjacent to Sitra School (Markouban). Besides, the ministry created car parks for The Childrens Academy School in Haninia, Riffa and the Bahraini Saudi Institute for the Blind in Isa Town, paved the entrance to the new Indian school in Riffa, and constructed a road leading to the American school in Wadi al-Buhair. The authority also constructed speed-reducing heights and repainted pedestrian crossings, traffic signs, sidewalks near schools across the Kingdom, in addition to maintaining traffic lights. Coordination has also been made with the General Traffic Department at the Ministry of Interior to place traffic light technicians at peak times during the first week of school reopening. The ministry is also urging road users on the importance of using alternate routes to reduce congestions, especially during peak times near schools and government offices. The ministry said it is expecting heavy traffic flow near the education area in Isa Town. Isa Town area houses several facilities, which includes ten schools, buildings of the University of Bahrain, Bahrain Polytechnic University, Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Information, The information and eGovernment Authority, the headquarters of the Central Governorate and several other institutions. To avoid congestion, it is necessary to use the new paths for the educational district from Sheikh Salman Street to Street 41 and from Istiklal Street to Road 4013 near the gate of the Ministry of Education. The ministry also advises using the outlet from Sheikh Salman Street to Road 4109 near Sheikh Abdullah Secondary School for Boys, the outlet from 16 December Street to Street 41 near Ibn Khaldoun National School, outlet from the intersection of 16 December Street with Road 4109 at the intersection of the General Directorate of Traffic. The ministry is also expecting higher traffic density in several other locations, where upgrading and infrastructure works are ongoing, including that on Al Fateh Street. It is part of the Manama Ring Road, which aims at easing traffic between Sheikh Isa Salman Street, Umm Al-Hassam, Mina Salman, and Al-Fateh Street. Works Ministry said it seeks to provide the best solution to traffic issues daily with the General Traffic Department, either through road projects or urgent and smart solutions. The ministry also seeks to introduce an intelligent transportation system that uses electronic screens to guide and provide drivers with traffic instructions. Bahrain extends helping hand to the people of Afghanistan TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Bahrain yesterday sent a plane carrying humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, which is on the verge of a critical economic and humanitarian crisis. The move comes days after His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa had urged the international community to continue supporting the Afghan people. King Hamad had said it is necessary to provide humanitarian relief aid, considering its faiths, values and ensure peace and stability in the region and the whole world. His Majesty had underlined the importance of international support to the Afghan people during a meeting with V. Muraleedharan, the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs. Bahrains aid efforts also come as the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had warned of an impending humanitarian disaster in Afghanistan. The aid packages by the Royal Humanitarian Foundation were seen off from the airport by His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HM Kings Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs. After inspecting the first aid shipment, HH Shaikh Nasser expressed thanks and gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa for the timely help. HM King assigned RHF, chaired by HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, to supervise the operation. Bahrain, HH Shaikh Nasser said, is continuing to extend helping hand to needy people around the world, which comes within the endeavours of Bahrain to consolidate international solidarity and efforts to bring together people of the world. HH Shaikh Nasser said the RHF is honoured to implement the directives of the His Majesty the King. He also lauded the Governments support, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for the relief operations. His Highness also affirmed Bahrain full support to the Afghan people in the crisis. RHF, Shaikh Nasser said, is preparing a shipment of urgent relief aid, which contains medical goods, which the Afghan people need desperately. Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, valued highly the directives of His Majesty the King to extend a helping hand to the needy in the various countries of the world. He stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is providing all needed help to the Royal Humanitarian Foundation to implement the directives of HM the King. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com Truck drivers coming to Bahrain through the King Fahd Causeway can now heave a sigh of relief. They no longer had to wait in the excruciatingly long queues on the causeway, which took up to 12 hours to clear. King Fahd causeway, which reportedly had a reputation for some of the worst traffic jams in the Middle East, had become smoother and faster. In other words, trucks making beelines on the King Fahd Causeway for clearance is becoming a thing of the past. The latest data shows, the average waiting time for a truck reaching Bahrain through the causeway has come down to 52 minutes. Customs clearance in less than an hour is a tremendous leap for the causeway, where truck drivers had to wait for more than 12 hours. This is a huge achievement, Shaikh Ahmed bin Hamad Al Khalifa said, compared to the previous years. According to the Head of Customs, the average waiting time for trucks in the first half of August was 52 minutes, compared to 757 minutes earlier. For this, the authority took several measures in the past years, including signing agreements with supervisory authorities, he added. The release time was decreased gradually to 52 minutes through various measures taken from 2014 to 2021. He also thanked all the relevant authorities, importers, traders and customs officials for their cooperation in making this possible. Officials, he said, made efforts to prepare necessary data and received customs duties ahead of the arrival of the shipments to ensure smooth movement of trucks. Reports said earlier that the King Fahd Causeway and Tabadul had rolled out a new truck management scheme to reduce waiting times. The system works by allowing trucks to book a slot in advance through Tabaduls Fasah platform. The system was put into place on the causeway from the Saudi side in January this year. TDT | Manama The Daily Tribune www.newsofbahrain.com The Ministry of Housing has launched a new mobile phone application for enhancing communication with citizens. The app, available on iPhone and Android devices, will be available round the clock. Basim bin Yaqoub Al Hamer, the Minister of Housing, said the application would enhance communication between the ministry and citizens. Eight services are available through the app, the minister said, adding they are for submitting new housing applications, availing finance for renovation, construction and purchase, knowing the status of the application, application number and date, updating the application, contact data and account. The app allows citizens to communicated with the Housing Committee concerned with following up and scrutinising humanitarian cases. Family declaration service is another facility offered by the app. The facility allows citizens to submit a declaration to submit a new application, update an application and others. The At your command tag allows citizens to communicate directly with the ministrys senior management headed by the housing minister regarding urgent cases to achieve quick resolution. The app also provided multiple links to help citizens register for government notification services, a link to the Ministry of Housing and Housing Bank website, presentation of housing projects and projects approved under the Mazaya scheme. The app, the minister said, is open for the public after subjecting it to a trial phase to ensure its effectiveness. NEW FAIRFIELD With the recent legalization of recreational adult-use of marijuana in Connecticut, local zoning officials are trying to figure out what to do about retail cannabis in town. We could put a moratorium on it and not deal with it for a period of time, we could do nothing ... or we could say in our zoning regulations that we allow (or dont allow) dispensaries in our town, said John Moran, chairman of the Zoning Commission, which opened a public hearing on the issue Wednesday. Municipalities across the state are deciding whether to allow retail cannabis businesses within their borders after the new law went into effect in July. The law allows people 21 and older to have 1.5 ounces of marijuana with them, up to five more ounces of marijuana in a secure location like their home or car, and for patients in Connecticuts medical marijuana program to have three mature marijuana plants and three smaller plants in their home a provision extending to the general adult public in 2023. It also allows for the opening of retail cannabis businesses but only at the discretion of municipalities. Some area towns have decided to prohibit cannabis enterprises looking to do business within their borders, while others like Danbury have imposed temporary bans. No decision has been made in New Fairfield. During the first public hearing, three residents shared their thoughts, with two arguing against retail cannabis. Resident Peter Lofaro asked the commission to consider measures like those enacted in Newtown, which became the first town in the area to prohibit cannabis establishments back in July. My sincere hope is that we maintain the integrity of our town, he said. Lofaro said he worries that cannabis businesses could negatively affect property values in New Fairfield and that their presence could send the wrong message to families looking to move to town. My biggest concern is the impact that businesses like this would have on our youth and our community, which is really the bedrock of New Fairfield, he said. Ball Pond Road resident Colleen Cox said she is vehemently against retail cannabis businesses in town and agrees with Lofaro. Its about preserving the integrity of our community and our children, she said, citing concerns about marijuana being a gateway drug. Although more research is needed to understand if marijuana use leads to the use of more dangerous drugs like cocaine or heroin,the majority of people who use marijuana do not go on to use other, harder substances, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New Fairfield resident Jacob Krayn said he believes retail cannabis would benefit the town, rather than cause problems. People who believe their children are unable to purchase marijuana because there are no legal dispensaries are highly mistaken, he said. I think its fairly easy for youth in the area to purchase marijuana. Krayn said allowing cannabis retailers to do business in town could also help boost New Fairfields economy. The town could certainly use additional tax revenue, he said. Our taxes go up every year, in part because our downtown is not necessarily as thriving as it could be. A business that generates some revenue could be good for the town overall. Moran noted that the town would get 3 percent of every sale if a cannabis business were to open in New Fairfield. Under the law, municipalities may also, up to 30 days after the opening of a cannabis business, charge the owner up to $50,000 for any necessary and reasonable costs incurred by the municipality for provision of public safety services in relation to such opening. In hopes of getting more feedback from residents, the New Fairfield Zoning Commission continued its public hearing to Oct. 6. Moran said there will be many more meetings on the matter, and the commission plans to make a final decision by the end of the year. Bone-tired like everyone else in Kabul, Taliban fighters spent the last moments of the 20-year Afghanistan war watching the night skies for the flares that would signal the United States was gone. From afar, U.S. generals watched video screens with the same anticipation. Relief washed over the war's winners and the losers when the final U.S. plane took off. For those in between and left behind possibly a majority of the allied Afghans who sought U.S. clearance to escape fear spread about what comes next, given the Taliban's history of ruthlessness and repression of women. And for thousands of U.S. officials and volunteers working around the world to place Afghan refugees, there is still no rest. As witnessed by The Associated Press in Kabul and as told by people The AP interviewed from all sides, the war ended with episodes of brutality, enduring trauma, a massive if fraught humanitarian effort and moments of grace. Enemies for two decades were thrust into a bizarre collaboration, joined in a common goal the Taliban and the United States were united in wanting the United States out. They wanted, too, to avoid another deadly terrorist attack. Both sides had a stake in making the last 24 hours work. In that stretch, the Americans worried that extremists would take aim at the hulking, helicopter-swallowing transport planes as they lifted off with the last U.S. troops and officials. Instead, in the green tint of night-vision goggles, the Americans looked down to goodbye waves from Taliban fighters on the tarmac. The Taliban had worried that the Americans would rig the airport with mines. Instead the Americans left them with two useful fire trucks and functional front-end loaders along with a bleak panorama of self-sabotaged U.S. military machinery. After several sleepless nights from the unrelenting thunder of U.S. evacuation flights overhead, Hemad Sherzad joined his fellow Taliban fighters in celebration from his post at the airport. We cried for almost an hour out of happiness, Sherzad told AP. We yelled a lot even our throat was in pain. In the Pentagon operations center just outside Washington at the same time, you could hear a pin drop as the last C-17 took off. You could also hear sighs of relief from the top military officials in the room, even through COVID masks. President Joe Biden, determined to end the war and facing widespread criticism for his handling of the withdrawal, got the word from his national security adviser during a meeting with aides. I refused to send another generation of Americas sons and daughters to fight a war that should have ended long ago, he said. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, was among those watching at the Pentagon. All of us are conflicted with feelings of pain and anger, sorrow and sadness," he said later, combined with pride and resilience. It was a harrowing 24 hours, capped Monday by the final C-17 takeoff at 11:59 p.m. in Kabul. Some who spoke to The AP about that period requested anonymity. U.S. officials who did so were not authorized to identify themselves. ___ AIRPORT MADNESS Before leaving Kabul, a U.S. consular officer with 25 years at the State Department was busy trying to process special visas for qualifying Afghans who made it through the Taliban, Afghan military and U.S. checkpoints into the airport. What she saw was wrenching. It was horrendous what the people had to go through to get in, she said. Some people had spent three to five days waiting. On the inside we could hear the live ammunition being fired to keep the crowds back and the ones who made it in would tell us about Taliban soldiers with whips, sticks with nails in them, flash-bang grenades and tear gas pushing people back. Even more upsetting, she said, were the children who got inside the airport separated from family, some plucked by chance out of teeming crowds by U.S. troops or others. As many as 30 children a day, many confused and all of them frightened, were showing up alone for evacuation flights during the 12 days she was on the ground. A small unit at the airport for unaccompanied children set up by Norway was quickly overwhelmed, prompting UNICEF to take over. UNICEF is now running a center for unaccompanied child evacuees in Qatar. More broadly, the U.S. sent thousands of employees to more than a half-dozen spots around Europe and the Middle East for screening and processing Afghan refugees before they moved on to the United States, or were rejected. U.S. embassies in Mexico, South Korea, India and elsewhere operated virtual call centers to handle the deluge of emails and calls on the evacuations. Over the previous days in Kabul, many Afghans were turned back by the Taliban; others were allowed past them only to be stopped at a U.S. checkpoint. It was madness trying to sort out who satisfied both sides and could make it through the gauntlet. Some Taliban soldiers appeared to be out for rough justice; others were disciplined, even collegial, over the last hours they spent face to face with U.S. troops at the airport. Some were caught off-guard by the U.S. decision to leave a day earlier than called for in the agreement between the combatants. Sherzad said he and and fellow Taliban soldiers gave cigarettes to the Americans at the airport and snuff to Afghans still in the uniform of their disintegrating army. By then, he said, everyone was calm. Just normal chitchat. Yet, We were just counting minutes and moments for the time to rise our flag after full independence." U.S. efforts to get at-risk Afghans and others onto the airport grounds were complicated by the viral spread of an electronic code that the U.S. sought to provide to those given priority for evacuation, said a senior State Department official who was on the ground in Kabul until Monday. The official said the code, intended for local Afghan staff at the U.S. Embassy, had been shared so widely and quickly that almost all people seeking entry had a copy on their phone within an hour of it being distributed. At the same time, the official said, some U.S. citizens showed up with large groups of Afghans, many not eligible for priority evacuation. And there were Afghan entrepreneurs who would falsely claim to be at an airport gate with groups of prominent at-risk Afghan officials. It involved some really painful trade-offs for everyone involved," the official said of the selections for evacuation. "Everyone who lived it is haunted by the choices we had to make. The official said it appeared to him, at least anecdotally, that a majority of the Afghans who applied for special visas because of their past or present ties with the U.S. did not make it out. Among the hurdles was the design of the airport itself. It had been constructed with restrictive access to prevent terrorist attacks and did not lend itself to allowing any large groups of people inside, let alone thousands frantically seeking entry. All of this unfolded under constant fear of another attack from an Islamic State offshoot that killed 169 Afghans and 13 U.S. service members in the Aug. 26 suicide bombing at the airport. There were times, said another U.S. official familiar with the process, when Afghans made it on to evacuation planes, only to be pulled off before the flight when they were found to be on no-fly lists. This official said that as far as is known, all but one U.S. Embassy employee made it out. That person had the required special visa but couldnt bear to leave her parents and other relatives behind. Despite pleading from Afghan and American colleagues to get on the evacuation bus to the airport, she opted to stay, the official said. But a 24-year-old former U.S. contractor, Salim Yawer, who obtained visas and a gate pass with the help of his brother, a U.S. citizen, never got out with his wife and children aged 4 and 1 1/2. They tried four times to get to the airport before the Americans left. Each time we tried getting to the gate, I was afraid my small children would come under feet of other people, he said. He, too, did not expect the Americans to leave Monday, and he went back to the airport the next day. We didnt know that night that the Americans would leave us behind, Yawer said. Monday, still, there were U.S. forces and planes and hopes among people. But Tuesday was a day of disappointment. ... Taliban were all over the area and there was no plane in the sky of Kabul anymore." Yawer owned a Kabul construction company and traveled to various provinces doing work for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, he said from his village back in northern Kapisa province, where he fled. ___ COUNTDOWN On the evening of Sunday, Aug. 29, in Kabul, surveillance showed people loading explosives into the trunk of a vehicle, U.S. officials said. The U.S. had been watching the car for hours, with reports of an imminent threat of another Islamic State militant attack. An American RQ-9 Reaper drone launched a Hellfire missile into the vehicle, in a compound between two buildings. U.S. officials said surveillance showed the initial missile explosion, followed by a large fireball, which they believed to be caused by the explosives in the vehicle. Neighbors disputed the U.S. claims of a vehicle packed with explosives. On the ground, Najibullah Ismailzada said his brother-in-law Zemarai Ahmadi had just arrived home from his job working with a Korean charity. As he drove into the garage, his children came out to greet him, and thats when the missile struck. We lost 10 members of our family, Ismailzada said. Six ranged in age from 2 to 8. He said another relative, Naser Nejrabi, who was an ex-soldier in the Afghan army and interpreter for the U.S. military, also was killed, along with two teenagers. Several hours after the drone strike, Biden was at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to witness the dignified transfer of the remains of the 13 U.S. troops killed in the previous week's suicide bombing and to meet the bereaved families. The card he keeps with him, listing the number of American service members who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan, had been updated with plus 13, according to a person familiar with the presidents exchange with the families. In the final scramble at the Kabul airport that evening, evacuees were directed to specific gates as U.S. commanders communicated directly with the Taliban to get people out. About 8 a.m. Monday, explosions could be heard as five rockets were launched toward the airport. Three fell outside the airport, one landed inside but did no damage and one was intercepted by the U.S. anti-rocket system. No one was hurt. Again, Islamic State militants, common foe of both the Taliban and the Americans, were suspected as the source. Through the morning, the last 1,500 or so Afghans to get out of the country before the U.S. withdrawal left on civilian transport. By 1:30 p.m., 1,200 U.S. troops remained on the ground and flights began to move them steadily out. U.S. airpower bombers, fighter jets, armed drones and the special operations helicopters known as Little Birds provided air cover. Into the evening, U.S. troops finished several days' work destroying or removing military equipment. They disabled 27 Humvees and 73 aircraft, often draining transmission fluids and engine oil and running the engines until they seized. They used thermite grenades to destroy the system that had intercepted a rocket that morning. Equipment useful for civilian airport purposes, like the fire trucks, were left behind for the new authorities. At the end, fewer than 1,000 troops remained. Five C-17 planes came in darkness to take them out, with crews specially trained to fly into and out of airfields at night without air traffic control. From Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, commander of Air Mobility Command, watched on video screens as the aircraft filled and lined up for takeoff. An iconic image showed Maj. Gen. Christopher Donahue, commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, carrying his M-4 rifle as he walked into a C-17 and into history as the last of the U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan. Crisp orders and messages captured the last moments. Chock 5 100% accounted for," said one message, meaning all five aircraft were fully loaded and all people accounted for. Clamshell, came an order, meaning retract the C-17 ramps one by one. Then, flush the force, meaning get out. One minute to midnight, the last of the five took off. Soon came the message MAF Safe, meaning the Mobility Air Forces were gone from Kabul air space and in safe skies. The American generals relaxed. From the ground in Kabul, Taliban fighter Mohammad Rassoul, known among other fighters as Afghan Eagle," had been watching, too. Our eyes were on the sky desperately waiting," he said. The roar of planes that had kept him up for two nights had stopped. The Taliban flares at the airport streaked the sky. After 20 years of struggle we achieved our target," Rassoul said. He dared hope for a better life for his wife, two daughters and son. I want my children to grow up under peace," he said. "Away from drone strikes. ___ Akhgar and Faiez reported from Istanbul; Lee, Baldor and Woodward from Washington. Associated Press writers Kathy Gannon in Kabul, Robert Burns, Aamer Madhani and Zeke Miller in Washington and Ellen Knickmeyer in Oklahoma City contributed. BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (AP) As O.D. Collins sang His Eye is On the Sparrow, generations of Sojourner Truth descendants gathered around the headstone of a man who died 122 years ago. Though they had never met Thomas Schuyler, the family of Sojourner Truth in attendance owed their very existence to him, the Battle Creek Enquirer reports. Barbara Allen, a sixth-generation Truth descendent and author of a childrens book about her great-grandma, organized a marker dedication recently for Thomas Schuyler at Harmonia Cemetery. Schuyler, who died in 1899, was the husband of Sophia, the infant with whom Truth escaped slavery in New York in 1826. It was important that he didnt go unnoticed, Allen said. Just like if (Sojourner) didnt take Sophia with her when she walked away from slavery, if Sophia wouldnt have met Thomas, we wouldnt be here. The eight descendants who attended the ceremony trace their linage to Truth through Sophia and Thomas Schuyler. Truth, then Isabella Baumfree, took the infant Sophia with her when she walked 5 miles to her freedom, leaving a husband and three other children behind. They walked to the farm of Isaac and Maria Van Wagener, who did not believe in the institution of slavery, but still paid their former owner, John Dumont, $20 for Isabellas services for a year and $5 for Sophia. Little is known about the Schuylers. They ended up living in the Spiritualist village of Harmonia, where Truth settled for 10 years beginning in 1857. Calhoun County land records show that lot 65 in the spiritualist village of Harmonia (now Fort Custer Industrial Park), was sold by Sophia and her sister Diana in 1896 for $115. A 1900 Detroit News editorial stated that Sophia Truth Schuyler was being sent to the Calhoun County poor house and called on the public to support her rescue. She died at the county farm in Marshall in 1901 at the age of 75. Sophia and Thomas had a daughter named Fannie, Sojourners only granddaughter. She would marry an Irishman named Frank Liechey in 1895. At some point the name changed to McLiechey. Fannie and Frank produced Thomas McLiechey, and his daughter, Juanita, gave birth to Allens mother, Ann Irene Terrell. Thomas McLiechey of Battle Creek, a fifth-generation Truth descendent, could not attend Thursdays ceremony due to health issues. He had previously purchased the headstone for Sophia at the Harmonia Cemetery. The historic burial ground is managed by Bedford Township and accessible with permission. Every time I hear about Sojourner Truth, what I learned about her, when she left and walked away that morning, she left with her daughter, McLiechey told the Enquirer in 2019. Theres always been two people who walked away to freedom that day. I often wondered why they never mentioned her daughter. McLiechey and Allen had spent time at the ceremony, and his act of remembrance inspired Allen to do the same for their great-grandpa. Allen said Thomas Schuylers marker cost $600 and the foundation was $350. She paid for roughly half of the marker, with the other half provided by friends through a GoFundMe campaign, while the Historical Society of Battle Creek, the Battle Creek Regional History Museum and the Sojourner Truth Center for Liberation and Justice covering the cost of the foundation. During the ceremony, the Rev. William James Wyne of Second Missionary Baptist Church in Battle Creek said, A marker of a grave is another moment of memory. Thomas Schuyler, who was married to Sophia, now has his own visible marker, that not only represents his death, but represents his life. May the ancestors continue to dig up old memories so people will know these people did not just die in Battle Creek, but they lived in a meaningful way. Amanda Marshall of Battle Creek, an eighth-generation Truth descendent, brought along her four daughters, KaLeahya Scott, 8, Jaeleona Scott, 4, Avianna Watson, 2, and Alayah Watson, 3. My aunt and my mom told me about (Sojourner) when I was like 10. I really didnt know too much about it, Marshall said. Now Im at the age where I want to learn and thats why I brought them today. I want to show them their generations. (KaLeahya) was like, Hold on, we talk about her in school. Thats your grandmother. Kimberly Holley, executive director of the Sojourner Truth Center for Liberation and Justice, said the gathering of descendants helps to make the iconic abolitionist and suffragist feel more tangible. At the Sojourner Truth Center, we absolutely want to amplify her legacy, but we also want people to see themselves in her, Holley said. She was a human just like the rest of us. She used her life experiences to impact the world in a way that she wanted, to make the changes she wanted to make. All of us can do that. NEW HAVEN Mayor Justin Elicker spoke out against gun violence in New Haven after an homicide early Sunday. The shooting occurred between 5 and 6 a.m., according to a press release from Elickers office. New Haven Police responded to reports of gunfire on Chamberlain Street between Fairmont Avenue and Kendall Street. A gunshot victim was pronounced dead on scene by the New Haven Fire Department, Elickers office said. Elicker said in a press release that he was at the scene this morning and that gun violence is ripping neighborhoods apart both in New Haven and across the country. Following shootings, I talk with neighbors and I see and hear the pain and anguish this brings to our community, Elicker said in the release. His office said that 2020 was one of the deadliest years in the past two decades - and 2021 is a pace to be as well, according to gunviolencearchive.org. His office also cited CNN in the press release, stating that an average of 200 people are killed and 472 are injured by guns each weekend in the United States, excluding suicides. Elicker has been outspoken about guns and gun violence in the past. Last week, Elicker pushed back against a lawsuit filed by the Connecticut Citizens Defense League - a group with opposes many gun safety measures. In August, he urged the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to adopt stronger regulations of ghost guns. Locally were implementing evidence-based interventions - more police walking and bicycle beats, enhanced youth programming, more street outreach workers, and wrap around services for folks re-entering our community, Elicker said in the release. And recently we announced plans to create a city department - the Office of Violence Prevention. But we also need leadership at the national level to implement common sense gun safety laws. Our police department seized its 100th gun in July. Until Congress acts to reform our gun laws, the flow of guns isnt going to stop. christine.derosa@hearstmediact.com RIDGEFIELD After an extensive scouting process, town officials have selected a location to erect a brand-new public safety building, which will house Ridgefields police and fire departments. The joint facility will be built at the former Schulmerberger property on Old Quarry Road where the Sky Dome Building currently resides. The site lies substantially north of A Contemporary Theatre of Connecticut and BassamFellows, Inc., said Jacob Muller, director of purchasing, facilities and safety. While the topic has been discussed for years, interest for the project renewed when former state representative John Frey joined the Board of Police Commissioners. Earlier this year he told Hearst Connecticut Media that he would speak with fellow commissioners about plans to create a joint station for the police and fire departments, which both exist in cramped quarters, he said. Out with the old The Ridgefield Fire Department has been headquartered at Catoonah Street for more than 100 years, but its proximity to Main Street limits any sort of physical expansion. Were utterly landlocked, Fire Chief Jerry Myers said. Also limited is the space within the building itself the apparatus bay has engines stacked up one behind the other, Myers described. In the middle of one hallway is a makeshift office that two people share, and a classroom doubles as the departments conference room. The Ridgefield Police Department is housed in an antiquated mansion that previously served as the governors residence and state police barracks. Police Chief Jeffery Kreitz said the layout is not indicative of a modern-day police department, and noted its lack of storage space and overall functionality. Both chiefs said their departments would benefit from moving into a new facility that could adequately accommodate their first responders. We train together, work together, obviously go on calls together ... were closer than ever, Kreitz said. (So) when we started speaking about a combined facility it just seemed to work. Due diligence A working group comprising the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Police Commissioners retained Kaestle Boos Associates (KBA) to conduct a feasibility study at a cost of $65,000 to assess the state of the towns police and fire buildings. The New Britain-based architecture firm specializes in the planning and design of police, fire and public safety facilities. The study sought to answer if the existing buildings on East Ridge Road and Catoonah Street, respectively should be modified, or if a new, joint facility should be established. It ultimately landed on the latter. Officials considered multiple sites that could support the project before settling on the Schlumberger property, which is owned by the town. The Sky Dome Building, which is currently being used for storage, will be demolished prior to construction of the new facility. Muller said KBA will provide proposals to take the project beyond a conceptual design and will soon launch a public relations campaign to provide residents full transparency in relation to the project. In with the new The chiefs had extensive discussions with KBA to ensure the new facility would fulfill public safety and daily administration requirements, Muller said. Myers envisions a dedicated training space that would enable the department to host training events and better prepare for day-to-day missions. Kreitz discussed a community room for the design, but is mostly looking forward to the extra square footage, he said. The new building will also include a centralized dispatch facility for trained staff to field 911, routine and non-emergency calls, which is expected to increase communication efficiencies, Myers said. Multiple access points for both visiting and emergency vehicles are planned for the property. The project does not have a set price tag, with crews years away from breaking ground. First Selectman Rudy Marconi explained that the town would not move forward on constructing the joint facility until 2023, when a debt service from prior school improvements comes to an end, he said. Approved in this years capital budget was a $360,000 expenditure to begin architectural work at the site. As with normal budgetary proceedings, the project would have to be approved via public hearings, town meetings or a natural referendum, but Marconi expects it will be welcomed with support. The people of Ridgefield ... appreciate the level of service that both the P.D. and the F.D. deliver to our residents, he said. These men and women deliver ... the best possible service they can, and they do, and now we need to get a building thats reflective of that level of service. Myers agreed. This is a physical reflection of the esteem that the community holds our responders in, and that is important for the morale of our department, he said. NEW HAVEN Rabbi Eric Woodward plans to encourage the members of Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel to be their true, best selves, no matter how nontraditional that may be. However, when it comes to following Jewish laws and teaching, tradition is paramount. Members of BEKI say those qualities are just what they seek as a congregation, and Woodward, who began July 1 as rabbi of the Conservative synagogue in Westville, is the spiritual leader they want to lead them into the Jewish year 5782. He follows Rabbi Jon-Jay Tilsen, who retired after 28 years at BEKI. Rosh Hashana, the beginning of the High Holy Days, begins at sundown Monday. Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo It helps to know his background, Woodward said: My mother is Jewish and my father is not Jewish. And he grew up in a family where his mother was a Mexican immigrant. And she immigrated to America from Mexico in 1926. And his father was a white guy who left home in the Dust Bowl from Oklahoma and his mother really shaped his upbringing. Woodward thought of himself as both Jewish and Mexican American. His family practiced the faith, but casually. Over the years I struggled with what it meant to be of mixed background, he said. Because sometimes you feel less than. If Im not a hundred percent anything, does that mean Im just nothing? It was at Williams College that he became more interested in his Jewish faith. It really excited me and I realized that I started to love these Jewish texts and Jewish living, Woodward said. I realized I really want to facilitate communities to live around the values and the stories and the practices that gave me a sense of meaning. And I realized thats what a rabbi does. He also knew that his background and faith journey would help others who also felt like outsiders. A lot of my rabbinic work has been trying to help people who come from interfaith background or who are Jews of color to feel like they belong, and to help Jewish spaces change so that they can be more welcoming and engaging, he said. Woodward has served synagogues in Blue Bell in southeastern Pennsylvania and Columbus, Ohio, and said during his career he has seen changes in the Jewish world in terms of their ability to meet those expectations of being a welcoming community and of being kind. And thats one of the things I really connected to at BEKI very quickly. He called the congregation a diverse and open-minded Jewish community that really walks the walk in terms of honoring the experiences of different people. And it doesnt mean theres not work to do; theres always plenty of work to do. But this feels like its a kind of environment where that work feels like its compelling and important. Carole Bass, who led the search committee for the new rabbi, said it seemed pretty clear Woodward was the right person for BEKIs 300 families. He said to us that he thought it was bashert, which is a Yiddish word that means meant to be, she said. He has energy and enthusiasm. Bass praised his inclusiveness, his warmth, his excitement, his approach to Judaism, which is a combination of traditional and modern. Hes very committed to traditional practices and legal structure, and at the same time he views all of that in a framework of, Why are we doing this? What is the meaning of these practices? How do these practices help us relate to each other and the rest of the world and ourselves and God, for those that think about it that way? BEKI is a diverse community, with members of color and LGBTQ members, but Woodward wants to affirm others who, like him, may not feel totally part of the community. Traditional Jewish law states that Judaism is passed down through the mother or through conversion. (Reform Judaism accepts children with Jewish fathers as Jews if they are raised in the religion, according to reformjudaism.org.) Woodward recognizes his Jewish identity is partly an accident of his birth, and wants to affirm those without Jewish mothers as well. I often encounter Jews, and Im using that word on purpose, Jews who have a Jewish father and a non-Jewish mother, he said. And I see it as important to affirm their Jewish nature and I will encourage them to go to the mikvah, the ritual immersion in water. And so you could say Im doing a conversion ceremony for them, but I never call it that. I say that its an affirmation of status and affirmation of who they are, Woodward said. Rather than seeing identity as a binary sort of either-or thing, Woodward said he believes, Lets go down this path together. The truth is, everybodys identity is mixed up. Identity is complicated. And we dont experience it as a sort of on-off switch, but its a complicated mixture of stories and commitments and values and history. Woodwards hopes for BEKIs members start with working their way through the pandemic and its aftermath. I want to make sure that people have a sense of hope and possibility for the future, he said. I really want to make sure that people are able to think of themselves as having changed and grown, even during the pandemic, that we havent just been like sitting here spinning our wheels. COVID-19 has increased isolation for many people, and Woodward wants to help people not feel so alone and to really find ways to build community among different people here, he said. Synagogues, churches and mosques can no longer be places where people go because they are expected to, Woodward said. People have looked at synagogues during the pandemic because they need to be inspired and they need to feel a sense of hope, he said. And they havent looked at them because they think, Well, I guess I better join a synagogue. And I think that the world has been moving in that direction for a long time anyway. And I think the pandemic sped up that trend by 15 years. For a while this summer, BEKI didnt require masks to attend; now it does. It hasnt made a difference in attendance, Woodward said. People streamed in ... People really showed up with their feet because this means something to me. You suddenly dont take for granted that you can sit next to another person in a meal or in services. And thats really lovely. In the long term, Woodward wants to further the synagogues commitment to social justice and to interfaith work, addressing the climate emergency, racial inequities in health care and welcoming immigrants. The Torah tells us 36 times that we are supposed to love and protect the stranger, he said. And to me, what that means is that we need to pay special attention to the way that our society can otherize and demonize. We need to think about people who are strangers, who come here as immigrants. And I think that we Jews have a special responsibility to take care of the vulnerable. Im thrilled that hes joined our community, said Judy Alperin, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven. I think he brings a fresh and exciting energy and I think that hell be a true community partner as we build a bright future together. The first time I met him I couldnt stop smiling when I was talking to him. The members of BEKI are equally enthusiastic. I love him, said BEKI President Yaron Lew. Hes a wonderful person and everything we ever hoped for. I was actually hoping for someone who would take our congregation forward to the future. Someone who would bring ruach [spirit], as we say, and enthusiasm and get people excited about coming to shul. Lew said Woodward is becoming a magnet for young families and others and making sure everybody will feel included and happy to attend. Mark Oppenheimer, a member of the search committee, called Woodward the best of the old and the best of the new. Hes deeply rooted in tradition. His range of sources covers all 3,000 years of Jewish history from the Hebrew Bible to Jewish mystics and contemporary thinkers, focusing on gender and racial inclusion. Oppenheimer said Woodward brings a more worldly talent as well. Ive also heard hes an amazing cook, Oppenheimer said. One of his references would not shut up about what a good chef he is. edward.stannard@hearstmediact.com; 203-680-9382 When Gov. Ned Lamont announced in June that the state would spend $8 billion to $10 billion to (modestly) improve travel times on the busy (if pokey) New Haven Line, the reaction was generally favorable. Most understand that the rail connection to New York City is vital to Connecticuts economy and quality of life, and the faster the better. But if the state benefits from commuter rail to the Big Apple, as it clearly does, would it not also benefit from similar service to Boston, the Hub of the Universe? A study released in April answered with a resounding yes. Fast and reliable passenger service from New Haven to Boston via Hartford, Springfield and Worcester would have a transformative effect on the Hartford-Springfield regional economy. The report said an investment of $6 billion to $9 billion could yield between $47 billion and $84 billion in new and direct gross domestic product over 30 years in the Hartford-Springfield metro area, and another $15 billion to $21 billion in indirect or induced growth. The study, along with the growing prospect of a major federal infrastructure bill, has bolstered efforts to restore full passenger service on what was once called the Inland Route from New York to Boston. I cannot think of a better time to invest in rail, said U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Mass., whose sprawling district covers most of Western Massachusetts. Neal has long supported improved rail service in his part of the state, and as chair of the influential House Ways and Means Committee, he is a formidable proponent of better rail service. He said in a statement to The Connecticut Mirror that the new study is welcome news and echoes what we already know - improved rail along the inland route is good for the entire region. Economic growth, jobs, and unparalleled opportunity are waiting. It is simply too costly not to act at this moment. But despite the strong support of Neal and other members of Congress, including Connecticuts John Larson and Rosa DeLauro, getting regular commuter rail service on the inland route remains a challenge. For openers, a project that involves two states is almost invariably more complicated than one that can be done in a single state. Also, while the Commonwealth of Massachusetts owns the tracks from Boston to Worcester, now part of the MBTA commuter rail system, CSX, the freight carrier, owns the tracks from Worcester to Springfield and would have to be accommodated. Also, as is typical of rights-of-way laid out in the 19th century, the route does not describe a straight line. Finally, despite Congressional and public support, neither state is exactly fired up about restoring the inland route, though for different reasons. Connecticut took the initiative, opening The Hartford Line, regular rail service between New Haven, Hartford and Springfield, in 2018. Though some infrastructure work remains for example, the line north of Hartford to the Massachusetts state line must be double-tracked to support more frequent commuter rail the state is in no hurry to get to it unless Massachusetts shows some interest in upgrading its east-west line, particularly the critical 48-mile Springfield to Worcester section. Connecticut has done its part by investing in the Hartford Line. Its really Massachusetts that has been slow-walking it, said Massachusetts State Sen. Eric Lesser, D-Longmeadow, an ardent supporter of East-West Rail, as it is known in the Bay State. Critics blame Republican Gov. Charlie Baker. When it comes to the east-west rail link, to date he has been passionately uninterested in it, wrote Boston Globe columnist Joan Vennochi on March 31. She also cited Bakers historic lack of enthusiasm for public transit. Can train supporters bring him around? Two ways to Boston In the heyday of mid-century rail travel, trains regularly plied the Inland Route from New York to Boston. But it dwindled in the 1960s and 70s as the nation took to the new interstate highways. Amtrak ran self-propelled Budd cars, and not new ones, on the Springfield line for more than a decade. There was a citizen effort to revive the Inland Route in the early 1980s, led by Meriden lawyer and rail enthusiast James M. S. Ullman. Ullman argued that the Inland Route actually served a larger population base than the Shoreline Route and was only two miles longer. He urged Amtrak to provide good service on both routes. Ullman got people thinking. Gov. Lowell Weicker urged Amtrak to restore the Inland Route. But Ullmans untimely death in 1994 following serious personal difficulties pretty much ended the effort to restore the route, at least for the moment. Two decades later, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy actually got the work started. A former mayor of Stamford who understood the value of commuter rail, Malloy, in partnership with Amtrak and Massachusetts officials, redeveloped the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield line, known now as The Hartford Line. It opened in 2018 and offers 17 northbound trains from New Haven to Hartford, all but four continuing to Springfield, and 16 southbound trains, all but four starting in Springfield. It got off to a strong start, carrying more than 1.4 million riders in 2019, though COVID caused a significant drop in 2020. In 2017, as the work was progressing, Malloy wrote to Baker, his Massachusetts counterpart, strongly encouraging him to begin work on the Inland Route section from Worcester through Springfield to the Connecticut border. Baker didnt bite, despite considerable public support for the project. Polls in 2018 and 2019 by MassInc, a nonpartisan think tank, found support for east-west rail expansion at 67 and 76 percent, respectively. They are left with one slow and unreliable train a day between Springfield and Boston. It takes two and a half hours, about an hour longer than it takes to drive in midday traffic. In January, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation released a major feasibility study of east-west rail expansion. That study initially looked at six ways to improve service, including the intriguing idea of running a rail line in the Massachusetts Turnpike corridor. Alas, the consultants believed it too expensive and too far from some of the cities it would serve, so it was dropped. In the end, the study offered three options for improved east-west service. The first would use the existing CSX tracks; the other two call for building new stretches of track alongside the existing track. The estimated costs range from $2.41 billion to $4.63 billion, which includes the option of extending the service west to Pittsfield. The states study cites the costs but not the potential economic benefit. That was the point of the study released in April, which projected a major return on investment if the Inland Route is revived. Regional gain The report, commissioned by the Capitol Region Council of Governments and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and prepared by the infrastructure consulting firm AECOM, makes a case that commuter rail service would greatly benefit the Hartford-Springfield metro area. The Hartford-Springfield metro defined as Hartford County, Conn., and Hampshire and Hampden counties, Mass. is a distinct and consequential economic location in the Northeast Corridor, the study says, with a combined population of 1.6 million, a gross domestic product of $120 billion, 20 colleges and universities and New Englands second-largest international airport. Nonetheless, the region is somewhat isolated economically and has not kept pace with the rest of the Northeast Corridor, the report states. Since 1990, job growth in the Northeast Corridor as a whole has been 1.1 percent annually, but in Hartford-Springfield, only 0.6 percent. This translates to about 130,000 jobs not created, notably in the key sectors of information, finance, and professional services (including insurance, in which employment has actually declined), the report states. Transportation isnt the only reason for the job lag, but it is one reason. Hartford-Springfield is seeing a decreasing share in an otherwise growing market because it is not connected to it, said Chris Brewer, an AECOM economist who worked on the economic impact study. Hartford-Springfield is about equidistant from Boston and New York. Fast and reliable commuter rail could, over time, regain 20,000-40,000 of the lost jobs, the report estimates. Brewer said a 90-minute commute to both big cities would put Hartford-Springfield in play (in 2019, Lamont announced a goal of 90 minutes from Hartford to Manhattan). With a 90-minute ride to both major cities, Brewer said, Hartford-Springfield would become attractive to workers on a hybrid schedule, who only need to travel to the Big Apple or the Athens of America two or three times a week. And, as James Ullman observed 40 years ago, commuter rail doesnt serve only the big cities at the end of the line but the smaller cities along the line as well. Brewers study said if any of the options Massachusetts put forth is chosen, an investment in the $4 billion range would cut nearly an hour off the Springfield-Boston trip and enable at least 10 round trips per day. Woostah New Englands second-largest city offers an example of what might happen. Worcester was connected to Boston via the MBTA commuter rail system nearly a decade ago. Good things have happened since: a number of new residential and commercial projects; the arrival of the Boston Red Sox Triple A farm team, the WooSox; and the announcement that a major Chinese biotech firm, Hong Kong-based WuXi Biologics, would locate its first U.S. facility in Worcester. The $60 million facility is expected to employ 150 people when it opens next year. Perhaps most remarkably, recently released census figures show Worcesters population increased 14 percent from 2010 to 2020, to 206,518, more than 25,000 new residents. By contrast, Springfield grew 1.9 percent, to 155, 929, and Hartford lost 2.8 percent of its residents, dropping to 121,203. Weve all seen whats happened in Worcester. The same thing can happen in Springfield and Hartford, said Dana Roscoe, principal planner and transportation manager for the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. If you are connected to Boston by commuter rail, your economy is probably doing well, said Lyle Wray, executive director of the Capitol Regional Council of Governments. Wray and other inland route proponents have met with transportation officials as well as Congressional and gubernatorial staffers over the summer to make the case for the inland route. At least they are listening, he said. He said hed like to see Connecticut commit to finishing its part of the double-track work and eventually electrify the line. State Department of Transportation spokesman Kevin Nursick said electrification is a subject for future talks with Amtrak. He said while double-tracking from Windsor to Enfield is not required for near-term service and the work is not scheduled, it is in the departments long range capital program. He said the new Windsor Locks Station is being designed to accommodate the second track. But that second track is not likely to appear until theres progress on East-West Rail north of the border. Lesser believes theres a strong argument for it. He said in state transportation spending, there is a legacy of bias toward Boston and the needs of the Boston core. But he said East-West Rail is as good for Boston as it is for Springfield. Bostons issues are congestion and housing prices. Nobody can afford to live in Eastern Mass, housing prices are out of control, and no one can get around because of the traffic and crowded transit, he said. In Western Massachusetts, we have the reverse lower cost of housing and good quality of life but the region has seen a loss of jobs and population. East-West Rail would solve problems, if not overnight, giving people in Eastern Massachusetts access to lower-cost housing and a calmer quality of life, while giving folks in Western Massachusetts access to jobs to the east. He said connecting Western New England, including the Pioneer Valley towns north of Springfield, to Hartford and Boston by rail will have a major environment benefit, taking thousands of cars off the road and helping clean the air, noting that the valley area has a high rate of asthma. Also, as Wray noted, climate resilience may well favor a route away from the shoreline. We need the governor of Massachusetts to make this a top priority, Lesser said. Gov. Bakers office did not respond to several requests for comment, though MassDOT spokeswoman Judith Reardon Riley forwarded a press release citing the need for more study, coordination with CSX, identification of funding sources and creation of a governing structure to move the East-West rail project off the drawing board and onto the tracks. . Lesser believes the challenge is not insurmountable. We built a railroad through the Rocky Mountains during the Civil War. We can do this. Big Brother Naija, BBNaija housemates, Saga and Michael, have been issued a strike respectively. The housemates were given a strike ... Big Brother Naija, BBNaija housemates, Saga and Michael, have been issued a strike respectively. The housemates were given a strike for damaging Biggies property. Biggie played a clip showing where Saga jumped on the pavement of the lounge and it fell off. Michael on the other hand punched a wall inside the room due to over excitement. According to Article 18, which Biggie read, if any housemate destroys property, they will be given a strike. He said, Saga, Michael you are hereby issued a strike for destroying the house property. Biggie added that a if they survive tonights eviction, a punishment awaits them. Tega, one of the housemates in the ongoing television reality show, Big Brother Naija, season 6, have been evicted. Ebuka Obi-Uchend... Tega, one of the housemates in the ongoing television reality show, Big Brother Naija, season 6, have been evicted. Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, host of the show, announced this during the live eviction show on Sunday. All housemates were put up for eviction except the double Head of House, JackieB and Jaypaul. Recall that Tega and Boma were caught kissing and cuddling up in the house several times. She was criticised and condemned for being in an amorous relationship with a male housemate despite being married with a child. Tega speaking with Ebuka shortly after her eviction said Boma is just her friend. I cant wait to see my family, I miss my husband. Boma is just my friend. According to Tega, her actions with Boma were just a strategy and a show for viewers. My husband is a bad guy, he wouldnt take this seriously, Tega added. Meanwhile, Saga and Michael were given a strike earlier. The duo destroyed Biggies properties The All Progressives Congress (APC) lost in the polling unit of Nasir el-Rufai, governor of Kaduna, during the states LGA elections on Sa... The All Progressives Congress (APC) lost in the polling unit of Nasir el-Rufai, governor of Kaduna, during the states LGA elections on Saturday. El-Rufai voted at Ungwan Sarkin polling unit 001 in Kaduna north LGA area of the state. Announcing the results for the polling unit, Mohammed Sani, the presiding officer, said in the chairmanship election, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scored 86 votes while the APC secured 62 votes. Sani said in the councillorship election, the PDP scored 100 votes while the APC had 53 votes. Earlier, el-Rufai had expressed disappointment over the low turnout of voters during the election exercise. The governor attributed the low turnout to the late arrival of some of the election materials. What worries me is that I noticed that people didnt turn out much, he had said. I know that in many polling units, there were challenges with the Electronic Voting Machines. Some machines were taken to the wrong polling units, so they had to be changed. So people who came out early to vote, thought that the voting had not started. He, however, said there has been a significant improvement in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) compared to the ones used in the 2018 LG polls. The governor had also said his administration is committed to free and fair elections in the state and that he would allow the people of Kaduna to elect who they want. As I said several times, we are not going to behave like other parties or other state governments where the ruling parties win everything, he had said. We will allow the people of Kaduna state to elect who they want, we do not have to win everywhere. We dont believe in cheating, we dont believe in rigging elections, but we also do not believe that others should cheat us. Some electoral officers were assaulted by suspected hoodlums while EVMs were vandalised. Watertown, NY (13601) Today Showers likely along with a possible rumble of thunder in the morning, then cloudy skies late. High 68F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later at night. Low 53F. Winds light and variable. Watertown, NY (13601) Today Thunderstorms in the morning will give way to cloudy skies late. High 69F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later at night. Low 53F. Winds light and variable. One thing chef Horst Pfeifer heard constantly when he bought Middendorfs Restaurant back in 2007 was a plea not to change it. But to preserve the historic, beloved seafood destination out on the edge of the Louisiana marsh, he eventually was convinced some pretty big changes were necessary as storms impacting it worsened. That included a rebuild, completed in 2016, that raised its huge dining hall higher off the ground, and the progressive development of a system of flood walls, pumps and generators that mimics its own mini levee management district. Hurricane Ida put all of that to the test as the extremely powerful Category 4 storm arrived. The restaurant in the tiny waterfront village of Manchac sits just to the east of the storms landfall track through the River Parishes. Just a day later, though, Pfeifer was convinced he could quickly reopen the restaurant. The kitchen is OK, the dining rooms are OK, we had some roof damage, but we can repair that, he said. The biggest thing is cleaning up outside, because the marsh got turned upside down. Pfeifer was able to reopen Middendorfs Sept. 10, with limited hours to begin, serving Friday through Sunday. The Manchac restaurant began with indoor dining only as repairs progress to its outdoor patios. Waterfront restaurants nearby did not fare so well. Bec's on the Lake was a "total loss," according to owner George Becnel. This seafood restaurant is in Frenier Point, which juts out into Lake Pontchartrain about 17 miles south of Middendorf's. At this point, Becnel said he does not plan to rebuild. Owners of the adjacent Frenier Landing Restaurant & Oyster Bar could not be reached, but an Aug. 30 social media post from the restaurant indicated a plan to reopen. Famous for its thin-cut fried catfish, its whole stuffed flounder and its cypress-lined, old-fashioned ambiance, Middendorfs was first opened in 1934 by Josie and Louis Middendorf. It sits on Pass Manchac, the waterway connecting Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas, about 40 miles from New Orleans. Its a popular destination for families and groups around the region. Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Given its long history, prominence and waterfront location, Middendorfs has in recent years been a barometer of flood and storm severity, and that has been worsening as the impact of climate change grows more obvious. Middendorfs made it through hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 intact, but it was badly flooded by storm surge from Hurricane Ike in 2008 and again by Hurricane Isaac in 2012. Through each round of repairs, the chef and his wife Karen Pfeifer tried to make it more floodproof and durable. The biggest phase called for raising the vintage, original dining room to the same level as a newer, elevated expansion built here a few years prior. That work put the whole restaurant 5 feet off the ground, with kitchens, chilled food storage and generators all elevated too. The Pfeifers built much of the same durability into their second location of Middendorfs, which opened in Slidell in 2019. This Slidell restaurant also got through Ida intact. Middendorfs Restaurant 30160 Highway 51, Akers, 985-386-6666 1951 Oak Harbor Boulevard, Slidell, (985) 771-7777 Updated hours: regular schedule resumed Sept. 15, open Wed.-Sun. 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., both locations Note: this story has been updated with reopening information +9 With lights or no, New Orleans bars get back open, serving something stronger than drinks The blaring afternoon sun provided most of the illumination inside Three Palms Bar & Grill on Tulane Avenue, but the bartender had a heavy +10 Had to feed my people. With free meals all week, a Gretna restaurant inspires others One morning after Hurricane Ida, under a searing sun in a cloudless sky, Kwesi Jordan once again lit the gas-fired grill outside his Gretna re +5 A New Orleans culinary school rapidly transforms as a hub of Hurricane Ida food relief Classes were on hold at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute after Hurricane Ida, but the downtown culinary school offered a v One morning after Hurricane Ida, under a searing sun in a cloudless sky, Kwesi Jordan once again lit the gas-fired grill outside his Gretna restaurant, Island Paradise. Soon, people came filing through for the breakfast plates his wife Nadine Balbosa was preparing inside. But they werent customers, not in the normal sense. For the preceding week, the couple had turned their Caribbean restaurant into a neighborhood support hub, providing free meals daily. Were a small business; the community has supported us for six and a half years, so we wanted to support them now, said Balbosa. I had to feed my people. Its an effort that grew day by day, sometimes as recipients of their generosity found ways to contribute back into it. The couple evacuated to Houston with their children before Hurricane Ida hit. On the way back, they stocked up on food and started cooking outside for the neighbors. +9 With lights or no, New Orleans bars get back open, serving something stronger than drinks The blaring afternoon sun provided most of the illumination inside Three Palms Bar & Grill on Tulane Avenue, but the bartender had a heavy Weve been doing jerk chicken, barbecue chicken, red beans, oxtails, and those oxtails went quick, Jordan said. Island Paradise normally serves the food of Trinidad and Tobago, Balbosas native country, and they rolled some of these dishes into their free community meals. The menu evolved with their supply situation, and as other people volunteered to help them. Its about comfort and hospitality. A hot plate can go a long way; these people are my angels, said Kevin James, a local photographer who after Ida found his first hot meals in days at Island Paradise. The next day, he returned, but this time to volunteer, pitching in with the cooking. I would have to work 100 years to pay them back for all theyve done, James said. The Island Paradise example is one of many that materialized around the area as restaurant people put their cooking skills, still-functional gas-fired equipment and their inventory to use for the community during the Ida-induce blackout. Just up the street in Gretna, Carolyn and Cedric Singleton returned to their long-running Creole soul restaurant the Real Pie Man just days after the storm to cook for the neighbors. Working in a dark, very hot kitchen, they dished out free plates of smothered okra and fried chicken as people lined up outside. Across the river in Faubourg Marigny, chef Lenora Chong and her crew at Morrow's set up an outside kitchen with fryers and huge kettles to cook free community meals day after day last week. Food and restaurant news in your inbox Every Thursday we give you the scoop on NOLA dining. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up "You have to find the will to do something to help," she said while packing meaty white beans and fried chicken into boxes under the slim shade of a pop-up tent. "People are hurting right now." Across town on Oak Street, chef Marcus Jacobs drove back into town with a load of shrimp and crabs he bought in Mississippi and boiled it all up at his restaurant Seafood Sallys to give away to neighbors passing by. Downtown, one location of the local brand Willie's Chicken Shack at 428 Canal St. spent last week serving free meals to people in need. Another day of community cooking at Island Paradise started early with a breakfast spread. Volunteers made up plates of grits and eggs and bacon, and people found hot coffee, cold water and fruit to take as well. Balbosa said one man who had been coming by for meals learned that the chef herself did not have power at her house, so he gave her a generator to use. Within a few days, electricity was restored at the restaurant, and then at their home. Ever since we started doing this, good things have happened, Jordan said. The work has been hard in the heat, but the gratitude of the people turning up for meals has kept the crew buoyant. When the lights started coming back on around the Gretna area, Balbosa decided to shift gears and focus on cleaning up and restocking for their regular restaurant menu. She planned to reopen the family business on more normal terms on Sept. 15. Perhaps some things from the past week will carry through the business. One young woman in line for breakfast last week said she frequently orders delivery from Island Paradise, but had never actually visited in person. That would change after this experience, she said. Island Paradise 635 Kepler St., Gretna (504) 227-5544 Wed. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m., Thu. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri., Sat. noon-8 p.m. +3 New Orleans music club that fed thousands in the pandemic gets cooking again after Ida The stage inside the New Orleans music venue the Howlin Wolf was dark and quiet after Hurricane Ida cut the areas power supply. But on the s +5 A New Orleans culinary school rapidly transforms as a hub of Hurricane Ida food relief Classes were on hold at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute after Hurricane Ida, but the downtown culinary school offered a v +10 'This is survival mode.' For New Orleans restaurants cooking again, future is day to day The vast majority of New Orleans remained sweltering in the post Hurricane Ida blackout Thursday, but through the day more restaurants and nei Editor's note: Events featured in this column occurred before New Orleans mandated masks indoors. Fine Fellowship! Pillars of Scouting The Southeast Louisiana Council Boy Scouts of America held its 2021 Pillars of Scouting Luncheon in the Audubon Tea Room. Five men were hailed. Last year, Jim Letten and Charles W. Nelson were scheduled to be lauded at the luncheon, but that did not happen. Thus they were combined with the 2021 Pillars to make a nice number of five. Robert H. Merrick, Lt. Gov. Billy N. Nungesser and Garry Winchester were recognized as the 2021 limelighted threesome. After initial mixing and conversation, attendees proceeded to their tables for the program. Leading off was Jeff Crouere, master of ceremonies. Then came the Opening Flag and Scout Oath by local Scouts, Jeff Croueres opening comments, and the invocation by Dr. Paul Gregoire. Lunch ensued and consisted of a salad (with delicious dressing), a chicken main course and dessert. Set in a silver Revere bowl, a pretty centerpiece of colorful flowers, including roses and daisies, graced each table. Next up was Council President Bill Metcalf, who asked for a moment of silence to remember the recently deceased James Jimmy Fitzmorris, a 2017 honoree, as were Ken Pickering and Frank B. Stewart Jr. Metcalf, who for years has co-chaired the luncheon with Patricia Pat Denechaud, talked about his love of Scouting and all that it gave him as a child. Its such an honor for me, began Pat Denechaud about her connection with Scouting and the association with the five worthy honorees. Then the luncheon co-chairs, Bill (a 2018 co-honoree with Joe Exnicios) and Pat, along with Torrey Hayden of the SLC, presented the five awards to Messrs. Merrick, chairman and CEO of Latter + Blum Inc.; Nungesser, 54th lieutenant governor of the state of Louisiana; Winchester, longtime Scoutmaster and Boy Scouts Executive Board member; Letten, an attorney with the law firm Butler Snow LLP and immediate past Southeast Louisiana Council, Boy Scouts of America president; and Nelson, chairman of Waldemar S. Nelson and Company Inc., and another former Council president. Each expressed his gratitude and support of Scouting. Before Dr. Gregoire gave the benediction to close the program, Torrey Hayden talked briefly about Scouting in our area (Its all about the kids) and extended a host of thank yous. Around and about were members of the luncheon committee whose numbers tallied 45 and included some of the above-mentioned, along with Boysie Bollinger, a 2019 co-honoree with Bill Oliver, who died in June of 2019; Bitsy Metcalf, daughter of Bill Metcalf; and Marian Wallis. Making rounds among the many was Muffin L. Adriance, who was credited in the program as a Scout Investor. Her allegiance was apparent: She was decked out in Scouting attire. The Bertel Brigade On a recent Wednesday, dozens headed to the Armstrong Ballroom of the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel for the presentation of The C. Alvin Bertel Award. The World Trade Center New Orleans acted as the events host. Always a prestigious honor, the 2021 laurels befell Paul G. Aucoin, executive director of the Port of South Louisiana, a position he has held since 2013. Both his undergraduate and law degrees are from Loyola University. Among the many in the audience applauding him were his two daughters, Shelley Winters and Leah Regard. Stephen C. Hanemann, WTC chairman and president, gave the welcome, the acknowledgments and closing words, while William S. App Jr. was tapped for the invocation, Pledge of Allegiance and special remarks (along with John H. Jack Bertel). J. Edwin Webb, the World Trade Centers CEO, made tribute remarks and Paul Murray III, commissioner treasurer of the Port of South Louisiana, stepped forward for the award presentation. The honored Aucoin accepted most graciously and gratefully. Sponsors of the award luncheon were numerous, led off by Associated Terminals LLC and Ochsner Health. Officers of the WTC (in addition to Chairman and President Hanemann) include Vice Chairman and Treasurer Christopher Sullivan and Secretary Kristiann App. Paul Aucoin, Brandy D. Christian, Eddie Compass IV, Robert DiCianni, Todd Fuller, Vince Hayward, Michael Hecht, Tim Hemphill, Heather Hohensee, Michael Olivier, Dolph Parro, Greg Rusovich, Brenda Stelly, Drew Tessier and Beth Walker serve as directors. Highlights of the noon activity were the decor, Tribute Video production (featuring Aucoins colleagues and some former Bertel Award recipients) and Bertel Award Luncheon Production by Martin Management; planning by McCausland Event Management (which also did the floral arrangements of white daisies); and the Sheraton New Orleans menu. Luncheon fare started with chicken and andouille gumbo and concluded with cheesecake with berry coulis. Notables and there were scores, all with relevant titles included most of the above, along with Michelle Ganon, Mark Wright, Pete Dufresne, Bernard Charbonnet, Drew Heaphy, Gary Blossman, Jay Hardman, and Patricia Pat Denechaud. All recognized Paul Aucoin for his significant contributions to the Louisiana port and the maritime community. Kudos! Gambit's Events Calendar Due to Hurricane Ida and COVID-19, please check with the venue to make sure the event is still taking place, before you go. For more upcoming events visit calendar.gambitweekly.com It was 93 degrees at the corner of North Roman and Gov. Nicholls streets at 2 p.m. Sunday, according to a dashboard thermometer that didnt account for the subtropical humidity and dazzling sun. Three young men had been hoisted 40 feet over the asphalt on the spidery arms of bucket trucks amid a web of thick black wires, to repair the fractured crossbar of a power pole. Another eight watched from the ground. They were part of the crew of thousands of out-of-state electrical repairmen and women whod trucked into New Orleans to turn the lights back on after Hurricane Ida punched them out. The sunbaked, helmeted men seemed to agree that the public had been welcoming, despite the hardships of the citywide blackout that had persisted in many areas for a solid seven days. They dont give us no hard time, drawled Scott Steward, as he watched the work proceed from the ground. Since he and his fellow Atlanta-based linemen had arrived on Wednesday, theyd worked through most of their waking hours, he said. Workman Mark Aaron said most people had been patient, though a few had been testy. You understand, because its hot, he said. Asked if the Atlantans would find time to see the sights in New Orleans or maybe visit a Bourbon Street bar, James Belcher said though the crew was staying in the Omni Royal Orleans hotel in the French Quarter, he doubted hed sample the legendary night life. I go in (to the hotel), get in the AC, get a nice shower, get on the bed, and thats it, he said. Entergy says it has brought nearly 26,000 workers from 41 states to repair Louisiana's hard-hit electrical grid. On Sunday morning, the utility said it had restored power to 79,000 of 205,000 customers in New Orleans, and 270,000 out of 697,000 in the state. Still, some disaster repairmen apparently have found their way to the few establishments that are open in the citys oldest neighborhood. Spirits on Bourbon is a saloon known for frosty frozen cocktails served in plastic mugs shaped like human skulls. Power was restored to the Quarter late Wednesday and bartender Corey Riley said Spirits was able to reopen Friday. So far, the bars post-Ida clientele has included electrical workers from Kentucky, Missouri and Illinois. Theyre our local heroes, man," Riley said. Theyre real nice guys, cool people, real respectful. To reciprocate, Riley said he comped one crew a round of Michelob Ultras and sent over some signature frozen skull drinks for good measure. Its a brave effort, the bartender said, of the hot and sometimes dangerous repair work. They leave their families to come help us. I look at them like soldiers. Nearby, at Mollys on Toulouse, Jason Free said hed also sent a round of beers to visiting electrical workers. I knew what they were here for, and I appreciate it, he said. Everywhere that bucket trucks and other service vehicles appear, they bring with them a sense of promise, allowing residents of dark, hot homes a reason for optimism. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Near Filmore Avenue, Florida-based repairman Justin Quillen and a small crew of workers used a digger derrick truck to bore a hole in the median where they prepared to plant a new power pole. Theyd ridden out the storm in Mobile and traveled to the city afterward, Quillen said. Theyve been very welcoming, Quillen said of the Orleanians hes met. They say thank you. They appreciate us. As if on cue, a passing motorist waved and called out, Thank you! +9 Utility vehicles stand ready for action at Entergy staging area near UNO Lakefront Arena Hundreds of utility vehicles were clustered in the parking lots around the University of New Orleans Lakefront Arena on Wednesday at noon. The On North Derbigny Street not far from Franklin Avenue, three repair trucks lined the curb. The men in the cabs ate boxed lunches and awaited their next job assignment. Theyd driven in from Georgia. Nathalie Mills, a retired speech aide who said she worked at Charity Hospital for three decades, sat on a nearby porch, hoping the idling vehicles would soon spell relief. Theyre a blessing, she said. They could have been doing something else with their wife and kids. Im thankful. Theyve come a long way to help, and thats a beautiful thing. One of the young men in the trucks, who asked not to be named, said the public had been supportive. Weve had a lot of good comments, he said. People are happy were out there working for them. Just then a passerby paused in the street to inquire when the power would be restored. Were working on it as fast as we can, the Georgian said. The passerby grumbled under her breath as she walked on. The ghastly problems that festered after residents of seven New Orleans-area nursing homes were evacuated to a warehouse in Tangipahoa Parish had less to do with the emergency plan itself than with the way the manager of those facilities executed it, Louisiana Department of Health officials said Sunday. As The Times-Picayune | The Advocate reported Saturday, Bob Dean, the Baton Rouge businessman who owns the seven nursing homes in question, had filed plans with the LDH that spelled out how he would move as many as 700 residents to the warehouse he owns in Independence in the case of an evacuation. When Hurricane Ida approached, all seven homes were evacuated, and 843 residents were brought to the facility on Friday about 20% more people than Dean's plans had envisioned. Even so, when LDH officials inspected the warehouse on the Friday before landfall and then again a day later, they found that "from a facility standpoint, the minimum necessary components to provide a safe sheltering environment for a very short period of time were met," spokesperson Aly Neel said in a prepared statement. Plans to evacuate nursing homes to warehouse, where 7 have since died, were OK'd by state When news broke that nearly 850 frail nursing-home patients were crammed into a warehouse in a remote corner of Louisiana during Hurricane Ida But after landfall, backup generators failed, trash piled up and care declined to shockingly poor standards, with residents complaining of having to lie in their own feces and urine, the LDH said. "Residents' basic care needs were not met," Neel said, adding that "it was clear to receiving hospitals that residents had been neglected." Making matters worse, Neel said, Dean "failed to communicate the dire situation to the state and ask for help," instead trying to prevent LDH's inspectors from assessing the situation. By Thursday, four residents had died. LDH officials shut the warehouse down that day and moved the 800-plus occupants to other shelters and care facilities. As of Saturday, LDH had linked seven deaths to the evacuation and its aftermath. LDH also announced Saturday that the seven Dean-owned nursing homes whose residents were taken there would be closed for the time being while health officials conduct an investigation. Attorney General Jeff Landry has also announced an investigation into the matter. Bob Dean, at center of nursing-home evacuation scandal, has been prolific political donor The nursing homes owner who left nearly 850 of his patients in an unsanitary warehouse following Hurricane Ida has been a generous supporter o The state requires each of Louisianas roughly 280 nursing homes to submit disaster plans that explain how they would provide care without power, where they would evacuate if necessary and how they would get patients to that facility. LDH signs off on the plans, but it's unclear how closely they review them. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Dean said in an interview with WVUE-TV last week that the plan to house residents in the warehouse went fairly well. "We only had five deaths within the six days and normally with 850 people, youll have a couple a day, so we did really good with taking care of people," he said. In sometimes hard-to-decipher texts exchanged with The Times-Picayune | The Advocate on Sunday, Dean seemed to be making similar arguments. He complained that state officials had "absconded (with) the residents" and said that he and his employees had only been able to locate a few of them. As a result of the state's actions, he said, families were "heartbroken and distraught." Over the years, Dean has often opted to evacuate facilities when a storm with Category 3 winds is approaching, even though evacuations can be very stressful on the elderly and the infirm. He has also regularly used warehouses or other large buildings he owns to serve as temporary care centers for his nursing home residents sometimes attracting controversy in the process. For 2008's Hurricane Gustav, he sent hundreds of residents from four of his homes to an abandoned Winn-Dixie building in Plaquemine that he owns. A nurse from Dean's South Lafourche Nursing and Rehab home who worked on that evacuation as well as Ida said the Gustav evacuation went poorly, in part because the Winn-Dixie was poorly stocked with necessary supplies. But the evacuation to Independence was "100 times worse," she said, thanks to a critical shortage of supplies. The nurse spoke on condition of anonymity over fear for her job. That nurse and another also said the warehouse was badly understaffed. Neel's statement did not address specific questions about whether staffing or supply levels were adequate. State shuts down 7 nursing homes after Hurricane Ida evacuation deaths, inhumane conditions The Louisiana Department of Health announced Saturday evening that they are shutting down seven nursing homes owned by Baton Rouge businessman Dean also evacuated residents of his New Orleans-area nursing homes to a poorly-equipped warehouse he owned in downtown Baton Rouge for 1992s Hurricane Andrew and 1998s Hurricane Georges. Two residents died during or shortly after the Georges evacuation, via a bus that lacked air conditioning. Meanwhile, Baton Rouge fire officials shut the warehouse down because it violated fire codes, lacking sprinklers and fire alarms. They had become aware of issues because of multiple 911 calls involving patients suffering from the heat. Dean eventually paid a $1,000 fine in connection as punishment for those failures. When news broke that nearly 850 frail nursing-home patients were crammed into a warehouse in a remote corner of Louisiana during Hurricane Ida, it sounded like a desperate, temporary solution devised as the storm quickly grew and threatened much of the southeastern part of the state. But the plan in the event of an emergency was always to evacuate residents of seven nursing homes to the warehouse in Tangipahoa Parish, documents submitted to the state show. Emergency evacuation plans for two of the seven facilities obtained by The Times-Picayune | The Advocate described an alternate care facility that could hold 700 people in Independence, where residents of River Palms and Maison Orleans Healthcare were to be taken in an emergency. One page in the document makes clear that the warehouse could be the evacuation site for all seven homes, which along with the warehouse are owned by Baton Rouge businessman Bob Dean. But while the plans were submitted to and approved by the Louisiana Department of Health, its not clear how closely they were scrutinized. LDH officials have not commented yet on their knowledge of the plans. 3 more Louisiana nursing-home residents die after evacuation to warehouse; total now at 7 Three more nursing-home residents who were controversially evacuated to a huge warehouse in Tangipahoa Parish have died, bringing the total nu Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller has said he was told the facility was designed to hold between 200 to 400 people, and Independence Police Chief Frank Edwards III told WVUE-TV that he was told to expect a maximum of 350 people. Instead, 843 residents were crammed in, strewn across the building on mattresses on the floor, eventually lying in their own feces and calling out for help as conditions worsened. LDH officials ordered the warehouse evacuated Wednesday and moved the patients to other facilities. They have also said they will conduct a full investigation of what happened and refer it to prosecutors if necessary. Attorney General Jeff Landry has also announced an investigation. Late Saturday, LDH officials announced that they was ordering the closure of all seven nursing homes that evacuated to the Independence warehouse. "What happened in Independence is reprehensible, and I know there are many families hurting as a result, LDH Secretary Dr. Courtney N. Phillips said in a prepared statement. With three additional deaths announced Saturday, seven people have now died as a result of the conditions they endured after the storm, according to state health officials. It was ungodly, said Melanie Sieberth, 65, a resident from one of the nursing homes who suffers from multiple sclerosis and who was rescued from the warehouse Thursday. People were dying around me and they would just leave them there for hours and hours before the coroner would come pick up the dead bodies. It was really, really bad. Attorney James Cobb, who successfully defended the owners of the St. Ritas nursing facility in Chalmette, where 35 patients died during Hurricane Katrina, calls the plans that allowed for 700 nursing home residents to gather in a warehouse a double failure. +11 Families never knew nursing home loved ones were suffering in warehouse; it breaks my heart Terry Hicks spent a week trying to contact her husband of 33 years after he told her his nursing home was evacuating ahead of Hurricane Ida. Its a failure on the part of the operator, who should know better than try to put 700 nursing home residents in one spot, and a failure on the part of the state to catch that and require them to do something else, said Cobb. The state requires each of Louisianas roughly 280 nursing homes to submit disaster plans for providing care without power, where they would evacuate if necessary and how they would get patients to that facility. The LDH signs off on the plans. But the plans do not appear to be closely examined by the state. For example, the LDH mandates that nursing homes must have a transportation plan, but there is no rule about multiple nursing homes using the same provider. As a result, many homes have contracts with the same transportation companies. If a large swath of the state needed to evacuate, there likely wouldnt be enough buses to go around. The emergency plans from Deans two Orleans facilities also list the other nursing homes he owns as potential evacuation locations, even though most are near enough to each other that a hurricane would likely impact all of the facilities. One nurse who worked for Deans South Lafourche Nursing and Rehab facility and evacuated to the warehouse with the residents said that Deans facilities generally evacuated any time they were in the path of a Category 3 hurricane or higher. AG probes warehouse of Hurricane Ida nursing home evacuees; 5th resident reported dead A fifth nursing home resident who had been transferred to a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse ahead of Hurricane Ida has died. Dean has had a habit of clustering residents of multiple nursing homes under a single roof when he evacuates them. The nurse from South Lafourche Nursing and Rehab, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because she fears for her job, recalled a 2008 evacuation for Hurricane Gustav to an abandoned Winn-Dixie building in Plaquemine owned by Dean, where four of his nursing homes sent hundreds of their residents. At the time, she said she thought the Winn-Dixie evacuation went poorly because they were short on supplies. But she described the Ida evacuation as 100 times worse. Because this time, instead of four nursing homes, this facility we had seven, she explained. We had so many more people with about the same amount of supplies. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Dean also evacuated residents of numerous New Orleans-area nursing homes to a poorly equipped warehouse he owned in downtown Baton Rouge for 1992s Hurricane Andrew and 1998s Hurricane Georges. The latter evacuation stirred controversy because two residents died during or shortly after the evacuation, via a bus that lacked air conditioning. Meanwhile, Baton Rouge fire officials shut the warehouse down because it violated fire codes, lacking sprinklers and fire alarms. They had become aware of issues because of multiple 911 calls involving patients suffering from the heat. For Ida, the lack of available bed space at Deans other nursing homes may explain in part why the Independence warehouse wound up hosting roughly 20% more residents than the emergency plans said it could hold -- and more than twice what local officials said they were expecting. Another question raised by the documents is why all of the Dean-owned nursing homes were evacuated in the first place. +4 Nurses horrified by nursing home's treatment of evacuees at Louisiana warehouse; 'We tried' Two nurses who worked inside the Tangipahoa Parish warehouse where more than 800 nursing home residents have now been rescued from squalid con The plan for River Palms, for instance, says the facility has a natural gas-powered generator that can keep the air conditioning on for 76 hours. The documents also include a contract to resupply fuel if it becomes necessary. The warehouse in Independence apparently did not have such redundancy. Once the main power went out, the facility had a generator that also sputtered, and residents suffered in the heat, staffers who worked at the facility said. Its also clear that in some instances, nursing home operators did not follow their own plans. The River Palms evacuation plans, for example, say that the nursing homes administrator should establish daily communications with staff members, residents, and resident families/responsible parties. They also include a note sent to residents families last year, reminding them that you also have the option to take your loved one home during planned evacuations, particularly due to hurricanes. But numerous relatives have said they had no notice that their loved ones were being evacuated, let alone to a remote warehouse, for Hurricane Ida. They also say they had no communication about their loved ones whereabouts for days after the storm. +3 Baton Rouge nursing home owner Bob Dean has drawn regulators' ire on numerous occasions Bob Dean, the Baton Rouge developer whose Louisiana nursing home empire is at the center of controversy after four residents died after being According to Sarah Babcock, chief administrative assistant of Jefferson Parish, three of the four total facilities evacuating from the parish were owned by Dean. This company has a history of evacuating early, and those buildings tend to have smaller generators than some of our other nursing homes. If a generator is not going to be able to run air conditioning, we do encourage them to evacuate, said Babcock, who previously worked in emergency management at the New Orleans Health Department. In Orleans Parish, facilities are required to have enough power to keep the air running, an ordinance Babcock helped draft. But evacuation brings its own risks. Studies show that nursing home residents who evacuate die at much higher rates in the following months, according to the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association. My understanding was this owner would not allow the state or fire marshal into the building, said Babcock. Having a plan for how to address that is really critical. A large number of residents in one facility, by itself, is not always cause for concern in an emergency situation, said Dr. Rebekah Gee, CEO of health care services for LSU Health and former secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health. If you have the appropriate staff, clean linens and beds, medications, everything you need, I wouldnt say this number alone is a problem, said Gee, who pointed out the state houses people in large congregate shelters for storms. The most important thing is staff. And while the residents have all been evacuated, the failed planning has trickled down to other vulnerable people because the nursing home residents were moved to the states medical needs shelters. We havent had a place to take them for the last two days, said Babcock, of other people deteriorating in their homes who havent had power for six days. We havent had enough buses and ambulances for the last two days. Video and accounts from staff and residents inside the warehouse show beds packed tightly together without masks, with plastic bags used as diapers and not enough nurses to help the patients crying out. Sieberth says she wound up in a much better place, but she is still haunted by the days after Ida. "I ended up in a wonderful nursing/rehab place called Roseview Nursing in Shreveport, Sieberth said. Everyone is kind, the food is incredible and it is furnished very pretty. Now I have to stop my nightmares somehow." Staff writer Gordon Russell contributed to this report. The Louisiana Department of Health announced Saturday evening that they are shutting down seven nursing homes owned by Baton Rouge businessman Bob Dean after the nursing homes sent more than 800 residents to a warehouse for Hurricane Ida, where residents were living in filth and calling out for help. The Ida evacuation has already resulted in seven deaths, dozens of hospitalizations and hundreds of families trying to find their loved ones after learning about the inhumane conditions. The LDH has opened an investigation into what happened, and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry has opened an investigation as well. The seven nursing homes being shut down are River Palms Nursing and Rehab in Orleans Parish, South Lafourche Nursing and Rehab in Lafourche Parish, Maison Orleans Healthcare Center in Orleans Parish, Park Place Healthcare Nursing Home in Jefferson Parish, West Jefferson Health Care Center in Jefferson Parish, Maison DeVille Nursing Home in Terrebonne Parish and Maison DeVille Nursing Home of Harvey in Jefferson Parish. Plans to evacuate nursing homes to warehouse, where 7 have since died, were OK'd by state When news broke that nearly 850 frail nursing-home patients were crammed into a warehouse in a remote corner of Louisiana during Hurricane Ida "What happened in Independence is reprehensible, and I know there are many families hurting as a result, said LDH Secretary Dr. Courtney N. Phillips in a news release. Todays action against these facilities is needed. There is more to come. Our Departments mission is to advance the health and well-being of our residents and that includes our vulnerable nursing home residents. LDH inspectors visited the site multiple times before nursing home management kicked them off the premises on Aug. 31. The next day, they began to rescue the 800 plus residents living at the warehouse in Independence. Louisiana State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter signed the emergency order Saturday to close the nursing homes. The order says it will remain in effect until Sept. 10, but that it's subject to extensions at Kanter's discretion. An LDH spokeswoman said the state is also pursuing permanent regulatory action against Dean's nursing homes. The order says that LDH personnel observed "conditions that have caused great concern" and that Kanter reasonably believes "may cause a danger to public life, health and safety." The conditions in which nursing home residents were tightly packed together in the warehouse also caused concerns about the spread of infectious disease, the order states. +4 Nurses horrified by nursing home's treatment of evacuees at Louisiana warehouse; 'We tried' Two nurses who worked inside the Tangipahoa Parish warehouse where more than 800 nursing home residents have now been rescued from squalid con Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up The observations from the warehouse site "call into question" the ability of the nursing homes "to properly provide for the full spectrum of care required of these residents, and calls into question infectious disease suppression protocols, especially if evacuation of residents is required." The order also states that if the nursing homes meet conditions for reopening, they cannot admit any residents until LDH completes its investigation into the warehouse evacuation. The lack of regard for these vulnerable residents' well-being is an affront to human dignity," Kanter said in a statement. "We have lost trust in these nursing homes to provide adequate care for their residents. We are taking immediate action today to protect public health." Dean's evacuation plans had been approved by the state ahead of Hurricane Ida, and they made clear that the plan was to send all seven homes to the warehouse of Waterbury Companies in Tangipahoa Parish, which Dean also owned. Dean also clustered his nursing homes together at warehouse-like facilities he owned during evacuations in the past. LDH officials have not answered questions about why they approved Dean's evacuation plans. But they have said that conditions at the warehouse "deteriorated" significantly after the storm, and Saturday's news release says LDH workers were "subject to intimidation by the owner of the seven nursing facilities." Dean has not returned phone calls from The Times-Picayune | The Advocate. But he gave an interview to WVUE-TV on Thursday in which he said he had spent more than $1 million on the evacuation, which he judged mostly successful. "We only had five deaths within the six days... normally with 850 people you'll have a couple a day," Dean said. "So, we did really good on taking care of people." After a week of swimming alone in a Slidell drainage canal and becoming somewhat of a local celebrity a southeast Louisiana version of the Loch Ness monster a young bottlenose dolphin was rescued Sunday and was to be released into the Mississippi Sound. Hurricane Idas storm surge separated the dolphin from its pod and sent it into the Schneider Canal, which is part of the city's drainage system. Over the last week, reports of the dolphin swimming in the canal have drawn onlookers from across the parish, eager to see a dorsal fin or more. Can't see the video below? Click here. On Sunday morning, a group of rescuers used kayak paddles to create ripples in the water to guide the dolphin toward a net. He was gently loaded into the back of a van provided by the Audubon Nature Institute's Coastal Wildlife Network and assessed by a team of three veterinarians. The van was escorted by police cars with intermittent sirens and flashing lights to the Mississippi Sound near the Silver Slipper Casino. After taking blood samples, putting a satellite tag on him and confirming that he was healthy, the team released him about 200 yards out, where the water was more than four feet deep. "He swam off, healthy and good, said Jon Peterson, part of the SeaWorld Rescue Team. "It was a success." The rescue was performed by the Southeast Region Marine Mammal Stranding Network, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offshoot that includes the SeaWorld team, the Audubon Institute and others. The dolphin was just over 6 feet long and between 2.5 and 3 years old. He became slightly stressed while the team moved him from the water to the van, but his heart rate and respiration steadied during transport, Peterson said. Other than a few freshwater lesions pocks that appear on the skin caused by freshwater he seemed to be super strong, Peterson said. The pocks should clear quickly as he swims in the salty Gulf. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up Local teams, including the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, will continue to track his movements and if it looks off or like hes in trouble well send crews out to intervene, he said. This animal should thrive and have no issues, Peterson said. Animals like this are resilient. Rescuing displaced animals is part of a hurricane, Peterson said. His team usually rescues between six and 12 dolphins a year after storms. This rescue was unique because it took place in a populated area, he said, noting that typical rescues in Louisiana are way out in the backwoods, in the bayous. This isn't the first time Slidell has encountered an out-of-habitat dolphin. For instance, around the time of Hurricane Katrina, a male bottlenose dolphin that was dubbed the "Slidell dolphin" made its home in the waterways within the Lakeshore Estates subdivision. Officials at the time said its parents probably swam there for safety but left the calf behind after the storm. In later years, it became aggressive and bit several people. Wild dolphin near Slidell is naturally aggressive and must be ignored, experts say People who come in to contact with the dolphin living in waterways within the Lakeshore Estates subdivision near Slidell should do their best The dolphin tale served as a welcome distraction as some people in the parish grapple ongoing power outages and begin to repair damage from Hurricane Ida. "This is what people need right now," said Daniel Seuzeneau, a spokesperson for the Slidell Police Department, adding some officials had dubbed the rescue effort "Operation Flipper." More than 600,000 Entergy customers in Louisiana were still without power Saturday, six days after Hurricane Ida struck, but the power company was beginning to make progress returning parts of the New Orleans metro area to the grid after setting timelines for when individual neighborhoods would get service back. By early evening, the company reported nearly a third of New Orleans residents and businesses had electricity, a sizable bump from the 20% who could turn on lights and air conditioning on Friday and 27% who had been restored as of Saturday morning. The restorations brought 12,000 customers online in New Orleans over the course of Saturday, enough to bring hope that the blackout could soon be ending to the 138,000 still left in the dark. But elsewhere in the state, where storm damage was more severe, there remained significant outages. Only about 10% of customers in Jefferson Parish had their power back, and more than 600,000 who get their electricity from Entergy headed into the evening without power statewide. More than 900,000 customers lost power after Ida's Category 4 winds sent much of the New Orleans regions into a blackout Sunday night. Even in New Orleans, as deadlines drew near or passed and individual homes and blocks were skipped over as their neighbors lit up, frustrations over inaccurate outage maps and a lack of information from the power company continued to simmer in the summer heat. About six hundred people packed up and boarded buses charted by the city bound for shelters with air conditioning elsewhere in the state and at least some residents took flight on their own. +3 Entergy gave shifting rationales for New Orleans East plant at center of Ida response When Hurricane Ida's winds knocked down transmission lines and plunged the New Orleans area into darkness Sunday night, many residents turned With the transmission of power over long-distance lines now secure, the task ahead was to repair thousands of utility poles, along with hundreds of transformers and street-level wires. Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May said at a briefing on Saturday morning said that more poles were destroyed in the storm than in Hurricane Laura, which devastated the southwest Louisiana last year, or in hurricanes Katrina, Delta and Zeta combined. "This storm is clearly one of the most devastating things we've ever seen in south Louisiana, May said. "No storm has even come close to this in terms of the devastation it has placed on our system." New Orleans neighborhoods getting power back gradually over next five days Entergy said Friday that most metro New Orleans neighborhoods are likely to get their power restored over the next five days, as the city's re The company still expects the vast majority of customers in New Orleans to have power by Sept. 8 and has set the same deadline for the East Bank of Jefferson Parish and the more urbanized areas of its West Bank. St. Bernard Parish customers can expect to be restored a day earlier. But further from the urban core, residents in less populated areas at the far eastern end of New Orleans East, in lower Jefferson Parish and in all of Plaquemines Parish can expect to be in the dark until the end of the month. CLECO reported 74% of its customers in St. Tammany Parish and 47% of its customers in Washington Parish had power restored by Saturday. +11 Stricken by Hurricane Ida, New Orleans restaurants spring into action to feed others Local baker Kelly Mayhew drove back to New Orleans the night after riding out Hurricane Ida with family in Texas, but he didnt come back to b Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up Throughout the day, residents and elected officials took to social media to announce their areas of had come back, a process made possible after Entergy returned three more transmission lines into the area. That brought the total number to six, providing a full load to the city, May said. The two remaining downed transmission lines include ones that went through a tower that collapsed during Ida. Crews demolished those lines with explosives Friday night. A wide swath of Carrollton and Uptown had power restored late Friday or on Saturday, as did a sliver of Gentilly and large areas of New Orleans East. Noting that New Orleans East is typically among the last neighborhoods to get power restored, Councilmember Cyndi Nguyen, who represents the area, said "we're changing history." It was difficult to gauge how extensive some of those repairs were, however, because of frequent problems with Entergys outage map. +5 New Orleans evacuates some senior apartments as Ida conditions worsen At-risk populations struggle five days after storm knocked out power in New Orleans region Entergy New Orleans President and CEO Deanna Rodriguez recommended residents forego the map entirely and instead text STAT to 36778 or check the Entergy app for updates on their address. The progress was not uniform within neighborhoods, however. Carrollton Riverbend Neighborhood Association President Elaine Leyda said she and several of her neighbors on Dublin Street were still without power on Saturday, a day after Entergy estimated their area would have electricity. It was frustrating because many other residents nearby had already gotten their power back. There were no visible signs of damage to the lines in the area and Leyda said she hadnt gotten a clear sense from the power company of what had gone wrong. Keeping sewer systems working during massive power outages a challenge in St. Tammany The stench of sewage was almost unbearable in Ashton Parc subdivision near Slidell on Wednesday, according to residents who watched wastewater "I think the schedule was a good idea but they need to take responsibility for the parts that have not come back yet," Leyda said. They need to stand up and say, 'Wow, Im sorry you dont have power yet. Heres the issue were trying to fix.'" Leyda said she and her elderly tenant and neighbor were making due as best they could with battery powered fans, ice and by burning precious fuel on car trips just to be in the air conditioning. But the big concern was that Entergy had already pushed on to other neighborhoods in a quest to get power back to large chunks of the city at once, and would only come back and restore those they missed at the end of the process. The greatest good for the greatest number is always lovely until youre that one problem spot, she said. Staff writer Faimon Roberts contributed to this report. The nursing homes owner who left nearly 850 of his patients in an unsanitary warehouse following Hurricane Ida has been a generous supporter of both Democratic and Republican politicians in Louisiana. State and federal campaign finance records show Bob Dean has given at least $289,000 to candidates since 1994 both as an individual and through 25 companies he owns. There is a gap in his political giving. Dean didnt donate to campaigns for a decade from 2008 through 2018, but he started making contributions again in the weeks leading up to Gov. John Bel Edwards second gubernatorial election. Dean gave Edwards $42,500 and the governors brother, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards, $7,500 in September and October of 2019. The brothers, both Democrats, were up for reelection that year. Both won their races. Besides the Edwards brothers, Dean has made only one other political donation since 2007. He contributed $25,000 in June to the Conservative Louisiana political action committee, which supports Republican U.S. Sen. John Kennedy. Kennedy also received $5,000 from Dean in 1999. Deans business arrangements and political connections are under scrutiny this week after the state evacuated hundreds of patients who lived in seven of his nursing homes from a warehouse he owns in Tangipahoa Parish. On Saturday night, the governor's administration announced it was shutting down the seven nursing homes that transferred patients to the warehouse. Plans to evacuate nursing homes to warehouse, where 7 have since died, were OK'd by state When news broke that nearly 850 frail nursing-home patients were crammed into a warehouse in a remote corner of Louisiana during Hurricane Ida Dean also owns other nursing homes including those in Opelousas and Plaquemine that were never evacuated and continue to operate. Residents from the now-shuttered seven nursing homes had been moved to the warehouse ahead of Hurricane Ida. Seven have died since being transferred there and 12 patients were hospitalized. Its not clear if any of the deaths occurred in the 12 people who were hospitalized. Gov. John Bel Edwards office said Deans political contributions to the governor will have no bearing on how the case is handled. The governor has demanded and will ensure a complete investigation by law enforcement, including Louisiana State Police, and health officials to ensure that those people responsible for this tragic situation are held accountable, said Christina Stephens, the governors spokeswoman, Friday. There are just no words In the days after the storm, the Louisiana Department of Health received alarming reports about the warehouse, department spokeswoman Aly Neel said this week. The building was hot and partially flooded. It reeked of urine and nursing home residents were being kept on mattresses on the floor, Neel said. The facility had nearly 150 more patients than the Health Department expected. Nursing homes in Louisiana must submit a plan to the Health Department outlining how they would evacuate patients if necessary. The department knew Dean planned to move many patients about 700 to the warehouse ahead of Hurricane Ida, Neel said. State shuts down 7 nursing homes after Hurricane Ida evacuation deaths, inhumane conditions The Louisiana Department of Health announced Saturday evening that they are shutting down seven nursing homes owned by Baton Rouge businessman Health officials inspected the site Aug. 27, two days before the hurricane landed. Those officials deemed the site adequate for evacuees at that point, Neel said. Health officials havent answered additional questions about why a plan to move hundreds of nursing home patients to a warehouse was ever approved. The agency heard conditions at the warehouse were declining Aug. 30. Deans nursing homes were also housing far more patients in the warehouse than the Health Department had thought would be there. Health inspectors went to the warehouse in person Tuesday but were refused entry by nursing home staff working at the building, Neel said. The Health Department has said in a news release that staff were intimidated by Dean personally. The refusal prompted the state to make hasty arrangements to transfer the remaining patients. State officials, ambulances and health care workers returned to the warehouse Wednesday and Thursday to remove those patients. There are just no words, said Dr. Joe Kanter, Louisianas chief medical officer, about the warehouse. There will be a lot that will be looked at in this. Attorney General Jeff Landry is launching an investigation into the matter. Dean and his staff at an office where dozens of his companies are registered in downtown Baton Rouge did not respond to voicemails and social media messages left for them Friday. One attorney who works for Dean frequently, according to state records, declined to comment through email. Another attorney who has registered dozens of Deans businesses with the state did not respond to a phone call or email message Friday. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up A history of troubled inspections This isnt the first time alarms have been raised about Deans nursing homes. He owns at least nine nursing homes in Louisiana, according to business records, as well as assisted living, dialysis and hospice centers. +11 Families never knew nursing home loved ones were suffering in warehouse; it breaks my heart Terry Hicks spent a week trying to contact her husband of 33 years after he told her his nursing home was evacuating ahead of Hurricane Ida. Federal inspectors have issued negative, worrying reports about the care at his nursing homes several times. The Times-Picayune and WAFB-TV have also featured Deans facilities in investigative stories about dangerous nursing home conditions. A 2005 Times-Picayune investigation discovered that, from 1999 to 2005, five patients in Deans nursing homes had died because of inadequate care. The newspaper also reported that one woman from a Dean facility ended up in the hospital with 500 fire ant bites following a bug infestation in her nursing home bed. A nursing home in Plaquemine also owned by Dean had a shortage of nurses on staff that resulted in patients not receiving their medication on time or adequate care in 2018, according to WAFB. One patient threw up and was unable to get staff to clean it up, prompting the patient to call 911 for assistance, according to the TV station. Dean has even been criticized for moving his nursing home patients to a warehouse ahead of a hurricane before this week. In 1998, two of his residents died after he moved dozens of people to the Lyceum ballroom which he owned in downtown Baton Rouge ahead of Hurricane Georges, according to The Times-Picayune. The ballroom didnt have adequate air conditioning. A state administrative judge eventually ordered Dean to pay $1,000 fine for the incident, according to The Times-Picayune. Wide-ranging political donations Dean stepped up his political contributions shortly after the 1998 post-hurricane evacuation scandal. He donated over $200,000 of the $289,000 he had given to political campaigns during the eight years from 1999 to 2007. +4 Nurses horrified by nursing home's treatment of evacuees at Louisiana warehouse; 'We tried' Two nurses who worked inside the Tangipahoa Parish warehouse where more than 800 nursing home residents have now been rescued from squalid con His beneficiaries included former Gov. Mike Foster ($25,360), former New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin ($20,000), former Gov. Kathleen Blanco ($13,000) and former Attorney General Richard Ieyoub ($10,000). Former state Sen. Reggie Dupre, D-Bourg, got $40,250 from Dean while in office. Dupre, who is now the executive director of the Terrebonne Levee District, said he wasnt sure why he got so much support from Dean. Nursing homes were just always making donations back then. They probably still are, Dupre said in an interview Friday. I havent spoken to Bob Dean in at least 15 years. Nursing home owners are one of the most powerful interest groups in state politics. They have always ranked among the top political donors to Gov. John Bel Edwards, but Dean is somewhat of a pariah in the nursing home community. Hes been at odds with the Louisiana Nursing Home Association for years, according to several lawmakers and former lawmakers. Mark Berger, executive director of the nursing home association, declined to comment on Dean on Friday, but confirmed that Deans nursing homes were not members of his organization. From 2004 to 2006, former state Rep. William Daniel, D-Baton Rouge, received $35,000 in campaign contributions from Dean. Daniel who went on to work in local government for East Baton Rouge, Ascension and Caddo parishes after leaving the Legislature said he had sponsored a bill that would have allowed Dean to open a new nursing home several years ago. At the time, the state had a moratorium on new nursing homes, in part because of the high number of drownings and other deaths that occurred in the homes during Hurricane Katrina. The nursing home association was in favor of the ban and didnt want Dean to open a new facility. Daniel felt Dean was being targeted by the nursing home association. I went to Lake Charles and visited his new nursing home and it was beautiful, Daniel said. I know he was grateful I took on his fight. State law limits each individual or business to donations of $5,000 for statewide elected officials and the heads of large local governments as well as $2,500 for state lawmakers per campaign cycle. But Dean has registered over 100 limited liability companies with the state government over the years and uses those businesses to contribute more money to candidates than a single person or business can. In the case of the governors campaign, Dean gave the $42,500 through nine companies over a matter of days in October 2019. These included the LLCs set up for a hotel Dean used to own in Natchez, Mississippi, Dean Florida Properties, a timber company and an entity to handle classic cars. None of the money Dean donated to the governor came from the dozens of companies affiliated with his nursing homes. In addition to owning nursing homes Dean is a well-known real estate developer in Louisiana. He owns or has owned most of the architecturally significant buildings in downtown Baton Rouge, including the Hotel Indigo. He also purchased the historic Hotel Bentley in Alexandria, a home abutting the LSU Lakes in Baton Rouge and property along St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, according to state records. As recently as 2019, he also owned a plantation in Georgia with an 18,000-square-foot home that he was trying to sell. The Louisiana Illuminator is an independent, nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization based in Baton Rouge. As the sun rose over Louisiana on Saturday, Mary Kay Johnson and four relatives sat in an SUV at a gas station parking lot in St. Rose. Ever since Hurricane Ida sheared off the side of her house in LaPlace, theyd called the vehicle home. Its air conditioner was their only defense against the brutal heat outside. But that was all the good they could say about it. I dont sleep. I may doze off an hour-and-a-half at the most, said Johnson, a retired cook for Jefferson Parish public schools. I just havent had a good nights sleep since the storm. With federal housing aid slow to trickle in, hotels booked solid and storm survivors money running short, Johnsons struggle to find a place to stay illustrates the housing crisis left in Idas wake. Untold numbers of Louisianans whose homes were rendered uninhabitable by the storm have packed themselves into relatives houses, shelters and cars. Others have simply stayed where the storm first hit them, even as new rainstorms drop water inside and furniture begins to mold. FEMA on Thursday approved a transitional housing program to pay for sheltering in hotel rooms, but actual aid has yet to filter down in many cases. +11 President Joe Biden walks storm-devastated LaPlace: 'I know you're hurting' As widespread suffering continued five days after Hurricane Ida ransacked southeast Louisiana, President Joe Biden walked through storm-ravage For Johnson, 57, nights in the rented SUV were made even worse by flashbacks to the storm. Johnson and six relatives were gathered at her dream house of 22 years, a two-story cottage with a broad porch on Williamsburg Drive. Before the storm, she loved to station herself in the kitchen, near a dining room table that seated eight, cooking red beans, stuffed bell peppers and fried fish. The house was the envy of her neighbors, since she secured a grant to have it elevated after Hurricane Isaac flooded it in 2012. But several feet of clearance was no defense against Idas Category 4 winds. Johnson said the family was upstairs when the roof started caving in, one room after another. Terrified, they raced from room to room. By the end, the only thing they could do was cower by the front door. Among the family members gathered inside the house were three of Johnsons grandchildren, ages 1, 9 and 10. Outside, water surged to the top step. "We called 911, and they said they cannot put their people in harm's way," Johnson said. By the time she was rescued at around 11 a.m. Monday, "I was devastated, but I was glad we were still alive," she said. Johnson hadn't caught a break in the six days since. Her sisters house in Garyville was also damaged, so she could not stay there as she did after Isaac. Her insurance company had yet to assign her an adjuster. Meanwhile, FEMA hadn't gotten back to her about her application for aid. Johnson said she quickly burned through her monthly check buying essentials like food and water. Hotels would be too expensive even if there were any rooms to book. So instead, her family piled into the rental SUV assigned to them by a car insurance company because their vehicles were destroyed. For the first few nights, there were seven people inside. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up "Can you imagine seven people living in that? Using a bathroom by the side of the road?" Johnson said. Since then, two of Johnsons grandchildren were retrieved by their parents. On Friday night, the vehicle housed her, her husband, her 9-year-old granddaughter, her son and his pregnant fiancee. Johnson lay down in the back seat while her son paced outside. Its get in where you fit in, she said. Johnson directed the SUV to areas that feel safer to her, like Kenner and Metairie. They chose gas stations so they would be first in line when they opened in the morning. Earlier in the week, dozens of St. John residents boarded buses for the state mega-shelter in Alexandria. The American Red Cross was also operating a shelter at Lake Pontchartrain Elementary School in LaPlace as of Saturday. Yet, while all the shelters say theyre observing COVID-19 precautions, Johnson said she worried about catching the disease in a congregate living facility, which could be devastating given her congestive heart failure and diabetes. FEMA on Friday approved the residents of St. John and 24 other parishes for its transitional sheltering assistance program, which allows disaster survivors to stay in a hotel for up to 30 days. A FEMA mobile sign-up vehicle has also arrived in LaPlace. Because of the storms extensive damage, thousands of our citizens are displaced and this program will provide them with critical short term housing as they recover and rebuild their lives," Gov. John Bel Edwards said in a statement. "Housing was at a critical shortage before the storm and that problem has been exacerbated as a result of the widespread damage." Yet Johnson said she had yet to hear back from FEMA after applying for help. Nor had her next-door neighbor Jeannette Robinson, whos in more comfortable conditions at her sisters house in Kenner. Both women said they haven't seen any signs of outside aid on their street, although the Red Cross had arrived on Cambridge Drive nearby by Saturday, and that night, the Johnsons finally found a place to crash. President Joe Biden visited Johnsons neighborhood on Friday. The next day, her husband and other relatives rolled moldy furniture down the steps and onto the curb. Johnson didnt get a glimpse of the president, but she wished she could have spoken with him. On Saturday, after a sleepless night in a RaceTrac parking lot, Johnson went back to her house to salvage what she could. She used a cane to walk up to her second floor and peer up through the open hole. Oh my God, she said, and started to cry. Its gone. One week after Hurricane Ida's vicious winds pummeled southeast Louisiana, Jefferson Parish where 160,000 customers were still without power Sunday afternoon is still struggling to restore full service of an even more basic need: water. The entire parish remains under a boil-water advisory issued by the parish in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Residents are also asked to limit the water they put through drain pipes or flush down toilets due to fears of sewer system backups. On CBS' "Face the Nation" on Sunday morning, Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng described the parish as a "broken community" with "low water pressure" and a "fragile" sewer system. By contrast, neighboring New Orleans, where the crumbling water and sewer infrastructure is often a major source of concern, has fared much better. The city has not issued a boil advisory, though it has asked residents to restrict the amount of wastewater they produce. The contrast has led some to wonder how New Orleans' rickety water system fared so much better than its nearest neighbor. The answer, Jefferson Parish officials say, is twofold: The sheer number of water line breaks due to downed trees caused water pressure on the east bank to drop to near zero; and on the west bank, a generator failure caused water pressure dips sufficient to trigger an advisory. The east bank situation is more dire, Public Works Director Mark Drewes said Sunday. "No system can handle that amount of breaks," he said. "There's no way we can pump enough water to overcome those losses." Water pressure on the east bank dropped to near zero Sunday, he said, which led the parish to issue the advisory. Crews have fixed the majority of the breaks, but about 50 remain parishwide, Drewes said. Water pressure on the east bank has returned to near-normal levels, but the advisory remains. In New Orleans, by contrast, the number of water main breaks did not impact water pressure, a Sewerage and Water Board spokesperson said. The west bank is a different story. There, a generator failure at the water plant led officials to shut down all three generators for about 15 minutes on Aug. 30. When they restarted all three, the water pressure had crossed the 20-pounds-per-square-inch threshold that requires a boil advisory. The generator that failed has since been replaced, and water pressure has been near normal for several days, Drewes said. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up Entergy power had returned to the west bank water plant, he said, and on Sunday, crews were collecting samples to send to the Louisiana Department of Health, which must test them before the boil advisory can be lifted. Sampling on the east bank can't begin until power is restored to the water plant. Per Entergy estimated restoration maps released Saturday, the water plant may not be back online until Wednesday. Drewes is hopeful it could be sooner. "We've told Entergy," Drewes said. "They are well aware of our priority." Getting the results of the testing can take 48 to 72 hours under normal circumstances, Drewes said. That means that even if the power comes back, it may be two or three days before the advisory can be lifted. Problems with the sewerage system can also be traced to power issues. Almost everything that is flushed or goes down a drain in the flat, marshy Jefferson landscape must be pumped to one of the parish's treatment plants. Once flushed, wastewater flows downhill to one of approximately 530 lift stations, which pump it up and then allow it to flow to the next lift station until it eventually reaches a plant. Fewer than 10 of the parish's lift stations had backup power before Ida hit, Drewes said. The rest rely on Entergy power, and as of Sunday morning, 77 of those had been restored. Portable pumps or generators had been placed at dozens more, but a fleet of about 70 vacuum trucks has been roaming the parish, cleaning out the ones that are completely powerless. One area in which the parish came through well is drainage. With the exception of Grand Isle, which took a violent hit from the storm, and Lafitte, Barataria and Crown Point, which suffered catastrophic storm surge, the parish didn't sustain major water damage. Much of that is due to the federal levee system and the parish's nearly 200 pumps, which mostly kept areas largely free of standing water. But it will be some time before Grand Isle and the Lafitte area are fully back up, Drewes said. Temporary pumps have been sent to Barataria to aid in draining those areas, but water system pump stations there and in Grand Isle were heavily damaged in the storm. "We have a lot of work to do in Grand Isle," he said. "We still don't have a total assessment." Editor's note: This story has been corrected to note that it is the Louisiana Department of Health that tests drinking water before boil advisories are lifted. The last time Amanda Relle talked to her close friend incarcerated at Jefferson Parish Correctional Center was the day Hurricane Ida was beginning to bear down on the New Orleans metro area. Conditions, said her friend who she asked to remain anonymous, for fear of retaliation were already beginning to deteriorate. Sewage was dripping down into the dorm when I last talked to her, Relle said. Around a half-dozen other jails in the storms path evacuated before the storm hit including the Orleans Justice Center, where detainees were transferred to the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. But Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto decided not to evacuate the more than 1,100 people incarcerated at his facility in Gretna. Ida ended up devastating the parish, knocking out power and running water for thousands of residents. Shortly after the storm, parish officials began working on a plan to bus people out. Relle has been unable to reach her friend since. Orleans Parish criminal, civil courts closed for two more weeks, judges say Orleans Parish Criminal District Court will be closed until Sept. 20 due to Hurricane Ida, the courts judges said in a Friday order. The decision not to empty a jail in advance of a powerful hurricane has led to disastrous outcomes in the past. Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, people incarcerated at the Orleans Parish Prison which Sheriff Marlin Gusman chose not to evacuate prior to the storm were trapped for days in a dark, flooded jail, with scarce food or water. There were reports of cell doors being stuck shut, deputies abandoning their posts and a lack of medical care as water rose to chest-height. In the days leading up to Ida, and even as it made landfall, it wasnt clear the storm would cause the degree of destruction that it did in the New Orleans metro area. With supplies for basic needs scarce for much of the Gulf Coast, people with incarcerated family members and loved ones in facilities impacted by the storm worry about the conditions they are facing. When shes made calls to the jail, Relle has been told that detainees werent being allowed to use the phone. Some of the guards have said that theyre in lockdown, and theyre fine, Relle said. Some other guards have said that they werent locked down, but they were fine, and trust them, they were safer inside than outside, and that they had absolutely everything that they needed. And not to worry. They just werent letting them use the phone yet. Those assurances are not convincing to Relle. I feel like theyre not letting them use the phone because they dont want any of them to report whats happening, she said. A Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office representative and the administrator of Jefferson Parish Correctional Center did not return multiple calls from The Lens. At a news conference earlier this week, Lopinto did not provide an update on the conditions at the jail, but in a warning to looters said the facility was open and taking reservations if you need it. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up Its a joke to him, Relle said. These are human lives. I dont care what anybody in there did I really dont. There is no acceptable excuse for the treatment theyre receiving. Like Relle with her friend in Jefferson Parishs jail, Sadadra Davis hasnt spoken to her husband who is incarcerated at Nelson Coleman Correctional Center in St. Charles Parish since Aug. 29. Basically he was saying how the roof sounded like it was slamming, she told The Lens. He had me listen, and from the wind it just sounded like the roof was just slamming. Two days earlier, St. Charles Parish issued a mandatory evacuation. The order went into effect Aug. 28. But more than 300 people incarcerated in the Killona jail remained. Now, Davis is struggling to reach her husband, or get any update from parish officials regarding the conditions in the facility. Ive been emailing the mayor, the sheriff, the correction person over the jail, she told The Lens on Thursday. I havent received emails back from no one. She said she is considering driving down from Lafayette to see if showing up in person will provide more answers. The small bit of information she was able to get regarding the facility came on Wednesday evening, when Gov. John Bel Edwards visited St. Charles Parish and held a news conference with Sheriff Greg Champagne. Like Lopinto in Jefferson Parish, Champagne only briefly mentioned the jail in a warning to would-be criminals. The jail has space, he said. And actually it has some air conditioning, believe it or not. So if you want to commit a crime dont do it, 'cause we might put you in a unit that doesnt have air conditioning. But we do have space. There is room at the inn. In an email to The Lens on Thursday evening, Champagne said with phone lines down, detainees and prisoners at the jail were unable to make phone calls or send emails, and that his office had just gotten email service. Communication has been extremely difficult for us, he said. But he said conditions at the jail were better than many other places throughout the parish. Our correctional center has been on generator power since the storm and has never lost power, Champagne wrote. The jail is and has been fully air conditioned no damage. Inmates are comfortable and well fed. In fact I personally visited with some inmates yesterday and advised them that getting 3 hot meals and AC is much better conditions than the overwhelming majority of our citizens. Heat and humidity will continue to plague Hurricane Ida recovery efforts throughout southeastern Louisiana on Sunday, with temperatures expected to reach 90, and feels-like heat index values reaching between 100 and 105 -- high enough to trigger another heat advisory from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. But forecasters are equally worried about the effects of a tropical disturbance now dumping rain on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. That system threatens to bring heavy rains to southeastern Louisiana as early as Tuesday. Its effects could last through Thursday whether or not it develops into a tropical storm or hurricane. Tropical disturbance over Yucatan Peninsula The National Hurricane Center says there's a 30 percent chance of the tropical disturbance viewed here over the Yucatan Peninsula on Sunday mo There's only a slight, 15%, chance of rainfall on Sunday, however, according to the Slidell office of the National Weather Service. Forecasters expect a frontal system to begin edging into the area from the west on Monday, increasing the chance of showers and thunderstorms. But Monday's highs are still likely to be in the upper 80s to 90, "and another heat advisory may become necessary for central portions of the area," including New Orleans, forecasters said in an early morning discussion message. Still, some of Monday's storms could be slow moving, leading to locally heavy rainfall amounts. After Monday, the focus shifts to the tropical disturbance. Forecasters say the chance of rain in south Louisiana increases through Tuesday, mainly due to tropical moisture moving into the area from the disturbance, as it advances northward across the Gulf of Mexico. That's likely to increase the chance of heavy rain, especially over areas still recovering from Ida, forecasters said. Tropical Weather Outlook The yellow circle shows the area where National Hurricane Center forecasters say a tropical disturbance has a 30 percent chance over the next "Regarding the tropical disturbance, model guidance continues to indicate that this feature will develop over the southwestern Gulf at the beginning of next week and potentially progress to just east of local area into midweek," forecasters said. "Although guidance is still all over the place with regards to the system's formation, timing and track, the National Hurricane Center has continued the 30% chance of development over the next 5 days for this tropical disturbance," the discussion message said. Model forecast paths This map shows a handful of model results for the tropical disturbance now draped over the Yucatan Peninsula. This is not a forecast map. "The system is forecast to move northwestward over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico later today, then move slowly northward or northeastward over the western or central Gulf of Mexico," said Senior Hurricane Specialist Richard Pasch, with the National Hurricane Center in a 7 a.m. tropical weather outlook message. "Upper-level winds are only expected to be marginally conducive for tropical cyclone formation, but some slow development is possible while the system moves across the Gulf of Mexico through the middle of the week." National Weather Service forecasters in Slidell pointed out that the National Hurricane Center has said that conditions are unfavorable for significant development because of upper-level wind shear and dry air associated with an upper level trough of low pressure north of Louisiana. But some models suggested there could be "at least a bit of development" on the system's approach to the Gulf Coast, forecasters said, adding that there was a high level of uncertainty in current models. "The biggest issue at this point will be the large area of deep tropical moisture that will advance northward along with this systen that could result in further heavy rainfall potential" sometime between Tuesday night through Thursday. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up "Impacts to cleanup and restoration efforts could very well persist into the middle of next week," Slidell forecasters said. Hurricane Larry in the central Atlantic Ocean Satellite view of Category 3 Hurricane Larry in the central Atlantic Ocean. Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center said Hurricane Larry in the Atlantic Ocean has reached Category 3 strength, with sustained winds of 125 mph. It is about 880 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands, and is expected to remain a hurricane through Friday as it moves slowly along a path in the central Atlantic that will keep it east of Bermuda. "Significant swells will likely reach the east coast of the United States and Atlantic Canada by midweek," Pasch said in a 10 a.m. forecast discussion message. "These swells will likely cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, and beachgoers and other interests along these coasts are urged to follow the advice of lifeguards and local officials this week." The next available name for a tropical storm or hurricane is Mindy. Systems are named when they strengthen into tropical storms. Storms Ana, Bill, Claudette, Danny, Elsa, Fred, Grace, Henri, Ida, Julian, Kate and Larry formed earlier this season. Elsa, Grace, Ida and Larry strengthened into hurricanes. Last year, there were so many storms that forecasters ran out of names and had to use the Greek alphabet. It's only the second time in recorded history that the Greek names had been used. Things have changed for this season. If needed, forecasters will use a list of supplemental storm names instead of the Greek names. Storm categories On the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, the wind categories are: Tropical storm: 39 to 73 mph Category 1 hurricane: 74 to 95 mph Category 2 hurricane: 96 to 110 mph Category 3 hurricane (major hurricane): 111 to 129 mph Category 4 hurricane: 130-156 mph Category 5 hurricane: 157 mph and higher Don't miss a storm update this hurricane season. Sign up for breaking newsletters. Follow our Hurricane Center Facebook page. Staff writer Carlie Wells contributed to this story. This story was co-published with Southerly. Louisiana residents who evacuated ahead of Hurricane Ida or those who need a place to stay now amid a prolonged power outage and heat advisory could be eligible for hotel room assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency even if their homes were not damaged by the storm. This is a different stance from earlier messaging this week by FEMA and the state. John Mills, a FEMA spokesperson based in New Orleans, told Southerly and The Lens via phone that there are several different avenues for assistance that can cover hotel costs. One is expedited rental assistance, which provides funds for one month to applicants who report that their essential utilities like electricity are temporarily unavailable or if their homes were damaged or destroyed. The money is disbursed directly to the applicant, and can be put toward evacuation-related hotel costs. The program includes homeowners as well as renters. The other is the Transitional Sheltering Assistance Program, which directly pays hotels rather than applicants who require shelter. Numerous hotels are eligible in Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas (find a complete list at this link). If someone is in an uninhabitable condition, they may be eligible for transitional sheltering assistance, Mills said. If they had to evacuate to a hotel, they might be eligible. If theyre in a shelter, or some other uncomfortable living situation. Someone who lives in a home that was not damaged by Ida but has been without power for days with no clear sense of when power will be restored could also be eligible. We want to hear from everybody like that, Mills said. Hurricane Ida survivors can qualify for FEMA-funded hotel rooms. Here's how it works. Louisiana has been approved for a federal program that allows Hurricane Ida survivors to stay in a hotel for up to 30 days, officials said Friday. Mills did not say what specific qualifications would make applicants eligible for expedited rental assistance or the transitional sheltering program, but encouraged people to apply and said applicants will be notified by FEMA about which types of assistance they are eligible for. He said home inspections will not need to be done to qualify people for assistance. On Friday, FEMA began notifying people they are eligible for sheltering assistance via automated phone calls, texts and emails, according to Mills. FEMA aid tied to Ida is available to residents in the 25 parishes where residents qualify for individual assistance under a disaster declaration approved by the White House on Sunday. Those are: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana. You can apply for FEMA aid at disasterassistance.gov, through the FEMA mobile app, or by phone at (800) 621-3362. Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up Earlier this week, FEMA had released statements saying only residents with home damage are eligible for assistance. Mills insisted this is not the case, and that residents with power outages are eligible as well. Need help after Hurricane Ida? Here are details on FEMA aid, shelters, blue roofs, more If you need financial or physical assistance following Hurricane Ida, here's a list of resources designed to offer help for people and busines FEMA requires applicants with renters or homeowners insurance to file a claim with their insurance company before turning to the agency because it legally cannot duplicate payments. But many insurance companies only provide additional living expenses like paying for a hotel room if a home is badly damaged or if there was a mandatory evacuation, according to Loretta Worters, a spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute, which provides data-driven insurance insights to consumers. New Orleans officials did not issue a mandatory evacuation ahead of Hurricane Ida, saying there was too little time to implement one as the rapidly intensifying storm approached the coast. In the days after, officials urged residents who left to stay away because of the widespread power outage and summer heat. As of Saturday, about 150,000 households and businesses in New Orleans still lacked power. City officials estimate that about 200,000 people evacuated before Ida made landfall. Mayor LaToya Cantrells office did not respond to a request for comment for this story. A mandatory evacuation order is one of the main triggers for insurance companies to cover hotel expenses while an evacuee is away. But post-storm power outages during a heat wave likely wont qualify policyholders for that benefit, Worters said. If a consumer chooses to go to a hotel because their power is out, theyre not going to be eligible for (additional living expense) reimbursement, Worters said. Several major insurance companies, including Allstate and USAA, have said they will cover additional living expenses for policyholders in Louisiana who evacuated for Ida, according to reporting from CNBC. They made the announcement as the White House pressured companies to alter their policies because of the lack of mandatory evacuation orders in populous areas. Were being told by survivors who had insurance they thought would cover them for an evacuation, then received a denial from their insurance provider because the evacuation was not technically mandatory, Mills said. He urged people to get the denial in writing and provide it to FEMA when applying for assistance. Based on what were seeing in Louisiana, FEMA thinks it is a life-threatening situation that the power is out right now, and so does the state, Mills said. Thats why FEMA is providing assistance. Carly Berlin is Southerlys Gulf Coast correspondent. Now that New Orleans has officially disavowed its long homage to the Confederacy, you may be surprised when I tell you who will be turning in his grave. The Southern states in the Civil War had fought for the same principles that now inspired his native Ireland in its struggle for independence from British rule, a distinguished visitor to New Orleans declared in 1882. Oscar Wilde had a familial motive for drawing this dubious analogy, for his mother's brother, John Elgee, had emigrated to Louisiana, where he prospered as a lawyer and judge. He soon embraced the mores of his new home, wound up owning a plantation worked by hundreds of slaves in Rapides Parish, and signed Louisiana's Secession Ordinance in 1861. His son, Charles LeDoux Elgee, was a captain on the staff of Confederate Major General Richard Taylor. Both Elgees died before the end of the Civil War, but Wilde apparently prized the Confederate connections he had never met. Although New Orleans had surrendered barely a year into the Civil War, once peace was restored, it enthusiastically embraced the myth of the Lost Cause as a noble defense of a superior civilization. Wilde came to New Orleans in 1882, at the age of 27, in the course of a lecture tour that took him all over the United States and Canada. His literary triumphs, and subsequent disgrace and ruin, were some years in the future, although he had already achieved considerable renown as a wit and leader of the Aesthetic Movement. Two years later, the statue of Robert E. Lee was to be hoisted onto to the lofty perch it occupied until 2017. That statue was the earliest of the four Confederate monuments that have now been purged from the streets of New Orleans. Wilde declared that Jefferson Davis, former president of the Confederate States of America, was the American he most wanted to meet because the principles for which the South went to war cannot suffer defeat. Wilde might have come close to getting his wish when he was not quite 16 years old and Davis visited Dublin, in 1870. Wilde's mother invited him over, but Davis sent his regrets that he was unable to pay his respects in person to the Sister of his friend, the late Judge Elgee. Davis did oblige Wilde with an invitation to spend a night in 1882 at Beauvoir, his home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The evening was quite a thrill for Davis's daughter, Winnie, whose 18th birthday it was, but her father did not take to Wilde, evidently considering him to be too much of a fop. That was not an uncommon view of Wilde, who wore velvet jackets, satin breeches, black capes, buckled shoes and ruched shirts. Anyone familiar with the book I co-authored on the history of New Orleans's Confederate monuments, and the controversy that led to their removal, may wonder why Wilde was not mentioned in it. The answer is that I, probably in common with most people, never suspected that The Importance of Being Earnest was written by a Confederate sympathizer. But that is what Wilde was. According to the Daily Picayune, he was able to persuade himself that the Confederacy and the Irish resistance were similarly committed to a struggle for autonomy, self-government for a people. Email James Gill at gill504nola@gmail.com. Ronald Reagan helped build the modern Republican Party by embracing a clear, uncomplicated philosophy, which he summed up in one of his most famous quips: The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: Im from the government, and Im here to help. Me, I can think of some things that are scarier. Right about now, many of us in south Louisiana and the Northeast, it turns out, along with California dont have to use our imaginations. And so, while theres a mythical appeal and some situational truth to the idea that rugged individuals and the private sector can do great things if government would just stay out of the way, the presumption that big, ambitious, expensive federal programs are automatically bad breaks down under a basic reality check. What we saw last week when Hurricane Ida stormed through Louisiana was actually a triumph of government. The federal levees that collapsed after Hurricane Katrina 16 years ago have been upgraded, bolstered, and supplemented with bold new features that worked. That wasnt just luck, that was $14.5 billion in taxpayer investment and some impressive execution by the Army Corps of Engineers. Within the risk reduction system, property and, much more importantly, lives were saved. If only those levees, pumps, and floodgates could have protected people outside the system, who suffered devastating damage. And some of the most notable problems, including in the delivery of public services, were linked to private companies, from Entergy to AT&T. Much has improved in terms of federal responsiveness since Katrina, and Ida will mark the first big test of a new Democratic administration that rejects the premise of Reaganism. When President Joe Biden says the government is here to help, hes not going for laughs; the idea that government is a force for good is at the core of his philosophy. Now he gets to try to prove it. Its also a test for Congress, which is so ripped by partisan acrimony these days that it can barely function. Lake Charles is still waiting for the type of aid that lawmakers must individually approve rather than the programs that kick in automatically under certain conditions even though Hurricane Laura hit more than a year ago. Gov. John Bel Edwards said last week his long wish list for Biden includes the same type of supplemental community block grant allocation for Ida survivors that the state is still seeking for the area struck by Laura, to be used for permanent housing. Lets see if the president and Congress can deliver. And not just on the disaster response. Even before Ida took aim, one of the hottest topics in Washington was the $1.2 trillion hard infrastructure bill that passed the Senate with Bidens support, and is currently tangled up with a broader and even costlier safety-net bill in the House. Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy of Baton Rouge was a key member of the bipartisan group that crafted the proposal, and since Ida he hasnt missed a chance to make the link. The package could go far toward addressing the specific shortcomings that Ida exposed, he has said; it includes money to strengthen the energy grid that failed, restore the disappearing coast that no longer acts as an effective buffer between hot Gulf of Mexico waters and populated areas, and otherwise protect environmentally vulnerable regions that are facing more and more deadly storms. Whats not to like? The answer, it seems, harkens back to that Reaganesque idea that government shouldnt go big. One adherent to this theory is apparently the states other Republican senator, John Kennedy, who in an interview with WRKF radio last week dismissed the infrastructure package his senior colleague is touting as a huge slush fund for Biden. I dont think the infrastructure bill, even if it had been implemented, would have made any difference whatsoever, Kennedy said. Thats an awfully defeatist way of looking at a proposal that would very likely make a huge difference for his constituents. Sure, government cant help in every case, and it definitely gets things wrong; anyone who lived through Katrina knows that. But it'll never get them right if the people in charge just throw up their hands when they should be rolling up their sleeves. Hurricane Ida was a storm on top of an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Ida has had a significant impact on business and jobs and taken some lives. The virus has had a great impact on businesses, jobs and taken the lives of more than 12,000 in Louisiana and more than 638,000 nationally. As southern Louisiana deals with Ida aftermath, Louisiana continues to deal with the virus. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards issued his statewide indoor mask mandate on Aug. 2. Many school children returned to in-classroom instruction on August 9. Our most recent surge peaked about Aug. 11. Additional safety protocols put in place have had an impact as the number of cases have fallen since then. It helped a great deal to have a statewide mask mandate and to have children return to school with mask requirements to protect them, their classmates and their teachers. Nationally, the number of cases has been slowing, test positivity has been declining and the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 has decreased. In Louisiana, at least half of New Orleans and thousands of people in Jefferson, St. Bernard, Plaquemines and other southern Louisiana parishes left their homes for other parts of the state or for other states. Many who left have school-age children who normally would be attending school. The East Baton Rouge Parish schools shut down classes until at least Sept. 7. Hard hit by Ida, we dont know when schools will resume in Jefferson Parish, the state's largest single system. School officials announced there would be no school, in-classroom or remote, until further notice. St. Bernard Parish schools have seen power restored in Arabi and Chalmette, but school wasnt expected to resume until power made the schools fully functional. All of this means that most school children are with their families, at home or elsewhere. Saving lives and finding ways to survive as we work through all of this is most important. Still, theres likely to be an unintended bright spot. Because we have kids with close family and friends, its less likely that the virus will spread. As long as they practice COVID-19 safety protocols, the deadly delta variant has fewer opportunities to find its way into human systems and start latching on to make things bad. The governor has made Hurricane Ida recovery his biggest focus, but he hasnt forgotten that coronavirus continues to make life miserable for many families. He mentions it during his hurricane update news conferences. I hope people are listening. COVID-19 could care less whether weve had life-threatening and significant business, economic and property damage. The vicious virus continues doing its nasty business finding hosts wherever it can. Schools with in-person classes and limited or no safety protocols were ripe for infection and transmission. Thats why Edwards put in place a statewide mask mandate indoors. As children started returning to school across the United States, the number of child virus cases, hospitalizations and deaths started skyrocketing. Children are susceptible to the delta variant at least as much as many adults these days, especially those who are under 12 years old since they arent eligible for vaccinations. Children can spread the virus to each other, to teachers and teachers can spread it to students. Most of us have heard about the unvaccinated California teacher who defied a mask mandate at her school, infecting half of her students and then others. One central Texas school is temporarily closed following Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts directive not to require masks. Two teachers died from the virus in the same week. One Florida school superintendent told teachers they could wear jeans rather than a mask. One of his teachers died from the virus last weekend. Our first priority should be saving lives, getting power back on, ensuring public services such as sewer and water and making sure public safety and living essentials are available. As this happens, however, school officials are doing wellness checks, checking on students and teachers, checking on school buildings and other facilities and planning some kind of return to education for our future scholars and leaders. The science is clear. Masks are not 100% effective. But they significantly reduce virus transmission. Masks with social distancing and other safety protocols at schools help a great deal. As our state and local officials focus on hurricane recovery, our school leaders can help most by ensuring that we quickly determine paths forward to get back to educating our youth in safe environments, with masks. In-classroom education is best, but we dont need to open schools to Rudy Rona. Nevada May Anderson (87) passed away peacefully at home in Norman early in the morning on Saturday September 11 2021. A service for mom will be held on a later date. Dave Moore, CISSP, has been fixing computers in Oklahoma since 1984. Founder of the nonprofit Internet Safety Group Ltd, he also teaches Internet safety community training workshops. He can be reached at 405-919-9901 or internetsafetygroup.org. The energy company that is providing power to Louisiana says full restoration of electricity to hurricane-battered areas outside New Orleans could take until the end of the month Williamsport, Pa. An investigation into SNAP benefits showed a woman received $2,036.00 worth of assistance despite having a person living in her home who provided financial help. Kelly L. Williams, 28, of Montoursville is accused of applying for and receiving benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) despite having household income that would exclude her from such assistance. Williams was charged with third-degree felony fraud to obtain food stamps and assistance. She was given $10,000 unsecured bail, which was posted on August 30. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Septenber 9. According to an affidavit of probable cause, Williams was asked on Jan. 27 of 2020 who all lived at her residence in Montoursville. Williams allegedly told authorities with the Office of the State Inspector General she received help for bills but did not live with the person. Authorities allege Williams received benefits that totaled approximately $2,036.00 from Feb. to May in 2020. The officer with the State Inspector General wrote, because Kelly Williams failed to report Jacob Fry, a mandatory household member, was in the home and earning wages to the Lycoming CAO, probable cause exists to believe she committed the charged offense. Through the investigation it was determined Fry had listed his address as the same as Williams in Montoursville with his probation officer and employer. According to the report, Williams told authorities Fry lived in Wyoming, but was helping with bills. Docket sheet State College, Pa. A nearly two-year saga ended in Centre County Court Tuesday as a 27-year-old Bellefonte man was found not guilty of rape of an unconscious victim and sexual assault. Both charges are felonies. Maurice Mayes faced a two-day trial that began Monday, Aug. 30. The jury, whom Centre County District Attorney thanked for their service, found Mayes no guilty on both counts after a short deliberation. Mayes was charged after a night of excessive drinking that ended at a co-workers apartment in State College. Mayes attempted to get the woman a cab, but the taxi company turned her down due to her level of intoxication. According to an affidavit filed through Centre County Court, the woman, who was examined through a rape kit the next day, allegedly invited Mayes into her bedroom. The accuser said she could not remember anything from the night in question. The woman told authorities she woke up in the morning without pants and underwear on. A public defender for Mayes pointed to inconsistencies in the womans story that conflicted with the later story of rape. "The complainant in this case was not credible," Mayes' public defender Shannon M. Malone said. "She lied about several things during the investigation and trial, and Im happy that the jury was able to see that my client finally has his life back after these false allegations." Malone continued, "He can hold his head high, he can be there to watch his daughter grow up instead of sitting behind bars for something he didnt do. We are both very pleased that the jury got it right." Cedartown, GA (30125) Today Showers early, becoming a steady rain later in the day. High 77F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Cloudy with occasional rain showers. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Rome, GA (30161) Today Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. Support Local Journalism Now, more than ever, the world needs trustworthy reportingbut good journalism isnt free. Please support us by subscribing. Among the people killed in the 9/11 terror attacks, Mychal Judge, a Catholic chaplain with New Yorks fire department, left a uniquely complex legacy that continues to evolve 20 years after his death Kris Wiley is the director of the Roseburg Public Library. She can be reached at kwiley@cityofroseburg.org or 541-492-7051. HOSPERSSoon after the fighting ended, Fred Reinders built a monument to the soldiers of World War I. A hundred years later, its still standing at attention in the middle of Main Street in Hospers. The memorial was dedicated Sept. 5, 1921, and has ever since been the crown jewel of the Reinders sculptures in the east Sioux County town. Other memorials include one dedicated to soldiers of World War II, a miniaturized Statue of Liberty and pieces representative of the causes of war and peace. The Hospers Historical Society decided against holding an event to mark the World War I statues centennial given its proximity to the citys summer celebration and the lingering pandemic. However, the team of local recorders are dedicated to keeping their local heritage alive. As time goes, I appreciate that history is a part of who you are, said society member Steven Auchstetter. Every little bit makes you a bit of who you are. It makes you see where you came from. History has a way of repeating itself too. The then-purported War to End All Wars killed roughly 20 million people, a majority of whom were civilians. What began as a local conflict in the Balkans spun out into a global grapple for imperialistic dominance. The relatively late entry of the United States in the spring of 1917 helped expedite ending the four-year war on Nov. 11, 1918, though peace talks crushed the German state and people. This set the socioeconomic groundwork for the rise of the Nazi regime and, in just two decades, the much deadlier Second World War. Reinders was a Dutch immigrant who crossed the Atlantic in 1893. After moving first to South Dakota, he soon relocated to Hospers where his eccentric lifestyle made him a well-known local figure. He took various odd jobs, including service as a mortician, before settling as an artist. He was a very unusual person, said society president Jean Den Hartog. Pull quote As time goes, I appreciate that history is a part of who you are. Every little bit makes you a bit of who you are. It makes you see where you came from. Steven Auchstetter, Hospers Historical Society The statue features a doughboy soldier at the top pedestal. The origin of the nickname for American soldiers is unknown, but is used to refer to most U.S. infantry troops in the war. Below him is an eagle perched on two American flags. Included is Columbia, the female personification of the United States. Joe Reinders, Freds son, was the inspiration for the memorial. Joe was among the 4.7 million Americans who fought in World War I, and he was part of five major battles in Europe without sustaining injury. He fought on the continent again during World War II and died in a gas attack in 1943. Den Hartog has led the historical society since 2013. She said having the statue sitting at the intersection of Main Street and Second Avenue downtown is a regular reminder not just of Reinders but of those from Hospers who have served in the military. The statue is repainted every few years to maintain its original likeness. Its prominence has led to multiple protests and mishaps but its place as an impromptu roundabout is unlikely to change any time soon. Theres been people down through the years that said, We got to move that statue. Put it over here. Put it over there, said society member Dorothy Vander Wilt. But its never been approved. Gerry Holtrop also is part of the historical society. He was on the county police force when the head was removed from the statue by an unknown vandal in the middle of the night. Another deputy and I went in for coffee that night around closing time. When I pulled out, I saw it was gone, Holtrop said. We searched every car in Hospers and stopped them. We went out to the boards with posters. There were a lot of rumors of who may have been the people involved, but we could never catch them. The sculpture was soon repaired but the perpetrators were never found. It is one of the most memorable cases of the retired deputys career. And that bothers me to this day, he said. The society maintains vast vestiges of memorabilia from Hospers history, including the Reinders statue, in the city museum located in the library basement. Auchstetter said the collection makes him proud to be from the small town. I could be down here an hour a week and still not see everything in a year, he said. Den Hartog has a similar reason for volunteering with the group and promoting the statue. We just want everyone to recognize it and be aware and keep history going, she said. A few months after the original dedication, Reinders wrote a tribute to his masterpiece, which concludes as follows: It stands today, as it will for years to come, a lasting tribute to the boys who did their bit in order that we might enjoy Peace, Security, and Prosperity. I first met William Bartelt at the Lincoln Pioneer Village in Rockford, Indiana, a city on the Ohio River in Spencer County and the place where a future president spent his formative years from 7 to 21. Bartelt was signing copies of his award-winning book "There I Grew Up: Remembering Abraham Lincoln's Indiana Youth" (Indiana Historical Society Press) at this reconstructed village showcasing what life was like in Lincolns day. In other words, it was the perfect setting for a man who has studied Lincoln almost his entire life. Spencer County, tucked away in the southwestern section of the state, is a rural swath of small towns, woods and farms. And though its come a long way from when Lincoln wrote of it being a wild region with many bears and wild animals still in the woods, its possible to travel down a winding country road and get the feel of what it must have been like two centuries ago. This sense of being connected to Lincoln is enhanced because there are generations of families dating back to when the Lincolns lived there and whose ancestors interacted with the Lincolns. For Bartelt, who taught high school for 37 years and is the author of several other books, including "Abes Youth: Collected Works," Lincolns time in Indiana was personal. The Smokers were also representatives of the state committee for Young Farmers and Ag Professionals from 2017 to 2019. Some of my favorite memories were from the time spent getting to know the greater ag community and connecting with them about the highs and lows that you can face on the farm, Jill said. There appears to be no break in the chain linking the farm to the family since 1944. When I think about the future of the farm, I think about starting to transition from myself to my son and my daughter. Its about growing the farm in a sustainable way and making sure they are set up to succeed when they are ready to take over the operation, Jacob said. Ryan Hilton has been employed for 15 years at Belstra Milling Co., a feed mill and transport operation dealing primarily with hogs, according to INFB. Hes the livestock transport driver and logistics coordinator for the firm near DeMotte, but has worked in areas like maintenance and delivering feed to farms. Marie Hilton, who holds a bachelors degree in education, recently accepted an offer to teach ag science at Covenant Christian High School. This article is part of our latest Design special report, about homes for multiple generations and new definitions of family. The bunk bed, born two centuries ago as an austerity measure, is living in some splendor. For country homes, luxury hotels and yachts, architects and designers are theming and decking out the basic components of pillars, railings and ladders with timbers, zingy colors, playful cutouts and gingerbread. In the realm of custom bunk rooms, theres always an element of whimsy, said Kara Miller, an interior designer based in Jupiter, Fla., who has trimmed bunk beds in diagonal filigree based on Chinese Chippendale precedents. When clients start to plan new houses right out of the gate, she said the bedrooms windows, doors and closets are being configured to leave cubic footage available for bunk beds. She added, You can let your imagination run wild with them. The trend has been partly attributed to Covid-19. As retreat from society may be required, some homeowners want to be prepared to hole up someplace cheerful and comforting, which can accommodate groups of people not necessarily willing to share mattresses. Liz Caan, an interior designer in Newton, Mass., said that her bunk room clients had said, in effect, We want to be able to sleep a gazillion people. On Saturday, about 500 people were evacuated to shelters with electricity in Central and Northern Louisiana. A 250-bed federal medical facility opened in New Orleanss convention center to relieve nearby hospitals, which were too strained by Covid-19 patients to accommodate people struggling from the heat. Many New Orleans residents have taken to sitting on their porches or stoops all day, dousing themselves with hoses and moving chairs down the street every few hours to follow the shade. When the city turns pitch black each night around 8 p.m., many remain outside for the breeze, with children playing with flashlights on sidewalks as parents fan themselves and wonder aloud with neighbors about when the power will go back on. Many are in severe need of aid. Ms. Crier said that the store near her home was charging $5 for a bag of ice and that she was worried about how long she would be able to keep food in her cooler. She works as a concessions manager at the Superdome, the stadium where the New Orleans Saints play, but the team has moved its opening game on Sept. 12 to Florida because of the storm. At the cooling center, Ms. Crier waited to meet with Federal Emergency Management Agency workers about the $500 in relief funds that the agency is paying to some survivors of the storm, but she was told that she was not eligible. She had planned to use the money to leave town and get a hotel with electricity and air-conditioning for her and her mother. She described the repairs as some of the most complex types of glass conservation that her team had ever undertaken. Each piece will take an average of 60 hours to reconstruct, and the project as a whole will take about four months. The vessels will leave Beirut for London in the next few months, once the paperwork and insurance have been completed. To Nadine Panayot, the curator in charge of the AUB Archaeological Museum, the explosions in 2020 were both a personal and a professional trauma. She had only just been appointed to the job and was a month away from starting it when, at around 6 p.m. on Aug. 4, nearly 3,000 tons of ammonium nitrate blew up in the port of Beirut. I thought it was another car bomb, said Ms. Panayot, who was driving through Beirut at the time. I heard the first and then the second bomb, and then I couldnt see anything in front of my car, because there were fumes. While her husband and three daughters were unharmed, she returned to her apartment and found windows and blinds and a sliding door smashed, and her 14-year-old daughter, who had been home alone, in a state of complete panic. After 18 months of postponements and cancellations, several art fairs are getting ready to welcome visitors in the flesh this month. Here is a look at three of them. Be sure to check current pandemic-related restrictions and requirements if youre planning a visit. Art Basel The worlds leading contemporary art fair, Art Basel, is hosting its first at-home event since June 2019 from Sept. 24 through 26 in Basel, Switzerland. A total of 272 galleries from around the globe are set to flaunt their wares inside the giant Messe Basel. LONDON For fans of Pre-Raphaelite art the mid-19th-century London-born Victorian artistic movement Martin Beislys gallery in St. Jamess is a fantastical treasure trove of sumptuous paintings, drawings and sculpture. Works by Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Ford Madox Brown hang on forest green walls across from pieces by John William Waterhouse and Edward Coley Burne-Jones. Burne-Jones, who is not of the Pre-Raphaelite generation but is still grouped within that movement, is one of three Victorian artists that Mr. Beisly will present at TEFAF Online from Thursday through Monday. Venus Epithalamia, a work in pencil and watercolor that Burne-Jones and his studio did in 1871, which has a provenance that includes being exhibited at both the Royal Academy of Arts in London and the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, will be shown online alongside paintings by Lawrence Alma-Tadema and Philip de Laszlo. Zoe Tu, a seventh grader in Brooklyn, likes to celebrate her birthday with dulce de leche Haagen-Dazs ice cream cake. This year, her 12th, was no exception, but the day was also marked by a treat of another kind: her Covid vaccine. Zoe got the shot the first day she became eligible, on Aug. 2, and it was accompanied by a $100 gift certificate given as a vaccine incentive at the Barclays Center. (Her mother allowed her to spend it on anything she wanted.) The nurse was really excited about wishing me a happy birthday, Zoe recalled. Zoes mother, Nicole Tu, said she had told her daughter she could wait if she wanted. But, Zoe said: I knew that was the quickest I could get it. I was excited because I could feel safer. Many birthdays are rites of passage, especially for young people. Getting to 14 or 15 opens the doors to high school; turning 17 grants permission to view R-rated movies; 18 delivers the right to vote; and 21 brings the legal age to buy alcohol in many states. As residents scrambled to clean up and assess damage from catastrophic flash floods that swept the Northeast last week, President Biden prepared to visit hard-hit areas in New York and New Jersey, where he will confront political ferment that is growing over the climate-driven disaster. The lethal deluge from the remnants of Hurricane Ida, which killed more than 45 people in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut, has amped up battles that began in 2012 with Hurricane Sandy over how to slow climate change and protect communities. The floods are already sharpening debate over whether city, state and national leaders are doing enough even those who, like Mr. Biden, publicly champion strong measures. Mr. Bidens trip comes as he and Democratic leaders struggle to get Congress to include measures to curb planet-warming emissions in a $1 trillion infrastructure bill and to increase funding to protect communities from disasters like the one last week. Within hours of the New York-area downpours, Mr. Biden had directly linked them to his climate agenda. In a speech, he described the floods as yet another reminder that these extreme storms and the climate crisis are here, and called for more spending on modernizing electrical grids, sewers, water systems, bridges and roads. I was an intern at the Department of Defense attending an office happy hour in July when a drunken senior employee a man much older than me began trailing me. He followed me, along with other interns, as we moved from group to group. Eventually, he cornered me, asking about my favorite alcoholic drinks (despite knowing that I was underage), my partying habits and my ethnicity, among other things. No matter my answer, he kept pushing, responding with what sounded to me like sexual innuendo, while standing too close. It was, to say the least, uncomfortable. At the end of the night, the situation escalated: The man broke through a group I was standing with and careened toward me in a way that alarmed me. Thats when someone intervened. A male officer pushed him away from me, and a female colleague immediately scooped up the interns and drove us home. In the car, we debated whether to report the incident to our higher-ups. My colleague cautioned us to not be surprised if reporting yielded no results. At the end of the day, she said, bitterly yet sympathetically, the D.O.D. is still a boys club. At the time, the anti-abortion cause was primarily one pressed by Catholics, and it was strongest in Northern states with large Catholic populations. Evangelicals, dominant in the South, were largely moderate on the issue, generally opposing on-demand abortion but open to a variety of exceptions. A 1969 poll by the Baptist Standard found that 90 percent of Texas Baptists thought the states abortion laws were too restrictive. W.A. Criswell, a prominent Southern Baptist pastor in Dallas and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, remarked in reaction to Roe v. Wade, I have always felt that it was only after a child was born and had a life separate from its mother that it became an individual person. (By the end of the 1970s, though, Mr. Criswell opposed abortion rights.) Over the decades, Texans continued to elect senators who favored abortion rights into the early 21st century. But by then, the anti-abortion movement had become a powerful force in evangelical culture. And the state, once solidly in Democratic hands, shifted to Republican control in the mid-1990s. Since 2003, Republicans have held majorities in both chambers of the state legislature and the governors office. It is also covered by a conservative federal appeals court, the Fifth Circuit in Louisiana. Like many other states across the South and Midwest, Texas has steadily chipped away at legal and practical access to abortion for decades, including requiring pregnant women to undergo a sonogram by the same doctor who will perform the abortion at least 24 hours before the procedure. Other measures, such as the Alternatives to Abortion program, have helped fund pregnancy centers like Prestonwood, which was founded three decades ago as a ministry of Prestonwood Baptist Church, a nearby evangelical megachurch. In contrast, there are about 24 abortion clinics in Texas, down from 40 less than a decade ago, an imbalance to the scores of pregnancy centers like Prestonwood that speaks to the cultural and political success of the anti-abortion movement, even as the states largest and bluest cities get larger and more progressive. The number of abortion clinics is sure to drop further, abortion rights advocates said, as many will be forced to close if the new law remains in place. In an emergency application asking the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene, a coalition of abortion providers warned that the law which bans abortions at the point when cardiac activity is detected, generally about six weeks, when many women dont yet know they are pregnant would immediately and catastrophically reduce abortion access in Texas. Clinics raced to see clients until the minute the law went into effect last week. More than 100,000 electric customers in New Orleans about half of the citys total customers were still without power on Sunday. Entergy, which provides electricity to New Orleans, said it planned to restore service to most of the city by Wednesday, and utility workers could be seen pulling branches from downed power lines in a mad dash to turn the lights back on. But forecasters warned that New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana could feel as hot as 105 degrees on Sunday, a level deemed dangerous by the National Weather Service. And without air-conditioners or fans, many residents were feeling the heat. Outside the citys convention center on Sunday, medical vans and buses chartered by the state were lined up, waiting to take evacuees to state-run shelters hours away. The city began assisting with evacuations on Friday, and on Saturday, the vast majority of the nearly 600 people who had been bused out of the city were residents of the apartment complexes deemed unfit. The program to evacuate them began after desperate pleas from residents and their families for officials to do something about the deteriorating conditions in the apartment complexes for older residents. It has been extremely disappointing to see how these privately run and privately owned and privately operated facilities are allowing these kinds of conditions to unfold, said David Morris, who is part of Resilient Nola, a city agency, and was helping to run the evacuations. It was unclear why the city had not coordinated evacuation trips until several days after all of the citys power was knocked out by the storm. Mr. Morris acknowledged that residents warnings about the poor conditions of some apartments had made the city press on the gas to start the program, but said it was important that the city knew the timeline for power restoration before deciding to bus people out of town. Evacuating is extremely taxing, extremely stressful from a physiological standpoint, especially on more vulnerable communities, he said. It was just three days after a suicide bomber for the affiliate had detonated an unusually large 25-pound explosive vest at the Abbey Gate entrance to the airport, spraying deadly shrapnel in a 70-foot radius and killing 13 U.S. troops and more than 170 Afghan civilians. American intelligence analysts had intercepted messages from ISIS-K plotters that another major attack against the airport was in the works. An attack was imminent that Sunday, two days before the United States was set to end its evacuation effort. Thus, any vehicle coming or going from the compound that morning piqued the analysts interest. But operators paid special attention to the white sedan on the black-and-white feed from an MQ-9 Reaper drone soaring over Kabul. Communications intercepted from the safe house indicated that the plotters there were directing the car on some kind of circuitous mission in the Afghan capital. The driver was instructed to meet a motorcyclist. Moments later, the car did just that. This pattern continued for several hours, as the sedan made different stops in Kabul, sometimes picking up and dropping off passengers. Just before 4 p.m., the sedan pulled into a compound unknown to the Americans, about eight to 12 kilometers southwest of the airport. A few minutes later, the driver and three other men loaded several wrapped packages into the trunk of the car. To the analysts watching the video feed, the men appeared to be straining to lift and gingerly carry heavy packages as one would with explosives. The driver and the men got into the sedan and drove away, heading north as the driver dropped the men off along the way. By about 4:45 p.m., the driver, now alone, pulled into a small courtyard about 2.5 kilometers west of the airport, just south of the original safe house. Another man came out to greet him. A former Marine sharpshooter who served in Afghanistan and Iraq fatally shot four people, including an infant, in two homes near Lakeland, Fla., early on Sunday morning and exchanged gunfire with sheriffs deputies before he was taken into custody, the authorities said. The gunman, who also shot and wounded an 11-year-old girl, surrendered after he was shot at least once during two gunfights with deputies in which dozens, if not hundreds, of rounds were fired in a residential neighborhood in Polk County, Fla., the county sheriff, Grady Judd, told reporters. Three of the people who were killed a 40-year-old man, a 33-year-old woman and a 3-month-old boy whom the woman was cradling in her arms were found inside one home, the authorities said. A fourth victim, the infants 62-year-old grandmother, was found shot to death in another home on the same property. Investigators could not immediately say what prompted the rampage, which they said began around 4:30 a.m. Sheriff Judd said that so far, his departments investigation had found zero connection between the gunman and the victims. Anger is spreading, and not only in the streets. Opposition lawmakers in Parliament tried to pass a vote of no confidence in Mr. Prayuth, accusing his government of squandering the monthslong head start Thailand had to fight the coronavirus. That effort failed on Saturday, even though some members of the prime ministers coalition had briefly fanned speculation that they might support his ouster. This summers vaccine rollout, already late, was further hampered by manufacturing delays. A company with no experience making vaccines, whose dominant shareholder is Thailands king, was given the contract to produce the AstraZeneca vaccine domestically. The governments failure to secure adequate imported supplies has made matters worse. Only about 15 percent of the population is fully vaccinated, and social inequalities have let the young rich leapfrog ahead of older, poorer people. Antigovernment protests, which now occur daily, are growing more desperate, and security crackdowns more aggressive. In August, at least 10 demonstrations were broken up with force. At one, a 15-year-old boy was shot and is now in intensive care. The police have denied firing live ammunition. Earlier, people said they were not coming out to protest because of Covid, but now the thinking has changed to, You stay at home and you will die anyway because of the governments inability to take care of people, said Tosaporn Sererak, a doctor who was once a spokesman for the government unseated by the 2014 coup. Around 1,000 people, including dozens of American citizens and Afghans holding visas to the United States or other countries, remained stuck in Afghanistan for the fifth day on Sunday as they awaited clearance for the departure from the Taliban. The holdup reflects the challenges of foreign governments working with the group, which has yet to form a government. Negotiations to allow the planes to depart, involving officials of the Taliban, the United States and Qatar, have dragged on for days, leaving the evacuees in an increasingly precarious limbo, according to representatives of organizations trying to get them to safety. The plight of the passengers hoping to leave the country from the airport in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif mirrors that of thousands of people who were unable to board planes from Kabul, the capital, after Taliban militants took the city on the eve of the U.S. troop withdrawal. The American pullout and the end of the two-decade war in Afghanistan were overshadowed by chaotic efforts to airlift tens of thousands of Americans and their allies fleeing the Islamist fighters, who many fear will limit the rights of women and others once they officially return to power. LE BOURGET, France The plan, to repatriate the skeleton of a Napoleonic general who died on a Russian battlefield two centuries ago, was supposed to bring together the leaders of two nations long at odds. The remains of Gen. Charles Etienne Gudin, who was killed in action in 1812 during Napoleons invasion of Russia, would be flown home with official pomp, and President Emmanuel Macron of France would host his Russian counterpart, Vladimir V. Putin, for a funeral that would serve as a symbolic burying of the hatchet. Instead, General Gudins return to French soil on July 13 was far more low-key: His coffin was flown in on a private plane chartered by a Russian oligarch and was welcomed with a small ceremony in a grim hangar at Le Bourget airport, near Paris, next to a decommissioned Concorde jet. The presidents were nowhere in sight. It was not the repatriation that was originally conceived, said Helene Carrere dEncausse, a French historian of Russia. The state Supreme Court recently ruled that a lower court could not block lawmakers attempts to curb Mr. Beshears emergency powers for dealing with Covid. He had attempted to impose a sweeping mask mandate in schools. Mr. Beshear has called a special session of the state legislature to begin on Tuesday to address the crisis. The National Guard, FEMA and nursing students have been dispatched across the state to help hospitals, Mr. Beshear said. When youre at war, you dont get to cry about what you can or cant do, he said. You have got to do your very best every day because this is a battle of life versus death. In the state, 68 percent of those over 12 have received at least one dose of a Covid vaccine, and 58 percent are fully inoculated, according to a Times database. That puts Kentucky in the middle ground compared to other states vaccination rates. OXFORD, England Five days after the Taliban captured Kabul, Summia Tora began to fear that her father would never get out of Afghanistan. She had been up almost round-the-clock, working every angle to get him on an evacuation flight. But without a special immigrant visa, he did not get a call from American officials offering a coveted seat on a military plane. Thats when it really hit me, and that was the first time I sat down and cried, recalled Ms. Tora, 24, as she recounted the story last week. Because I realized there was no way out for my father. He was stuck. But Ms. Toras father had one advantage that thousands of other desperate Afghans did not: His daughter was a Rhodes scholar, the first ever chosen from Afghanistan. She was able to use her connections at Oxford University and with a foundation funded by Eric Schmidt, the billionaire former chief executive of Google, to get her father and an uncle seats on a non-American military flight that left Kabul on Aug. 24. In the coming days, Ms. Tora expects to be reunited with her father in southern Europe. (She asked not to disclose his full name or exact whereabouts to protect his security.) And she has already identified her next mission after finishing her masters degree at Oxfords Blavatnik School of Government in two months one that she said might occupy her for most of the rest of my life. After 17 years of dedicated service, Scoil Naomh Colmcille and the community of Durrow bid Slan go Foill to Mr. Frank Kelly on his recent retirement, as principal of Durrow National School. Due to Covid 19 restrictions, we could not mark the occasion in the manner he deserved. But his departure did not go unnoticed. On the last day, before the summer holidays the staff and pupils congregated in their bubbles outdoors and performed a medley of meaningful songs and traditional Irish tunes. At home time, the Durrow community came together to show their support in a fun and heartwarming drive-by. Durrow flags flew high as parents, pupils and past pupils drove past wishing Mr Kelly well. A great sense of both excitement and sadness was evident in Durrow as the children faced into their summer holidays and Mr. Kelly locked the school for the last time, as staff lined the path and applauded. He was overwhelmed by the cavalcade and good wishes he received. Franks dedication, loyalty and commitment to the school and community has to be admired. He totally invested himself in the school and made it what it is today. The staff and school population has tripled in the years since he assumed principalship. The school building and surroundings are the envy of many as a new hall and a number of new classrooms were built to accommodate the growing numbers. We also have an all-weather surface at the back of the school, dedicated play activities for the junior classes and advanced technology to cater for our digital school. His creativeness, innovative thinking, kindness, warmth and enormous leadership role has left a lasting impression on many lives. It is also worth noting that Franks fun loving personality ensured there was never a dull moment and made Durrow N.S a wonderful school to work and learn. Franks gra for traditional Irish music, song, sport and poetry will leave a lasting impression on Durrow school. As a mentor, he gave understanding, he provided reassurance and advice. As a colleague, he brought out the best in his staff and as a teacher,he brought enthusiasm, fun and instilled a love of learning, which helped shape many careers and successes. Franks legacy however is being left in capable hands. Mr. James Hogan takes over at the helm. James, a staff member of Durrow N.S., was appointed as the new principal and will assume the role from September 1. Franks leadership and guidance will be truly missed. His contribution to the school can never be measured. It is with heavy hearts the school sees him go, but he wont be a stranger and will always be welcomed back to Durrow School. Go n-eiri an t-adh leat Frank, from all in Durrow!! Concerns have been raised over the safety of children in Offaly after reports that children who felt they were being followed by an adult they did not know after they got off a school bus. Independent TD for Laois-Offaly Carol Nolan has said she will be engaging with Bus Eireann to request that the company conduct a safety audit of all school bus stops, particularly those in rural or remote parts of the country. Deputy Nolan went on to say that she will also be raising the matter with the Department of Education and the Department of Transport in the hope that they will provide resource support to Bus Eireann in the event that such an audit is carried out. At this point it is almost an annual event for TDs and public representatives to be inundated by calls and requests from parents who are concerned about issues such as refusals of concessionary school bus tickets or homes falling between different transport catchment areas. "However, there are also very serious personal safety issues emerging around the isolated nature of some of the more rural school bus stops. "While the majority of such stops are fine, it needs to be highlighted that very many parents feel increasingly uneasy about leaving their young children in remote areas very early in the morning, especially when the next stop may be in a built-up area just a mile or two away. "In fact, I am personally aware of an occasion where some young children felt they were being followed by an adult they did not know. This kind of incident brings home to parents the dangers that unfortunately do exist. "Some of these stops may have been originally designated by Bus Eireann at a time when parents could safely presume children would be ok. "By no means am I saying that the issue is widespread, but at the same time it would be helpful if Bus Eireann were to conduct a safety audit so that any problem spots could be identified and so that, in full consultation with parents, assurances could be provided, concluded Deputy Nolan. It was with much surprise and deep regret last May that the school community of Coolanarney National School, Blue Ball, learned the news of the upcoming retirement of popular principal, Frances Lynch who is on the right in the picture above. Mrs Lynch, who will retire at the end of the academic year after 33 years as principal of Coolanarney NS, has made a momentous impact during her tenure and has expertly guided the development and growth of the school in partnership with the entire school community. Appointed as principal and only teacher in 1988, the school at that time, which still had open fire heating, was in danger of closure, having only 18 pupils. Parents and wider school community, however, rallied with Mrs Lynch to ensure it remained open and set about improving the two-room school and ensuring a quality education for all pupils. Mrs Lynchs vision for an innovative, student-centred school with an emphasis on excellent learning experiences became firmly established and the school has grown over those 33 years into a highly respected, three-teacher school with full-time Special Education Teacher and 68 pupils on roll. As principal of Coolanarney NS, Frances Lynch was exceptional and inspiring to those privileged enough to work alongside her. Her dedication and commitment to the school and to ensuring that each child reached their potential were motivating to those who saw at first hand her passion for education. Tus maith, leath na hoibre is certainly very fitting as the school motto as each and every child who passed through the door of Coolanarney NS and through Mrs Lynchs room was guaranteed a great start in life. She instilled values of tolerance, understanding, kindness and respect and was a fantastic role model to both staff and pupils as she practiced what she preached each and every day, both in the classroom and throughout the school. Treating each and every child, staff member and visitor with respect and kindness, Mrs Lynch created an atmosphere of warmth, positivity and welcome for all within the school. Visitors to the school often remarked on the gracious welcome they would receive and the warm positive atmosphere of the school. As it was not possible at the time to organize a celebratory event due to Covid restrictions, the Board of Management on behalf of the school community, past and present, made presentations to Mrs Lynch in the last week of the school term. Glowing tributes were paid to her unwavering dedication and loyal service to the school and its pupils. Chairperson of the Board of Management, Paul Carroll, expressed the deep appreciation of the school community for Mrs Lynchs steadfast dedication, professionalism, leadership and careful management of the school over 33 years. While parents could not attend in person, an online message board was opened for anyone who wished to extend their good wishes to Frances on their retirement. A gifted teacher, leader, manager and trusted friend, Frances Lynchs commitment and dedication to quality education and high standards, as well as a belief that school should be a place where all children should be given equal opportunities to learn and develop as individuals and achieve their full potential, has ensured that she is leaving a thriving school ready for the next chapter in its development. Lorraine Mahon, who has taught alongside Mrs Lynch for over 20 years, has been appointed as successor. As an outstanding teacher, principal, colleague and friend, Mrs Lynch is wished many happy years ahead filled with fun, laughter, good health and new adventures and leaves with the grateful appreciation of so many in the school community of Coolanarney NS. The streets of Kilcormac were lined with people from all over the country as they stood in the rain to bid one final farewell to Denis ODriscoll, St. Cormacs Park, who sadly passed away on August 12 surrounded by his loving family. Denis is survived by his wife of nearly 51 years Claire, his sons Proinsias, Donnacha, Eoin and Criostoir and daughter Mary, his ten grandchildren, his sister Mary and brothers Con and Joe and extended family to whom the deepest sympathy is extended. Although Denis was from Macroom, Co. Cork, he was very much an integrated member of this South Offaly community were he resided since 1970. Denis worked for the Central Fisheries Board which brought him to work in the Midlands, but due to ill health he was forced to take early retirement in 2002. He was the founding member of The Kilcormac Ramblers, the Chairman of the Offaly Committee for the Commemoration of Famine Victims, a member of the Historical Society, a member of the Kilcormac Development Association and he was very much involved in the design and development of Irelands first lake for Anglers with Special Needs at Loch An Dochais in Boora Parklands where each May he, along with Bord Na Mona, Kilcormac Development Association and Inland Fisheries Board ran the All Ireland Angling Competition for over twenty years. Two causes were very close to Denis heart and each year he organised a New Years Day walk to raise funds for Offaly Hospice and each May he organised the Famine Commemoration ceremonies in Kilcormac, Ballyboy, Cadamstown and Rahlein and raised money for Victims of todays Famine. Denis funeral Mass was celebrated by the very Rev. Fr. Joseph Gallagher, PP Tullamore in The Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and afterwards his funeral cortege with his coffin draped in his Cork jersey, brought him home to St. Cormacs Park one last time before he was laid to rest in St. Josephs Cemetery in Kilcormac. Following the graveside prayers and an oration by his friend Michael Blanch, founding member of the National Famine Commemoration Committee, Mary Cuddy (Nee Ryan) sang that great Cork Famine anthem Skibbereen, which Denis himself had requested of Claire years earlier. The ODriscoll family would like to say a massive thank you for the support of their extended families, friends, neighbours and entire community during this sad time for the lovely send off for Denis, the husband, the father, the grandfather and the friend. Olean, NY (14760) Today Thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 69F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 51F. Winds light and variable. The Mamata Banerjee government had filed an application seeking Supreme Courts permission to appoint its own Director General of Police (DGP) bypassing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The Supreme Court dismissed an application filed by the West Bengal government seeking permission of the court to appoint its DGP without involving the UPSC. This is an abuse of the process of law. You cannot do this, said the Bench of Justices L Nageswara Rao, BR Gavai and BV Nagarathna. In a landmark judgment in 2006, the Supreme Court had mandated that the state DGPs can not be appointed without the involvement of the Union Public Service Commission. The state is mandated to select its DGP from the list of three names suggested by the UPSC. The court further stated Why are you wasting so much time in these applications? Our pain is there are petitions which should not be filed and what will happen when states start doing this?" In 2018, the Supreme Court reiterated its position about involvement of the UPSC in the selection process of the DGP. It had also put in abeyance any direction passed by the state or central government to bypass the 2006 Supreme Court judgment. In 2019, the Punjab government had also moved the Supreme Court with a similar application but it was dismissed by the court. A 12-year-old boy died in Keralas Kozhikode today (September 5) of Nipah infection. More than 30 are under observation. After Covid-19, its Nipah infection which is causing worry in Kerala. A 12-year-old boy, who was admitted in a hospital on September 1, died today (September 5) morning. His samples were sent to the National Institute of Virologys lab and tested positive for Nipah. All his contacts have been quarantined and have been kept under observation. Those who treated him in the hospital have also been quarantined. An action plan has been prepared, we have the experience of 2018 in front of us. Theres no cause for uncertainty, we had a late-night meeting with the health minister and we have discussed everything that needs to be done The Indian Express quoted the Kerala Tourism Minister PA Muhammad Riyas, who is also an MLA from Kozhikode district. There is no known cure or vaccine for Nipah infection and the fatality rate is above 80 percent. No need to panic. But high vigil is the need of the hour. I am also leaving for Kozhikode. We have a Nipah protocol and we will go by this, Hindustan Times quoted the Kerala health Minister Veena George. Guwahati: On the occasion of Teachers Day, Assam Governor professor Jagdish Mukhi greets the teaching fraternity of the State stating that teachers are the real nation builders, as they infuse the young minds with strong values to lead a life of respect and integrity. I salute the entire teaching fraternity across the country who has been nurturing young minds and spreading the lights of education in the society, said Governor Mukhi adding that as a mark of tribute to the great contributions by teachers across the country, Bharat celebrates this auspicious day commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Meanwhile, the State government decided to reopen the classes for students from higher secondary final year to above from Monday as Assam relaxed the Covid-19 restrictions in view of decline of corona positive cases in the State and maintaining around 97 % recovery rate. All educational institutions in the State were shut down in April due to the second wave of Covid-19. Issuing a revised set of standard operating procedures (SOP) on Wednesday, State health and family welfare minister Keshab Mahanta revealed that physical classes for post graduate, graduate and higher secondary final year students shall be allowed with limited attendance in a classroom if they have vaccinated with at least one jab and the rest would continue the virtual classes. Along with the online classes for 1 to 11 standard, virtual mode of education will continue for the senior students (above 18-years) also, who prefer to attend to avoid physical classes. Physical attendance in schools is still optional and not mandatory. The schools are asked to arrange classes for maximum 30 students in a room and vaccinate all teaching and non-teaching staff with at least one dose. The night curfew time across Assam had been delayed to 9 pm (until to 5 am next morning) and inter-district and intra-district movement of vehicles with full occupancy were allowed with at least single dose of vaccinated passengers, where no standing passenger is allowed. The workplace and business establishment were allowed to remain open till 8 pm. As most of the government officials have taken at least one dose of vaccine they are now attending the offices. Earlier, attending a review meeting at the Kamrup district magistrates office to take stock of the status of vaccination process, the minister firmly stated that if the eligible person does not take the vaccine, he (she) would be deprived of government facilities in future. Mahanta in presence of district magistrate Kailash Karthik N and other senior administrative and health officials, instructed to take up the vaccination process with an aim to ensure 100 percent vaccination of eligible persons in the district. He opined that the vaccination should be done at polling station level and even door to door if required. Justice (Retd) Kurian Joseph has written that Covid-19 is in control in Delhi and places of worship should also be opened. In a letter addressed to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Supreme Court judge Justice Joseph Kurian has said the places of worship in Delhi should also be opened. He also said that there is no reason to keep places of worship closed when other things are opening and operating. It is very heartening and relieving to learn that the intensity of the Covid-19 pandemic has significantly come down in Delhi... many activities like restaurants, bars, theatres, and auditoriums have been permitted to resume operations with 50 per cent of the seating capacity... Weekly markets and spas are also permitted. The permissible number of people who can attend services like funerals and marriage has been increased to 100. These are positive markers indicating the society getting back to normalcy," Justice Joseph wrote in the latter. He added It is a matter of fact that allowing people to attend religious worships and services would only help in alleviating their deep stress and it would only infuse them with positivity, hope, inner strength, and confidence, which is the need of the hour. I may also like to bring to your kind notice that in the above factual background, prohibition of services in places of public worship will be discriminatory and may amount to a denial of the Constitutional rights guaranteed under Articles 14, 19, 21 and 25. He emphasised that all the Covid-19 protocols should be followed. When will innocent Hindu activists who are victims of political Conspiracy get justice? On 5 September 2017, a 55-year-old woman, living alone in a house in the remote corner of Rajrajeshwari Nagar in Bangalore, was murdered by some unknown assailants who came on a motorbike at around 8.30 pm with a pistol near the compound of her home. Nobody should support murder or crime, but within a few hours of the crime and before the police registered the case, and started an investigation, many leaders of the Congress and Leftist parties led by the National President of Congress Party Sri Rahul Gandhi started blaming the Prime Minister, pointing fingers at the Sangh Parivar, the biggest Nationalist Organisation constitutionally working for the cause National Integrity and Nation Building, and the BJP for this murder and demanding the PM's resignation. There was an attempt to portray the Sangh Parivar as assassins in the media followed by cine stars of Bollywood who expressed their condolences and started blaming the Modi government at the centre for this incident and demanded the Prime Minister to resign. They also started questioning as to why the PM was not condemning the incident. The State of Karnataka was ruled by Congress at that time. So-called Intellectuals, Leftists never bothered to question the State Government, even as they were very well aware that law and order come under the purview of the State Government. The then CM gave orders for State honours including 21 gun salutes to the slain journalist. Thus all honours offered to high-level state dignitaries were given to a lady and she was made a martyr overnight, thereby portraying this as the biggest murder after the assassination of Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. A special investigation team is set up to probe the murder spending crores of Rupees. Within a few days of her death, several National and International awards were given to her posthumously. Further many awards are named after her. The BJP is portrayed as accused in the case and protests made at National and International levels too. Series of articles highlighting her qualities and activities are splashed across a spectrum of newspapers, websites, magazines in regional, national and international languages. In this way after the murder, for the Communists and the Congress, a lady becomes an International icon in no time. People who had little regard for her during her lifetime, and when she had difficulties in life started shedding crocodile tears. Unhesitatingly the Anti Nationals led by the Tukde Tukde gang, Bollywood went the extra mile to make the lady into a martyr. She is none other than Gauri Lankesh. A famous writer had written about the sequence of events as follows 'If she had died due to consumption of gundu (liquor is called as gundu a slang In Kannada. which also means bullet), it would have been a single column news, but as her death was due to bullet, it has become an international news.' This was in the background that she used to drink heavily and was a smoker. The events that have unfolded after her death are witness to the conspiracy of politicization of her death by vested interests. Who was Gauri Lankesh? Was she a great Journalist and Writer? P.Lankesh was running a publication by the name Lankesh Patrike in Bangalore. Being influenced by the Communists, he was naturally Anti Hindu. Gauri Lankesh was his daughter, and naturally had imbibed the father's traits and was running her father's publication having a circulation of 5000 to 10000 approximately, mostly restricted to Bangalore. Gauri Lankesh was a vocal Anti Hindu and no publication would be complete without spewing venom on the Hindu Dharma, BJP, VHP, RSS, Yedyurappa, Amit Shah etc. The publication used to carry a series of fake and hateful articles, using vulgar and filthy language on Sangh Parivar, Hindu Dharma, BJP etc. All the articles used to be with prejudice and without an iota of truth in them. Through such writings, she got lots of enemies from the BJP and the Sangh Parivar. Convicted by a court of law for having made character assassination Many complaints had been lodged in Police Stations against her for her articles defaming the Sangh Parivar and the BJP. Most of her time was being spent going to Police stations and attending Courts. In 2008 she had written a defamatory article against BJP MP from Dharwad, Pralhad Joshi, (Present Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal and Mines) local BJP leaders Sri Umesh, Sri Shivanand Bhat and Sri Venkatesh Mestri. She had claimed that the BJP MP had cheated a jeweller of Rs 1 Lakh. Hon. MP had in turn filed a complaint in Hubli Police Station. The First Division Magistrate convicted Gauri Lankesh awarding her a jail term of 6 months along with a fine of Rs 10,000. The Hon. Court had declared her as guilty in this manner. In spite of this she had not stopped writing hateful articles against Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Sri Amit Shah, Yeddyurappa BJP Sangh Parivar etc. in her tabloid and publications. Is it right on the part of the so-called leaders to glorify such an offender as a great writer, journalist? Is it not a black mark on the National media to glorify such journalists? Relationship with the Naxals and involvement in anti-Hindu activities Gauri Lankesh had an association with Naxalites like Saket Rajan who operated in the Western ghats of Karnataka and Prem etc. She had gone to interview Saket Rajan in the forests before he was killed in an encounter with the police. Writing various articles on the Naxals she had invoked sympathy for them and was their sympathiser too. Her brother Indrajit Lankesh had expressed severe opposition to her activities and had requested to remove the articles on the Naxals. When she had refused, she was removed from the publication. In Spite of this, her contacts with the Naxals continued. In 2014 in spite of opposition from the BJP, the Congress Government named her as a member in the Naxal surrender committee. She was acting as an Urban Naxal in this manner. After her murder, Indrajit Lankesh had mentioned that there may be a Naxal angle to her killing and had informed that she had received many threat calls from Naxals. But it is a mystery as to why the Investigating agencies have cleverly ignored this angle during the probe and has created many doubts. Further, Gauri was involved in many Anti-Hindu activities. In 2003 she had actively participated with the Komu Souharda Vedike against the Dutta Peetha and in a public function in Mangalore organised by the Vedike she had abused Hindu Dharma claiming that it has no origins and it is not a religion. Complaints were lodged against her in the Police Station regarding this. She had also authored many Anti-Hindu books abusing Hindu religious leaders and Dharma. Some of the titles of her books: Sangh has killed Gandhi, Tughlak Modi, Chaddi MP's gimmicks (Taunting the RSS). The titles clearly indicate her Anti-Hindu bias. On the death of veteran RSS leader Sri Sudarshanji she had written 'No cheers No Tears' - Clearly Indicating her Anti-Hindu bias. Cheering up Kanhaiya Kumar, Jignesh Mevani, Umar Khalid Sheila Rashid who had given anti-national statements, she used to say that they are my children, showing off her Anti National bias. Is it right to glorify such a person? Gauri Lankesh using the most Vulgar and foul language against the Sangh Parivar on Social Media Being active on Social Media Gauri Lankesh used to use extremely bad language to criticise the Sangh Parivar. It used to be so vulgar that one could not read them along with family members - showing her low mentality. One could imagine the state of her mind sharing such comments and feeling happy about them. Is it not an irony that such a person was given State honours by the Government after death, and is it not a shame to renowned literary icons of the state? Some of the posts made by her have been shared for reference. Just because she was Anti Hindu she was made a person of international acclaim and a narrative was attempted to see that the democratically elected Sri. Narendra Modi BJP Government, Hindu organisations were labelled with 'Hindu Terror' at the international level. It is crystal clear that such tool kits are active even today, against Hindu Dharma and Nationalists at the National and International levels even today. Conspiracy of the SIT at the behest of the Congress High command to frame innocent Hindu activists. On the eve of elections in the State, the police had arrested innocent activists from various districts and forced them to give confession by taking their signatures on blank papers by torturing them as reported in various Newspapers and channels. Further one of the accused had voiced his grievance directly and widely circulated by the media that the police had offered him Rs 25 lakhs to confess to the crime. In summary, it is very apparent that the entire inquiry, charge sheet and method of investigation has been done on the direction of the Congress High Command. The Police force using brutal force against innocents The Special Investigation Team (SIT) after spending crores of Rupees and after a period of 9 months filed a charge sheet of 9000 Pages and also included the draconian KCOCA Act 2002. The KCOCA Act was introduced in 2000 to put an end to organised terror acts; but none of the accused in the Gauri Lankesh case were involved in any terror activities, neither they had any criminal background. One of them was a practising Doctor of Traditional Medicine, another an engineer, an agriculturist, 6 labourers. None of them had any criminal background. In Spite of this they have been booked under the KCOCA Act and have been suffering behind bars since the last 4 years without getting bail and their families have been forced to come to the streets. During the recent riots in Bangalore when arsonists set fire to the house of an MLA and created riots in DJ Halli and surrounding areas setting hundreds of vehicles on fire, injuring more than 50 police personnel on duty causing a loss of about Rs 20 Crore to public and private properties, a special investigation team was set up and it was found that many of the accused had contacts with terror organisations. This riot was nothing but an organised crime. Many of the arrested accused were involved in the murder of Hindu activists. But there was no invocation of the KCOCA Act or at least the UPA on these accused. Further, as the charge sheet was not filed by the Police in time, 115 accused were released on bail within 9 months. But the Hindu activists who have committed no crime have been behind bars for the last 4 years and this seems to be a planned way of depriving them of justice. Further former minister Vinay Kulkarni who had been arrested by the CBI in the Yogeesh Gowda (Former Zilla Panchayath member)case has been out on bail within 9 months. When will the innocent Hindu activists, who were framed due to political conspiracy get justice? The courts have been denying bail to these activists every time. This is nothing but a conspiracy. Is it right to target just because a person is a Hindu? Is it not against the provisions enshrined in Sections 15 and 16 of the constitution guaranteeing Independence, Equality and Justice? Based on archaic British Laws which were used to suppress activities of freedom fighters, the Hindu activists are being tortured and put to undue duress. When can we put an end to such actions? Though the country has got freedom, it lacks ideal Governance 'Surajya' and equality of Law. The establishment of Hindu Rashtra is the only answer for these issues. Devout Hindus have to organise and work in this direction and is the need of the hour. Trust collecting money in the name of Gauri Memorial and involved in corruption After the murder of Gauri Lankesh a website was made in the name, I am Gauri and Gauri Memorial Trust was formed. Lakhs of Rupees in donation was collected. Members of her family were not given any amount from this, neither were the accounts shown. This was disclosed by Kavitha Lankesh, the sister of Gauri Lankesh. It is unfortunate that many opportunists who never ever bothered about Gauri during her lifetime used this opportunity to fill their pockets. Many leftists organise various programmes in memory of Gauri during September. During these events instead of talking about her, they use the platform to target the Prime Minister, Yogi Adityanath, BJP, Kashmir Issue and hurl false accusations against them acting like agents of Congress. It is an insult to Gauri because she had fought against the present President of State congress D.K.Shivakumar. In 2019 in an event organised in her memory in Bangalore Girish Karnad had participated with a placard hanging from his neck indicating that he is an Urban Naxal. It is unfortunate that the Anti National and Anti Hindu activities of Gauri Lankesh have been pursued by her followers and are detrimental to the Integrity and Safety of the Country. The State and Central Governments have to take serious note of this issue and take proper legal action. Only then can we have proper Peace and Law and Order in the State. Centre for South Indian Studies director P Sandeep on Saturday (September 4) said that the anti-Hindu Malabar massacre needs to be revisited. He also questioned the left-wing historians for distorting the facts for so land and asked how an anti-Hindu pogrom became a part of the freedom struggle. P Sandeep was speaking on the final day of the three-day lecture series organised by Janam TV on Moplah rebellion. P Sandeep pointed that there were many anti-Hindu riots in Malabar before 1921. In what was called Haal ilakkam, Islamists left their homes and indulged in the targeted killing of Hindus and destruction of temples. This anti-Hindu mindset later resulted in the 1921 genocide of Hindus. He further explained the role of Arabs in radicalising Muslims of Malabar and cutting all their roots with Keralas culture. There were even reports of Muslims from Kerala going for Haj and not returning since they had joined the Ottoman forces to fight the First World War. The ultimate aim of Islamists was to establish a Islamic state and it can never be considered a freedom movement, P Sandeep added. On the occasion of Teachers' Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greeting to the entire teaching fraternity and commended them for ensuring students education during the COVID-19 times. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote, "On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds. It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in the COVID-19 times." He also paid tribute to Dr S Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti. "I pay my respects to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti and recall his distinguished scholarship as well as contributions to our nation," PM Modi tweeted further. Teachers' Day is celebrated across the country in memory of former President Dr S Radhakrishnan, a philosopher-author and India's second President who was born on September 5, 1888. His contributions to the field of education are exemplary. In 1962, the tradition to celebrate Teachers' Day started to honour Radhakrishnan and all the teachers. Earlier on Saturday, President Ram Nath Kovind also extended his greetings to teachers across the country on the eve of Teachers' Day and expressed gratitude to the teaching community for their invaluable contribution towards building a strong and prosperous nation. (ANI) Guwahati: Assam chief minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Saturday that the government will try to resolve the ULFA issue as soon as possible. The chief minister stated that ULFA(I) leader Paresh Baruah has shown positive vibes for peace talks in the last few months. He said there is no need to sign a separate peace accord with pro-talks ULFA led by Arabinda Rajkhowa and ULFA(I) led by Paresh Baruah. The main motive is to bring peace to the state, so there is no need for a separate accord as both matters are advancing in the right direction. Dr Sarma said," We have seen positive signs from Paresh Barua and I am optimistic from these positive attitudes." The chief minister was interacting with the media after signing a tripartite peace accord with 5 Karbi militant outfits in New Delhi in presence of the union home minister Amit Shah. Meanwhile, an ex-member of People's Consultative Group (PCG), which was formed by ULFA to initiate talks with the government a decade ago, Hiranya Saikia said today that a positive atmosphere has been created for talks with ULFA(I) by the central and state governments. He said that for the first time the chief minister of Assam has appealed to Paresh Baruah to come forward for peace talks. ULFA(I) has also shown some positive vibes by declaring a unilateral ceasefire for six months for the first time in the last four decades. Saikia opined that it is very much possible to begin a peace talk between the government and ULFA(I) under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Kerala-based NGO Markazul Ighasathil Kairiyathil Hindiyyas foreign funding licence has been suspended after investigation revealed that it had violated multiple provisions of the FCRA. The Union Home Ministry suspended the foreign funding licence of Kerala (Kozhikode)-based NGO Markazul Ighasathil Kairiyathil Hindiyya for violating provision of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA). This order will bar the Markazul from receiving foreign funds without prior approval of the Union government. The order was passed by the ministry on August 27 and reported by The Times of India on Saturday (September 4). The Markazul also operates the Relief and Charitable Foundation of India (RCOI). The ministry order has noted that Markazul diverted the funds and misrepresented the facts to the ministry. It also misutilised the funds. The first questionnaire was sent by the ministry on April 5, 2018. An amount of INR 5o lakh was received back by the Markazul on January 13, 2015. Earlier, this money was withdrawn to seal some land deal. Once the deal was cancelled, the money was received back. But, this money was never returned by the Markazul. Markazul claimed this amount was used for distribution in relief work. But, its records showed that the cash distribution had taken place between July-December 2014. The NGO was founded in 2000 as a vision of Kanthapuram A P Aboobacker Musliyar and his son, Muhammed Abdul Hakkim, is its general secretary. Pakistan intelligence chief Faiz Hameed has taken an "emergency" trip to Kabul to resolve an evolving internal crisis in the Taliban after reports emerged about a clash between factions between in which the group co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar suffered injuries. Michael Rubin, a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), writes in US-based 19 forty-five that the Hameed's emergency visit affirms that they are merely an ISI puppet. The Taliban, which captured Kabul on August 15, has been delaying the announcement of the government formation in Afghanistan over the past few days. While the group has not issued a statement over it yet, reports have emerged claiming that the government formation has been delayed due to differences between the Taliban and the Haqqani network over power-sharing. Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the top Taliban leader who is set to head the new Afghan regime, was injured during the clash and is currently getting treated in Pakistan. Signalling there a rift in the Taliban, Rubin said that the Haqqani and many other Taliban factions simply do not accept Haibatullah as their leader. Pakistan intelligence chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed reached Kabul on Saturday leading a delegation of Pakistani officials. "There is no official word of the appointment of Haibatullah Akhundzada whom the group's representatives earlier signalled would be the Islamic Emirate's supreme leader based in Kandahar," he writes. "That delay also postponed Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar's efforts to become a political leader in Kabul. The delay may signal a much greater crisis within the Taliban, hence Hameed's emergency trip," Rubin adds. The Pentagon former official said with his recent visit, Hammed's hand in the toppling of the Afghan government has been exposed. Prof. C Christine Fair was exposing Pakistan, detailing how Pakistan has been harbouring terrorists and destabilising Afghanistan. BBC Anchor Philippa Thomas shut her down abruptly. London-based BBC shut down academic Prof C Christine Fair when she started exposing Pakistan on live TV. Prof Fair was invited for a talk on the current situation in Afghanistan. Prof Fair said on live TV What Pakistan has objected to in the last 20 years is the emergence of a stable Afghanistan. She also spoke about how Pakistan has been harbouring a safe sanctuary for terror groups in the region. BBC anchor Philippa Thomas did not like exposure about Pakistan. She objected to Prof Fair exposing Pakistan. The anchor also says the instability in Afghanistan will create a refugee crisis in Pakistan, so how will it benefit Pakistan? Prof Fair responds that Pakistan will use this to get more grants from the western countries. She said, Pakistan will use it as a usual grant seeking strategy...Pakistan wants to monetise this thoroughly. She also talked about how Pakistan has been carrying out incredibly outrageous terror attacks in India. The anchor abruptly says we are going to leave it now since no Pakistani diplomat is present to defend Pakistan. Prof Fair responded Youre doing their propaganda. Two books by Prof Fair are immensely popular: Fighting to the End: The Pakistan Armys Way of War and In Their Own Words: Understanding Lashkar-e-Tayyaba, both published by the Oxford University Press. Joan Ruth (Geurts) Thompson, passed away at the Wesley Acres Health Center in Des Moines Iowa on September 8, 2021, at the age of 86 years. Joan was born on January 14, 1935, to Floris W.A. and Sophia (Vos) Geurts. Joan graduated from Pella High School with the class of 1953 and resided in D LA PAZ, Bolivia (AP) The body of an American man who died while climbing one of Bolivia's highest peaks arrived Sunday in the country's capital after a two-day recovery effort. Rescue workers said Daniel Granberg, 24, died atop the Illimani mountain. We found Daniel lifeless, seated at the summit. His lungs did not hold out; he couldn't get up to continue, said Sergio Condori Vallejos, a mountain guide who works with Bolivian Andean Rescue and who led the recovery effort. Condori said Granberg died at an altitude of 6,216 meters (20,391 feet) on the second day of a trek across the mountain, an iconic part of the view from Bolivia's capital, La Paz. He was on the longest and most difficult trail across the mountain, which involved scaling at least two of its peaks. Granberg had arrived in Bolivia two months ago and had climbed several other peaks. On his trip up Illimani, he was accompanied by two guides who sought help from rescuers, who needed two days to bring the body down the mountain. His body was brought to a morgue at a hospital in La Paz, according to members of the local fire department. He died from high-altitude pulmonary distress, said his mother Jean Granberg. He had some shortness of breath the night before and a mild headache, she said, but nothing to indicate his life was in peril. Granberg grew up surrounded by mountains in Montrose, Colorado, and graduated with a math degree from Princeton University, where he also sang tenor in various groups. His mother described him as a warm-hearted, well-traveled and adventurous young man who had friends all over the world, and their heartfelt condolences were buoying her and his younger sister Jennifer Granberg. Jean Granberg said she knows that her son was doing what he loved when he died. But I, just as a mom, my hearts broken. Twenty-four years is not long enough and I just wish somehow thered been some kind of warning, she said, crying. If he had felt like he was in danger in any way, he would have come down the mountain. But I think it happened so fast. Her son was a subcontractor who worked as a remote programmer for the U.S. Department of Energy, his mother said. He taught himself physics because his high school did not have a program and received the top score on the Advanced Placement exam, she said. He was the smartest person that I knew, Jennifer Granberg said. Tracy Lightsey, one of Daniel's high school teachers and later a friend, organized a fundraiser on GoFundMe to help the family. As of Sunday afternoon, more than $21,000 had been raised. The response from people is entirely because this young man was an incredible human and he touched people wherever he was, Lightsey said. ___ AP staff writer Janie Har in San Francisco contributed to this report. HONG KONG (AP) The group behind the annual Tiananmen Square memorial vigil in Hong Kong said Sunday it will not cooperate with police conducting a national security investigation into the group's activities, calling it an abuse of power. Police notified the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China last month that it was under investigation for working for foreign interests, an accusation the group denied. This is a really bad precedent of the national security (police) abusing the power by arbitrarily labeling any civil organization as a foreign agent, Chow Han Tung, vice chairwoman of the alliance, said at a news conference called to address the police investigation. The alliance strongly denies that we are any foreign agents," Chow said. "We are an organization that was founded during the 1989 democratic movement, it was founded by the Hong Kong people. The investigation is part of a broad crackdown on Hong Kong civil society following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Authorities have tightened control over the city with a sweeping national security law imposed by China's ruling Communist Party that effectively criminalized opposition to the government. The law and other changes have forced several civil organizations to disband or seen their leaders arrested. The annual candlelight vigil honors the students who died when Chinas military violently suppressed massive pro-democracy protests in Beijing's Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989. Authorities responded in the afternoon to the group's announcement with a warning and reiterated they needed information about certain foreign agents although they did not name anyone specifically. Endangering national security is a very serious crime. The damage is serious, said the city's Security Bureau in a statement. They added that not handing over information could lead to fines or imprisonment. Hong Kong had been the only place in China allowed to hold such a commemoration, and in past years, tens of thousands of people gathered in Victoria Park to honor the dead. Smaller crowds gathered this year and in 2020 despite police banning the vigil, citing coronavirus restrictions on public gatherings. Police had asked the alliance to hand over any information about groups they had worked with overseas or in Taiwan, as well as contact information. They did not mention what specific incidents prompted the investigation. Chow said the alliance has not been able to reach a consensus on whether to disband. It plans to hold a general meeting on Sept. 25 to discuss the matter again. In August, the prominent Hong Kong Civil Human Rights Front, made up of a slew of member organizations, said it could no longer operate and chose to disband. The group organized large protests in 2019. More than 100 pro-democracy activists have been arrested under Hong Kong's national security law, which outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion to interfere in the citys affairs. Many other activists have gone into exile abroad. Critics say the law restricts freedoms Hong Kong was promised it could maintain for 50 years following the territory's 1997 handover to China from colonial Britain. ___ Wu reported from Taipei, Taiwan. JERUSALEM -- Israel says it will soon reopen its gates to foreign tour groups -- even as it battles one of the worlds highest rates of coronavirus infections. The countrys Tourism Ministry on Sunday said it will begin allowing organized tour groups into the country beginning Sept. 19. Tourists will have to be vaccinated against the coronavirus, present a negative PCR test before their flight and undergo both PCR and serological testing upon arrival. Visitors would have to quarantine in their hotels until the test results come back -- a process expected to take no more than 24 hours. Tourists from a handful of red countries with high infection rates -- including Turkey and Brazil -- will not be permitted to visit for the time being. Israel launched a similar program in May after vaccinating most of its population early this year. But the program was suspended in August as the delta variant began to spread. In recent weeks, the country has begun administering booster shots to anyone who was vaccinated over five months ago. The campaign has shown signs of controlling the delta outbreak, allowing the government to begin allowing tourists to return. ___ MORE ON THE PANDEMIC: Two anchors of COVID safety net ending, affecting millions in U.S. Miami teen's football game to honor dad who died of COVID Germany urges vaccine shots; warns of fall COVID-19 surge Florida deals with deadliest phase yet of the pandemic ___ Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronvirus-vaccine ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: WASHINGTON -- The U.S. governments top infectious disease expert says he believes delivery of COVID-19 vaccine booster shots will be able to start Sept. 20 for Americans who received Pfizer doses, while Modernas may end up rolling out a couple weeks later. Dr. Anthony Fauci told CBS Face the Nation Sunday that it is still the Biden administrations plan in some respects to begin the third doses the week of Sept. 20, pending approval by the Food and Drug Administration. The administration had hoped that both Pfizer and Moderna booster shots would be rolled out at that time. But Fauci said it is conceivable that for Modernas, there might be at most a couple of weeks, a few weeks delay, if any, while the company provides more data to the FDA on the boosters efficacy. President Joe Biden on Aug. 18 touted boosters as a protection against the virus more transmissible delta variant, and said Americans should consider getting a booster eight months after their second shot. Ron Klain, Bidens chief of staff, said Sunday the administration had always made clear that Sept. 20 was a target date, and No ones going to get boosters until the FDA says theyre approved. Klain told CNN: Were ready to go once the science says go. ___ ROME The Italian health minister has indicated that a meeting of his G-20 counterparts could yield a pledge about ensuring COVID-19 vaccines reach everyone in poor countries. Minister Roberto Speranza told reporters on Sunday, after the opening session of the two-day meeting in Rome, that he hopes the gathering would yield a pact about the challenge to bring vaccines to everyone, including the more fragile populations. Speranza lamented that there is a deep gap between wealthier countries and poorer ones regarding vaccine distribution. He expressed optimism the Group of 20 nations gathering would result in resolve so that the vaccine is the right of everybody and not just a privilege for few. Italy currently holds the rotating G-20 presidency. Speranza also held separate meetings with the health ministers of Britain, India and Russia. On the eve of the gathering Speranza tweeted that only by working together can we guarantee a fairer distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. ___ LONDON Britains government has confirmed that it plans to introduce vaccine passports for nightclubs and large-scale gatherings from next month. Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said Sunday that officials are looking to begin the certification measures from the end of September, when the whole over-18 population would have been offered two COVID-19 vaccine doses. Zahawi told Sky News that this was the right thing to do to ensure the economy remains open. Lawmakers and businesses, however, have criticized the measure as divisive and say they could embroil nightclubs in discrimination cases. The best thing to do is to work with the industry to make sure that they can open safely and sustainably in the long term, and the best way to do that is to check vaccine status, he said. The plans mean that people who want to enter nightclubs and other large-scale events will be required to show proof they have had two doses of a coronavirus vaccine. Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon said earlier this week vaccine passports will be required for nightclubs and large events from later this month as Scotland faces a spike in infections. ___ DUBAI, United Arab Emirates The kingdom of Bahrain has authorized a third booster shot of Russias Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine for anyone above the age of 18 who received their second dose at least six months ago. The countrys coronavirus taskforce is encouraging residents who received the Sputnik jab to register for the extra dose. Already, the government has rolled out Pfizer-BioNTech booster shots to people six months after they received two shots of Chinas Sinopharm vaccine. The Mideast island nation is one of the worlds leaders in per-capita inoculations, largely relying on the Sinopharm shot. Daily infections in the country of 1.6 million have sharply declined from peaks reached a few months ago and now hover around 100 new cases per day. The country, which has recorded over 272,900 infections, is also producing the Sputnik V vaccine to supply demand across the Middle East and North Africa. ___ JERUSALEM -- Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says the governments COVID-19 booster vaccination drive will help allow the country to avoid a full lockdown during the coming Jewish holiday season. Religious and secular Israelis alike mark Jewish new year Rosh Hashana on Monday night. Jews will also mark the fast day of Yom Kippur and the weeklong Sukkot festival over the next few weeks. The holiday season is marked by traditional family gatherings as well as packed services in synagogues. The government has urged families to avoid large gatherings. And synagogue prayers will be limited to small groups of vaccinated people. Bennett told his Cabinet on Sunday that unvaccinated children shouldnt be brought to synagogues. Last year the holiday season led to a spike in coronavirus infections that resulted in a full lockdown. ___ BERLIN The German disease control agency says that more than 4 million people have contracted the coronavirus in the country since the outbreak of the pandemic. The Robert Koch Institute reported 4,005,641 cases on Sunday. The actual number of cases is likely much higher as many infections go unnoticed. The institute said 92,346 people have died of COVID-19 in Germany. Top health officials have urged more citizens to get vaccinated. More than 61% of the German population, or 50.9 million people, are fully vaccinated, but thats less than in other European countries. The daily vaccination rate has been dropping for weeks. Germanys disease control agency on Saturday reported 10,835 new COVID-19 cases. Thats up from 10,303 a week ago. ___ OLYMPIA, Washington Days after suing to block what is believed to be among the nations strictest COVID-19 employee vaccine mandates, Washingtons largest state labor union has announced a tentative agreement for Gov. Jay Inslees order for state workers. The Northwest News Network reports the Washington Federation of State Employees has negotiated terms for Inslees mandate that all 46,000 of its union members be fully vaccinated by October 18 or lose their jobs. The new agreement, which still needs to be ratified, was announced Saturday and defines the exceptions and religious and medical exemptions process for employees who cant or wont get their shots. ___ FRANKFORT, Kentucky Democratic Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has announced that hes calling the states Republican-led legislature into a special session to shape pandemic policies as the state struggles with a record surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The return of lawmakers to the state Capitol starts Tuesday and marks a dramatic power shift in coronavirus-related policymaking in the Bluegrass State following a landmark court ruling. Since the pandemic hit Kentucky, the governor mostly acted unilaterally in setting statewide virus policies, but the state Supreme Court shifted those decisions to the legislature. Now, that burden will fall in large part on the General Assembly, Beshear said Saturday. It will have to carry much of that weight to confront unpopular choices and to make decisions that balance many things, including the lives and the possible deaths of our citizens. Bamako, Mali (PANA) - Several unions and associations have embarked on several protests in Bamako following the move by some elements of the Malian police to demand the release Friday of the commander of the Special Anti-Terrorist Force (Forsat), Divisional Commissioner Oumar Samake Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan elite armed unit, known as Brigade 444, Saturday announced its commitment to respect the ceasefire in Tripoli following "the orders of the High Commander and Chief of Staff of the army and the Minister of Defence", official sources said here Sunday Photo: (Photo : TOBIAS SCHWARZ/AFP via Getty Images) A group of parents of children with disabilities in Iowa is challenging the school mask ban imposed by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds. In a federal lawsuit filed at a Des Moines court Friday, the parents argued that public schools without a mask mandate are unconstitutional because they exclude their children from access to education. Rita Bettis Austen, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), who is helping with the parents' lawsuit, told the Des Moines Register that those kids with disabilities are forced to be "out of school" because the school mask ban puts their health at risk. The parents are asking the court to block Reynolds' order so that public schools may impose their own rules on wearing face masks. They also argued in the lawsuit that their kids are too young to get a vaccination and their disabilities, like cerebral palsy, make them highly susceptible to severe COVID-19 symptoms if infected. Read Also: Georgia Professor Resigns From Job After One Student Ignored Face Mask Rule Aside from the Iowa governor, the state's Department of Education Director Ann Lebo is also named in the lawsuit. The group of parents belongs to several school districts like Des Moines, Ankeny, Davenport, Iowa City, and Waterloo. 'It's the Law' But Reynolds said during a press conference that she won't reply to comments about imposing a school mask mandate because it "doesn't matter anymore" as the ban is now a law. The governor also told parents not to panic amid the surge of cases in the country as serious illness in children is minimal. She said that parents also informed her that their kids have severe reactions to face masks. Some parents have also told the governor that they think a mask may impede their children's learning. Reynolds reiterated that parents could enroll in an online-only class with pre-recorded lessons and no live interaction with the teachers. However, Susan Mizner, the director of ACLU's disability program, said this option is "particularly inappropriate" for children with disabilities who should have hands-on interaction. In May, Reynolds signed a law banning school mask mandates written by Iowa lawmakers who "listened" to their constituents. Iowa Department of Public Health director Kelly Garcia was in the same conference and revealed that she lets her child wear a face mask in school since the law doesn't stop parents from making this choice for their kids. More Lawsuits in Other States Iowa isn't the only state with a lawsuit on school mask ban as Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas have pending cases as well. A judge in Florida has already issued a ruling citing that the ban is unlawful. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has asked for a civil rights investigation into the lawsuits in South Carolina and Tennessee. The president has previously instructed the Department of Education to challenge any policy that imposes a school mask ban. Mizner described these policies as a "slap in the face to students with disabilities," adding that the risk of the virus applies to all people. She said that distance learning or online learning is not an option for some families; thus, their needs must also be accommodated. Related Article: Florida ER Doctor Fired for Offering Mask Exemption Letters to Parents of School Kids Photo: (Photo : John Moore/Getty Images) Beginning January 2022, students in Illinois will be allowed to have five mental health days off from school and won't need to show a doctor's note if they miss classes for this reason. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the law that would provide students between 6 to 17 years old with five excused absences if they want to take a mental health day off. Proponents of the bill said that the kids need such days off due to the pandemic's mental strains. Rep. Barbara Hernandez, who co-sponsored the bill, said that many children "have developed anxiety and depression" in the last year after not seeing their friends in school. Some kids also couldn't cope with the stress of remote learning that their academic performance suffered. Hernandez believes that giving children days off will prevent increasing mental health issues in kids. If students frequently use this privilege, however, they will be referred to counselors or appropriate personnel in the school. Read Also: Alanis Morissette Revealed Her Postpartum Depression Got 'Progressively Worse' With 3 Pregnancies Removing the Stigma Sen. Robert Martwick, another co-sponsor of the bill, said that giving students mental health days off allows them to prioritize their well-being and help remove the stigma that comes with admitting that they are struggling with their feelings and emotions. Providing kids access to help also ensures that they can address issues that they're dealing with. The senator believes that children should not be penalized for missing classes if they struggle with mental health issues. When students are struggling with their mental health, the last thing they need is the added stress of being penalized for missing school. Thankful to @RepLaPointe and @GovPritzker for working with me to make this a reality. https://t.co/2IDffF3tKp Robert Martwick (@robertmartwick) September 1, 2021 It comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report citing that hospitals across the country saw a rise in mental health emergencies involving children from March to May 2020. Cases have peaked at 24 percent for children under 11 years old, while cases for children between 12 to 17 years old increased to 31 percent. According to Dr. Ujjwal Ramtekkar, young children are growing anxious over the fact that their parents, family members, or caregivers may contract COVID-19. On the other hand, teenagers are challenged by the lack of social interaction and anxieties about their academics. Hernandez said that she's excited for the outcome of the new law as this will help the students, parents, and teachers as they will have a better understanding of what young kids are specifically going through. Illinois will be preparing guidelines on executing the law before it takes effect on Jan. 1, 2022. Similar Bills in Other States Before Illinois, at least eight other states have enforced a mental health day off for students. These are Virginia, Utah, Oregon, Nevada, Maine, Connecticut, Colorado, and Arizona. In 2018, Utah changed its "permissible illnesses" for students' absences to include mental health issues. According to Debbie Plotnick of Mental Health America, if children are allowed to miss classes if they have physical ailments, they should also be allowed to be absent for mental health reasons. These changes reflect the need to support young kids' social and emotional development, aside from their academic enrichment. Schools now recognize that it takes more than high-quality instruction for children to succeed as adults, as they also need to build resilience, learn to handle issues, and cope with stress. Related Article: Reese Witherspoon Opens Up for the First Time About Her Struggles as a New Mom We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has launched and handed over 350,000 laptops under the One Teacher One Laptop programme in fulfillment of governments pledge to equip Ghanas teachers with the requisite ICT skills to prepare the next generation for the Fourth Industrial revolution. At a brief but colourful ceremony at the campus of the St Marys Senior High School, Accra on Friday 3rd September 2021 Dr Bawumia, assisted by the Minister for Education, Hon Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum; the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, Prof Kwasi Opoku-Amankwa; and the leadership of Teacher Unions, handed over the first of these laptops, known as the TM1 (Teachers Mate 1) to the 71 teachers of the school. Effective teaching and learning is critical to developing the human capacity for work, innovation and creativity; necessary ingredients for capacity building. Teachers are the indispensable pillars of this necessary capacity building. This initiative, in collaboration with the Teacher Unions, is to support the vision of the Ghana Education Service of creating an enabling environment to facilitate effective teaching and learning Dr Bawumia stated. Under the initiative, Government is to provide every teacher in Ghana, from Kindergarten to the Senior High School level, with a laptop preloaded with educational materials and with access to an E-Library equipped with books recommended by the GES on the various subjects. The materials can be accessed whether online or offline, and with free Wi-Fi available in 722 Senior High Schools across the country, access to the almost innumerable resources available on the internet is expected to aid research, teaching and learning. The State would take up 70% of the cost of the laptop, while the teacher makes up the difference. The laptop, however, becomes the personal property of the teacher and serves the benefit of providing a tool for developing the teachers professional and personal capacity. Features This shift to ICT-based teaching and learning has many benefits for both teachers and students, according to experts in education. With the curriculum materials already installed onto the laptops, the suggested lesson notes prepared by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) can be downloaded onto the laptops and used to end the burdensome task of writing lesson notes into notebooks. This would perfectly be in tandem with the fifth skill and competence under the new standards-based curriculum, the promotion of digital literacy. The laptops would also help in the field of assessment. The filling of School-Based Assessment, report cards, cumulative records, and the building of learners individual portfolios would become easier if each teacher owns a laptop. Source: Peacefmonline.com 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. Featured Video The First Lady Mrs Rebecca Akufo Addo has asked members of the Childhood Cancer Society of Ghana (CCSG) to continue supporting children with cancers to help them survive. The said children were among the most vulnerable in every society and needed support because they contributed in making communities and the nation productive and sustainable. The First Lady said this via zoom at the inauguration ceremony of Childhood Cancer Society of Ghana (CCSG). It was on the theme, "Leveraging the Multidisciplinary Paediatric Oncology Team for Holistic Care and Optimal Outcomes." The First Lady noted that, there had been impressive achievements in reducing under-five mortality in Ghana from 127 per 1000 live births in 1990 to 46 per 1000 live births in 2019 due to the implementation of effective public health policies such as immunisation and malaria control. She said unfortunately, those children were now at risk of ill-health and death from non-communicable diseases such as cancer and called for collaborative multi-stakeholder efforts. The CCSG, comprising of health professionals and health workers, is mandated to advocate at the national level to ensure that children were able to access effective quality lifesaving care wherever they are. It will also support the implementation of the National Childhood Cancer Strategy, which is at the draft stage. The CCSG is expected to undertake awareness creation, facilitate capacity building, participate in policy development and come up with ingenious ways of promoting universal health coverage for children with cancer. The First Lady said challenges of late presentation of cases, treatment abandonment and unnecessary suffering of children would soon be a thing of the past. Mrs Akufo Addo noted that out of the estimated 400,000 children who developed cancers globally each year, 80 per cent resided in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Ghana. An estimated 90 per cent of the deaths also occur in LMICs. A child with cancer in a high-income country would have over 80 per cent chance of cure whereas in LMICs, this is between 15-45 per cent with about 44 per cent children undiagnosed globally. Currently out of the estimated 1,200 children that would be expected to develop cancer annually in Ghana, only about 450 are diagnosed. "Unfortunately this means the majority are unable to access specialist services and most likely die, unaccounted for," she stated. The First Lady said with only five Paediatric Oncologists who were team leaders for care of such children, the situation seemed quite dire but the good news was that over the next two years, Ghana would produce eight more who were presently undergoing training. "With the postgraduate medical colleges producing other critical members of the multidisciplinary teams, we are looking forward to more fully functional comprehensive treatment centres in the near future." She urged national, international and individual stakeholders to contribute appropriately to help CCSG achieve its goals for the benefit of all children affected with cancer in the country. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video The fate of Guinea's President Alpha Conde is unclear after an unverified video showed him surrounded by soldiers, who said they had seized power. They appeared on national TV claiming to have dissolved the government. However, the defence ministry said the attempted takeover had been thwarted by the presidential guard. This follows hours of heavy gunfire near the presidential palace in the capital, Conakry. The West African country of Guinea is rich in natural resources but years of unrest and mismanagement mean it is one of the world's poorest countries. President barefoot on a sofa The TV address featured nine unnamed soldiers, several draped in the red, gold and green national flag, who said they had taken over because of rampant corruption, mismanagement and poverty. Calling themselves the National Committee for Reconciliation and Development, they said the constitution had been dissolved and that there would be consultations to create a new, more inclusive one. Numerous reports say the coup was led by an elite unit headed by a former French legionnaire, Lt Col Mamady Doumbouya. In one video, which the BBC has not been able to verify, soldiers ask President Conde, 83, to confirm he is unharmed but he refuses to respond. Sitting barefoot on a sofa wearing jeans and a printed shirt, he does not have any visible injuries. His current whereabouts are unknown. Those behind the coup said that all land and air borders had been closed for a week. However, according to the defence ministry, forces loyal to the president have "contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants". Earlier, the only bridge connecting the mainland to the Kaloum peninsular, which houses most ministries and the presidential palace, was sealed off while many soldiers, some heavily armed, were posted around the palace, a military source told Reuters news agency. There are unconfirmed reports that three soldiers have been killed. President Conde was re-elected for a controversial third term in office amid violent protests last year. The veteran opposition leader was first elected in 2010 in the country's first democratic transfer of power. Despite overseeing some economic progress, he has since been accused of presiding over numerous human rights abuses and harassment of his critics. Source: BBC 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. Featured Video President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo Sunday joined the Waiwso Anglican Cathedral congregation in worship to begin his two-day tour of the Western North Region. In his welcoming address, Bishop Abraham Kwabena Ackaah asked for God's blessings and protection for the President and his team in all endeavours. In a sermon, Archbishop Cyril Smith, Archbishop of Asante Mampong, asked Ghanaians to support the President to achieve his vision for Ghana, especially Agenda 111. He entreated the President not to be distracted by negative comments but remain focused on what he intended to do for the country. Archbishop Smith tasked Ghanaians to support others, especially family members, to attain their highest potentials. The President, on his part, promised to give a brand new car to the Diocese to enhance its activities and asked the Church to always pray for him and his appointees for the wisdom and strength to develop the country. President Akufo-Addo is scheduled to commission the newly constructed Western North Regional Coordinating Council Office Complex, Akontombra Rice Factory under the One District One Factory, as well as inspect the construction of a health facility at Akontombra later on Sunday. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo said the country is working earnestly to ensure local production of the COVID-19 vaccines to control the pandemic. "Ghana's vision is to develop and produce the vaccines in the next five years, and the government, in-between time, has projected to vaccinate 20 million people by the end of 2021 against the COVID-19," he said. The National Vaccine Manufacturing Committee, chaired by Professor Frimpong Boateng, is working assiduously to give us a road map to develop the vaccine in the period of five years. We've gone far. There is no doubt about it....our target is to have more vaccines." The President said the goal was to achieve universal coverage of vaccination and also contain the spread of the virus "whether rural or urban and nobody will be left out." President Akufo-Addo gave the assurance in response to complaints that the COVID-19 vaccines were concentrated in urban areas when he met the Nzema Manle Council at Azeleonu in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region. The meeting formed part of his two-day visit to the region. President Akufo-Addo said the 2020/2021 population census projected Ghanas population to be 40 million with two-thirds of it being adults. He said the vaccination would continue to target the urban population and "Cabinet is determined that we have the capacity of making our own vaccines here so nobody will be left behind". The President said it was not a deliberate policy of government to deny people access to the vaccines adding that more vaccines would be acquired to reinforce the vaccination of more than 20 million people by end of September. We are more determined to vaccinate the entire population. Germany is getting us 1.5 million doses of AstraZeneca, the United States of America is also giving us a significant donation, while the British Government will give us the Johnson and Johnson vaccines," President Akufo-Addo said. "Hopefully, we'll get more than 4.5 million vaccines to reinforce the vaccination of 20 million people by September." The President said the COVID-19 pandemic, no doubt, affected the urban towns known as the hotspots in Greater Accra, Ashanti, Volta, Eastern and Western regions where there were spikes in infections. He appealed to the clergy, chiefs, queen mothers and opinion leaders to lead the campaign in promoting the vaccination to contain the pandemic in Ghana. The President said government had proposed the Omanhen of Western Nzema, Awulae Annor Adjaye III, as the Board Chair of the Petroleum Hub to be established in the Jomoro enclave. "This is a major economic development, which will impact on job creation. It's a big project and Awuale Annor Adjaye will help achieve that goal of improving our Gross Domestic Product, the volume of taxes and revenue," he said. Source: GNA 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. Featured Video Guinness has, in a bid to tell compelling stories of pan African creatives, partnered with Afro and hip-hop Ghanaian dancer Incredible Zigi, for a campaign themed 'Black Shines Brightest'. Black Shines Brightest is a new Pan African campaign celebrating the iconic black liquid enjoyed all over the continent for over a century. This exciting new campaign is inspired by the bold and unique black beer of Guinness stout and brings together passionate and creative individuals to celebrate the spirit of Guinness and its home across African markets. Incredible Zigi has been in the spotlight and worked with top-notch African musicians and record labels such as Mavin Records, P Square, Davido, Patoranking, Stonebowy, Shatta Wale, and a plethora of others. Michael Amofa, popularly known as Incredible Zigi hails from the Eastern Region of Ghana and was born on the 17th of October. Incredible Zigi is one of the main pillars that have highly influenced the youth positively through dance. Zigi has achieved quite a lot in his career as a dancer; He is the first Ghanaian Dance Artist to ever get featured on several articles including the famous Global Grind twice, booked in other countries such as Nigeria, Rwanda, Russia and UK respectively. In telling the Black story, Zigi is partnering with Guinness to work with real culture makers from across the continent who demonstrate how Black Shines Brightest in a range of different ways. These individuals will create moments, events and content to be enjoyed by everyone. Look out for more details about how you can be a part of the new Black Shines Brightest campaign and find out about Bright House Bars that are popping up in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi and Tamale. Also, look out for activities on Guinness Ghana social media channels - @GuinnessGhana. Just like Incredible Zigi, Guinness is bursting with life. It is a flavourful and bold and dynamic beer, sparkling and brimming with energy and exuberance A beer that has brought a dash of magic to millions in Africa and across the world for over 250 years with boldness and vision to live life to the full. Source: Peacefmonline.com 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. Featured Video A Liberal Party of Canada logo is shown on a giant screen as a technician looks on during day one of the party's biennial convention in Montreal, Thusday, Feb. 20, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes An ambulance passes through a crowd of people in Vancouver protesting COVID-19 vaccine passports and mandatory vaccinations for health-care workers. The protest began outside Vancouver General Hospital. Police estimated the crowd gathered to be as many as 5,000 people. Thank you for reading the Philadelphia Tribune. You have exhausted your free article views for this month. Please press the "subscribe" button below and see our introductory price of $0.25 per week for 13 weeks. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you next month. Would you like to receive breaking news notifications from The Post and Courier? Sign up to receive news and updates from this site directly to your desktop. Breaking News Columbia Breaking News Greenville Breaking News Myrtle Beach Breaking News Aiken Breaking News N Augusta Breaking News Click on the bell icon to manage your notifications at any time. Success! Please click the 'Allow' button in the 'Show Notifcations' alert in your browser if one is available. Thank you for signing up! Please enable notifications in your browser and reload the page. South Carolina's state parks are likely to be busy this Labor Day weekend, based on the year they've had. The 47-park system has seen higher demand than ever since the start of the pandemic. But one park in particular is hoping to draw visitors out over the end-of-summer holiday. The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control and S.C. State Parks have teamed up to offer coronavirus vaccinations at Dreher Island State Park on Sept. 6. Vaccines will be administered from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and all three brands of the COVID-19 shots will be available. Visitors who get vaccinated will get free admission. Dreher is about 30 miles from Columbia near Prosperity and spans three islands with access to Lake Murray. The 348-acre Newberry County property includes lakeside campsites, hiking trails, boat ramps and places to fish. Labor Day weekend is a major holiday for state parks, and we hope visitors are compelled to take advantage of this opportunity by getting vaccinated to protect themselves and others against COVID-19, while also enjoying a day at the park," DHEC director Dr. Edward Simmer said in an announcement about the vaccine offering, which, according to the agency, may be followed by more vaccine events and incentives with state parks. While South Carolina has struggled to get enough residents to come out to clinics and pharmacies to get their shots slightly less than half of eligible residents in the state are fully vaccinated state parks haven't had any problems getting visitors to show. The public recreational getaways have welcomed record numbers throughout the pandemic and generated more revenue than ever during the fiscal year that wrapped up this summer: $45 million, an about 45 percent increase from the prior year. Sign up for our business newsletter. Our twice-weekly newsletter features all the business stories shaping Charleston and South Carolina. Get ahead with us - it's free. Email Sign Up! Talking tides A recently opened hotel in downtown Charleston is launching a talk series on sustainability. The Ryder, which opened in May at Meeting and Hasell streets, will be holding the first event Sept. 23. For what it's calling the "Ride the Tide" talk series, the hotel teamed up with Charleston Waterkeeper, a local nonprofit focused on restoring and protecting waterways. The goal of the series is to "educate people on plastic pollution and the various ways our waterways are getting polluted," according to a written statement. The organization's executive director, Andrew Wunderley, will lead the first discussion, on how to be a "clean water steward." The talks will be free, but tickets are required. Anyone who attends can claim a discount at the hotel's poolside bar, Little Palm, afterward. More talks will follow, though other dates haven't been announced. Each talk will focus on a new topic or initiative. The hotel which replaced the old King Charles Inn touted some of its sustainability methods when it opened, such as providing glass carafes and water refilling stations for guests in lieu of plastic water bottles. Guests are also encouraged to tour the city on bikes that are provided as a complimentary amenity. The nations stock market cops didnt need to pull teeth to extract a settlement from a dentist turned investment adviser who rode out part the pandemic in the Lowcountry. The Securities and Exchange Commissions complaint against Dr. Edgar M. Radjabli was filed at the Four Corners of Law in June and finalized in August, with the final judgment posted online a few weeks ago. South Carolina became a geographical footnote in the case as investigators were questioning the 35-year-old from South Florida, who for a spell had taken up temporary residence in a modest rental home off Dorchester Road in North Charleston. Federal authorities were onto him last year. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau sued him in New York in July 2020, citing "deceptive acts or practices" at his My Loan Doctor LLC investment fund. The SEC followed suit this year. In a complaint filed June 11 in U.S. District Court in Charleston, the agency alleged that Radjabli and his Apis Capital Management LCC and My Loan Doctor engaged in three separate securities frauds of escalating size. The case quickly caught the eye of Matt Levine, an irreverent and widely read Bloomberg finance columnist who chronicles the ways of Wall Street. Its a whole random pile of stuff, the former Goldman Sachs investor banker surmised, a few days after the lawsuit hit the docket. Radjabli's first scrape with market regulators took place several years ago. He issued a public statement in June 2018 announcing that an affiliated venture called Apis Tokens had pulled in about $1.7 million from an unregistered investment offering "when in fact, no money had been raised," according to the SEC. Radjabli and Apis Capital made a much bolder move just months later. They announced an unsolicited $200 million offer in December 2018 for publicly traded Veritone Inc. by offering to pay an 82 percent premium for the shares they didnt already own. The SEC later found that the would-be bidders lacked the financing, or any reasonable prospect of obtaining the financing they required to acquire the California technology company. And though the buyout offer was withdrawn 10 days later, Apis Capital booked $162,800 in gains from a series of timely trades in Veritones stock. Levine, the Bloomberg columnist, marveled at the transparency of the alleged market manipulation. Sign up for our business newsletter. Our twice-weekly newsletter features all the business stories shaping Charleston and South Carolina. Get ahead with us - it's free. Email Sign Up! I feel like the usual way to do a fake offer is to put out a fake press release or SEC filing under a fake name, he wrote. Like you say Blarkrock Group has announced that it will buy Veritone at an 82% premium, and people bid up the stock and you sell yours, and (you hope) the SEC never figures out that you were the person behind Blarkrock Group. But here Radjabli did a real SEC filing using his real name and the name of his investment firm; if he was doing it just to pump the stock that seems like a mistake. The biggest gambit in terms of real dollars and cents was My Loan Doctor, which he has said he helped launch about eight years ago. Regulators said Radjabli cobbled together $19.95 million for the fund from 461 investors starting in August 2019, telling them their money would provide financing for physicians and other well-paid health care professionals. He also assured them that the high-grade loans would be bundled together and sold to income-seeking buyers. "The institutional investors are really hungry for those," Radjabli said during a November 2019 interview on "Innovators" that's been posted on YouTube. Instead, the SEC said in court filings that the bulk of the money raised went to unsecured borrowers, mostly companies in the cryptocurrency industry, and to Apis Capital, which received a $1.8 million loan. Perhaps the biggest surprise from My Loan Doctor is that Radjabli reimbursed the investors and paid them 6 percent interest. He also shut down the loan fund in the face of ongoing investigations, the SEC said. The onetime practicing dentist recently settled the litigation without admitting or denying the allegations. The terms of the consent agreement he signed require Radjabli to return the $162,800 in illicit gains from the Veritone trades, plus $17,870 in interest, and pay $419,330 in civil penalties. He also agreed to a lifetime ban from working in the securities industry. In a brief email exchange, Radjabli said he had no ties to the Lowcountry "other than living there short term during the pandemic" and that he was still residing in the area when SEC investigators interviewed him remotely. "It's a very nice place, with friendly people and good food," he said. Radjabli is unsure of his next career step, adding that probably won't return to dentistry because of health reasons. COLUMBIA Coworking spaces have been opening in the Midlands as a replacement for traditional offices, but the coronavirus pandemic has put the brakes on their growth. The number of coworking sites, where people can rent a desk or suite for work, has risen from two to a half-dozen across the Midlands in three years. At least two locally owned ones opened in spring 2020 into the teeth of lockdown and business slowdowns. The months of the pandemic have hurt coworking sites much like other brick-and-mortar businesses, according to Greg Hilton, one of the founders of SoCo, the first coworking project in Columbia that offers two locations. "It was a really rough roller coaster for us there," Hilton said. Fewer folks coming in also means a loss of the community spirit that SoCo seeks, with entrepreneurs helping each other. To cope with reduced traffic during the pandemic. SoCo's staff has been focused on services to help the solo entrepreneurs and small companies that are its niche audience, knowing that growing the membership would be a challenge amid the pandemic's uncertainty, Hilton said. At Femme X Columbia, opening in April 2020 meant a slow start on membership at the beginning of the pandemic. That was not a problem for an organization just starting up, said managing partner Nell Fuller. This summer as pandemic fears eased, however, the coworking space on Richland Street got a huge boost as membership tripled, with dozens of women joining the organization. Many of these women had been working at home with partners and kids during months of lockdown and said, "I've got to get out," Fuller said. The coworking space has only seen one or two members join after their businesses decided to downsize their offices, she said. "I've been kind of waiting for that," she said. Many of its members are starting their own businesses and using Femme X's emphasis on communal work to find new business partners, advice or even some investment capital, Fuller said. They are pursuing these launches even as they continue to work a full-time job. Sign up for our Columbia business and real estate newsletter. Get all the latest industry happenings from the Midlands, plus exclusive development news and more in your inbox each week. Email Sign Up! Providing that kind of connections has been a part of the project from the beginning at Femme X, which sees itself as a social club as much as a workspace. The club also hosts events for members, but that has been de-emphasized during the pandemic's resurgence this summer, Fuller said. Another coworking space that opened in 2020 was Barrister Hall, using part of the Trenholm Road building that houses the Strom Law Firm. Pete Strom, who started the coworking space with his wife, Susan, acknowledges that April 2020 was not a great time to launch. "I picked the very best time to start a new business," Strom said with a chuckle. Still he sees a need for a legal coworking space. A goal of Barrister Hall is to create a place where young lawyers can have a flexible office and still be in contact with veterans from the profession and learn from them, Strom said. With two daughters on the way into the profession, he saw a demand for a different type of office environment. Many young attorneys today are not eager to take on the heavy workload of being a new associate with a big firm and want more freedom to build their practices as they see fit, he believes. Being able to file court documents digitally makes it less necessary for a lawyer to have an office across from the courthouse downtown. "I don't think people need to pay that rent," he said. Barrister Hall has some special features to cater to lawyers, such as private spaces to take phone calls for those who are using shared desk space and, in the future, continuing education programs for lawyers. It even has a social space to hang out and relax, called the Gavel and Bench. At capacity, Strom said, the coworking space could accommodate 50 lawyers. It has not been promoted during the pandemic and is only 20 percent full so far. Similar offices in other states have filled up quickly, Strom said, so he believes that Barrister Hall can do the same as pandemic issues recede. Charleston, SC (29403) Today Isolated thunderstorms in the morning. Cloudy skies late. High near 85F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.. Tonight Mostly cloudy skies with a few showers late. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%. Note to readers: For the past 10 years, Ive used my Labor Day weekend column to review books Ive read this year. Stay tuned. That column is postponed until next week. I suspect my neighborhood is much like yours, where folks use social media to share thoughts and gripes with anyone who will take the bait. Lately, Ive read several posts tying the lack of local service workers to Californias substantial unemployment benefits. They are getting too much money, one post said. If you cut their benefits, theyll be glad to bus dishes or pump gas, claimed another. The notion persists despite the fact that study after study continues to debunk such classist tripe. Well, I have another theory Id like to propose this Labor Day weekend. Perhaps the lack of help can be traced to the bankruptcy of thankfulness among those people posting such jabber. I began testing my theory early last spring and I think Im spot on. In one example just last month, I stepped into McDonalds to order their breakfast BOGO sandwich deal. Yup, I can eat two. The shift manager kindly took my order while simultaneously relaying bilingual orders over her headset. Ten minutes later, I returned to the counter to apply my theory. It was a message Ive been sharing with pretty much every minimum-wage worker I meet service-station cashiers, dressing-room attendants and car-wash crews. With a focused expression, I told her, I just want to say thank you." Thank you for working now and being here through this whole damn mess. Her eyes took on a soft glisten. We both knew what I meant by this whole damn mess. Sign up for our new opinion newsletter Get a weekly recap of South Carolina opinion and analysis from The Post and Courier in your inbox on Monday evenings. Email Sign Up! Ive been here this entire time, she said, the pride apparent through her mask. I never left. Thats amazing! I said, adding a BOGO dose of thanks. Ironically, early in the pandemic, the woman found herself among service workers in America called heroic and essential. Now, shes at risk of being attacked, harassed or even killed for asking customers to put on a mask. Shes labored long hours through supply shortages and lax safety protocols. I couldnt help but wonder if these food workers were famished for gratitude. Had even 1 in 10 of their daily customers returned to voice a genuine thank you? Theres a biblical story about Jesus considering the same odds when he was approached by 10 men inside the Samarian border. They all suffered from leprosy, so they immediately placed their order for a grande cup of healing. Jesus answered their pleas and sent them off to their priest to obtain their back-to-work clearances. But when only one of them returned to thank the Son of God for supersizing his grace, Jesus asked, Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? Can none be found to come back and give glory to God except this outsider? Then he said to the one, Get up. On your way. Your faith has healed and saved you. In a day in which our world is looking for a healing, this story from Luke 17:11-19 demonstrates that nothing heals like gratitude. I witnessed this truth firsthand as I turned to leave Arches. The supervisor yelled back to her kitchen crew. El hombre dice que le da las gracias por su arduo trabajo durante la pandemia. Applying the context, I understood her to say, The man says thank you for your hard work during the pandemic. From my exit door, I overheard her crew respond with warm tones of surprise. I dont speak Spanish, and perhaps neither do you, but this Labor Day, we can all speak gratitude. Its a universal language. Say it. Express it. And teach it. It will forever heal. ***** Readers: I will be coming to the Charleston area with Chispa Project Director Sara Burkes Brakhane from Oct. 2330. We are available to speak to your church, civic or veteran group, hospital or college. We can speak together or in separate engagements. If your organization would like to host us, please email Norris@thechaplain.net for details or leave a voicemail at 843-608-9715. GEORGETOWN The FBI has launched an investigation into finances at the now-closed Tara Hall Home for Boys in Georgetown County, an agency spokesman confirmed. FBI spokesman Donald Wood declined to reveal any details, but an August incident report filed by group home for homeless boys with the Georgetown County Sheriff's Office accused an ex-employee of embezzlement. The incident report notes that the sheriff's office spoke with the FBI about "possible fraud or embezzlement." Tara Hall shut down because of COVID outbreaks, and the state's child services agency was shying from placing homeless boys into homes like Tara Hall after a policy change, board chairman John Kenny said earlier in August. Sign up for our Myrtle Beach weekly update newsletter. Sign up for weekly roundups of our top stories, news and culture from the Myrtle Beach area. This newsletter is hand-curated by a member of our Myrtle Beach news staff. Email Sign Up! Tara Hall's attorney Reese Boyd said Aug. 31 the board is waiting to hear back from local law enforcement and the FBI about the investigation. Tara Hall, located about 20 miles north of the city of Georgetown, was founded in 1969 and operated with help from foundations, grants and donations. The Tara Hall building is now being used as Mingo Creek Academy, an independent pre-K school for residents in the western part of Georgetown County. The Tara Hall board is running the new school. Less than one month into the new academic year, at least 56,000 students in South Carolina have already been called out of school due to exposure to the coronavirus. And because many districts don't announce their quarantines, the true scope of the disruption is almost certainly far higher. That's according to a Post and Courier tally of figures released by school districts around the state. About a month after the first schools came into session, the limited public data points to significant impacts: The count of known quarantines already equals more than 7 percent of all the students enrolled statewide last year. And that's likely a gross undercount. Districts representing more than two-fifths of the state's students don't report quarantine data. And some that do only report the number of students sent home on a given day. Each student who is required to quarantine has to leave school for at least a week under the state's public health guidelines. That's a concern in the wake of new data that shows many students fell behind last year. The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control says it is compiling a more comprehensive count of student quarantines and expects to announce its findings soon. But already, the extent of quarantines has forced several schools and some entire districts to return to virtual instruction, and it has emerged as a new argument for district leaders who say they need to require students to wear masks in the classroom. Doing so, they say, would help reduce the number of students forced to quarantine for exposure to COVID-19. Their case stems from new guidance issued by DHEC, which advises school officials to consider mask-wearing when they decide who to send home. If everyone wears a mask, students have to be within 3 feet of someone with the virus to count as a close contact. If they dont, the radius widens to 6 feet. The result: More students are sent home. Emerging argument? The wave of students excluded from coming to school has emerged as a key argument among district leaders who want to require masks. Most districts are not, because the state Legislature banned school districts from using the state money they received this year to enforce a mask mandate. The state Supreme Court has so far upheld the restriction, leaving its future to lawmakers who included the measure in the state's annual budget. In a letter to parents Aug. 31, the superintendent of Lexington County School District Two wrote that he was caught between the Legislatures restriction and emptying classrooms. He told parents he was having a harder time imagining how schools could stay open for the rest of the year. It goes without saying that our large quarantine numbers are happening because a plurality of our students have been choosing not to wear masks, superintendent Nicolas Wade wrote. Lexington Two voted Sept. 2 to defy the Legislature and require masks in its schools. A day earlier, it reported almost 1,500 active quarantines. By comparison, neighboring Richland One does require masks; it is reporting fewer quarantined students about 1,250 despite being more than double the size of Lexington Two. The two districts started the school year just two days apart. In Oconee County, superintendent Michael Thorsland made a similar argument at an Aug. 31 school board meeting. A former math teacher, Thorsland offered a geometry lesson: The area covered by a 6-foot circle is four times larger than a 3-foot circle, he said. Under DHECs latest guidelines, that means far more students need to be sent home if they dont wear masks. The one reason I would support a mask mandate is not because I think its a silver bullet thats going to fix all our problems, Thorsland said. It would keep more kids in school. The Oconee County board decided not to vote on a mandate until the state Supreme Court decided if they were allowed to implement one. In a statement, DHECs public health director, Dr. Brannon Traxler, said the agencys guidance changed because the delta variant is so much more contagious than the virus that was circulating this time last year. The new guidance was published Aug. 25, after data from the start of the school year pointed to increased virus spread. The limited level of mask-wearing in schools is contributing to the number of students in quarantine, Traxler said, but the main driver is the sheer number of COVID-19 cases in schools: More than 4,000 among students and almost 400 among school employees as of Sept. 1, according to DHEC. So too is the low level of vaccination among school-aged children. Under the DHEC guidelines, vaccinated students dont have to quarantine unless they fall ill. Children under 12 arent yet eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine, and only about a third of South Carolinians ages 12 to 19 have gotten at least one shot, according to DHEC data. The uptake is uneven across the state, according to a Post and Courier analysis of the agencys data: Its as low as 14 percent in Chesterfield County. And even in the areas with the highest coverage, like Charleston County, more than half of 12- to 19-year-olds are not inoculated against the virus. Heated controversy The focus in recent days has stayed squarely on masks. On Aug. 30, the U.S. Department of Education said South Carolina was one of five states it was investigating for banning mask mandates, saying the provision might be preventing schools from providing an equal educational opportunity to students with disabilities who are at heightened risk of severe illness from COVID-19. And the state Supreme Court heard two cases about the restriction on mask mandates on Aug. 31. In the first of those cases, the high court decided that the Columbia couldnt require schoolteachers to enforce a city mask mandate. Overriding the Legislatures restrictions, it concluded, would require an act of the Legislature. Lawmakers have not been called back to Columbia to address the issue, despite a request to do so by a bipartisan group of senators, including the Republican chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and the Senates minority leader. The states Republican education superintendent, Molly Spearman, has also urged the Legislature to change course. Even so, a growing handful of districts at least nine so far are choosing to buck the Legislatures restriction. Increasingly, they are citing the role of masks in deciding how many students get called out of school. Marlboro County is one of them. Superintendent Gregory McCord said the mandate was an effort to keep students in school in a county with the states lowest vaccination rate. He worries that being sent home for a week or more will sap the enthusiasm of students returning to the classroom after a year away. Students, ironically, want to be in school. They dont want to be called out and sent home to quarantine, McCord said. We want to keep them in front of us as much as possible. McCord said students havent seemed to mind the mask requirement. More than a week in, the district has yet to discipline a student for defying it. Compliance has also been high in Florence County School District One. On the first day of its mask requirement, the district, which had more than 15,000 students last year, sent just four home for breaking it. It hasnt done so since. We have had unbelievable compliance, said superintendent Richard OMalley. New research Traxler, DHECs director of public health, said the agency is tracking the data on masks closely, but said its too early in the school year to know how much impact the new mask mandates in some districts are having. It can be challenging because sometimes youre comparing apples and oranges, Traxler said. Two districts are often not alike in every regard so its hard to say definitively that its the masks (causing lower case counts). But there is early research that suggests a connection between the two, she said. Researchers from Duke University worked with North Carolina public and charter schools to study the rate of new COVID-19 cases. They found that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent COVID, but that masking provides protection as well, particularly for students who arent yet eligible for a vaccine. Tracking 1 million North Carolina children during the 2020-21 school year, the researchers said 7,000 students and teachers came down with the coronavirus over the course of the year and attended school while they were unknowingly contagious. These cases led to an additional 40,000 students and teachers in quarantine. Through contract tracing, it was discovered only an additional 363 students and teachers became infected after being exposed to their contagious peers. We believe this low rate of transmission occurred because of the mask-on-mask school requirement: Both the infected person and the close contact wore masks, the researchers wrote in an essay describing their findings in The New York Times. Schools provided this protection without expensive screening tests for coronavirus or massive overhauls in ventilation systems. Another study published by researchers in North Carolina and Georgia found that, absent universal masking and routine COVID-19 testing, 75 percent of susceptible students will become infected within three months. Universal masking, they found, could reduce pediatric infections by up to 78 percent. Schools that also tested students biweekly for coronavirus observed a further 50 percent reduction in diagnoses. DHEC officials are reading the research closely, Traxler said, but are waiting to draw any conclusions in South Carolina. Even so, DHEC has made its thoughts clear on masks in schools. In a late August news release announcing the worst day of coronavirus cases since January, the agency reported that children and teenagers were getting sick at disproportionate rates and more young people were going to the hospital. Citing those trends, the agency urged the Legislature to stop restricting mask mandates. The name speaks volumes. Liberty Hill, North Charleston's oldest neighborhood, was founded by and for free African Americans. In recent decades, it has coped with rising poverty and crime. And, most recently, pressure from real estate development. Local residents now are marking 150 years and, in so doing, hoping to galvanize neighbors, raise awareness of the area's important history, and find ways to improve and protect the community. More Coverage To read more stories in the series about growth and development, go to postandcourier.com/boomandbalance/. Paul and Harriet Trescot, free persons of color, owned 112 acres at the time of the Civil War. They sold the land to Ishmael Grant, Aaron Middleton, and brothers Plenty and William Lecque after the war so that a settlement could be established to accommodate the formerly enslaved. The founders designated an acre at the southeast corner sacred ground, where the African Church (now St. Peter's AME Church) could be built. In 1871, Liberty Hill was born, its name an expression of the founders pride and commitment. For nearly a century, residents here went about their lives, practicing self-determination during a long period of social and economic oppression. This history, and the possibility of a better future, are central to the agenda of the Liberty Hill 150th Reunion Committee, which includes descendants of the community's four founders. Three days of celebration are planned for Sept. 17-19, at the transit center, North Charleston High School and at neighborhood churches. The event is the brainchild of the Rev. Lisa Robinson and comes two years after the neighborhood held a homecoming celebration with a similar goal of sharing Liberty Hill history to encourage investment in the community. Liberty Hill, about nine blocks wide, is surrounded by new development. The booming Park Circle area sits to the east with all of its restaurants, retail and new apartment buildings in the citys old downtown district. Just to the north is Oak Terrace Preserve, an upscale subdivision. And to the south is the growing Mixson neighborhood, which presses up against the border of Liberty Hill. Nowhere is this real estate development activity more visible than from the St. Peters AME churchyard. The brick house of worship is surrounded by newly cleaned tombstones. Looming over the graves are Mixsons townhouses. So this is no ordinary anniversary celebration. One united community Carolyn Lecque, great-great-granddaughter of Liberty Hill co-founder William Lecque, said affordable housing is a key issue. The community once was full of families who walked everywhere to school, to church and to the store, she said. Liberty Hill 150th anniversary events Sept. 17, 5-8:30 p.m. Dedication of the Liberty Hill founders' monuments at the Felix Pinckney Community Center (4764 Hassell Ave.) and St. Peter's AME Church cemetery (4650 Sanders Ave.) Dedication of the Liberty Hill historical display room at the North Charleston Transit Center on Gaynor Avenue. Gospel program at the Felix Pinckney Community Center. Sept. 18, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Liberty Hill communitywide parade. Author's book signing and student writing awards at North Charleston High School (1087 E. Montague Ave.) Boxed lunches available for pickup at the Felix Pinckney Community Center. Liberty Hill documentary available on the Liberty Hill Reunion Facebook page. Sept. 19, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Reunion participants invited to worship at neighborhood churches. Community will honor military members' service. Deceased will be honored at St. Peter's AME gravesite. Fireworks celebration at the Felix Pinckney Community Center park. For more details, contact Carolyn Lecque at 843-709-3996. All events are free and open to the public. Donations can be mailed to 2823 Penobscot Drive, North Charleston, SC, 29420. Money can also be sent via Cash App to $libertyhillreunion. Bonds-Wilson High School, which graduated its first all-Black class in 1953, was a 43-acre campus in Liberty Hill that drew students from all over the North Area. We became one united community in Liberty Hill, from all of the pocket communities, the Rev. Roger Washington, president of the Bonds-Wilson Alumni Foundation, said. It was our nest for education. Valerie Harper Young remembers the days when the neighborhood was bustling with businesses. Her fathers gas station was frequented by children who sneaked goodies from the stores candy counter. Her grandparents owned a grocery store. Liberty Hill and other African American neighborhoods in the city provided a network of Black-owned businesses. Youngs father would bike to a cleaners in Union Heights then return to Liberty Hill to distribute the clothes. They all supplied a need, Young said. It was important for the neighborhood to have its own resources because leaving the community could be dangerous. When Youngs cousin ventured into the adjacent Ferndale neighborhood to do a little shopping, White residents attacked him. They didnt like the fact that he crossed the tracks, she said. Around 1970, Liberty Hills status as a thriving community began to change. Desegregation of the public schools triggered the decline of Liberty Hill Elementary School and Bonds-Wilson High School. The Vietnam War took a toll: 66 men joined the service, representing about 10 percent of Liberty Hills total population. Eight of them were killed. East Montague Avenue was widened in 1972, an infrastructure improvement that forced some businesses to close. By the mid-1980s, Bonds-Wilson, once the heartbeat of the neighborhood and an institution that symbolized self-sufficiency, was no more. (Today, Liberty Hill's students attend North Charleston High School, Morningside Elementary and other schools all outside of the neighborhood.) By the mid-1990s, the former Charleston Naval Base, which employed several people in Liberty Hill, closed permanently. Then came an increase in crime, and the advent of the citizen patrols organized by local leaders to chase away people driving into the area to buy drugs. This was a period of economic stagnation and community worry. The future had become uncertain. Lecque wants walkability to reign once again. She and the others on the committee want city investment in the neighborhood, improved streetscapes and greenways, palm trees planted along East Montague, just like those found a few blocks to the east. The city should be proud to help Liberty Hill, said Benjamin Grant, the 72-year old great-grandson of Ishmael Grant. Were paying taxes! Maybe with the right kind of support some mom-and-pop stores can return to the neighborhood, he mused. We are doing all we can, Grant said. Transform lives Housing solutions are one of four main goals of The Charity Foundation, an arm of Charity Missionary Baptist Church. The foundation recently launched a program called Transformation: Liberty Hill, which operates according to a basic connect-the-dots proposal: If public schools are first-rate, then families will want to live near them, and if families move into the neighborhood, they will seek good jobs so they can maintain their homes. In this way, fortune can find fertile soil, said the Rev. Nelson Rivers III, Charitys pastor and vice president of religious affairs for the Rev. Al Sharptons National Action Network. So the foundation focuses on constructing the four legs that will support a communal table of prosperity. They are high-quality public education accessible to all children in Liberty Hill, affordable housing nearby, workforce development and financial literacy training. The neighborhood has a number of vacant residential properties that can be renovated and made available to those who qualify, Rivers said. The foundation also is planning to build multifamily units. The people of Liberty Hill lack good jobs, in some cases because criminal records weigh them down, Rivers said. So the foundation is seeking corporate partners willing to provide training and a chance at a career. Rivers also hopes that a Black-owned credit union will open in the area and provide financial assistance to residents who go through the foundations financial literacy training. Its hard to shake off the poverty label. Youve got to change the perception of Liberty Hill as somehow down and out or lost to overwhelming economic forces, he said. The community once had around 350 single-family homes; today its closer to 250, with several vacant lots, Young said. About half are owner-occupied. Some are lacking proper deeds because they are whats called heirs property, passed down through the generations. About a third of Liberty Hill now is White, Young said. Most residents are working people or retirees on fixed incomes. To transform Liberty Hill, weve got to transform lives, Rivers said. And to do that the community must be unified. The gift of Liberty Hill for me is it has been consistently owned and operated by Black people since its founding. Liberty Hill has always been able to respond to whats going on from within Liberty Hill. The community's autonomy is reflected in the name itself, Rivers said. While other neighborhoods were named for people or geographical features (consider nearby Union Heights, Rosemont or Accabee), this place was named for an abstract ideal liberty and for the hard truth that land ownership was the manifestation of freedom and power. Liberty Hill. Thats a courage statement, a radical statement, Rivers said. And the community must strive to uphold its significance, today and in the future, he said. This is the last stronghold against gentrification we have left, he said. Were being squeezed on every side. On the map City Councilman Sam Hart still lives in the brick home he constructed, with the neighborhoods help, when he moved back home from college in 1982. Investment has been lacking over the years, but the close-knit nature of the neighborhood remains intact, he said. From his front porch, Hart can see the 6-foot monument to the founders, recently installed at the Felix Pinckney Community Center across East Montague Street. He was elected to City Council at the beginning of the 1990s, and helped to ensure housing funds were used to construct 19 homes in Liberty Hill. City funding meant for affordable housing now is directed to Metanoia, whose main focus is the Chicora-Cherokee area to the south. Hart would like to see a similar effort made in Liberty Hill, the result of more collaboration between the neighborhood, nonprofit sector and the city. In the Liberty Hill room at the Amtrak train station, collaboration was among the topics discussed by members of the anniversary committee as they considered the big map on the wall and the informational displays. The small space was designed by Mount Pleasant-based firm HW Exhibits, with input from community leaders. The committee members hope that information kiosks will be installed soon so visitors can delve deeper into the stories of Liberty Hill. And they hope that local residents will join the revitalization effort. Among the things they are doing is filing an application to add Liberty Hill to the National Register of Historic Places, Lecque said. That would bring recognition and potential funding. Another thing is the partnership Liberty Hill forged with Habitat for Humanity, which resulted in $30,000 to help neighborhood seniors fix up their houses. The Chicora-Cherokee-based community development corporation Metanoia also is involved in the neighborhood thanks to a long-term lease arrangement with Lecques family, enabling Metanoia to construct eight affordable housing units. The project is unique in that it will be managed by the nonprofit but the land will still belong to the Lecque family. In recent weeks, committee members and local volunteers have been working on local improvements. They cleaned all the gravestones in Grant Cemetery and in the St. Peters churchyard. They arranged for the installation of the monument honoring the founders. And they invited students from Clemson University and the College of Charleston to help with historic preservation. They also engaged North Charlestons city leaders, calling for more municipal support, and reached out to the three big churches in the neighborhood. This is a living example of African American determination and creativity, an urban oasis of historical importance that should be part of a network of tourist destinations, Lecque said. Its residents should have a voice. Committee members argue that their neighborhood is among the city of North Charlestons valuable assets, that its historical importance lends cache and its tax-paying residents deserve more support. They use us to get money, but we get no benefit, Lecque said. The anniversary committee members now are trying hard to protect, and share with others, the legacy of Liberty Hill and the potential within. For 150 years, Liberty Hill has made history. At stake now is its very existence, and whether it can find a way forward. It's awards submission season in South Carolina for the arts community. The good news is that the process is simple. With a bit of strategy and some letter-writing savvy, nominees can be positioned to optimal effect. The S.C. Arts Commission recently announced nominations are open for two top awards: the South Carolina Governor's Award for the Arts and the Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Awards. According to the commission, which is the Columbia-based state agency that raises awareness for the arts throughout the state, the awards honor persons or organizations in South Carolina who exhibit the highest levels of achievement, influence or support of arts and folklife with the South Carolina Arts Awards. The process is simple and online, requiring only one letter detailing the nominee's exemplary contributions to the arts in South Carolina in several categories: Artist, Individual, Arts in Education, Government, Business/Foundation and Organization. A nomination letter should address any characteristics included in the category descriptions. One thoughtful letter is the first step towards honoring South Carolinas brightest lights in the arts," said David Platts, executive director of the commission. "Our team considers those and works with nominators individually to secure additional information as the process continues. But a well-composed and considered letter is key in ensuring that a nominee is presented in the most compelling fashion. Karen Chandler, associate professor of arts management at the College of Charleston, has observed the process from up close. She coordinated the nomination for percussionist Quentin Baxter, a 2017 recipient, which she said was quite a robust process. "My advice is to seek someone that knows your work well and deeply, and has experienced it over time and in different settings," she said. Chandler also points out that it's not only about that list of bona fides: "It's important that they can speak to your growth as an artist and cultural creator and how your journey has impacted a range of different people and audiences. Where direct quotes or anecdotal stories can be inserted in nomination letters, that is always helpful." For the statewide arts community, the effort is both manageable and well worth it. The awards not only raise the profile of individual recipients, but also help to elevate the arts sector in South Carolina. "These awards celebrate creative individuals who help contribute to the culture and expression of our state that residents and visitors alike enjoy across South Carolina," said GP McLeer Jr., executive director of SC Arts Alliance. "Individuals awarded these prestigious honors are not only leaders in our field, but also in our state." The nomination letters are due Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. For complete nomination guidelines or more information about the S.C. Governor's Awards for the Arts, visit SouthCarolinaArts.com or contact Senior Deputy Director Milly Hough at mhough@arts.sc.gov or 803-734-8698. Additionally, the arts commission joins forces with McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina to manage the Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Awards, which honor the states exceptional folklife and traditional arts practitioners and advocates. Created by the General Assembly in 1987, the annual awards recognize lifetime achievement in the traditional arts, honoring the work of stewarding and furthering the traditional arts that are significant to communities throughout the state. McKissick Museum is collecting nominations until Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. For additional information and advisement, contact McKissick Museum Executive Director Jane Przybysz at jprzybys@mailbox.sc.edu or 803-777-7251. Both the Governors Awards for the Arts and Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Awards will be presented at the South Carolina Arts Awards ceremony in the spring. For more information on the South Carolina Arts Commission, visit SouthCarolinaArts.com or call 803-734-8696. North Augusta, SC (29841) Today Cloudy early. Scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. High around 85F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.. Tonight Cloudy with occasional rain showers. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. The Aug. 17 editorial, Cooks Crossroads is a key gateway; Dorchester County must treat it as such, encouraged local officials to keep the vision intact as development inevitably draws near. On behalf of Dorchester Trust Foundation, the landowner of Rosebrock Park at Cooks Crossroads, I couldnt agree more. We commended Dorchester County Council for its leadership in 2018, approving a national award-winning plan to develop Cooks Crossroads as a new gateway to the Ashley River Historic Corridor, leveraging its unique sense of place as an economic driver for recreation and tourism. The introduction of a gas station as a conditional use is risky and counter to the plan. It requires additional federal standards to minimize public health risks. These standards create restrictions for future planning, further undermining the long-term vision for the region. A gas station also could create a brownfield that requires public funds to clean up contamination. Does County Council understand the liability and risks associated with introducing such use? Dorchester Trust Foundations intention has always been to work with the county to recruit high-quality investment that supports the Ashley River Historic Corridor and taxpayer-funded uses of the new Ashley River Park. County leadership has an opportunity to work with partners to find a better investment strategy, one that implements community-supported uses and doesnt put the Ashley River at risk. Lets find a way to work together to get it right for all of Dorchester County and the great state of South Carolina. SHARON RICHARDSON Treasurer, Dorchester Trust Foundation Founder, Resilient Lands Matter, Inc. Rutherford Street Summerville Regeneron works I am surprised and amazed at the lack of attention given to Regeneron (monoclonal antibody therapy) as a treatment for COVID-19. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institutes of Health, recently said the drug is underutilized and that it can reduce the risk of hospitalization or death by 70%-85%. While it isnt a substitute for the vaccine, it is an effective therapy, particularly if given soon after a positive test or within 10 days after symptoms appear. Hospitals in the Charleston metro area have Regeneron infusion centers. They need to highlight this therapy. While not available for everyone, it is there for those 65 and older and those who are already at increased risk for serious illness due to COVID-19. According to Dr. Rajesh Gandi, an infectious disease physician at Massachusetts General, Patients need to know to call their physicians. In 2020, patients with mild COVID were told to stay home. That message needs to pivot to a more proactive message. It is my hope that hospitals, physicians, public health personnel and the media will take up this challenge and ensure that the public is aware of this important therapy. KATHERINE DUFFY Sign up for our opinion newsletter Get a weekly recap of South Carolina opinion and analysis from The Post and Courier in your inbox on Monday evenings. Email Sign Up! Clearview Drive Charleston Plenty to worry about Everyone in the United States is, or should be, terrified at the prospect of how much ruin the Taliban can quite easily and possibly bring to our country with all of the sophisticated airplanes, helicopters, heavy equipment, and guns and rifles that we simply left behind in Afghanistan, all of it in excellent working order. If any of you are doubters, just remember what they did to us in the attacks of 9/11 with just a handful of box cutters. ADDISON INGLE JR. Atlantic Avenue Sullivans Island Out of Afghanistan Americas role in the war in Afghanistan is over. Thank God. Many in the media use such words or phrases as colossal failure and catastrophic loss to describe the 20-year war. In many ways, however, the war was successful. First, our primary objective was to decimate al-Qaida in Afghanistan to prevent further attacks on our homeland. Check. Second, we wanted to kill Osama bin Laden. Check. Third, though not in our original goals, we stayed to improve Afghan lives. There are now hundreds of thousands of women, a whole generation, who have been educated and become accustomed to working in a more civilized society. Check. The Taliban will have a hard time trying to reverse 20 years of progress. Finally, because of the Afghan surrender and the historic American evacuation, thousands of war casualties were avoided. Veterans should be proud of what they accomplished to protect America and to improve Afghan lives. DAVID SCHAEFFER Governors Drive Kiawah Island Philippine Airlines over the weekend assured air travelers and cargo customers across the globe the airline will continue flying even after its recent filing in a U.S. court for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization. Philippine Airlines' twice-weekly Guam-Manila, Manila-Guam flights in September will continue, said Connie Moral-Mayers, sales manager for the airline's general service agent on Guam, Goodwind Travel and Tour Corp. The airline's September schedule shows it flies Sunday and Thursday evenings from Manila to Guam and Monday and Friday morning from Guam to Manila. The airline stated it expects to obtain $150 million in fresh financing and emerge from bankruptcy reorganization in a few months. "We will continue to fly and to serve our customers throughout this process. It is business as usual for us. PAL continues to increase domestic and international flights as travel demand recovers with the easing of travel restrictions, and we will roll out new products and services that help make flying safer and more convenient," the Philippines' flag carrier said in a statement. The airline has survived natural disasters from volcanic eruptions and devastating earthquakes to deadly storms, as well as the Asian financial crisis in the 1990s and the various Philippine government upheavals over the past few decades, but it has been hardest hit for more than a year now by the disruption of international and domestic travel due to COVID-19. Travel downturn wiped out $2B in revenue Gilbert Santa Maria, president and chief operating officer of PAL, in a video message, described the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the airline. "Philippine travel volumes collapsed 75% from about 30 million passengers from 2019 to just 7 million in 2020," Santa Maria said. "Philippine Airlines had to cancel more than 80,000 flights, inconveniencing more than 1.5 million passengers, stranding tens of thousands of Filipinos overseas and foreign guests in the Philippines, and wiping out more than 2 billion U.S. dollars in revenue," Santa Maria said. "We survived the last 11 months by stretching our liquidity through extraordinary cost control efforts and deferral of capital expenditures. Through all of this, Philippine Airlines has continued to fly with the support of all stakeholders. Our major lessors and lenders deferred more than $360 million in aircraft lease and loan payments. Our suppliers extended payment terms even as they continued to provide us with goods and services. Our primary shareholder infused over $130 million in emergency liquidity while we raised over $70 million from the sale of a nonstrategic asset." PAL employees made sacrifices as well, he said. "Our employees contributed more than $60 million through voluntary pay cuts and extended leaves without pay and, in compliance with Department of Labor guidelines, the airline kept their jobs and sustained their medical benefits throughout 2020," Santa Maria said. "As the pandemic is raging, we generated over $160 million in contribution margin and the restoration of regular commercial flights beginning with selected routes at low frequencies in June as well as from mounting all cargo and repatriation flights," Santa Maria said. "We have gradually added routes and flights in line with the slow recovery of demand but we are a long way from full restoration. Today, we operate 21% of our pre-pandemic flights." On Sept. 3, the airline announced it voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization in the Southern District of New York. A parallel filing will be made in the Philippines, according to the airline. "This step is part of a set of major agreements PAL has reached with substantially all of our stakeholders, and with one objective: to build a stronger Philippine Airlines so that we can serve our customers better and continue our mission as a full-service airline and flag carrier of the Philippines," the airline stated. "The restructuring will enable PAL to emerge with fresh capital, lower debt and a sturdier financial foundation for the future," the airline stated. Lucio Tan, chairman and CEO of PAL, in a video message read by his grandson, Lucio C. Tan III, expressed continued confidence in the airline and its role in domestic and global travel. The chairman purchased a controlling share of PAL in 1993 when the Philippine government moved to privatize the airline, which marks its 80th anniversary this year. The PAL chairman said he and his family are committing to the complete recovery of Philippine Airlines. "We firmly support the management and employees of PAL as they undergo the restructuring process. Together, we will deliver an airline with a reorganized balance sheet, streamlined workforce and a renewed sense of mission. It has always been the duty of Philippine Airlines to support jobs and livelihoods throughout our island country and to provide global connections that link the Philippine economy to key markets worldwide. In times of national crisis, we are here to serve the Filipino people today. I give you this assurance: Like the Philippine flag, he will continue to stand tall and strong. The national carrier and premier airline of Philippines, Philippine Airlines, will keep flying now and long into the future," the PAL chairman said. Guam role The Tan family has long ties to Guam with investments in real estate holdings and retail including the Micronesia Mall. Former Gov. Carl Gutierrez, CEO of the Guam Visitors Bureau, noted the airline's integral role in Guam's tourism economy, humanitarian operations, and cultural ties between the Philippines and Guam. "Philippine Airlines has been a mainstay serving our community. Their entrance into the Guam market was a godsend. They allowed travel to the Philippines and beyond at a very competitive fare," Gutierrez said. "They were always ready to assist Guam in time of disasters, especially after Typhoon Pongsona on Dec. 8, 2002, and Typhoon Chataan, when dozens of generators and tens of thousands of (bottles of) drinking water were shipped here. Philippine Airlines is a great corporate citizen thanks to Dr. Lucio Tan." Amid a sluggish rebound in visitor arrivals and a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the Guam Visitors Bureau is continuing to offer vaccination vacation packages to tourists. Nearly $1 million has been earmarked for the bureau's Air V&V program, which partners with health care providers and hotels to offer coveted COVID-19 vaccines to foreign travelers. GVB President Carl Gutierrez told The Guam Daily Post the initiative has generated noticeable returns from the island's tourism source markets. "Taiwan travelers are very much hyped up about Guam not only for vaccination purposes, but (visitors) have discovered a beautiful paradise just three hours away offering a turquoise ocean and three miles of Tumon's white, sandy beach and top-line hotels," Gutierrez said. "We had a marketing budget of $100,000 for this year, but Air V&V brought us over $5 million worth of earned media in Taiwan. This is the heightened interest in Guam." GVB is looking to expand the program to Indonesia, where a conglomerate is interested in bringing employees and clients to Guam through Air V&V. Gutierrez confirmed discussions with Boswa Corp. continues. The bureau previously has shared that the Air V&V program has brought in 1,500 people to Guam from Taiwan alone. A preliminary arrivals report from GVB shows that through July 31, the island welcomed 39,657 tourists an 87.5% decline compared to the same period in 2020. Visitors from the United States, which include military service members who came to Guam during recent training exercises, make up almost 70% of all visitors in 2021 so far. Media reports began circulating over the weekend, claiming the program had been halted due to a lack of interest. Gutierrez acknowledges that a recent decision from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to upgrade a travel warning for Guam presents challenges to bring in unvaccinated tourists, but he is hoping local infection rates will lower by October, when GVB is expecting more regular flight services to the island to resume. "The Air V&V program is alive and well. It has not been halted nor permanently suspended. There are still travelers coming in via regular flights, especially from the Philippines or others countries via the Philippines," he told the Post. "We will resume our multiple flight charters for Air V&V from Taiwan with Lion Travel, Eva Airlines and hopefully with Starlux since they should be ready to begin flights to Guam in October." Guest column Find out where school board candidates stand on CRT I went through a stage in my life when I was a less than diligent student. It isnt that I wasnt working, I just wasnt working on the things my teachers had assigned as homework. The result was that there were a couple of 9-weeks periods in junior high school when I didnt make the honor roll. I have never personally encountered the wrath of God, but the wrath of my parents when I failed to make the honor roll was a near enough substitute to last a lifetime. So, where was Bill de Blasio Warren Wilhelm Jr. when I needed him? De Blasios New York City Department of Education is moving to ban the honor roll. [A] new DOE guidance warns that recognizing student excellence via honor rolls and class rank can be detrimental to learners who find it more difficult to reach academic success. The solution? Do away with standardsi.e., academic successaltogether! That way, no one can achieve academic success and no one will feel bad. Or good. Even grades can negatively influence future student performance. That is a ridiculous assertion. Grades positively influence future student performance, especially when your parents exhibit a total lack of sympathy when they arent very good. But even in a less functional family, how can a student know when he or she is doing better (or worse) if there are no grades? Instead, DOEs geniuses want to emphasize contributions to the school or wider community, and demonstrations of social justice and integrity. Staff should eliminate practices that penalize students who have been marginalized based on their race, culture, language and/or ability. Who needs to know how to do trigonometry if you can just substitute demonstrations of social justice and integrity? Where were these people when I was trying to figure out what the cosine of an angle was? Social justice is so much easier. Especially these days, when your teacher probably cant do trigonometry either but is hell on wheels when it comes to left-wing cliches. Of course, the real goal is simply to help adults who run the schools hide their failures in getting kids to learn. Thats why the teachers unions and their allies in the system, like state education czar Betty Rosa, oppose standardized tests. As with de Blasios entire crusade for equity in the schools, it boils down to a war on excellence that includes the drive to cancel Gifted & Talented classes, admissions screening for middle schools and even the testing that ensures the citys elite high schools remain top-notch. I think that is right. The war on standards mostly comes down to the fact that so many teachers and educational bureaucrats cannot themselves meet any meaningful standard, let alone teach our children how to do so. It was seven years ago that Rolling Stone magazine ran the 9,000-word cover story on an alleged rape at the University of Virginia that turned out to be a complete hoax. (File it next to Dan Rathers Texas Air National Guard story.) Well, it looks like Rolling Stone has done it again. I dont know whats up with the controversy over the use of ivermectin, normally a drug treatment for de-worming horses, as a COVID treatment, but Rolling Stone has a long piece up claiming that an Oklahoma hospital is having to treat large numbers of ivermectin overdoses, and denying hospital beds for patients with other medical needs: The rise in people using ivermectin, an anti-parasitic drug usually reserved for deworming horses or livestock, as a treatment or preventative for Covid-19 has emergency rooms so backed up that gunshot victims were having hard times getting access to health facilities, an emergency room doctor in Oklahoma said. This week, Dr. Jason McElyea told KFOR the overdoses are causing backlogs in rural hospitals, leaving both beds and ambulance services scarce. The ERs are so backed up that gunshot victims were having hard times getting to facilities where they can get definitive care and be treated, McElyea said. Theres only one problem with the story: It is almost certainly fake news. Rolling Stone has now appended this note to the top of the piece: UPDATE: Northeastern Hospital System Sequoyah issued a statement: Although Dr. Jason McElyea is not an employee of NHS Sequoyah, he is affiliated with a medical staffing group that provides coverage for our emergency room. With that said, Dr. McElyea has not worked at our Sallisaw location in over 2 months. NHS Sequoyah has not treated any patients due to complications related to taking ivermectin. This includes not treating any patients for ivermectin overdose. All patients who have visited our emergency room have received medical attention as appropriate. Our hospital has not had to turn away any patients seeking emergency care. We want to reassure our community that our staff is working hard to provide quality healthcare to all patients. We appreciate the opportunity to clarify this issue and as always, we value our communitys support. Layers and layers of fact-checkers and editors. . . UPDATE: Its not just Rolling Stone that can be bothered with checking out a story. Turns out Associated Press is just as bad: Correction: Virus Outbreak-Mississippi story JACKSON, Miss. (AP) In an article published Aug. 23, 2021, about people taking livestock medicine to try to treat coronavirus, The Associated Press erroneously reported based on information provided by the Mississippi Department of Health that 70% of recent calls to the Mississippi Poison Control Center were from people who had ingested ivermectin to try to treat COVID-19. State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers said Wednesday the number of calls to poison control about ivermectin was about 2%. He said of the calls that were about ivermectin, 70% were by people who had ingested the veterinary version of the medicine. UPDATE 2: Rolling Stone has now appended this additional correction, which essentially retracts the entire story: Update: One hospital has denied Dr. Jason McElyeas claim that ivermectin overdoses are causing emergency room backlogs and delays in medical care in rural Oklahoma, and Rolling Stone has been unable to independently verify any such cases as of the time of this update. The National Poison Data System states there were 459 reported cases of ivermectin overdose in the United States in August. Oklahoma-specific ivermectin overdose figures are not available, but the count is unlikely to be a significant factor in hospital bed availability in a state that, per the CDC, currently has a 7-day average of 1,528 Covid-19 hospitalizations. The doctor is affiliated with a medical staffing group that serves multiple hospitals in Oklahoma. Following widespread publication of his statements, one hospital that the doctors group serves, NHS Sequoyah, said its ER has not treated any ivermectin overdoses and that it has not had to turn away anyone seeking care. This and other hospitals that the doctors group serves did not respond to requests for comment and the doctor has not responded to requests for further comment. We will update if we receive more information. Seriously Rolling Stone, could you screw it up any worse? On Friday afternoon the Star Tribunes Stephen Montemayor reported that Andrew Luger in final step of U.S. attorney nomination in Minnesota. Luger served as United States Attorney for Minnesota from February 2014 to March 2017 under President Obama and into the early days of the Trump administration. Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar did what she could to engineer Lugers continued service under Trump. Her support wasnt enough then under President Trump, but it is enough now under President Biden. Lugers work as United States Attorney was highly regarded by Minnesotas federal district judges. He has a stellar reputation. Luger saved Ilhan Omars nascent political career when the controversy we had ignited over her plural marriages including her then current marriage to her brother jeopardized it in August 2016. Luger issued a misleading letter that violated Department of Justice policy and withheld relevant facts. Omars 2016 state legislative campaign instantly put its public relations crisis to bed with this letter from Luger (below). 158_US Attorney August 2016 Letter (1) by Scott Johnson on Scribd Lugers letter was addressed to Minneapolis criminal attorney Jean Brandl, who had contacted him on behalf of Omar. Brandl, incidentally, had responded to my original August 2016 inquiry regarding Omars marriages. I published her response to me verbatim on Power Line and in the City Journal column The curious case of Ilhan Omar. Brandl procured Lugers letter to refute the story reported by FOX9 investigative reporter Tom Lyden: Fox 9 has learned U.S. Attorney Andy Luger has asked U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to look into Ilhan Omars marriages, because shes in a position of public trust. Following Lugers letter, FOX9 deep-sixed Lydens story. Lydens story mysteriously disappeared. Ghostly traces exist in this MinnPost story and in Patrick Coolicans Star Tribune story U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger: Not investigating legislative candidate Ilhan Omar Luger denied a Fox 9 report of immigration investigation. I put this point in italics for the purpose of emphasis: Based on my own reporting, I believe that Lyden had the story right. Lugers letter was not only improper, it was false in substance. The local office of ICE had in fact opened an investigation into Omars immigration status that Luger essentially killed. I didnt understand the critical impact of Lugers letter until the state campaign finance board released its investigative file in Omars case in June 2019. The testimony of Carla Kjellberg made it clear that Lugers letter saved Omar by extinguishing media interest in the story. I wrote Luger in June 2019: Andy: Ive been covering the story of Ilhan Omars plural marriages over the past three years on the site Power Line. Reviewing the 2016 Omar campaign crisis committee emails that became public earlier this month, I wonder whether you actually reviewed any documents before sending out your August 22, 2016 letter to Jean Brandl. I also wonder if you ever sent out another such letter announcing that anyone was not under investigation by the Minnesota US Attorneys Office. Would you please let me know if you are willing to respond to these questions and, if so, when you might be able to get back to me with the answers? Thanks. Scott Johnson Luger promptly responded: Thanks. I will pass on this. I had no such luck this time around. Early yesterday morning I sent Luger a draft of this post and asked him for any comment by 8:00 a.m. this morning. He has provided no comment. Former Dakota County District Judge Erica MacDonald was the United States Attorney for Minnesota in 2019. I wrote Public Affairs officer Tasha Rose Zerna to ask Ms. MacDonald about Lugers letter: I write for the site Power Line. I have been writing for Power Line about Ilhan Omars plural marriages and related issues since Omar won the DFL primary against Phyllis Kahn in August 2016. I was the first of many journalists who received a non-response and accusation of bigotry via attorney Jean Brandl when I asked Omar about it that August. On August 22 [2016] Andy Luger wrote a letter in his capacity as US Attorney to Jean Brandl advising that Omar was not under investigation for immigration fraud and that she was not under investigation. The letter was widely reported at the time and I didnt think much of it. I found the letter again in the state campaign finance board investigative file on Omar.Reading the deposition of Carla Kjellberg, also in the board investigative file, I understood for the first time how important Andys letter was in tamping down the stories about Omars marriages and related issues. I wrote Andy [on Sunday of the week I wrote MacDonald] to ask if he reviewed any documents before sending the letter and if he had ever sent a similar letter announcing that someone was not under investigation by his office. He respondedthat he would prefer not to respond (I will pass on this). It seems to me that the public is owed a substantive response to these simple questions. I am seeking a response from Ms. MacDonald in her capacity as US Attorney. Thank you for your courtesies and consideration. Scott Johnson Ms. Zerna responded: Scott, Thank you for your inquiry. Ms. MacDonald was sworn in as U.S. Attorney on June 11, 2018, 15 months after former U.S. Attorney Lugers resignation. U.S. Attorney MacDonald is not aware of Mr. Lugers deliberative process in drafting the below referenced August 22, 2016 letter. Thank you, Tasha Tasha Rose Zerna | Public Affairs U.S. Attorneys Office If our United States Attorneys Office was in the business of giving out letters like the one from Luger, I wanted one of my own. I followed up to inquire more specifically (1) whether the office sends letters such as Lugers to Brandl as a matter of routine and (2) whether Omar wax then under investigation. I asked Ms. Zerna: Can you be any more forthcoming? She responded: Scott, No such letters have been sent by U.S. Attorney MacDonald. Regarding your other questions, DOJ generally does not confirm the existence of or otherwise comment about ongoing investigations. As a result, I cant respond to or comment on any questions about the existence or non-existence of any investigation. Thank you, Tasha If Luger is in fact nominated to serve again in the position he held when he wrongly sent Omar a lifeline in 2016, perhaps some Republican member of the Senate Judiciary Committee can bestir himself or herself to press Luger on these issues. Prince Kpokpogri, the ex-lover of controversial Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh, has alleged that she cheated on him with another man during their short-lived affair. Kpokpogri, who is also the chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Integrity Forum, was unveiled by Dikeh on the occasion of his birthday on June 27. Mr Kpokpogri, who is popularly called the prince of Niger Delta, described his ex-lover as Helen of Troy and promised to share evidence to back his allegations. He has also begun befriending Dikehs enemies including Bobrisky and her ex-husband, Churchill Adekunle. We dated for barely three months and it was more less a living hell! So much has happened in such little time that I overlooked for the sake of the so-called relationship and my sanity. However, I would be releasing evidence on how aunty cheated right from the very start of our relationship when she went to Lagos to open her legs like Lekki toll gate and how she cried and begged for a second chance and even threatened to commit suicide if I didnt forgive her, he said. More allegations Kpokpogri also stated that the mother-of-one is the kind of woman that has always found a way to bring down any man who has been with her. As a publisher, a businessman and for the sake of clarity for the timid followers, I dare politicians or anyone at all bold enough to come out with evidence of blackmail of any sort or kind showing hush-money paid and for what he or she was blackmailing for or forever remain silent! As for cutie juice, you can keep dishing out your BS to gain traffic along with your so-called gistlover abi na gistidiot, I dont even know!. He also advised other Nigerian men to steer clear of Dikeh else they will suffer a similar fate like him. Nigerian men, they are coming for you all with the same pattern (once you are close enough to her, your downfall is plotted and executed in association with bloggers). The recent revelation shows we all need to be wary of Helen of Troy. It glaring who had an ulterior motive all along as exposed by her partners in crime. He said he had to speak up to prevent a recurrence with a potential, future victim. Dikeh, friend react Dikeh got emotional after her friend, Mayor Blessing, expressed displeasure over her breakup with Kpokpogri. Mr Blessing, who describes himself as a politician, said he was the one who convinced Dikeh to go ahead with the relationship. He also added that there is more to the current issue, and people should not be deceived by what they see online. The politician said the actress went into the relationship with an open heart and she does not deserve this emotional blackmail. Reacting to this, Dikeh, in a post shared on her Instagram page wrote, You have always told me I have a brother in you. Thanks for always being truthful to me. yourself and your conscience. Reading your Instagram story brought tears to my eyes You are a rare gem. Gods love and light always. ADVERTISEMENT God keep Good people in a position to tell your story. No one is ever a mistake in your journey, I celebrate you. Audio file The once happy relationship crashed after a viral voice note and a phone call between Kpokpogri and a socialite was leaked online by a notorious Instagram gossip blogger. In the audio file believed to be the voice of the politician, he was overheard bad-mouthing the actress and complaining about her behaviour and addiction. Some days after the audio was leaked the actress in an appreciation post thanked the gist blogger and also confirmed the collapse of her relationship with Kpokpogri. God bless you @gistlovers_blog1. May your generation be blessed. May the works of your hands be blessed. May all your dreams come true. May you not look for people to fight for you when you need help.. May your heart desires be reality. May God bless you for letting him use you to rescue/Save me. I AM SUPER GRATEFUL. Now I am a fan. In the thick of their hot romance, Dikehs fans pleaded with her to take their affair off Instagram and celebrate each other privately. In no time, their enemies and gossip blogs went digging for dirt and in no time, they unearthed a leaked voice call which insiders say finally ended the once-promising relationship. Information and culture minister, Lai Mohammed, jetted out to the United States, barely a week after assuring Nigerians that the suspension of Twitters operations was going to be soon resolved. With the trip coming on the heels of the ministers announcement, a media report suggested that he sneaked out to meet Twitter officials in the U.S. to hasten the resolution of a crisis that has become a lightning rod for bad publicity for the President Muhammadu Buhari administration home and abroad. The suspension announced by Mr Mohammed on June 4, two days after the microblogging site took down a controversial tweet by Mr Buhari, is seen as one of the various expressions of the administrations intolerance for dissent and disregard for democratic ethos. But the government said it banned Twitter because it was being used by warmongers to destabilise the country. After his return, Mr Mohammed would, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), deny conferring with Twitter officials in the U.S. According to him, meeting with officials of Twitter, headquartered in San Francisco, California, an air distance of about 3,880km and almost five hours flight time from Washington D.C., where he stayed until he rounded off his trip on August 20, was not part of his mission to the U.S. During the trip which he described as fruitful, Mr Mohammed said he rather roved Washington D.C for three days speaking with international media organisations and think-tanks to debunk some fake stories on insecurity, banditry, COVID-19 and Twitter ban in Nigeria. He also met with the Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, Matthew Lussenhop, and other U.S. officials in Washington D.C. to discuss a bilateral agreement on how to stop illicit trafficking in cultural property and artefacts between the two countries. Amid the Twitter ban, which has now lingered for 90 days as of Thursday, and Mr Mohammed suggesting that resolving the issue was not his mission to the U.S., the U.S. Mission in Nigeria gleefully posted a picture of him with Mr Lussenhop and two other officials in a tweet on August 21. The tweet left a bad taste in the mouth of many. For Matthew Page, a researcher on Nigeria, the U.S. governments continued engagement with the Nigerian government as symbolically portrayed in Mr Mohammeds photo with the U.S. officials, depicts a disappointing tolerance for Nigerias slide towards dictatorship on President Buharis watch. I just dont understand why @USinNigeria, @AsstSecStateAF, @ECAatState thinks engaging with a lead architect of #TwitterBan & a lead propagandist for an increasingly authoritarian government is good foreign policy, Mr Page, an associate fellow of the Chatham House Africa Programme in London, said in a tweet reacting to U.S. Mission in Nigerias tweet of the Washington D.C. photo. Along with countless Nigerians, this tweet makes me cringe. People like Mr Page also wonder how Mr Mohammed, as Nigerian governments face of the Twitter ban, policies, legislation, and regulations perceived to be aiming to limit free speech and free media, got a seat at the table with officials of a government that boasts about being the worlds bastion of democracy. In what also appears incongruous to critics, the meeting took place in Washington D.C., a city that prides itself as the capital of the free world. The world has moved on Many have reasoned that the episode tells of how much the U.S. government and its Western allies, who condemned the Twitter ban after Mr Mohammed announced it on June 4, have put the matter behind them. Like many Nigerians, the U.S. embassy appears to have adjusted to todays reality of using Virtual Private Network (VPN) applications to access Twitter. Unless its Twitter handle is being operated from outside Nigeria, the embassy would only have been able to tweet the photo of Mr Mohammeds Washington D.C. engagement using a VPN app. ADVERTISEMENT A Twitter user like Lucky Ogiebo, who was apparently confounded by the irony in the U.S. embassys photo tweet, described Mr Mohammed as the man who orchestrated the banning of Twitter in Nigeria, and asked rhetorically, Are you aware we are able to read this because we downloaded VPN? Another user tweeting via @Fejer Official, said, Im pleased to tell you that most Nigerians cant see this info because this app is banned in their country by the so-called man that you people met! Yall need to fix up Twitter ban has been put behind them As useful as VPN is, it has not been able to bring everyone back to Twitter, and many who defy the ban using the alternative platform application to access the microblogging site have expressed their frustrations. In compliance with the ban, virtually all Nigerias federal and state government officials and agencies have stopped disseminating information through Twitter. Big corporate organisations, like banks and network providers, among other businesses, have stopped tweeting, shutting down their major customer service channels. Broadcasting stations have also cut off from their audiences of millions of people on Twitter in fear of retribution from the Buhari administration which has taken media censorship to a new height in the recent past. Uncomfortable with using VPNs because of fear of cyber-security threats, or the limited engagements occasioned by the ban on the platform, many Nigerians have been forced to abandon Twitter entirely. PREMIUM TIMES also reported how Twitter ban is limiting access to justice, shrinking the civic space and how it is killing small businesses in Nigeria. Aware of the frustrations the ban brings to millions of Nigerians, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, since June 10, has continued to have a Department of States statement rebuking the ban as a pinned tweet on its Twitter timeline. But under the U.S. embassys headline tweet, the warm rapport between Nigerian and U.S. governments continues to find expression in various tweets. For instance, on July 9, the embassy tweeted about a partnership between the two countries in military training. U.S. Army Special Forces @3rdSFGroup & @NigNavyToday Special Boat Service conclude 5-week training against land-based threats, such as terrorism & piracy, the twee read, adding, The long-standing U.S.-Nigerian partnership aims for a secure Nigeria & Gulf of Guinea. @USSOCAF #Partnerships #NigerianNavy. The United Kingdom (U.K.), which through its embassy in Nigeria, joined the diplomatic missions of the U.S., Canada, the Northern Ireland and the European Union (E.U.), to express disappointment over the government of Nigerias announcement suspending #Twitter and proposing registration requirement for other social media, continues to publicise its friendship with Nigeria through Twitter. In a recent tweet, UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, hosted the Ambassador of Japan, Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, to discuss the North East and how to follow up on the launch of @G7 Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Compact we launched last week, as well as maritime insecurity and economic relations with #Nigeria. The mission also announced a partnership with the Ogun State government, where the Deputy High Commissioner, Ben Llewellyn-Jones, met to discuss trade opportunities. The UK has announced that #Nigeria will be one of the first countries to receive genomic sequencing support through the New Variant Assessment Platform programme, the mission also tweeted. The European Union is not left out in the unwavering engagement with Nigeria despite rising cases of human rights abuses blamed on the government. The mission in a recent tweet said Nigeria would more than any other African country benefit from the EUs flagship scholarship this year, with 134 young Nigerians selected to study in top EU universities under the prestigious Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees Programme. Criticising the E.U. tweet, a Twitter user @stan_angelus wrote, what valid education would the EU that stays totally silent on colossal injustice and killings being perpetrated by a certain group of people offer? If you dont practice equal rights and justice then your education is a total irony. In expectation that the foreign governments would bite after barking their condemnation of the Twitter ban, PREMIUM TIMES, in July, sent separate emails to them asking if they were considering sanctions against Nigerian officials if their call for the reversal of the Twitter ban was not heeded by the Nigerian government. None of them replied. Why Nigerians shouldnt rely on foreign governments In the view of Festus Ogun, a lawyer and human rights activist, foreign governments continued engagement with Nigeria is a pointer to the fact that Nigerians cannot rely on foreign governments to fight for their rights. Nigerians do not need to rely on foreign governments before fighting for their rights, he said, and emphasised further, foreign governments cannot help fight for the rights of Nigerians. Those waiting for foreign aid before asserting their inalienable rights must wake up. The victory over tyranny and rights encroachment can only be fought and won by the victims. We must face it! Chioma Agwuegbo, Executive Director TechHer Nigeria, said Nigerians should not expect more than condemnation of Twitter ban from foreign governments. Nigeria, like many nations of the world, is a sovereign state, and that sovereignty is sacrosanct. Foreign governments can only advise, nudge, maybe even attempt to persuade our government, she said In her view, unrestrained intervention by foreign governments may be tantamount to threatening the countrys sovereignty. They can impose sanctions either generally or selectively, but thats as far as they can go. And the truth is foreign governments are more interested in the safety, security, and advancement of their citizens on our shores; everything they do is hinged on that, she added. Like Mr Ogun, Ms Agwuegbo said Nigerians should wake up to their responsibilities as active citizens, urging them to refuse to be silenced and bullied. We can be a lot more active in holding elected officials to account before we take our matters outside the country; we are not interested enough! Which nation brings their issues to us? We must realise the strength we possess as a people and use that in putting in the work to see the change we want and deserve. Jude Abugu, tweeting via @JudeAbugu5, said he had come to understand that U.S. doesnt care about anything except their interests. After Twitter ban, civic space shrinks further Subsequent events have come to show that the Twitter suspension was a toehold the Buhari administration needed for broader restrictive ambitions. Clampdown on free speech, through arrests of protesters and intimidation of dissenters has increased in recent times. The administration has after the Twitter suspension proposed or supported legislations and regulations, such as the bills for the amendment of Nigerian Press Council (NPC) Act, and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to strengthen its grip on the media. It supported an amendment to the NPC Act to restrict the councils board to advisory capacity on a part-time basis without direct interference in the day to day administration of the council, and cede its power to the Executive Secretary, appointed by the President. The bill also proposes that the chairman of the board as well as members of the board shall be appointed by the president on the recommendation of the minister in charge of Information. In the recent past, the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC), an agency under Mr Mohammeds supervision as information minister, has issued warnings, queries, and summons to broadcasting stations over alleged infraction, more frequently than ever before. And this often happens when views expressed are critical of the Buhari administration. In a bid to extend the governments control of the media on other platforms, the administration has proposed the inclusion of all online media among those it can use the NBC law to censor. The proposed amendment wants NBC empowered to receive, process and consider applications for the establishment, ownership of radio and television stations. Weeks ago, as a pushback, the front banners of major newspapers in Nigeria bore a picture of an individual with a sealed mouth. Information Blackout, read the caption that ran with the picture. Its not just against the media.its about societys right to know, your right to be heard. According to the 2021 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, Nigeria ranks 120 out of 180, this is five ranks down the ladder from where it was in 2020 with only Namibia; Cabo Verde; Ghana; South Africa; Burkina Faso; Botswana; Senegal in the first 50 rankings. Nigeria is now one of West Africas most dangerous and difficult countries for journalists, who are often spied on, attacked, arbitrarily arrested or even killed, the survey reads in part. #TwitterBan Nigerias federal government had on June 4 suspended Twitters activities, two days after the social media giant deleted a controversial tweet by President Muhammadu Buhari which it said violated its rules. Apart from banning Twitter in Nigeria, the federal government also directed the NBC to immediately commence the process of licensing all OTT and social media operations in Nigeria. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, also threatened to begin prosecuting whoever defied the ban. He would later withdraw the threat. The ECOWAS Court of Justice in a landmark ruling stopped the federal government from taking any action against Twitter users in Nigeria pending the hearing and determination of a suit challenging the ban. But despite the reprieve of the court order, Nigerian broadcasting stations and some other media outlets continue to stay off Twitter out of fear of a possible clampdown by the Buhari government. Although extra-judicial killings by armed non-state actors continued in some Nigerian states last week, the number of victims reduced significantly compared to the previous week. Unlike the previous week (August 22 to 28), when at least 66 people were killed by non-state actors in various attacks across the country, a review of media reports show that about six people were killed last week (August 29 to September 4). In the previous week, in Plateau State alone, at least 36 persons were killed in a communal crisis. Another 14 were killed by bandits in Katsina State while an armed gang killed a police officer and six civilians in Ikorodu, Lagos State. The causes of the killings vary and include communal clashes, ethnoreligious crises, bandits attacks, Boko Haram attacks and attacks by separatists. Virtually all parts of Nigeria are currently battling one form or another of violent crimes including killings and kidnappings. President Muhammadu Buhari came into office in 2015 on the strength of his promise to tackle insecurity, fight corruption and improve the economy. Under the preceding administration, thousands of people, particularly in the North-east region, were killed by terrorists. With less than two years to the end of his tenure, Mr Buhari has failed to stop the killings. He and the security agencies seem to be overwhelmed by the situation as abductions and killings are on the rise in the country. Here is a list of attacks by non-state actors that led to the deaths this week. These figures were compiled mainly from newspaper reports and some incidents may have been missed either because they were unreported or during the compilation. North-west Two killed in Zamfara Bandits said to be angry over the closure of weekly markets by the Zamfara State Government last Sunday killed a local government official and a businesswoman in the state. Umaru Moriki, an engineer and director of works at Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, and Rumba Jengeru, a popular local businesswoman, were killed when the outlaws opened fire on travellers on the Kaura Namoda Moriki -Shinkafi road. A former sole administrator of Shinkafi Local Government Area was also caught in the shooting but escaped with minor injuries, a source told PREMIUM TIMES. Mohammed Usman, a resident of the area, said he attended the burial of Mrs Jengeru at Shinkafi towns main cemetery. Three people were killed, the other person was in a commercial vehicle while the works director was in his own vehicle when the bandits started shooting at moving vehicles, Mr Usman said. The third death mentioned by Mr Usman could not be substantiated and thus omitted from the tally in this report. Senators son killed in Kaduna The eldest son of a serving senator, Abdulkarim NaAllah, was killed in his room by unidentified gunmen at his residence in Malami, GRA, in Kaduna State. The father of the deceased, Bala NaAllah, is the senator representing Kebbi South Senatorial District in the National Assembly. ADVERTISEMENT The police spokesperson in Kaduna State, Mohammed Jalige, confirmed that the deceased, 36, was a pilot. He was tied in his room and strangled while his vehicle was taken away by the assailants. He said the remains of the deceased had been buried on Sunday evening at Unguwan Sarki cemetery in Kaduna. South-south One in Edo A younger brother to political activist and Sahara Reporters publisher, Omoyele Sowore, was on Saturday shot dead by suspected kidnappers near Okada, a town in Edo State. Mr Sowore said his brother, Olajide Sowore, was on his way from Igbinedion University in Edo State, where he was studying Pharmacy, when he was shot by the assailants. They snuffed out the life (of) yet another real human being. Rest In Power, Dr. Mamiye Mr Sowore said in a statement, adding that, this act in itself will not delay their day of justice. The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has pledged to support the police to find the killers of Olajide. The police, who confirmed the killing, said five people were also kidnapped during the incident. One in Delta Gunmen on Saturday stormed a community in Sapele, Delta State, and killed a suspected drug baron. The reasons for his assassination has yet to be verified. The remains of the deceased was left at the scene for several hours. North-east Gunmen on Saturday attacked the Burshin Fulani area of Bauchi metropolis and killed one person and left another injured. The state police spokesperson, Ahmed Wakil, who confirmed the incident to NAN, said the gunmen stormed the community in the early hours of the day and unleashed terror on the residents. The police spokesperson said the number of the gunmen could not be ascertained as of the time of the report. Gunmen attacked Burshin Fulani village and killed one, Abubakar Muhammad, a senior staff of the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi. He was shot on the neck and died on the spot. Policemen who rushed to the scene evacuated the victim to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, where he was certified dead. Our patrol team stationed at the polytechnic gate on hearing gunshots from the direction at about 4:000 am quickly rushed to the area, on sighting the light of the patrol van the gunmen fled. The deceased came out to rescue his children who were struggling with some people at the gate, and immediately he emerged, they shot him, he said. Mr Wakil also quoted the Commissioner of Police, Sylvester Alabi, as ordering the police to go after the gunmen and bring them to justice. Our men are going after them now and very soon, they will get to them, the police said. In the full glare of the afternoon sun, Rabiat Shafiu clung to her four-day-old daughter at the entrance of the emergency unit of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto. Nervous and tired, Mrs Shafiu said she had spent hours at the hospital before finally being attended to by a nurse. According to her, the doctors who ought to attend to her baby had left her in the lurch. We came here this morning, she began, eyes bloodshot. My child is four-day old, and doesnt have a name yet. We are here because my child developed navel complications. We were told that those that are doing the work, the doctors, have left because they are on strike. But the child is being attended to by a nurse now. Mrs Shafiu explained that due to the coronavirus pandemic and the medical doctors strike, priority is given to emergency cases at the expense of patients with routine medical concerns. Hassanatu Ibrahim, another patient at the teaching hospital, told PREMIUM TIMES she travelled to the city centre from Gongono village in Sokoto North Senatorial District because she couldnt get basic healthcare at the nearby local primary health centre. Mrs Ibrahim, a 37-year-old pregnant woman, explained that life hasnt been the same for women, especially in rural parts of Sokoto, since the coronavirus reared its ugly head to disrupt global socio-economic order. The coronavirus has changed the healthcare system in remote areas like my village because hospital staff are scared of transmission of the disease, she said, her voice a mixture of melancholy and uncertainty. So they dont treat us the way they used to in the past; these days, when you show up with ailments, they are likely to evade you or send you to big hospitals in the city here in Sokoto, she added. Speaking at the teaching hospital, Mrs Ibrahim lamented that the health centres were largely attending to few patients because they were afraid of the risk of transmission, even for women who came in for routine surgeries and check-ups. Many women couldnt go for antenatal care, she said, adding that the situation of child delivery in local health centres has equally been quite cumbersome. Coronavirus in Nigeria On Saturday, Nigeria recorded 49 additional fatalities from the coronavirus pandemic with 964 fresh cases reported across 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Data from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) showed that Nigerias total infection from the pandemic stood at 195,052 while the fatality toll increased to 2,544 from 2,495 reported 24 hours earlier. According to the disease centre, a total of 10,067 Nigerians were down with the disease nationwide. Nigeria recorded its index case in Lagos in March 2020, marking the beginning of a change in dynamics in almost all aspects of the life of the people. The nation has gone through different phases of lockdowns, as means of curbing the spread of the disease. In March, the coronavirus vaccine arrived in Nigeria when the nation received 3.94 million doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine through the COVAX facility. The nation has since then begun the administration of the vaccines. But while Nigeria and the rest of the world continue to tackle the spread of the disease, the pandemic has had an enormous effect on the healthcare system of the country. The effect had been most felt in recent weeks amid strike actions embarked upon by medical doctors across the country. Doctors strike In August, members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) resumed indefinitely the strike it had suspended earlier in April. ADVERTISEMENT The union said that having observed things for more than 100 days, it had realised that the government was taking its members for granted. The doctors grievances are contained in a Memorandum of Action (MOA) endorsed in April by both the striking doctors and the government representatives including Mr Ngige. The doctors had demanded amongst other things, the immediate payment of COVID-19 inducement allowance to some of its members in federal and state tertiary institutions. They also demanded the review of hazard allowance for health workers due to the risk associated with their profession, decrying the undue hardship its members on GIFMIS platform are facing due to the delays in payment of their salaries ranging from three to seven months. Aliyu Jamilah, a resident of Sokoto, told PREMIUM TIMES that the strike comes amid a fresh wave of coronavirus infections, straining Nigerias health care system. Overstretched health facilities Speaking at the Usman Dan Fodio Teaching Hospital, Ms Jamilah explained that if any patient has COVID-19 symptoms, the consultants are available to admit such patients in the isolation centre. She added, however, that because the consultants on ground are not much due to the strike action, some COVID-19 patients might not be attended to as ideally expected. Ms Jemilah added that since the fresh wave of infections reared its head, women have been the most affected in Sokoto state, especially in rural areas. At the teaching hospital, PREMIUM TIMES observed that most of the units are sparsely populated largely due to the unavailability of medical officials. The most crowded place, however, is the Accident and Emergency section (A&E). Our reporter also observed that while some of the staff could be seen with face masks, the majority of the patients and their relatives had no face masks, and many cared not about COVID-19 social distancing protocol. Usman Usman, a resident of Sokoto, told PREMIUM TIMES he arrived in Sokoto from Kebbi on Saturday, August 20, to check on his sick father that had been admitted at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH). After witnessing the situation on Sunday, he said that since he arrived, he hadnt seen any medical doctor at the hospital. I came here yesterday to check on my father who is admitted here, he said. Since I came, its as if there is no doctor in the hospital. He added that the strike action has had an enormous effect on the hospitals ability to address coronavirus incidences and other routine surgeries. The poor healthcare delivery system at the UDUTH has pushed many Sokoto residents to the Specialist Hospital in the Sokoto metropolis, PREMIUM TIMES findings show. At the specialist hospital, this newspaper observed that there has been an influx of patients, resulting in overcrowded units and poor adherence to covid-19 protocol. Aisha Abdulkareem, who came to the city centre from a village near Ilella local government, told PREMIUM TIMES that the situation had been most difficult for her and two other women who came with her to Sokoto. Myself and two women who came with me to Sokoto have had a tough time at local health centres in and around Ilella, she said in Hausa, stifling a tear. Someone advised us to come to Sokoto but the crowd has been quite massive. Meanwhile, in markets and parks across the metropolis, people move freely without basic adherence to coronavirus protocols. When PREMIUM TIMES visited the central market in Sokoto, people moved freely without face masks and mingled in crowded stores. A consultant at the UDUTH, who declined to have her name in print because she was not authorised to speak, told PREMIUM TIMES that although the strike action embarked upon by doctors in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic affects different categories of people, women are the most affected. We witness different sorry tales here almost every day; about women finding it difficult to access medical service, especially in rural areas, she said. Women and children are the most affected, from my experience. Many of them cant do routine checks in those villages, or even basic pregnancy-related tests. They are often directed here because of the fear of transmission. Dont forget that most local PHCs dont have the facility to attend to coronavirus patients so anybody that shows up with strange symptoms would either be avoided or told to come to Sokoto. Sadly, even things arent in good shape here, due to lack of basic facilities and the strike action by doctors. Its pathetic. Ms Jemilah called on the governments at all levels to address the grievances of the feuding doctors and provide enough facilities to ease the pains of Nigerians, especially rural women resident in the hinterlands of Sokoto. *** This story is supported by I4C hub through BudgIT Foundation. Guinean President Alpha Conde was seen in an unverified video being held by soldiers hours after heavy gunfire was reported near the presidential palace in the capital, Conakry. Asked in the video to confirm he was unharmed by the soldiers, President Conde refused to respond. Another video also showed a soldier, flanked by two others, saying the countrys borders had been closed, the constitution suspended, and President Conde detained. The presidents whereabouts could not be ascertained at the time of this report. However, AlJazeera quotes the defence ministry spokesperson as saying the attempted uprising had been put down. The presidential guard, supported by the loyalist and republican defence and security forces, contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants, it said in a statement. Security and combing operations are continuing to restore order and peace. The coup has sparked fears among the civilian population, two among whom had sustained gunshot wounds, according to witnesses Reuters spoke with. There are also reports that soldiers have been dispatched to patrol the streets of Conakry and mount the presidential palace. Local tabloid, Guineenews, reported that President Alpha Conde was arrested by special forces led by Commander Mamady Doumbouya, believed to be the leader of the putsch. Al-Jazeera quoted a senior government official as saying the president was unharmed. Guineenews also said top officials of the government were also taken into custody by the special forces, an elite army corps said to be dissatisfied with the regime. The details of what looks like a coup are still hazy, but Reuters news agency quoted a military official as saying that the bridge connecting the rest of the city to the Kaloum neighbourhood had been sealed off with many soldiers patrolling the palace. The neighbourhood is home to major government infrastructure, including the presidential palace. ALSO READ: France offers Nigerian Navy support to secure Gulf of Guinea When elected in 2010 after decades as an opposition candidate himself, Mr Conde, 83, became the first freely elected president in the countrys history. In July 2011, he survived an assassination scare after the presidential residence was shelled, resulting in the death of a presidential guard and the injuries of two others. A graduate of Pantheon-Sorbonne University, President Conde had seen out his second term limit in 2020 when he stated that a March 2020 constitutional referendum allowed him to run for a third. He was reelected last year for a third term after winning 59.5 per cent of the votes, a result the opposition rejected alleging that it was fraught with fraud, triggering violent protests across the country. He has been criticised for his handling of the protests and ones before them. ADVERTISEMENT Guineas economy has seen a sustained rebound under him from the countrys bauxite, iron ore, gold and diamond wealth, but the far-reaching impacts have not trickled down to the majority of its citizens. The coup in Guinea occurs months after coups in two other West African countries: Chad and Mali. ADVERTISEMENT The Nigerian government has rejected Sundays toppling of the Alpha Conde regime in Guinea. The countrys foreign ministry on Sunday said the putsch was a violation of the ECOWAS protocol to which Guinea is signatory to. The Nigerian government is saddened by the apparent coup detat that has taken place in the Republic of Guinea today, in clear violation of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, the ministry said in a statement. The government of Nigeria strongly condemns and rejects any unconstitutional change of government and therefore calls on those behind the coup to restore constitutional order without delay and protect lives and property. Also, in a tweet, UN secretary-general, Antonio Guterres, also condemned any takeover of the government by force of the gun. He called for the immediate release of President Alpha Conde. Members of an elite military corp led by Mamady Doumbouya, a colonel, had opened fire on the presidential palace in the capital, Conakry, and taken President Alpha Conde into custody. The military officials later said they had taken control of the French speaking West African country in an apparent coup. The dissenting military official were believed to have staged the coup on the heels of a move by the parliament to increase the salaries of politicians while slashing the budget for security forces. Others believe his alteration of the constitution to pave way for his third term agenda did not go down too well with the military echelon, in a country with long history of coup detat. Some say the putsch was fanned by the level of poverty in the country despite being home to the worlds largest reserves of bauxite, the main source of aluminum for cars, beer cans and foil wrap. In a video circulating on Facebook, Mr Conde flanked by masked men in military fatigues, was asked by a soldier: Excellency, have we touched a single hair of yours? A disinterested Mr Conde gave no response as he looked away from the camera. In an address on state television, Mr Doumbouya said Mr Conde was in his mens custody and he warned people to go home. If you see the state of our roads, of our hospitals its time for us to wake up, he said in the address, with Guineas red, yellow and green flag draped on his shoulders. The colonel promised to broker a transition government that would not harm the nation but make love to it. The coup in Guinea comes barely three months after military officers seized power in neighbouring Mali, marking the second coup detat in less than a year. Friends and associates of Adekunle Adewale, a staff member of Overland Airways until his death, have taken to social media to celebrate his life on what was supposed to be his 31st birthday. Mr Adewale was among passengers confirmed dead in an accident that made headlines in April. He had concluded some marriage rites at the Ikoyi registry two days before and was travelling with his new wife, who was fatally injured in the same accident, for the traditional wedding when the incident happened. On Friday, September 3, on what was supposed to be his birthday anniversary, his friends took to Facebook to recount their encounters. Mr Adewale was described, from the plethora of heartfelt comments, as a decent, supportive and selfless individual who was always willing to lend a helping hand. The comments were triggered by one of his friends, Kemi Busari, following a detailed and heartwarming narrative he wrote on Facebook about the deceased. Mr Busari titled the piece NOTHING HAS BEEN MORE HURTFUL THAN YOUR DEATH WALE, describing their delightful and exciting friendship that dates back to their early days as undergraduates Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). Today would have been another anniversary of your birth your 31st. Normally, we will make some long phone calls full of jokes and plans for the new year. This years anniversary would have been exceptional as it would have been the first in your marriage. But youre no more Wale. You left this world just when I thought our friendship was about to begin. Mr Busari wrote, following with some memories of his friend. A life of impact Tons of comments quickly followed Mr Busaris post, with some describing the memories, moments and the personality of the deceased. Akinsola Damilola, who commented on Mr Busaris post, paid her respect to the deceased, whom she referred to as a senior colleague. Ms Damilola was a year junior to Mr Adewale at the Political Science department of OAU. She spoke about the deceaseds cheerful personality and described how he greatly contributed to her academics while studying at OAU. As an undergraduate, every single material and past questions Wale used passed on to me. Wale was my course advisor. He would always tell me what to expect from every course and lecturer, which course to register for and the ones to skip. Like a father, he was always asking for my grades and CGPA and telling me to improve on my statistics courses As a graduate, I met Wale again when I was transferred back to Akure. Though I manage a customer service centre, I also own a personal business. Wale was always referring customers to me. Wale was always patronising me. Wale would tip me for products and services that I would have gladly offered him for free, she wrote in some lengthy paragraphs of eulogy. Another friend, Victor Assang, characterised the news of Mr Adekunle Adewales death as shocking. He wrote, You were a special person in my life, who probably knows me more than myself, who hears and understands me like nobody does. It was a blessing to have a great friend like you. Our friendship is too valuable to me, to find another friend like you is impossible and an unending assignment for me, you were crazy, caring and ever supportive when needed. An untimely and painful exit Late Mr Adewale was a graduate of Political Science from the Obafemi Awolowo University in Osun State. His early passing at the age of 30 (As of April 18) was described by many who knew him as untimely. Wales exit was painful because the discussions were never concluded, and more painful because it was untimely. The series of those beautiful moments together suddenly left us with blessed memories. Continue to rest man!, one of his former classmates, Femi Arowolo, commented. The deceased was killed in an auto crash just a week before his traditional and white wedding. The incident took place while he was returning to Akure with his wife after the couple had tied the knot at the Ikoyi Registry. His new wife, who survived the accident, was later reported to be fatally unconscious and was rushed to the hospital afterwards. The whole incident came as a surprise to many who knew the Late Adewale. The last time Adewale spoke with me was when he called for admission into Master of Transport Management in UNILAG. We spoke at length because I knew he meant well for the Nigeria Transport Sector. Praestantes Outstanding Class missed you. So sad!!!! Sunkanmi Olagunju, also a former classmate, recalled. One of his friends simply called Michael, who was present at the registry, could not believe his friend was gone. Till date his death is like a mirage to me, he wrote via his Facebook profile, Real Mael. ADVERTISEMENT Like many others, Ganiyu Adesina, ended his remark with prayer; Wales death is still a very sad occurrence, sometimes I still go back to look at his picture and read our last chat in disbelief that he is really gone. May God grant him eternal rest and comfort everyone he left behind, he wrote. The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, in Maitama, Abuja, has ordered a serving judge of the National Industrial Court, Jeremiah Essien, to file his defence to a N25million property suit filed against him. A surveyor, James Olobo, filed the suit marked CV/950/2021, accusing Mr Essien of forcibly taking possession of his property at Primasset Estate, Lugbe, Abuja. The claimant said the defendant had by a written contract of sale executed on May 4, 2020, agreed to purchase his 450sqm land together with a 4-bedroom fully-detached duplex carcass for the sum of N25million. He told the court, through his lawyer, Ataguba Aboje, that it was an express term of the agreement that the defendant must complete payment for the property, on or before the end of November 2020. That on May 4, 2020, in pursuance of the agreement, the defendant paid a deposit of N20million out of the said purchase price to the claimants solicitors account as agent and not a stakeholder. It was an express term of the Agreement that the balance of the purchase price of N5million was to be paid in four instalments to the Claimant. The claimant told the court that contrary to the contract of sale, the defendant, paid in only N500,000.00 before the agreement elapsed, and thereafter, forcibly took possession of the property. After listening to Mr Olobos submissions, the judge, Sylvester Oriji, ordered the defendant to file his defence to the suit. Defendant abusive The claimant said in his statement of claimant that he discovered that the defendant had taken possession of the property and was altering the property significantly on November 13, 2020 against agreement. The claimant met several workmen working on the instruction of the Defendant and had to stop them from working. This was contrary to the agreement as possession was agreed to occur only upon completion of payment and not before. The claimant states that he contacted the defendant to protest his trespass but he became abusive and threatened the claimant not to interfere with his workmen and not to trespass at his property. He further told the court that owing to refusal of the defendant to complete the payment within the stipulated period, the purchase agreement was terminated, with a cheque issued for a full refund of the monies that were paid through his solicitors account. Nearly two months after the defendant received the claimants letter and the bank drafts, the defendant returned then to the claimants solicitors office on February 26, 2021, using a courier company called Speedaf. The defendant remains adamant that he is entitled to the Property and continues to exercise ownership rights over it unlawfully, he stated. He accused the defendant of committing infractions despite his privileged and protected position as a judge. He also said the defendant reported the matter to the police claiming he criminally trespassed on his property and beat up his workmen in the bid to frustrate the sale of the property to another buyer. Prayers The claimant, is among other things, praying the court for; A declaration that the defendants forceful takeover and alteration of the claimants property without an agreement or conveyance, amounts to trespass. An order awarding N50m against the Defendant for trespass. ADVERTISEMENT An order awarding N30m as general damages for breach of contract An order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendant from interfering with the claimants title and rights over the property. Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has asked the federal government to allow the state governments to decide the livestock policy. He urged the federal government to desist from creating problems for states with the grazing reserves policy it embarked upon. While speaking with journalists on Saturday at the inaugural ceremony of the Old Seminarian Association of Nigeria (OSAN) in Abuja, Mr Falana, who is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said the government cannot claim ownership of grazing routes when it never had one. Mr Falana stated that the existing grazing reserves and routes belonged to the government of the old Northern Region. Take the question of animal husbandry, where herders armed herders are killing people. This is a problem that can be solved scientifically. Today, the governors of Kaduna, Zamfara and Katsina states have banned the interstate movement of cattle. Which is a ban on open grazing. The Kano State Government is investing massively in RUGA settlement. In July, President Buhari gave N6.2 billion to Katsina State government for ranching. So if you are giving money for ranching to Katsina state, why are you now looking for grazing routes in other states? READ ALSO: In any case, the federal government never had a grazing reserve or grazing route. They were owned by the government of the old northern region. And we are talking of the 19 northern states now. So, what the federal government never had cannot be reclaimed. This problem should be left to the states because aside from the Federal Capital Territory, the land in every state is vested in the state governor on behalf of the people. So, the federal government should not continue to cause problems for our people. The lawyer said the northern governors and their counterparts in the south had already kicked against open grazing because ranching was the more acceptable method and it was also part of the National Livestock Transformation Plan of the federal government. He added, This is a country of wonderful opportunity. We have always been united in our diversity. Right now, our country is sharply divided. Christians against Muslims, one ethnic group against another, and these are all diversionary tactics by the ruling class to keep our people divided. The problem of this country is the same. Poverty is the same all over the place. Notwithstanding that the northern part of the country has produced more rulers, poverty in the north, particularly in the North-west is higher than in other regions, and this is why our people must be united. The oppressed must be united. The exploited must be united and we must examine those problems that are being used to divide our people. He also questioned the recent announcement by the government that it plans to recruit 20,000 policemen. According to him, the country needs half a million policemen to meet its security challenge. Mr Falana also endorsed the creation of state police, while harping on the need for northern governors to adopt the domestication of the child rights act which will reduce illiteracy in the region. Right now, security forces are overstretched and I was reading somewhere this morning that the government is trying to recruit 20,000 policemen. To do what? Over 10,000 police personnel are leaving the service every year, so you are recruiting anybody. The position on ground is that not less than half a million police personnel should be recruited, well equipped to man the security of the country. But right now, you have the military in the Federal Capital Territory and 34 out of 36 States. You cant police a country with the army or with the armed forces? That is the business of the police. And so the government will have to equip the police and will have to acquire gadgets. On the child rights Act, Mr Falana said, We also have to educate young people. Out of 36 States in Nigeria, 11 states in the north have not adopted the Child Rights Act to make education free and compulsory for every child from primary to junior secondary school. ADVERTISEMENT In his remarks, Chima Nweze, a Justice of the Supreme Court, said there is a need to use available mechanisms to weed out people of questionable character from public life. The Clerk of the House of Representatives, Chinedu Akabueze, who was the chairman of the inaugural ceremony, encouraged the old seminarians to imbibe the teachings of the seminary in public life. ADVERTISEMENT The Police Command in Niger, on Sunday, confirmed the abduction of Mahmud Aliyu, the district head of Wawa in Borgu Local Government Area of the state. The commands Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the incident in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna. The district head was kidnapped from his palace on Saturday night at about 10 p.m by heavily armed gunmen. Mr Abiodun said the police were already on the bandits trail to rescue the district head. The police tactical team and members of the vigilante of the area have been deployed for the manhunt of the hoodlums, with a view to rescue the victim and arrest the culprits, he added. He called on residents to support security agencies with intelligence information to aid in the fight against banditry and kidnapping in the state. (NAN) ADVERTISEMENT The police on Sunday said they were combing the forest to arrest the killers of Olajide Sowore, the younger brother of Sahara Reporters Publisher and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore. The Edo Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kontongs Bello, gave the assurance in Benin while addressing newsmen. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that suspected kidnappers shot dead Sowore in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of the state. According to him, It has become very necessary for the police to inform the general public that the police are on top of the situation since the incident happened yesterday (Saturday) at about 6:45a.m. Bush combing has started yesterday and the Commissioner of Police, Philip Ogbadu, has directed that all the tactical teams and the Divisional Police in Okada join hands in combing the forest. The local vigilantes in Okada, the police team from the state headquarters and the divisional police in the area are all together combing the bush to arrest the perpetrators and also rescue five others who are still with the kidnappers. The statement said Sowore was not one of the occupants of a commercial bus, belonging to a private company, that got spoiled at about 2:00 a.m. and which became the target for the kidnappers. Sowore, who was coming from Okada and was going towards Benin, was just a victim whom they tried to stop and he refused and they shot at his car. The Commissioner of Police is doing everything possible to ensure that these people are arrested and those kidnapped are rescued, the statement said. The statement said the kidnappers have yet to establish contacts with the family of their victims. (NAN) ADVERTISEMENT Convicted former South African president, Jacob Zuma, was on Sunday placed on medical parole on the grounds of his failing health, the countrys correctional services department has said. Mr Zuma, 79, has been jailed since July after the constitutional court sentenced him to 15 months in prison having been found guilty of contempt of court for failing to appear before a corruption probe panel despite repeated court orders. The correctional service said on Sunday that Mr Zumas eligibility for medical parole follows a medical report it received about the former leaders hospital admittance. Medical parole placement for Mr Zuma means that he will complete the remainder of the sentence in the system of community corrections, whereby he must comply with a specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires, the agency said in a statement Sunday. Prison authorities had said, last month, Mr Zuma was moved to an external hospital outside the prison to undergo an unspecified surgery having spent weeks of incarceration at the medical wing of the Estcourt prison. The prison spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo, said that although Mr Zuma was still in the hospital, he could go home to continue receiving medical care, Reuters reported. It is unclear what the nature of illness for which the parole was granted was, and authorities have refused to disclose it. Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Jacob Zuma Foundation, Mzwanele Manyi, has welcomed the decision of the correctional service to place Mr Zuma on parole. He said a statement would be issued after consultation with Mr Zumas legal team. The General Overseer (GO) of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye, and other church leaders on Sunday prayed for the nations progress. The leaders made the prayers at the inauguration of Prophetess Esther Ajayis Love of Christ (LOC) ultra modern worship centre on Ligali Ayorinde Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Mr Adeboye, a guest at the event, said in the midst of difficulties, people should beckon to God for a solution. He urged Nigerians to embrace God for stability and progress in families and the nation. The GO, who described the new church building as beautiful and deserving Gods presence, prayed that the place would henceforth be a miracle centre. Any prayer made in this place by people shall be answered by God for it is a blessed land. It is fulfilment of Gods directive to His servant, Esther Ajayi some years ago, the centre has become a reality today. Nigerians and their leaders should heed Gods directive for the good of the society just as our sister has done which made us gather here today to give Him thanks, he said. Mr Adeboye proclaimed peace in all the kingdoms that make up Nigeria through the traditional rulers that were present at the event. In his remarks, a prophet, El-Buba, a Jos-based preacher whose prayer was on fruitfulness, disclosed that would begin to witness progress on all fronts. The preacher, known for harvests of miracle babies after praying for couples in need of children, said the days of strife and uncertainties in Nigeria would come to an end this September. According to him, people will come to the new worship centre and render prayers, including those troubling the society and get answers for the place is Gods project for a new Nigeria. It shall be well with Nigeria as God is at work to eliminate all those chastising the country before the end of 2021, he said. Also speaking at the event, Richard Fasunloye, who expressed joy over the completion of the church building, asked people to ensure they discover their gift from God and grow it for the good of the society. The gospel preacher described the host as one who was specially gifted to hear from Him. Speaking, Mrs Ajayi, who traced how God spoke to her in the UK about the vision in 2017, said the place was planted by God for His worship. She thanked Mr Adeboye for grooming her spiritually. She called on people with varying needs to visit the centre for solutions, saying it was meant for that purpose. She called for unity in the body of Christ in order to move the work of God forward and save people from anxieties. ADVERTISEMENT (NAN) The main purpose of the escrow account is to provide an alternative institutional arrangement for the management of assets, removing them from the control of the financial institutions that may have been complicit in their transfer. Implementation of this proposal can also reduce the administrative fees charged by requested states. The regional development banks, as publicly owned financial institutions, can provide asset management services at lower costs. Escrow accounts, managed by Regional Development Banks, should be used to manage frozen/seized assets until they can be legally returned. Introduction Financial integrity requires effective mechanisms to secure the recovery and return of assets considered to be of illicit origin. This can serve both as a mechanism for justice and a deterrent against future crimes by demonstrating that perpetrators will not be able to enjoy the proceeds of their crimes. However, cooperation on confiscating and returning the proceeds of corruption and other financial crimes has not been effective. Despite the entry into force of the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) more than 15 years ago, the known volume of asset returns accounts for only a tiny fraction of the proceeds of corruption and financial crime laundered worldwide. Authorities in requested jurisdictions are sometimes not provided with adequate resources, financial, technical and human, to follow up on incoming requests in a timely fashion and carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the Convention. This is compounded by the fact that the jurisdictions where stolen assets are hidden, often developed countries, may not be responsive to requests for legal assistance. This part of the asset recovery equation has not been adequately addressed. The result of these constraints is that the whole asset recovery process remains extremely burdensome and lengthy for requesting countries whose resources were drained. In the meantime, confiscated assets often remain in the possession of either financial institutions, which continue to unduly benefit from the assets, or requested states that manage them for many years. Asset management, particularly financial assets, can remain with a financial institution that enabled the wrongdoing in the first place. Fees for the management of the assets may continue to be earned by the holder. Requesting states also lose a substantial part of the money to administrative fees taken by the requested state. Implementation Purpose of escrow account The main purpose of the escrow account is to provide an alternative institutional arrangement for the management of assets, removing them from the control of the financial institutions that may have been complicit in their transfer. Implementation of this proposal can also reduce the administrative fees charged by requested states. The regional development banks, as publicly owned financial institutions, can provide asset management services at lower costs. Management of the frozen/seized assets through the escrow accounts can also help ensure that the assets do not depreciate in value, which could occur if held in requested states. The treasury departments of development banks ensure its upkeep and its efficient disposal and, most importantly, maintain public trust in law enforcement and institutions of justice. A number of cases show that many years elapsed after requests for legal assistance, before stolen assets were transferred to the requesting State. Several major legal hurdles had to be crossed, including the presentation of evidence that the assets were the products of embezzlement, diversion of public property, and plundering of the public treasury. Sometimes, the request for return may be challenged by the suspect, especially where civil forfeiture or a non-conviction based asset forfeiture mechanism has been adopted by either the requesting or requested state. For example, the return of the third batch of assets related to former Nigerian ruler, Sani Abacha, requested from the United States and other involved countries, was delayed for many years by legal challenges launched in the United States by attorneys, acting for the former ruler and his associates, and for other professional service providers claiming a share of the assets. The escrow is therefore suggested as a credible third-party legal instrument to manage the funds, pending the determination of the rightful or legal owner. The United Nations High Level Financial Accountability Transparency and Integrity (FACTI) Panel notes that the political economy of a country matters, and that the influence of powerful sectoral interests is important. They can both influence the cooperation of government on specific asset recovery cases (e.g. some 1MDB cases), as well as the overall level of public resources and attention provided to regulation, supervision, enforcement, and international cooperation. Reducing the incentives to hold assets matters broadly. By having a policy to remove assets from the control of financial institutions which profit from holding them, and to place them with a neutral third party, the use of escrow accounts can disincentivise efforts to thwart prosecution or prevent the return of assets. Management of the frozen/seized assets through the escrow accounts can also help ensure that the assets do not depreciate in value, which could occur if held in requested states. The treasury departments of development banks ensure its upkeep and its efficient disposal and, most importantly, maintain public trust in law enforcement and institutions of justice. Particularly, to ensure justice for the victim state, these assets need to retain as much value as possible to ensure the process of asset recovery is worthwhile, warranting the oftentimes complex and expensive process. Legal authority and legal requirements The effective establishment and use of an escrow account depends on the voluntary agreement of member states on the use of this instrument as an alternative institutional arrangement for asset management. This will require that the requested state agrees to a memorandum of understanding (MOU), or escrow agreement, with the development bank as a neutral third party (depositary or an escrow agent), with no claim on the asset. Involving the requesting state to also be party to the escrow agreement would be highly desirable. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) should specify the conditions of the deposit, the fees to be charged and the conditions that would trigger delivery of the assets, and to whom they should be delivered. ADVERTISEMENT Although it is critical to ensure due process throughout the asset recovery process, it is equally important to recognise that requesting jurisdictions face huge and asymmetrical burdens of proof and the crucial need to explore new approaches to challenge this unfair situation and enhance asset recovery processes. Procedures at MDBs Regional development banks are ideal candidates to host escrow accounts for the management of frozen/seized assets. These include the African Development Bank Group, Asian Development Bank and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which may be better placed to respond to requesting countries needs and desires on how to make use of the escrow accounts. They are neutral parties in the case. They also already have well developed treasury departments with professional staff skilled in handling asset management, due to their stewardship of donor funds provided for a variety of projects. While development banks do not generally aim to turn trust funds or other assets managed into profit centres, should the management of the assets result in the stated expected gains, they can be remitted alongside the main asset to the state or party determined to be the proper owner. Alternatively, they can be retained by the regional development bank for investment in their other operations aimed at promoting sustainable development. Proposed Solution Although it is critical to ensure due process throughout the asset recovery process, it is equally important to recognise that requesting jurisdictions face huge and asymmetrical burdens of proof and the crucial need to explore new approaches to challenge this unfair situation and enhance asset recovery processes. The difficulties arising out of the recovery of assets is duly acknowledged by the FACTI Panel Recommendation 5A, which proposes the creation of a multilateral mediation mechanism. In addition, the FACTI Panel addressed the asset management challenge. The Panel report calls for the use of escrow accounts managed by regional development banks that will serve as custodians of the assets determined to be of illicit origin. These assets should be held at the behest of requesting states and with the cooperation of requested states. By using escrow accounts, some value may be added to funds that are subject to protracted negotiations, and the requesting state may get more than the face value at the end of the process. Furthermore, administrative fees charged by requested states can be paid from proceeds of investment and the value addition. Looking Forward Countries can take action on this proposal of their own accord, though internationally agreed frameworks can be helpful in encouraging adoption. The most appropriate international venue to deal with the putting in place of an escrow policy for the handling of frozen/seized assets is the Conference of State Parties of the UNCAC. The provisions of the UNCAC provide the legal framework into which policies to use escrow accounts can be integrated (See UNCAC Chapter V, Articles 51-59 dealing with asset recovery). Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN) is the Chairman of Nigerias Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), while Yu Yongding, is an academic with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and a member of the Advisory Committee of the National Development and Reform Committee of the Peoples Republic of China since 2004. This implementation note was written for the United Nations High Level Panel, Financial Accountability Transparency and Integrity (FACTI). Where the cat is a kitten, the court is wretched No man there would rest at night because of rodents, for we mice would destroy many mens malt, and you rats would tear mens clothes were it not for the cat of the court who can pounce on you. If you rats had your way, you could not rule yourselves William Langland, The Parliament of Rats and Mice. There is this bitterly hostile rivalry between cats, mice and rats that is as old as antiquity. Unable to find a solution to this constant rodents/cats squabble, Odolaye Aremu, Kwara State, Ilorins dadakuada music exponent, retrieving his muse from ancient Yoruba wisdom, sang that only God could settle this endless rivalry Oloun lo le sedajo ologbo atekutele. In 2014, Britishs House of Commons attempted to exploit this rivalry by using one to neutralize the other. Rising in parliament to debate the infestation of the House buildings built in 1860 by a huge mice population, MP Anne McIntosh said, It is a matter of fact (that) the mice population is spiraling out of control. To combat the rodents, members suggested storming the House of Commons with a herd of cats. The Parliament of Rats and Mice is the title of the prologue to William Langlands Piers Plowman. Considered to be one of the greatest works of English literature of the Middle Ages, it is an allegory of cats and rats, a narrative that tellingly depicts their rivalry. Though a social commentary on control of central power and authority during the reign of English king, Richard II, (1377-99) it is also a commentary on the disorder and abuse in government of his reign. Just ten years old when his grandfather died, Richards reign was fraught with crises, ranging from economic, social, political, to the constitutional. It became so bad that a continual council had to be set up, with the purpose of govern(ing) the king and his kingdom. Excesses of Richard II and his courtiers became intolerably high, including high level of corruption among royal councilors and advisers which the parliament could not stomach. Led by John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of Edward III, the kings uncle, the crown and the royal family considered the parliaments eventual inquisition as threat to its power. Langlands allegory peered searchlight into this chaos, representing the cat as John of Gaunt and the kitten as Richard II. After so many squabbles between them, the rats concluded that the world would have peace if rodents let the kittens be. One rat, addressing its colleagues, said, Though we had killed the cat, another would come to catch us and all our kind, although we creep under benches. Therefore I advise all the commons to let the cat alone Where the cat is a kitten, the court is wretched. That is witnessed in Holy Writ, to whoever will read it: Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child. No man there would rest at night because of rodents, for we mice would destroy many mens malt, and you rats would tear mens clothes were it not for the cat of the court who can pounce on you. If you rats had your way, you could not rule yourselves. Global human rights police, Amnesty International (AI) and the Nigerian government are acting out Langlands allegory. AI, over the years, has become the cat of the court who can pounce on you, as it ferrets nooks and crannies, baying for the blood of mice (that) would destroy many mens malt. Last week, AI accused the Muhammadu Buhari-led government of extrajudicial executions in the Southeast and Niger Delta areas of Nigeria, as well as what it called heinous crimes of enforced disappearances of persons. It linked unknown whereabouts of persons to government. Said AIs Media Manager, Isa Sanusi, Not only these tragic disappearances, but also the governments continuing failure to establish the truth and bring justice to their families, are growing stains on Nigerias reputation. Scores of disappearance casesremain unresolved and cast doubt on Nigerian governments commitment to keeping its own citizens safe. Sauced with blood-curdling examples, AIs frightening allegations were made on the anniversary of the International Day of Support for Victims of Enforced Disappearances. Sister to a 33-year-old businessman whose disappearance since August 2014 after his arrest by Nigerian policemen, was quoted by AI to have said: My brothers disappearance affected everyone at home. We just decided to leave everything to faith, hoping he will show up one day. But we need closure, for us to know what actually happened to him. As it is now, nobody knows whether he is alive or dead Another was the celebrated disappearance of Abubakar Idris, known as Dadiyata. A university lecturer and vocal government critic, Dadiyata was abducted from his Kaduna home on August 2, 2019 and his whereabouts is shrouded in secrecy. He was a critic of the Kaduna state governor, Nasir El-Rufai. Another case cited by AI was that of 15 year-old Emmanuel John. Arrested by soldiers in a raid of Synagogue church at Oyigbo in Rivers State in October, 2020 while soldiers were searching for members of the Indigenous People of Biafra, (IPOB) Emmanuels whereabouts too has remained unknown. Yet another was 44-year old Felix Adika. After his arrest by the Bayelsa state DSS on February 27, 2016, for alleged membership of the Niger Delta militancy, his family last saw him in March 2019. Recently, in a BBC piece she penned, Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani, Nigerian journalist and novelist, depicting the fad of unclaimed bodies of missing people, allegedly wasted by policemen on the streets of Nigeria, wrote about the experience of an Anatomy student of the University of Calabar, 26-year old Enya Egbe, who fled from his anatomy class upon seeing the body of a friend of his, hitherto declared missing, whose corpse was the specimen to be worked upon. AI also alleged that Nigerian security forces clampdown on IPOB militants has resulted in a gale of arbitrary arrests, detentions, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions in the Southeast and Niger Delta area. It claimed that the whereabouts of at least 50 suspected members of IPOB arrested in Oyigbo, Rivers State, are still unknown since October and November 2020. So also 41-year old Izuchukwu Okeke, a commercial motorcycle rider who was last seen on July 5, 2021, after his invitation by the police in Owerri, Imo State. The cases of at least 200 people including former militants from Niger Delta, members of IPOB, #EndSARS protesters and security suspects believed to have been subjected to unresolved enforced disappearances in Nigeria have been documented by Amnesty International The real number is believed to be higher. Nigerian security forces often cite the anti-terror law that allows the authorities to hold people without charge or trial in unofficial places of detention, often without contact to the outside world in practice, clearly increasing the risk of people disappearing after being detained, said AI. While it could put up with allegation of the impunity of Nigerian polices disappearance of persons which has been national pastime in Nigeria from time immemorial, the Buhari rat was pissed off at the temerity of the cat to question its right to urinate inside the soup bowl. In a reply to AI, similar to the flipping of an enraged rats whiskers, Garba Shehu, presidential spokesman, accused AI of championing the matters of a tiny dot in a circle, which he euphemized as those that violently oppose the Federal Government of Nigeria. He could not stand AI parroting the line of Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB, a proscribed terror organization. He also claimed that controversial American lobbyists are paid hundreds of thousands of dollars annually laundering IPOBs reputation in Washington DC. Global Terrorism Index, (GTI) n a 2015 document produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace, gave a comprehensive summary of key global trends and patterns in terrorism of the preceding 15 years. With data from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD) GTI said terrorism had become highly concentrated, in just five countries Iraq, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Syria. (countries which) accounted for 78 per cent of (global) lives lost. It said further: Nigeria has experienced the largest increase in deaths from terrorism There were 7,512 fatalities from terrorist attacks an increase of over 300 per cent. The country houses two of the five most deadly terrorist groups (in the world)Boko Haram and the Fulani militants. Yet, the government of which Shehu is a megaphone has deodorized the terrorism of Fulani herders, as well as bandits, refusing to label the latter terrorists. It seems obvious that government is aware that the moment it does, many of the Northern bigwigs who offer nesting place for terrorists and their allies being masqueraded as bandits, would face the wrath of the globally authorized cats. Justifying, rather than repudiating the allegations by the AI, Shehu wondered why the international organization would be interested in the case of an IPOB (that) murder(s) Nigerian citizens kill police officers and military personnel and set government property on fire, (who have now) amassed a substantial stockpile of weapons and bombs across the country. He then propounded a racist counterfactual, a line of thought prevalent among and deployed by African despots to racially profile western opposition to their tyranny and thus legitimize their despotism: Were this group in a western country, you would not expect to hear Amnestys full-throated defence of their actions. Instead, there would be silence or mealy-mouthed justification of western governments action to check the spread of terrorism. Astonishingly, Shehu then queried AIs legality in Nigeria. Amnesty International has no legal right to exist in Nigeria, he said. The Nigerian government will fight terrorism with all the means at its disposal (italics mine). We will ignore Amnestys rantings an organization that does not hold itself to the same standards it demands of others, he concluded. This cat and mouse tiff has endured between AI and the Buhari government almost since the latters inception. At a time, AI alleged that, in the name of fighting insurgency, Nigerian soldiers were massacring civilian population in the northeast. In 2019, same Nigerian government engaged in a spat with respected Wall Street Journal when it revealed that over 1,000 Nigerian soldiers killed by Boko Haram insurgents were secretly and unceremoniously buried in a graveyard at Maimalari Army barracks in Borno State. Governments attempt to query the legitimacy of AI for doing a job whose modus operandi is known all over the world is baffling and reveals its naivety or insincerity. Or both. The question to first ask is if Shehu was aware that Nigeria is a signatory to international legal obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, (ICCPR) as well as the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances? Does he know that by being a signatory to the conventions, Nigeria had ceded the right to investigate, prosecute, punish and provide remedies and reparation for the crimes of enforced disappearance to the AI? It bears stating that AI is always at loggerheads with rogue governments all over the world that have no regards for the lives of their people. In Nasirabad, Sindh, Pakistan on April 17, 2017, like Nigerias Dadiyata, Hidayatullah Lohar was forcibly disappeared. An activist, his abductors, men in police uniform and civilian clothes, rough-handedly disappeared him from the school where he taught, shoved him inside a double-cabin grey coloured vehicle and his whereabouts, since then, has become a mystery. In same Pakistan in 2017 and 2018, repeatedly harassed blogger, Ahmad Waqass Goraya, was also forcibly disappeared, alongside three other bloggers in Punjab. Their sin was that they ran Facebook pages considered to be critical of Pakistani militarys policies. Same happened during the Brazilian military dictatorship in 1964 where 434 political deaths and disappearances reportedly occurred between 1946 and 1988. As Langland said in The Parliament of Rats and Mice humanity will never have rest at night if heartless rats are left to inflict destruction on the world. This philosophy explains the establishment of agencies of cats empowered to pounce on them. Yoruba have a saying that if a mentally challenged was left unchecked to do whatever they liked with the remains of their mother, they could barbecue it. If despots and rogue governments, especially in Africa, were left unpoliced, they will turn the state into a field of blood. That was why the world criminalized in July, 2002, through the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court, forced disappearance (or enforced disappearance). It is a secret abduction or imprisonment of a person by a state or political organization, or by a third party with the authorization, support, or acquiescence of a state or political organization, followed by a refusal to acknowledge the persons fate and whereabouts, with the intent of placing the victim outside the protection of the law. IPOB has acted like a demented organization, inflicting irresponsible and senseless violence on the people of the southeast. Its sadism reflects the kind of leadership that Nnamdi Kanu gives it. It kills, maims and orchestrates untold arson on government buildings, with a magisterial impunity that must never be allowed in a community of human beings. However, Nigeria has gone past the military despotism of 1984 whether George Orwells or the cow-obsessed despots where Bartholomew Owoh and his ilk could be executed retroactively. The moment we laud, rather than heckle government in its trampling on human rights, no matter who the victim is, we lose an essential component of human essence. Felons abound all over the world and an eye for an eye would make the globe go blind. With patent bias harboured by the head of this government for Igbo and anyone else but the Fulani and his blood-soaked pedigree, it is dangerous for humanity to hand over Nigerias remains in his hand, unchecked. He will willingly make suya of it. It is a notorious fact that his governments sense of justice is warped and self-serving. Fulani nomads pillaging, acknowledged by the Terrorism Index, which made it to declare Fulani herders as a global terror as far back as 2014, is not worth the labeling of terrorism in the lingua franca of the Nigerian government; not the terrorism of northwest felons, even when they downed a military jet. Comparatively small-scale irritation of felons of southeast, spearheaded by Kanu and separatist agitators of southwest, never known to have shed a pint of blood, however provoke the misplaced hyper brawns of the government. It is not difficult to explain the anger of this government against Amnesty International and its phobia for public disclosure. An English proverb says that evildoers are evil dreaders. Yorubas own version of this is that executioners mortally dread the presence of swords in their vicinity. Governments dread manifests in its choice not to name Boko Haram sponsors all this while, even when requested by Rtd. Commodore Kunle Olawunmi and even Mary Beth Leonard, U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria last Monday. Leonard had said America was eager to help Nigeria in the disclosure. Could governments dread of disclosure be a consequence of fear of its own shadow? Till date, government hasnt said a word about the retired Commodores maggots-dripping allegations of its covert boost for insurgency. Due to the collapse of the mirror that our society once used to reflect its core values, with which it identified evils in human action, it goes without saying that this Amnesty International and governments cat and mouse tiff would be viewed by many Nigerians with the APC/PDP, region and religion lens. As I write this, the pulsating rhythm of British reggae music sensation, UB40s highly apocalyptic track, in the album entitled Labour of Love, the bands fourth studio album released in the UK on September 12, 1983, filtered into my ears. Denouncing evil doers represented in a Johnny whos too bad, who was busy robbing and stabbing, looting and shooting,, UB40 had asked pointedly, One of these days, when you hear a voice say come, Where you gonna run to? It is such question we should ask Nigerians who legitimate known evils of this government. So, like UB40, I ask, when individuals become personal victims of this governmental evil which they play the ostrich in labeling its correct name, where will they run to? Apparently, the Taliban celebrated too soon. By the following morning when they had taken stock of the arms and armaments they inherited from the Americans, they cried out that they had been tricked into thinking they would, as inheritors of political power in Afghanistan, inherit the war arsenal assembled by the U.S They had, among other equipment, 70 MRAP armoured tactical vehicles, which they demilitarised before departing. On the D-Day of the final departure of U.S. forces from Afghanistan, there was ululation and dancing in the streets. It was a celebration of several Eids all rolled into one Eid-el-Victory, my friend called it. After spending well over $2 trillion on the Afghanistan misadventure, America was finally cutting its losses and returning to base. Hatred of the U.S. was the unifying factor of all the disparate jihadist groups celebrating. These are people who, due to doctrinal and other differences, cant stand the sight of each other ordinarily. In normal circumstances, they would be at daggers drawn, each against the other. A Taliban member would consider it a duty to kill an Islamic State member who, were the table turned, would decapitate the Taliban without second thoughts. But the humiliation of the U.S. and its allies temporarily united them in celebration. As the Taliban made a show of wearing the uniforms inherited from the Americans, they made victory signs and boasted that they had defeated mighty America. It was feared in many Western circles that the coming to power of the Taliban in Afghanistan is just the tonic needed by many jihadist or extremist groups all over the world. One of the first things the Taliban did in Kabul was to seize the jailed leader of the Islamic State in South Asia and kill him. Militants freely shared sweets on the streets of Somalia, while those in Yemen set off fireworks. Down with the infidels who were poking their pointed noses into the affairs of Muslim states, they sang. No further evidence was needed that God was on their side. Allahu Akbar! But that song was to change on the day after the withdrawal. Apparently, the Taliban celebrated too soon. By the following morning when they had taken stock of the arms and armaments they inherited from the Americans, they cried out that they had been tricked into thinking they would, as inheritors of political power in Afghanistan, inherit the war arsenal assembled by the U.S. The U.S. had a force of nearly 6,000 troops in control of Kabul airport when the airlift began. They had, among other equipment, 70 MRAP armoured tactical vehicles, which they demilitarised before departing. The 73 aircraft that were already at Hamid Karzai International Airport were similarly rendered useless by the Americans. Those aircraft will never fly again, said General Kenneth McKenzie, head of the U.S. Central Command; theyll never be able to be operated by anyone. The high-tech rocket defence system (C-RAM system counter rocket, artillery, and mortar), which the U.S. forces used in defending Kabul airport during their occupation was technically castrated. And to underline that the demilitarisation of the armaments was a carefully calculated move, McKenzie added: We elected to keep those systems in operation up until the very last minute before the last U.S. aircraft left. A lot of criticism has trailed the withdrawal, with some lampooning President Biden for lacking balls. I think they are mistaken. A war that has eaten four U.S. presidents cannot be allowed to go on forever in the hope that someday, the Taliban will abandon its raison detre of installing a government operating on their own strict interpretation of Islam. Those who think that the Taliban can be psychologically tweaked to become a freedom loving infidel, are wrong. Being the policeman of the world has drawn the U.S. back in terms of infrastructural development. Funds that could otherwise have been committed towards making the country a better place and enhancing its status as a centre of civilisation have been blown away in ill-advised wars, physical occupation and other acts of armed meddlesomeness. Meanwhile, Americas competitors on the global stage are making great advances in many fields. With the advantage of hindsight, it was foolhardy for the U.S. to try to plant its own ideology and impose its own will on a foreign soil. The Afghan Army, for which so much sacrifice had been made, was so disloyal that immediately the date of the U.S. withdrawal was announced, they were in secret contact with the Taliban. Ethnic politics is so different from the kind of international politics at which the U.S. and its allies excel. According to the 2020 Report of WorldAtlas, the United States lags behind eight other countries in infrastructure. Hong Kong, Singapore and The Netherlands are the best three, followed by Japan, UAE, Switzerland, France and Korea. The U.S. is ranked ninth. China has one or two things to teach the world about socio-economic engineering. According to the World Bank, China has lifted more than 850 million people out of extreme poverty. The countrys poverty rate fell from 88 per cent in 1981 to 0.7 per cent in 2015. Unlike the U.S., the physical occupation of other countries is not a favoured tactic of Chinas, which prefers to use soft power based on incentives, loans and partnerships. The U.S. has been playing Superman at the expense of its own people. This point comes into sharper relief when one considers that American taxpayers spent $6.4 trillion on post-9/11 wars and military action in the Middle East and Asia. According to the Watson Institute of International and Public Affairs at Brown University, that amount was $2 trillion more than the entire federal government spending during the 2019 fiscal year. Money aside, the report also found that more than 801,000 people (335,000 of them civilians) have died as a direct result of fighting. In addition, 21 million people have been reduced to internally displaced persons in their own country due to no fault of theirs. With the advantage of hindsight, it was foolhardy for the U.S. to try to plant its own ideology and impose its own will on a foreign soil. The Afghan Army, for which so much sacrifice had been made, was so disloyal that immediately the date of the U.S. withdrawal was announced, they were in secret contact with the Taliban. Ethnic politics is so different from the kind of international politics at which the U.S. and its allies excel. The Afghans of various ethnicities agreed that there would be no fighting and that the U.S. was the common enemy. The world was shocked when the Taliban simply strolled into town to take over the government without as much as a skirmish. And some people still say Americans should continue putting their lives on the line for such disloyal people and their corrupt leaders? What President Biden has done may not look too pretty today, but I think history will be kind to him. There is no better time to make a good move than the present moment. The more U.S. troops remained in Afghanistan, the more American lives would be lost; the more money would go down the drain; more widows and orphans would be created. And, perhaps, more enemies would be made. Now that the Talibans are in power, it is hoped that they will do things differently, even if they insist, as they indeed will do, on imposing their strict interpretation of Islam on the country. It is their country, after all. The world will concede that much. But if the new regime decides to go to bed with international terrorism again, then thunder may strike the same place again, only that future thunders will be time-bound. It may be tempting to argue that continuing with the occupation of Afghanistan was essentially in the American character, considering that U.S. spent about $4 trillion on the second World War But after every nightmare comes the dawn of wakefulness. Cowboy diplomacy may have worked in times past. These times demand a different set of tools. And there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to international engagement. Biden has read the tarot right. His argument: For those asking for a third decade of war, I ask, what is the vital national interest? In my view we only have one: To make sure Afghanistan can never again be used to launch an attack on our homeland. ADVERTISEMENT The United Nations Security Council has passed a resolution itemising what the international community expects the Taliban to deliver on moving forward freedom of travel, freedom to leave, etc. The U.S. president has said that although Talibans have been making platitudinous statements, they will, rather, be judged by their actions. Now that the Talibans are in power, it is hoped that they will do things differently, even if they insist, as they indeed will do, on imposing their strict interpretation of Islam on the country. It is their country, after all. The world will concede that much. But if the new regime decides to go to bed with international terrorism again, then thunder may strike the same place again, only that future thunders will be time-bound. It is better to get out of a hole in an undignifying pose than to continue digging oneself into self-internment. Ask those who indulge in open defecation in the bush when you stay long on the mound, all tribes of flies will claim their right to mess with you. In the long run, it is better for the U.S. to invest its money on its people and infrastructure, than to spend it pretending to pacify unpacifiable tribes. Wole Olaoye can be reached through wole.olaoye@gmail.com. ADVERTISEMENT The two factions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held separate local government congresses in Kwara on Saturday to elect their executives. The congresses were held at the LG secretariats of the two factions across the 16 local government areas of Kwara. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the factions were those loyal to the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Both factions adopted consensus arrangements for the congresses as encouraged by the national secretariat. Abdulrahoof Bello, a chieftain of the APC loyal to Mr Mohammed, led by Bashir Bolarinwa, told NAN on phone that the exercise went smoothly in Omupo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state. He said all officers of the party in the local government were elected through consensus arrangement. Mr Bello said that there was no rancour as members conducted themselves orderly during the exercise. Damilola Olomu, who monitored the exercise in Patigi Local Government Area, said the congress was smooth. READ ALSO: In Asa Local Government Area, Abdulkadir O.S was elected Chairman; Sulaiman Aremu Vice Chairman; Maaruf Yusuf Youth Leader; Ojelabi Oluwatoyin Women Leader, and Akanbi Raheem Secretary. The faction loyal to Mr AbdulRazaq, headed by Abdulahi Samari, also conducted its primaries across the state smoothly as party delegates trooped out to elect the new executives at the local government level. A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, said the congress took off amidst fanfare. He said delegates for the congress were peaceful in electing new leaders through the affirmation of consensus list earlier agreed to by all the stakeholders. Mr Ajakaye said the delegates election started in every part of the state under a peaceful atmosphere and close supervision by the APC team from Abuja and INEC officials deployed for the exercise. According to him, in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Sulaiman Tejidini was unanimously endorsed as the chairman for another term. (NAN) ADVERTISEMENT Mohammed Usman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been declared winner of the Sabon Gari Local Government Area chairmanship election. The Returning Officer, Abubakar-Mohammed Sadiq, announced the outcome of the election on Sunday in Sabon Gari, Zaria. He said Mr Usman had satisfied the requirements of the law, having scored the highest number of votes, totalling 32,405, to defeat his closest contender, Abdu Bello of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who had 13,777 votes. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission conducted the elections on September 4 across 19 local government areas in the state. In spite of some technical hitches occasioned by the malfunctioning of electronic voting machines, as well as the low turn-out of voters, the exercise was conducted peacefully. While the APC won in Sabon Gari, Mathias Siman of the PDP has won the chairmanship seat in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State. READ ALSO: The Returning Officer, Mande Hosea, declared Mr Siman winner of the election on Sunday in Manchok, having polled 19,505 votes, to defeat his closest opponent, Adamu Donatus of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who garnered 10,942 votes. We aknowledged that voting did not take place in some polling units due to Electronic Voting Machines malfunction. However, the rule says that result can be declared if the total vote cast is up to two-third, and so far, the total votes cast are more than two-third. Therefore, Mr Mathias Siman of the PDP, having satisfied the requirements of the law, and scored the highest number of votes, is hereby, declared winner of the election, and returned elected, he said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the PDP also won nine out of the 10 electoral wards for the councillors seats in the Local Government Area, with the APC winning only Manchok Ward. (NAN) Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun says his administration is feeding no fewer than 30,000 vulnerable residents of the state every month. The governor disclosed this in Abuja while giving the scorecard of his three years in office at NAN Forum, the flagship interview programme of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). He said the feeding programme was being carried out in partnership with the World Bank using the captured data of the beneficiaries. We are doing something that is so unique but not that noticeable outside Osun, we call it Osun Food Support Scheme. We are feeding 30,000 vulnerable people every month, and this is real, not political. We have the World Bank Assisted Social Register where they have captured virtually all vulnerable residents across the state. Anytime they want to do intervention, they go into the register which contains names, phone numbers, location, status and everything. According to the World Bank, the vulnerable are people who cannot afford just a little means of livelihood, especially those who dont have dependants to take care of them. READ ALSO: We started in April this year and we dont have a deadline to stop the programme. As long as I remain governor by the grace of Almighty God, I wish to sustain it. People ask me, why do I do that? You see, I have been able to take care of the civil servants to a very large extent. I can take care of some members of the political class, not all of them, but some. However, there are people out there who dont have means of anyone taking care of them. It is my opinion that the only way you can make them have a sense of belonging is to consciously take care of them. The programme has been successful, it has been wonderful and I am happy and proud about it. In addition to that, I have decided to create another platform to be able to support the aged and the widows. This class of people should be taken care of by government, the only way they can know that they have a government is for you to give them something on monthly basis. It is not a question of political class alone and the civil servants, it also involves the vulnerable. Osun has gone beyond a civil service state, the governor said. I dont believe in breaking up Nigeria Mr Oyetola also said he believes in the economic restructuring of Nigeria as against the persistent call for a total breakup of the nation. ADVERTISEMENT He opposed those calling for the breakup of the country, describing them as unserious and advocating that more economic and political powers should be allocated to state governments. There have been strident calls in Nigeria in recent years for the country to be restructured to address what analysts describe as the glaring lopsidedness, to ensure equity, justice and fair play in the country. Former colonial power, Britain, amalgamated ethnic nationalities 107 years ago in the West African country, to give birth to Africas largest nation but the arrangement appears to have raised many problems endlessly tearing the nation apart. According to Mr Oyetola, every state in the federation has both human and natural endowments that can be used by each to sustain itself if the country is restructured well. The governor said that Nigerians had come a long way and should not allow current challenges to tear them apart. People give different interpretations to the word restructuring. What I believe in is that for us to live together as a people, every unit of the enclave should have rights and responsibilities clearly defined. To me, restructuring does not mean that people should separate. Whoever is thinking along that line is not serious. We have come a long way and it is togetherness that can make us get to where we are supposed to be within the space in the world. We have all the resources to be great and so what should happen is lets not emphasise what divides us, rather lets look at what binds us together. Let us look at issues that could create unnecessary problems and get them solved. I believe in devolution of power to the states, let the states have more power to do most of the things they have been doing. He said: give the states more support and I believe we should look at the issue of revenue allocation. We should allow the states to have more funds to develop some of the things they have. Yes, you can look at all these areas but not in terms of separation. Im not for separation, Mr Oyetola stated. (NAN) Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun has dismissed insinuations of possible disagreements between him and his predecessor, Rauf Aregbesola. He made the clarification when he appeared at NAN Forum, a special interview programme of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. The governor described Mr Aregbesola, who currently serves as the Minister of Interior, as a brother and well-wisher. Mr Oyetola, who said that possible disagreements could not be totally ruled out in politics and governance, however, insisted that there was nothing personal between the two of them. He, however, said that possible areas of disagreement could have been in respect of disparities and changes in some policies and programmes his government inherited from the Aregbesola administration. Let me say this, Ogbeni and I are brothers, yes, we can have little disagreements; these are not unexpected. You mentioned the issue of tinkering with some policies of education, which in any case was desirable by the people. READ ALSO: Some could misinterpret this to mean something else. We did it in good faith and in line with the demand of the people and we followed due process to do that. Like I mentioned, policies are supposed to be reviewed from time to time. I have had cause to reverse myself even as a governor. Thats part of life. That thing was unduly exaggerated by some people, giving different meanings to it. That doesnt change the fact that we are brothers. I hate people saying we are quarrelling. Theres no basis for it. We are not quarrelling at all. I dont know why people are always asking me if hes going to support my second term election. Well I have said it that he is my brother and I believe he will want to ensure my success. Without quantifying it, I put in my best for the eight years of his success. That is the much that I can say. I dont want to go into specifics, all I know is that, yes some people are aggrieved for different reasons and it is natural. You do appointments and some people believe they should be part of it, but they are not; they become aggrieved. But that doesnt mean that what you have done is wrong. Naturally, we could have a few disagreements, even in politics. Fixing of conflicts is part of politics; we can find a way of conflict resolution and move on. ADVERTISEMENT We have actually set up a committee on reconciliation; to see people who are genuinely aggrieved and to be brought back to the same single-family that we used to be. I believe with time, we should be able to achieve that, he said. Gold mining to become Osuns crude oil soon Mr Oyetola also said that gold mining will assume the position of crude oil in the economy of the state in the near future. He said that his administration was taking mining activities from artisanal to the corporate level, with the involvement of private sector players coming for exploration and export. NAN reports that Osun State is known for large deposits of minerals, including gold, lead, zinc, quartz, feldspar and several precious metals. The governor said that apart from current efforts of his administration to achieve mining sufficiency, Osun was a beneficiary of the presidential initiative on mining. Give us a few years to come, gold will be our own oil in Osun State. Our state will be known for major supply of gold in Nigeria and around the world. Mr Oyetola named a Canadian firm, known as Badger Mines, as being already on the ground, while the process of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with another unnamed firm was underway. We are working with responsible miners. The two Canadian firms are doing pretty well and I believe that in no distant future we will be able to harvest a lot of our gold and refine them. I can talk about Badger Mines while the second one is still doing the MOU but the first one is already out there doing exploration and the result has been so far, so good. Dont forget that we also have the Segilola Gold Project, which has established a refinery for gold in Osun State. It is a state government initiative too. We are also collaborating with the Federal Government on mining. Our state is one of the two states, along with Kebbi State, selected as pilot states for the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI). So, the intention is to actually encourage our youths to go into mining by giving them skills and some supports, instead of the usual diggers and things like such that they use excavators. The problem I have with that is the question of remediation. They dig but they dont remediate. That is not good enough. They end up destroying our environment. You dont destroy the environment and leave it like that. The ground they are digging is supposed to be for farming. So, if you dont remediate, over time you may have serious issues of environmental degradation like you had in the Niger Delta in those days. In whatever partnership we are doing with people, we take the issue of environment serious. We need responsible firms that will do remediation and not destroy our environment in the name of mining. (NAN) Following the All Progressives Congress (APC) ward congresses in Ogun State, two factions of ward executives across the state have since emerged. Findings show that while a faction of the executives is loyal to Governor Dapo Abiodun, the other faction is loyal to his predecessor, Ibikunle Amosun. The two factions inaugurated their executives on Thursday and Friday respectively. This followed the directive of the national leadership of the APC that those elected at the recent ward congresses be inaugurated across the nation, in preparation for the local government congress scheduled for September 4. The two factions had held parallel congresses across the 236 wards of the State on July 31. On Thursday, loyalists of Governor Abiodun gathered at the Mitros Hall, Ibara, Abeokuta, to inaugurate their ward executive officers. However, supporters of former governor Amosun, on Friday, converged on the Senatorial office of the Ogun Central Senator at Leme in Abeokuta for the inauguration of their ward excos. None of the two factions swore in their executives at the state party secretariat. Our correspondent reports that two sitting senators, Tolu Odebiyi (Ogun West) and Lekan Mustapha (Ogun East), were present at the inauguration ceremony held by the Amosun group. Nigerians High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Ishola; House of Representatives member, Kola Lawal; Ogun APC former Chairman, Derin Adebiyi and others APC leaders were also sighted at the inauguration of the Amosun group. Investigations showed that none of the factions have made the list of the elected officers ratified by the APC national body Public. But, former APC Chairman, Mr Adebiyi said, We have submitted our results and they have approved it. We are the authentic (sic). Also, Mr Lawal told hundreds of Mr Amosuns loyalists at the gathering not to be misled. We are the ones in Abuja. We know what is happening over there. Dont allow anybody to mislead you, Mr Lawal said. No two congresses in the state When asked if he was worried about the latest development in Ogun APC, the publicity secretary of the APC caretaker committee in the state, Tunde Oladunjoye, stressed that there were no two congresses held in the state. He added that no other executive emerged asides the one conducted by the national committee saddled with the same duty. It is only left for journalists to investigate and for me to correct the impression that there was a parallel congress because as far as we are concerned, there is no parallel executives, he said. Congresses are done by the National headquarters, it has not been recorded anywhere that the state or anyone conducts a congress and the one done in Ogun is no exception and and the committee sent from Abuja did not split when they got to Ogun state, neither did the national headquarters sent two committees to Ogun state. He also noted that the national headquarters committee in charge of the exercise has ratified a single list. ADVERTISEMENT The Chairman of the committee sent was saying it that he has the compendium of the names of the executive members and anything cut short of that is null and void. Many of them in the said faction have left the party for APM and they are yet to return to the party fully, some of them have returned at the ward level but many of them in the faction are yet to return. Meanwhile, the other inauguration was not done at the party secretariat but was done at Senator Ibikunle Amosuns senatorial office, when did that become the party secretariat? The former Chairman of the party in the state, Derin Adebiyi and the publicity secretary, Wole Elegbede, who were seen at the Amosuns group inauguration event, could not be reached for comments. Phone calls and text messages sent to them were not responded to. Plattsburgh, NY (12901) Today Thunderstorms in the morning followed by occasional showers in the afternoon. High 72F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against RenovaCare, Inc. ("RenovaCare" or the "Company") (OTCMKTS: RCAR) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, and docketed under 21-cv-13930, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired RenovaCare securities between August 14, 2017 and May 28, 2021, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Plaintiff pursues claims against the Defendants under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act"). If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired RenovaCare securities during the Class Period, you have until September 14, 2021 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here for information about joining the class action] RenovaCare is a development stage company that has not generated any revenue since its inception and has no commercialized products. Its activities primarily consist of research and development, business development, and capital raises. It owns the CellMist System, which consists of a treatment method for cell isolation for the regeneration of human skin cells and other tissues (the CellMist Solution) and a solution sprayer device to deliver cells to the treatment area (the SkinGun). The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) at the direction of the Company's controlling shareholder and Chairman, Harmel Rayat ("Rayat"), RenovaCare engaged in a promotional campaign to issue misleading statements to artificially inflate the Company's stock price; (ii) when OTC Markets Group, Inc. ("OTC Markets") inquired, RenovaCare and Rayat issued a materially false and misleading press release claiming that no director, officer, or controlling shareholder had any involvement in the purported third party's promotional materials; (iii) as a result of the foregoing, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were defective; and (iv) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. On May 28, 2021, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") issued a litigation release stating that RenovaCare was being charged with alleged securities fraud. According to the SEC's complaint, between July 2017 and January 2018, Rayat "arranged, and caused RenovaCare to pay for, a promotional campaign designed to increase the company's stock price." Specifically, "Rayat was closely involved in directing the promotion and editing promotional materials, and arranged to funnel payments to the publisher through consultants to conceal RenovaCare's involvement in the campaign." When OTC Markets requested that RenovaCare explain its relationship to the promotion, the complaint alleges that "Rayat and RenovaCare then drafted and issued a press release and a Form 8-K that contained material misrepresentations and omissions denying Rayat's and the company's involvement in the promotion." On this news, the Company's stock price fell $0.66, or 24.8%, over three consecutive trading sessions to close at $2.00 per share on June 2, 2021. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 888-476-6529 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP Related Links www.pomerantzlaw.com NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Annovis Bio, Inc. ("Annovis" or the "Company") (NYSE: ANVS). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Annovis and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On July 28, 2021, Annovis attended the 2021 Alzheimer's Association International Conference and presented new clinical trial data for its lead drug candidate, ANVS401 (Posiphen), that failed to show statistical significance in treating Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients relative to a placebo. On this news, Annovis's stock price fell $65.94 per share, or over 60%, to close at $43.50 per share on July 29, 2021. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP [email protected] SOURCE Pomerantz LLP Related Links www.pomerantzlaw.com NEW YORK, Sept. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Yalla Group Limited ("Yalla" or the "Company") (NYSE: YALA). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Yalla and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On May 19, 2021, Swan Street Research ("Swan Street") published a report addressing Yalla, entitled "Is Yalla Group a Multi $B Fraud? The 'Clubhouse of the Middle East' UAE Tech Unicorn that Never Was". The Swan Street report alleges, among other things, that the Company inflates its metrics, including revenue, and characteries Yalla's financial statements as "not credible". On this news, Yalla's American depositary share ("ADS") price fell $1.31 per ADS, or 7.15%, to close at $17.01 per ADS on May 19, 2021. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. CONTACT: Robert S. Willoughby Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 888-476-6529 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP Related Links www.pomerantzlaw.com London, Sep 5 : Another 37,578 people in Britain have tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 6,941,611, according to official figures released on Saturday. The country also reported another 120 coronavirus-related deaths, taking the national death toll to 133,161. These figures only include the deaths of people who died within 28 days of their first positive test, Xinhua news agency reported. The latest data came as Britain's vaccine advisory body announced that coronavirus vaccines for healthy children aged between 12 and 15 should not be recommended. The Joint Committee on Vaccine and Immunisation (JCVI) provided the assessment, saying the vaccine jabs should not be recommended to those in this age group on health grounds alone, but the body has advised the government to look at "wider issues" including the impact of the virus on schooling. The decision on healthy children was based on concerns over an extremely rare side effect of the Pfizer vaccine which causes heart inflammation, according to the BBC. A final decision, signed off by the chief medical officers of Britain's all four nations, is expected next week, according to the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). "COVID-19 cases are likely to increase once schools reopen -- in the absence of any COVID-19 restrictions, as children are still unvaccinated and schools are high density, high contact environments, with relatively poor ventilation and long contact duration episodes," said Julian Tang, honorary associate professor at University of Leicester. "Risks can be reduced by ideally, in principle, extending the COVID-19 vaccination program to younger children, improving school ventilation, masking the older children and teachers, reducing overall class sizes, staggering break periods, but this may have various practical complications that may be unacceptable to some parents and teachers," said the clinical virologist. More than 88 per cent of people aged 16 and over in Britain have had their first vaccine dose and nearly 80 percent have received both, the latest figures showed. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Manali, Sep 5 : Senior journalist Aditya Kants crime thriller novel 'High on Kasol, which uncovers the controversial subject of the mysterious disappearance of foreigners and the changing trends of drug trafficking and consumption in Himachal Pradeshs picturesque Kullu Valley, has created a buzz in Bollywood. Several celebrities, including leading actress Kangana Ranaut, have expressed curiosity and praised the content of Kant's debut novel, which has figured amongst the top new hot releases amongst the Indian writers at Amazon. In her message to the author, which went viral on social media, 'Dhaakad' girl Kangana Ranaut mentioned that the idea of the mystery in the backdrop of Kasol was not only unique but also looked exciting. The whodunnit mystery, which is written in the backdrop of Kasol -- a small town on the Parvati river that has gained notoriety with 'easy availability of drugs and rave parties' and is dubbed as a Mini Israel -- has already figured amongst the top hot releases in the Indian writing category at Amazon, soon after it went live for sale last month. Admiring the author and his work, the leading actress of critically acclaimed movie 'Lunchbox' and Akshay Kumar starrer 'Airlift', Nimrat Kaur too acknowledged that 'High on Kasol' had great potential. The unputdownable suspense thriller has also generated curiosity among the leading actors from TV and OTT platforms. Famous TV and Bollywood actor Namit Das of 'Sumit Sambhal Lega' fame said, "I found the book very interesting as it deals with the conflicts which locals face with the outsiders and most importantly the drug problem the youth is facing in that area ( Kullu Valley)." 'High on Kasol' is a murder mystery in which the story unfolds with the mysterious disappearance of an Israeli woman, who gets entrapped in a web of the drug syndicate in the valley. The crime thriller also delves into various reasons which could have led to the disappearance of foreigners from the valley. More than 20 foreigners have gone missing from the valley in the last as many years. Actor Sumit Vyas, who was hooked to the racy plot of the novel, said, "The novel looks very exciting and unique and makes a fantastic read." Vyas, who has carved a niche for himself through supporting roles in 'Veere Di Wedding' and 'English Vinglish' predicted that the book would do well as it would draw a huge readership. About the novel's catchy title, 'High on Kasol', Chandigarh-based journalist Aditya Kant explains to IANS, "It is a play on the traditional agriculture of psychedelic plants in the far-flung areas of small hamlets in the Himalayas, and the cruel aberrations in its trade." "It takes you to the Magic Valley and the cannabis fields which have been famous for world class Magic cream or Malana cream." Popular TV actress Aalisha Panwar, who shot to fame with the crime thriller, 'Ishq Mein Marjawan', on COLOR TV and found herself hooked to the novel, said, "It's an amazing story as far I have read it. The murder mystery in the backdrop of hills and the issue of drugs makes it an interesting read." The unique plot and its backdrop have caught the attention of some Bollywood producers as well. Karuna Badwal, Producer, Red Chillies and Business Manager to Shah Rukh Khan, who was amongst the first few to have gone through the suspense thriller, while giving kudos to the debutant author in her tweet, said the book was a must-read for the lovers of a crime thriller. The co-producer of super hits like 'Chennai Express' and 'Happy New Year' opined that the racy plot of 'High on Kasol' with a vivid description of cannabis fields in the mysterious Magic valley had all the ingredients one looks for adaptation into a motion picture or a web series. 'High on Kasol' has earlier drawn accolades from dignitaries as well, when it was unveiled more than a month ago. The Governors of Punjab, Gujarat, and Himachal Pradesh, who released the novel in their respective states last month, have praised the author for the book which they acknowledged has a strong social message. Former state Director General of Police I.D. Bhandari, who carried out extensive operations in and around the Magic Valley in 2012, told IANS the prime reason for the disappearance of foreigners has always been their tendency to venture out on unexplored and dangerous treks, which are surrounded with tough terrain and wildlife. "It becomes more dangerous for those who are venturing out under the influence of drugs," he said. According to Bhandari, the illegal trade in which synthetic drugs are now being supplied and consumed by the youth has become a cause of concern. "These new drugs are easy to carry and easy to hide. The nexus between the foreigners and locals has protection from some influential people, a cause of worry. In fact, there is a need for a holistic approach and a well thought out sustainable campaign to curb the menace in the valley," said Bhandari. According to police, over 60 per cent of the poppy and cannabis produced in Himachal Pradesh is smuggled to countries such as Israel, Italy, Holland and other European countries. The rest finds its way to Nepal or Indian states like Goa, Punjab and Delhi. They say cannabis and poppy (opium) plants are grown illegally on vast tracts of land in Kullu, Mandi, Shimla and Chamba districts. Records show that 50,000 acres in Kullu Valley alone is under cannabis cultivation. The Kullu and Parvati valleys are heavily populated by foreign tourists, largely Israelis, not all of them fascinated by the serenity of the mountains. Some never return, they either disappear or marry local women or are later found to be involved in drug trafficking in connivance with local and international drug smugglers. Some foreigners died of drug overdose, while others lost their lives while trekking and their deaths often go unreported, admitted a senior police official. Nestled in the peaks of the Himalayas, the mysterious village of Malana -- accessible by four hours of trekking from the motorable village of Jari that lies at the bottom of the Parvati valley -- has long been notorious for cultivating the famed Malana cream hashish, a purified resinous extract of cannabis. (Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in) Chennai, Sep 5 : When N. Rangasamy was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Puducherry on May 7, 2021, eyebrows were raised as to whether the Government will be able to survive. The main reason for such a question was the alliance the All India NR Congress (AINRC) had with the BJP, the first major foray of the saffron party in the Union Territory of Puducherry. In the 30-member assembly the AINRC won 10 seats, the BJP 6, the DMK 6, and the Congress 2. Interestingly 6 seats were won by independent candidates. The BJP which drew in a few senior leaders from the Congress including A. Namasivayam who was a senior minister in the then V. Narayanaswami government of the Congress, had a spectacular run winning 6 seats while the party had drawn a blank in the 2016 elections. The statement of Union home minister Amit Shah that the BJP would form the government in Puducherry during the run-up to the elections had not gone down well with N. Rangasamy as well as his party colleagues and cadres. However, later the BJP said that the Union minister was referring to the formation of a NDA government in Puducherry. After the results were out the BJP demanded the post of Deputy Chief Minister and this led to Rangasamy being sworn in alone. A couple of days after the swearing-in, the Chief Minister was infected with Covid-19. While he was convalescing in a private medical institution in Chennai, the BJP nominated three of its leaders as MLAs thus taking the strength of the BJP in the assembly to 9. In Puducherry, according to the Constitution, the nominated legislators can participate in voting. This move of the BJP was seen by political analysts and the opposition as a bid to snatch power and the chief ministership from Rangasamy. Senior DMK leader and Tamil Nadu water resources minister, S. Duraimurugan called the move by the BJP to nominate legislators while the Chief Minister was hospitalised as unbecoming of political morality. VCK leader Thol Thirumavalan went to the extent of stating that the BJP was bent on capturing power in Puducherry on its own. Incidentally, one independent MLA also extended support to the BJP taking its strength to 10. However wisdom dawned on the BJP and it went back from the demand for Deputy Chief Ministership as Rangasamy, who is a seasoned politician, sent feelers to the DMK and the Congress for a political alliance. Three independents also extended support to Rangasamy and the AINRC taking the strength of the party to 13. The DMK with 6 and the Congress with 2 would have given an easy upper hand to the AINRC and this led the BJP to surrender in front of Rangasamy. While initially, the relationship between the AINRC and the BJP was tense, soon issues were sorted out and Rangasamy inducted BJP leaders into the cabinet thus leading to a full government. The Puducherry budget, which was presented on August 26 by the Chief Minister who is also the Finance Minister, is a mix of social welfare schemes and industrial and tourism growth. The Central government has promised huge assistance to the state and political analysts are of the opinion that the Centre and specifically Prime Minister Narendra Modi have assured Chief Minister N. Rangasamy that there would not be any constraint on financial support for the territory. Rangasamy is meeting the Prime Minister in the second week of September in New Delhi and sources say that central assistance of Rs 500 crore will be announced after the meeting. R. Muthukoya, Director, Mahe Study Group, a social and political think tank based out of Mahe, told IANS, "N. Rangasamy is firmly in the saddle and the BJP cannot think of any political moves in Puducherry without his support. However, it seems that they have ironed out the differences and if central assistance to the tune of Rs 500 crore as expected by the Chief Minister is coming to Puducherry, then there would be unprecedented development in both tourism and other industries in the territory and this will lead to the BJP cementing its place in the Union Territory where it was a non-entity." Hyderabad, Sep 5 : With both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana sticking to their stand over sharing of river waters, no end appears in sight to the water war between the two Telugu states. The walkout of Telangana from the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) meeting on September 1 indicates that both states are not ready to yield and the dispute may get further complicated in the coming days. Though Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat exuded confidence last month that the tension between the Telugu states will ease, the outcome of the KRMB meeting suggests that the row may hot up further. Telangana staged the walkout after KRMB refused to concede its plea to be allowed to generate power at Srisailam hydel station. Heated arguments between the officials of the two states were seen at the board meeting presided over by M.P. Singh. Defending the power generation, Telangana's Special Chief Secretary of Irrigation Rajat Kumar argued that this is being done only to evacuate water from the reservoir to meet the state's irrigation and drinking water requirements from Nagarjuna Sagar downstream. The water was anyway getting stored at Nagarjuna Sagar and also meeting the needs of the Krishna delta system. The officials also told KRMB that there was no other way for Telangana to meet its large requirement of power for its lift irrigation schemes. He pointed out that Telangana was largely dependent on its lift irrigation because geographically it was on a higher plateau and the rivers flowed at a lower level. Andhra Pradesh, on the other hand, wanted KRMB to take steps to implement its orders directing Telangana to stop power generation. KRMB told Telangana that power generation at Srisailam would be allowed only after meeting the water requirements for irrigation and drinking water purposes in the Krishna basin. Its chairman mooted a separate meeting to discuss the power generation issue but the Telangana delegation opposed the idea. Rajat Kumar recalled that the Srisailam project was originally conceived to generate hydel power by the Planning Commission and that 180 tmcft water should be released to Nagarjuna Sagar dam. After staying away from a couple of meetings of the KRMB, Telangana attended the 14th meeting to put forth strong arguments. Its officials alleged that Andhra Pradesh was raising the issue of power generation to divert attention from the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme (LRIS) and other projects being built by it illegally. Telangana also raised the demand for allocation of Krishna water between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the ratio of 50:50 per cent. The board, however, decided to retain water sharing in the river between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in the ratio of 66:34 for the current year like the last six years since bifurcation of undivided Andhra Pradesh. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana shared 811 tmc ft in the ratio of 512:299 tmc ft. Claiming that the agreement to share water in this ratio was temporarily fixed for 2015-16, Telangana wanted the ratio revised to 50:50 till an award was delivered by the Krishna Water Disputes Tribunal-II. It argued that the state's requirement in Krishna increased considerably after the completion of Kalwakurthi, Nettempadu and Bheema lift-irrigation projects. Andhra Pradesh also wanted the ratio to be revised to 70:30 per cent but the board ruled out any revision. Telangana also demanded that the unutilised share of the state in its water allocation for a year be carried forward to the next year. The state did not use 45 tmc ft water in 2020-21 and 50 tmc ft in 2019-20. However, KRMB rejected this demand. Telangana was further irked by the board not accepting its demand that the surplus water over and above 811 tmc ft be accounted for. It alleged that Andhra Pradesh was diverting surplus water during flooding from the Pothireddypadu head regulator and Handri Neeva projects. The water disputes between the two states have their roots in the pre-Telangana era. Leaders of Telangana region in united Andhra Pradesh had always complained about the injustice meted out to the region in allocation of rivers waters and construction of irrigation projects by successive governments. In fact injustice in allocation of water resources, funds and jobs was the slogan on which the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) fought for separate statehood to the region. After Telangana gained statehood in 2014, the disputes over sharing of water intensified as upper riparian state Andhra Pradesh was accused of drawing more water by taking up illegal projects. The July 16 notification by the Jal Shakti Ministry added a new dimension to the ongoing row. As per the notification, from October 14, the management and control of irrigation projects on the Krishna and Godavari rivers will vest with the respective river management boards and not the state. A total of 36 projects in the Krishna basin and 71 projects in the Godavari basin will come under the purview of KRMB and Godavari River Management Board (GRMB) respectively. Telangana has objected to the notification saying the states should have been consulted before issuing the same. Andhra Pradesh has welcomed the notification but with certain riders. Meanwhile, Telangana's TRS government has come under flak from opposition parties for what they call its failure to protect the state's interests. They alleged that the TRS government did not present a strong case in favour of Telangana at the KRMB meeting. The Congress party has demanded immediate steps to stop Andhra Pradesh from diverting Krishna water outside the basin. They slammed Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao for not taking up the issue during his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rao, who was in Delhi to lay the foundation stone for an office of TRS, called on Modi and some central ministers but he did not raise the river water dispute. "CM KCR's visit to Delhi was for his personal benefit and he did not bother about the state's interests," said former minister Nagam Janardhan Reddy. Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president A. Revanth Reddy alleged that KCR ignored the water issue and deliberately stayed away from KRMB meetings. He wanted to know when 299 tmc ft allotment for Telangana was for only one year, why the KCR continue the same usage for the next five years without even demanding a revised allotment. He also alleged that Andhra Pradesh's government order for lifting of 3 tmc ft of water every day for the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation project has the full backing of KCR. "After the announcement of the project in the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, both KCR and Jagan Mohan Reddy had lunch together at Pragathi Bhavan (official residence of the Telangana chief minister)," he said. BJP state president Bandi Sanjay Kumar too targeted KCR saying he stayed away from the KRMB meeting to cover up his failures. He alleged that Telangana's interests have been mortgaged in getting the Krishna water share. New Delhi, Sep 5 : The faceless scheme was expected to give a facelift to the tax administration in the country providing taxpayers the convenience of filing returns online with least physical interface. As it turns out now that the automation drive of the Income Tax (I-T) Department has gone completely awry with taxpayers thrown at the mercy of officials once again to be on the right side of compliance. Ever since its June 7 launch, the revamped I-T portal developed by Infosys has which was suppose as to usher taxpayers into a new era of tax administration, has become a system generating heartburns with problems at it each step be it faced in generating passwords, linking data for past returns, and filing of returns. The problems which started with minor glitches on the portal on day one, has gradually aggravated with each passing day so much so that the finance ministry had to summon Infosys MD & CEO Salil Parekh late last month. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held two meetings with Parekh in two months to understand the reasons for continuing glitches on the tax and had now given the developer a deadline of September 15 to resolve these. The launch of the new portal has brought home the truth about how the I-T Department has made taxpayers dependent on technology in fulfilling their income tax obligations. The previous running website was made non-functional from June 1, with a new era starting from June 7. But in the two weeks into its launch, logging remained a challenge, and even if one surmounted that, none of the functions worked. The case after two and half months of the launch is no better, as documents are still not getting uploaded, there is complete failure to link old data for past returns, and problems in filing returns continues. The problems have now expanded to include errors in interest calculation, incorrect capturing of details from Form 16, and inability to add details for tax exemption for trusts. Taxpayers are also facing problems on not getting acceptance for their ITR-1 days after submission, inability to e-verify the ITR after filing, Form 26AS details not getting automatically populated, and the portal not having a secure connection and taking time to load properly. In some cases, individual taxpayers are also being asked to pay penalty for delayed submission of ITR even though the government had earlier extended the deadline for all categories of taxpayers with individuals now requiring to file their ITR only by September-end. "I tried again and again to pay my calculated income tax for 2020-21 but the online system did not accept the payment. Besides, I was shown a late fee which was varied depending on the total tax calculation with minimum starting amount of Rs 1,000/- which was also wrong. Now I am waiting for the revamped website to go online to file my taxes before September 30," Arpit Dutt (name changed), 30, a self-employed professional in the textile industry told IANS. The problem is not only for novices and individual taxpayers, even experts are scratching their heads to see firms go through and tabulating returns with past data. According to noted tax expert Ved Jain, tax portals are not social media platforms where you just communicate your views, here it is a statuary platform that is essential for compliance of tax regulations by the taxpayers otherwise there are issues of penalty, interest payments etc. "The glitches have not only impacted taxpayers but also created for tax professionals as a complete stop on filing of tax returns has piled up case files in their offices and they are seen in a confused state on how to deal with compliance matters when systems are not functioning." Jain has a simple solution to the current problem. "Why can't we switch back to the old portal till the time a new one is rectified for all its issues and is ready to offer seamless service to taxpayers from day one? But the issue I suppose is, have we kept the old portal intact before getting a new one live," he said. What had baffled many in the current mess is the selection of Infosys once again to be the vendor for software offering services to millions of Indian taxpayers. The same agency has developed the GSTN software that was also full of glitches in the earlier run and with several days when the system completely crashed. Even now GSTN, the software running the indirect tax administration in the country is generating false information with regards e-way bills creating problems on inter state movement of goods and services. "The problem I see is in the process how government contracts are awarded to the cheapest bidder or the one who gives the lowest quotes. Low margins in government contacts means that an implementing energy may cut corners to develop a software that is needed to support over five million taxpayers. I am fearful, that the system, which is working as of now, may crash soon on the sheer load of its users," said Sumit Agarwal, a chartered accountant who runs his own firm in Delhi. "Don't shoot the messenger. There is something seriously wrong in our processes. Another thought: while Infosys might be good in business processes, it might not be in such government legal frameworked processes. So this is an opportunity to hone skills," said a taxpayer who has been regularly checking the status of his tax returns with a chartered accountant. The government in early 2019 selected Infosys Ltd. to develop the next-generation income tax filing system for Rs 4,241.97 crore which would cut down the processing time for returns from 63 days to one day and expedite refunds. The cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, then gave its approval for the Integrated E-filing and Centralised Processing Centre 2.0 Project of the I-T Department. Though the ambitious project is still taking shape, like several big initiatives, it seems even the this initiative is in for initial pains for maximum gains in future. All eyes are now on September 15 by when the developer is rod system of all its snags. But not all are buying the deadline. According to Agarwal, the problems could persist for long and it would not be easy for the developer to rid the system of glitches in the complex process at this stage with such a short span. In the meanwhile, the suggestion is to move back tax administration a decade back to the era of paper forms and manual interactions between taxpayers, professionals and officials. Lucknow, Sep 5 : A year after the Bikru massacre in which eight police personnel were allegedly shot dead by gangster Vikas Dubey and his men in July 2020, the incident is now turning into fodder for Brahmin politics in Uttar Pradesh. According to sources, some political parties are reaching out to Richa Dubey, wife of slain Vikas Dubey, to contest the upcoming assembly elections. A member of the Dubey family who spoke on condition of anonymity, admitted that leaders from at least two parties had approached Richa with the offer. "The leaders said that this was the only way in which she could avenge the suffering of the family and ensure a safe future for her two children. These parties have assured her that their workers will take care of her campaign," the family member said. He said that Richa had still not made up her mind about entering politics. "The family is being pushed to the wall and this seems to be the only option," he added. Incidentally, Richa had contested the zila panchayat elections as a Samajwadi Party candidate in 2015. However, after the Bikru massacre, the Samajwadi Party denied that Richa was their member. Richa had told reporters two months ago that her family was being harassed continuously and now they do not wish to live any longer. "We request the chief minister to grant us permission for euthanasia. No one is paying heed to our grievances. We are running short of money and now I am even unable to deposit my children's school fees. I have to run my house by selling jewellery," she had said. Richa added that not only this, the death certificate of her husband Vikas Dubey, who was killed in a police encounter, has not been given to her even after a year. BSP MP Satish Chandra Mishra has repeatedly stated in his 'Prabuddha Varg Sammelans' (read Brahmin Sammelans) that 'innocent Brahmins' were targeted in the Bikru case. Though Mishra did not comment on Vikas Dubey, he used the example of Bikru minor widow Khushi Dubey to underline his message. He said that the BSP would provide legal aid to Khushi who has been languishing in jail since the past one year. Khushi was 16 when she married another Bikru accused Amar Dubey. Three days after her marriage, the Bikru massacre took place and Amar Dubey was killed in a police encounter thereafter. Khushi was also booked for conspiracy and is behind the bars since then. The Aam Aadmi Party was the first political party to fight for Khushi. AAP MP Sanjay Singh said that the treatment meted out to Khushi was unjustified. "The police have not listed the charges against her but she is being denied bail even though she had been married to Amar Dubey just three days before the incident," he said. Though other opposition parties are cautious while talking about the incident, most leaders, albeit on condition of anonymity, claim that the six accused in the incident were shot dead in 'cold blood' because they were Brahmins. "The police had the same script for all six encounters. We do not support the accused but they should have been arrested and tried in court instead of being shot dead in cold blood. There are several non-Brahmin mafias who are roaming free and no action is being taken against them," said a Congress leader. London, Sep 5 : Hollywood star Tom Cruise had a rare copy of the film 'Top Gun: Maverick' in the car, which got stolen last month in Birmingham while he was shooting for 'Mission: Impossible'. Both the car and the script copy were later found. "That film's been blighted by challenges but everyone involved is excited by how it's come together. Finally the end's in sight," a source told The Sun, reports metro.co.uk. The source added: "So, after all the hard work, the thought of it being leaked after Covid delays forced the release back to next year is devastating. The only copies outside the studio vaults have now been assigned their own security when they are transported. There's too much riding on this not to do so." Cruise reportedly had thousands of pounds of luggage in his bodyguard's car when it was taken from outside a hotel in the city. Video footage obtained by the Sun showed the vehicle being dumped in Smethwick, at 9.13 a.m, behind a row of takeaways. Cruise's films 'Top Gun: Maverick' and Mission: Impossible' are both delayed again this week amid the Covid-19 crisis. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the films will now premiere just months after each other. 'Top Gun: Maverick' will now release on May 27, 2022, and 'Mission: Impossible' will hit the big screen on September 30, 2022. New York, Sep 5 : Four people of Indian origin and a Nepali family of three have died in New York from the flooding caused by Hurricane Ida that battered the US. Phamatee Ramskriet, 43, and her son Krishah, 22, drowned when their basement flat flooded in New York City on September 1. Mingma Sherpa, 48, and Ang Gelu Lama, 52, and their infant son Lobsang Lama, 2, also drowned when the waters from the record-setting downpour in the city inundated their basement flat. President Joe Biden is scheduled to visit the New York City county where they died and the New Jersey areas affected by the floods on Tuesday. In neighbouring New Jersey, Malathi Kanche, 46, drowned after she was swept away when her car stalled on a flooded road. Also in New Jersey, Danush Reddy, 31, was sucked into a 36-inch sewer pipe by the floods. Even though Hurrican Ida was most devasting in Louisiana state and its neighbours in the south where entire localities were totally destroyed, its deadliest human toll was in the New York region where at least 42 people were killed -- 25 in New Jersey, 16 in New York City and one in Connecticut. Of the total rainfall that day of 20.5 cm, more than 7.5 cm fell within an hour and New York Governor Kathy Hochul likened it to "Niagara Falls-level" of water falling on the city. The city's infrastructure was overwhelmed by the intensity of the rain. Leaders blamed the torrential rain on global warming. "Global warming is upon us and it's going to get worse, and worse, and worse, unless we do something about it," Chuck Schumer, the leader of the Democratic Party in the Senate said. "When you get all the changes we've seen in weather, that's not a coincidence," he added. Biden has declared a state of emergency for the two states to enable them to get federal aid rapidly. New York Post reported that as floodwaters crashed through the basement flat of the Ramskriets, their landlord Ragendra Shivprasad tried to warn them of the impending danger and asked them to get out. "As I see the water raising I go back, I tell them, 'You guys gotta be careful, you guys gotta move'," Shivprasad told the Post but the waters had already engulfed the flat and Phamatee and Krishah drowned. Phamatee's husband Dameshwar and another son Dylan survived. Deborah Torres, a neighbour of the Lama family, told the Post that the waters rose so fast that it reached her knees on the second floor before they had a chance of getting out. Police divers found the bodies the next morning, the newspaper said. Raritan Mayor Zachary Bray announced the death of Kanche on Facebook, writing: "It is with a heavy heart that I have to report the loss of one of our own citizens due to Hurricane Ida." Patch, an online news outlet reported that according to a relative her car stalled in the floodwaters in Bridgewater and she was swept away while her 15-year-old daughter was able to swim to a car dealership and was rescued. The body of Malathi Kanche, a software engineer, was found about 8 km away in Boundbrook, according to TapInto another local news site. South Plainfield Mayor Matthew Anesh, who announced the death of Reddy said that police heard a woman's cry for help about a man being swept away by floods. He said that the police who responded found that two men were missing and were able to rescue one of them. But Reddy, who was sucked into the sewer pipe, could not be located then but the next morning, his body was found swept up to a wooded area in neighbouring Piscataway, about 8 km away, Anesh said. "We are heartbroken by this tragic loss of life and pray for Mr. Reddy and his family," he said. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter at @arulouis) Chandigarh, Sep 5 : The life of a 98-year-old woman educationist and administrator is an unlikely role model in a time of young Instagramers and Ticktock stars. As Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said in his message, "A Patiala girl who was educated in Patiala and Lahore, Inderjit Kaur was Vice-Chancellor, Punjabi University, Patiala, from 1975 to 1977. "We are proud that she was the first woman to hold this position in northern India. In 1980, she took over as the Chairperson of the Staff Selection Commission, New Delhi. "She handled both positions of responsibility with great elan, and various achievements marked her tenure." Inderjit Kaur Sandhu received her MA in Philosophy from Government College in Lahore in 1946. She was teaching at the Government College, Patiala, when Partition came, and she played a stellar role in the resettlement of displaced women after Partition. She also ensured that women who found themselves on the wrong side of the border were escorted to Pakistan and reunited with their families. More is documented in "An Inspiring Journey" by Roopinder Singh, an author and Chandigarh-based senior journalist. "I wrote the biography of Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh DFC, and at the launch, I said that I wanted to document the lives of Indian icons so that they were the role models for our younger generations," Roopinder Singh told IANS on Sunday. He has published other books, but writing a book on his mother proved to be a difficult task. "How do you encapsulate the life of someone who is so multi-dimensional? I decided to seek various opinions from people who had interacted with her over the years. Since I wanted to get their authentic voices, I invited the authors to write in either English or Punjabi. As we look at the two sections in the book, we notice that there is a tonal difference -- starting with the manner of addressing the subject to the subject matter and perspectives of the authors." The 200-page book has English and Punjabi sections, with many pictures in between the two. "This too was a conscious decision," Roopinder Singh says, since "pictures paint portraits of the period" and thus help "us identify with it". Also, these are important occasions and people, so the visual impact has to be considered. Gursharan Kaur, the wife of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, wrote the foreword of this book. In that, she says: "I can still clearly remember Inderjit-ji. She taught us philosophy. She had a very pleasant personality, and a soothing, gentle voice, very patient with those slow to understand. Her devotion to learning led her on a long and fruitful academic journey, as her many works and achievements show." Archival materials written by publisher Ashok Chopra and the late humourist Suba Singh provide a snapshot of the times. Personal accounts of younger persons -- authors Ranjit Powar and Aradhika Sharma, journalist Madhusudan Srinivas, administrator Radhey Pratap Singh and Deputy Advocate General Daldeep Singh, and Inderjit Kaur's grandchildren provide different kinds of perspectives. The Punjabi section has articles by author Dalip Kaur Tiwana; historian Kirpal Singh; university administrator Tirath Singh; literary critic Kuldip Singh Dhir; and journalist Narinder Singh Sathi. Educationist Harcharan Kaur, former MP Tarlochan Singh, university administrator Dalip Singh Uppal and linguist Bhupinder Singh Khaira bring out the different aspects of the life of Inderjit Kaur in the book. Also included in this section are archival articles by Rajinder Kaur and Balwinder Kaur. Writing the book is one thing. Publishing it in the times of Covid is quite another, says Roopinder Singh. "We decided to go for the hybrid model -- an online launch from home for a print and flipbook edition. The latter is a screen-friendly format, hosted online, allowing easy access from phones, tablets or computers. The flipbook allowed us to reach worldwide, and over 150 readers accessed it on the first two days of release." Everything evolves. Why not a book on a 98-year-old achiever. (Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in) Ankara, Sep 5 : Turkey will tighten controls on non-documented refugees in big cities to ease the rising anti-immigrant sentiment among Turkish people, a local newspaper said in a report. Turkish authorities plan to identify migrants living in cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir but are registered elsewhere in the country and send them back to their places of registration, Xinhua news agency quoted the Milliyet daily report as saying on Saturday. According to the report, those who do not have a residence permit will be transferred to the refugee camps in the border zone in the southeastern part of the country. Additionally, sanctions will reportedly be applied to workplaces owned by asylum seekers without work permits or necessary tax documents. Turkey is home to over 4 million refugees, including 3.6 million Syrians, according to official figures. In 2016, officials barred Syrian refugees who had been in the country under temporary protection status from leaving their designated places without a permit. But despite the regulation, refugees have been continuously flocking to Turkey's biggest cities, hoping to find more significant job opportunities and better living conditions. Meanwhile, negative feelings towards immigrants, mostly triggered by a new influx of refugees from Afghanistan, have been on the rise among the Turkish. Experts warned that the issue should not turn into violence against immigrants and mass anti-refugee demonstrations in the country. Tehran, Sep 5 : The spokesman for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the recent US sanctions on four Iranian citizens for what he called "fictitious" charges. On September 3, the US Treasury Department announced it would sanction four Iranian citizens for an alleged failed plot aimed at kidnapping a US-Iranian New York-based journalist, Xinhua news agency. "Unfortunately, incumbent US officials are following the failed policy of the previous administration," Saeed Khatibzadeh, the Foreign Ministry spokesman, said on Saturday. Khatibzadeh described the US narrative of the so-called plot as a "Hollywood scenario", saying that the supporters of sanctions in Washington thrive on the sanctions atmosphere they have created. "Washington had better know that it has no choice but to abandon its sanctioning addiction and to use language of respect vis-a-vis Tehran," he said. The four sanctioned Iranian citizens are senior intelligence official Alireza Shahvaroghi Farahani and intelligence operatives Mahmoud Khazein, Kiya Sadeghi and Omid Noori. According to the Treasury Department, the four are tasked with targeting Iranian dissidents in the US, the UK, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates. Rome, Sep 5 : The European Union (EU) has recommended that member states reinstate restrictions for travellers arriving from the US, but some analysts don't expect the change to have a significant impact on the bloc's recovering tourism sector. Some member states, such as Italy and Bulgaria have followed the EU instructions, reports Xinhua news agency. Even before the recommendation, Germany had tightened restrictions, blocking the arrival of unvaccinated travellers who had recently spent time in the US from entering unless they could prove an "important reason" for entering the country. But in most of the rest of the bloc, travellers from the US can arrive as they did before the guidelines were announced, though any individual state can choose to adjust its entry rules unilaterally. At least one country, Portugal, even announced it had no plans to place restrictions on travellers from the US. The EU placed the US on its "safe list" in June, though Washington did not offer the same status to travellers from the bloc arriving in America. The latest changes come as European economies were experiencing strong economic growth in the wake of 2020 when widespread lockdowns caused economic growth in Europe to slow dramatically. Tourism plays a big part in the European economic recovery plans, especially in countries like Italy, where it accounted for 13 per cent of the country's gross domestic product before the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic early last year. But according to Gianfranco Lorenzo, head of research at the Center for Touristic Studies in Florence, the new restrictions on travellers from the US were unlikely to have an impact on the tourism sector recovery. "Before the pandemic, Italy saw six million travellers a year from the US, but last year it was only 400,000, a reduction of 92 per cent," Lorenzo told Xinhua. "That is not to say that travelers from the US aren't important," he said. "Recovery of the tourism sector has been happening largely without visitors from the US even if their numbers are reduced, the impacts will be minimal, and the restrictions are not permanent." The travel restrictions were put in place after a significant spike in the coronavirus infection rate in the US in recent weeks. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) New Delhi, Sep 5 : The Delhi University (DU) will soon get a new Vice-Chancellor as the process for the selection has been completed. The names of more than a dozen candidates have been discussed. Among them the most prominent names include Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Vice-Chancellor (VC), M. Jagdish Kumar, Delhi Technological University VC Yogesh Singh, A.D.N. Bajpai and Sangeeta Mishra, etc. Apart from the DU, Vice-Chancellors of JNU, Banaras Hindu University, Central University in Assam and Rajasthan, and both central Sanskrit universities, including the VCs of about a dozen universities, are to be appointed. The Union Education Ministry has completed the selection process for the VC appointments in many universities across the country. The names of the new VCs will be announced after the President's assent to the proposal of the Union Education Ministry. Earlier, in July, on the recommendation of the Union Education Ministry, the VCs of 12 different central universities were appointed. The 12 central universities for which the President Ram Nath Kovind had approved the appointments included the central universities of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Hyderabad. Apart from these, President Kovind has also approved the appointment of new VCs in the Central University of South Bihar (Gaya), Manipur University, Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Northeastern Hill University, Guru Ghasidas University and Bilaspur University. Delhi Teachers Association President Hansraj Suman said that a demand has been made from the Union Ministry of Education to appoint a permanent Vice-Chancellor in the DU at the earliest. After the appointment of a permanent VC, the new education policy can be discussed. This will boost the level of quality in higher education as well as appointments of new teachers will also be possible. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has said that all the posts lying vacant in every central university across the country must be filled in "mission mode". According to the Union Minister, 6,229 posts of teachers are lying vacant in central universities. Of these, 1,012 are from the Scheduled Caste (SC) category, 592 Scheduled Tribe (ST), 767 Other Backward Class (OBC), 805 Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and 350 differently-abled category posts. According to Pradhan, now these posts will be filled in "mission mode" and all central universities must immediately come out with advertisements for the vacant posts. The Union Education Minister said September is a teacher's festival in a way. Giving clear instructions, the Union Minister has asked all universities that by September 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10, they must come out with advertisements for the vacant posts so that they are longer vacant. Hove : , Sep 5 (IANS) New Zealand captain Sophie Devine made her 100th T20I appearance memorable with an all-round performance to secure a four-wicket win against England at Hove. New Zealand's win in the second T20I means the series is levelled at 1-1. Sophie first claimed 2/28 from four overs before smashing a half-century off 41 balls to lead a successful chase of 128. Asked to bat first, England were dealt an early blow as Tammy Beaumont (13) was bowled by Jess Kerr. Sophie dismissed Nat Sciver (4) and Amy Jones (0) off consecutive balls to leave England in trouble at 25/3 in five overs. Sophie Dunkley threatened to turn the tide but her run-a-ball 21 knock was ended by Leight Kasperek in the 10th over. England got to recover briefly through a 44-run partnership off 37 balls between Danielle Wyatt and debutant Maia Bouchier. The pair took England past the 100-run mark. Bouchier fetched three boundaries in her 24-ball 25 and looked confident with her stroke-play on debut. But New Zealand hit back with Hannah Rowe taking out both Danielle and Maia one delivery apart in the 16th over, snapping England's plans for a late flourish in death overs. With 21 runs coming in the last four overs, England finished at just 127/7 in 20 overs. In the chase of 128, Sophie started off with a six off Freya Davies over deep mid-wicket. Though she lost Suzie Bates via run-out at the end of the fifth over, Sophie continued to be impressive. The 32-year-old hit three more sixes and a couple of boundaries to lead New Zealand's charge in the chase and shared a 37-run stand with Amy Satterthwaite (11). Dropped at 25, Sophie went on to raise her half-century off 39 deliveries with a boundary over long-off. Though she fell to Tash Farrant in the very next over, New Zealand were rather comfortably placed in the chase with 100 on the board already. Though England managed to give a scare by dismissing Maddy Green (21), Brooke Halliday (3) and Hayley Jensen (7), New Zealand chased 128 with 10 balls to spare. With the series now level at 1-1, the final match of the series will take place at Taunton on September 9. Brief scores: England Women 127/7 in 20 overs (Danielle Wyatt 35, Maia Bouchier 25; Sophie Devine 2/28, Leigh Kasperek 2/20) lost to New Zealand Women 128/6 in 18.2 overs (Sophie Devine 50, Maddy Green 21; Tash Farrant 2/32, Mady Villiers 1/8) by four wickets. New Delhi, Sep 5 : The ASHA workers in the national capital have been working round the clock, especially during these Covid pandemic times to help people in distress. But in return, they are not getting anything. "We do a lot of work but don't get any security. Even the monthly incentive is too low. There are no duty hours for us," said Babita, an accredited social health activist (ASHA). "Though my husband works, our economic situation is not good, so I have to help him out," she added. After the pandemic broke out, a sudden demand for medical professionals, helping hands and volunteers arose. In that situation, ASHA workers proved to be the saviour. They did all the work, including door to door surveys and taking care of patients, thus standing out as the best examples of the corona warriors. But they have their own woes and miseries. "If a patient comes, then it's our responsibility to take care of him or her -- from reminding them for vaccination to further tests," said Babita. Registering her anguish, she further said, "We were told that we would get Rs 100 for every corona case, but it was only till March. A high number of corona cases came in April, but we have not received a single penny for them. Moreover, we cannot avoid our duty because they threaten us that if we won't work then they will sack us." Like Babita, most of the ASHA workers have the same story. Some say that whatever demand we raise no action has been taken so far. Now we will again go to the Chief Minister's House with our demands. ASHA Worker Jayamala said that "Many people themselves go to the dispensary and neglect us. But we still have to take care of them because if something happens, it will be considered as our mistake." Apart from this, people do not register through us, so if the incentive is fixed, then there will be no problems. There are about 6,268 ASHA Workers in Delhi-NCR. An ASHA worker takes care of about 400 houses, that is, there are 2,000 houses in a colony, and then three ASHA workers are deployed there. On the other hand, the area in which an ASHA worker lives is given the responsibility of the houses of that area. In fact, ASHA workers have always been demanding that their salaries should be fixed, and incentives should not be given on points basis. Kavita, the state coordinator of the Delhi ASHA Workers Association, told IANS that, "Each ASHA is doing the same work, yet why are the core incentives for ASHAs different? Karnataka has Rs 10,000, Kerala Rs 5,000, West Bengal and Haryana, it is Rs 4,000." "The Delhi government should fix this incentive so that the worker earns at least something which is worth living. What is the salary? If you are not paying the salary, then give the incentive so that we can live." He further said that "ASHA workers fell ill during Covid but they did not get money even for treatment. ASHA Workers do not get a salary, they get core incentives. The incentive will be made on the basis of the amount of work they do." The incentive given on the basis of points should be fixed i.e. it should be received in Rs 3,000 per month. However, some main demands have been made in the letter by the Association, in which ASHA workers demand that they should be given the status of a government employee. At the same time, make the core incentive of at least Rs 15,000 instead of the point system, and increase the amount of all kinds of incentives three times or pay the prescribed salary of skilled labour in Delhi (which is Rs 21,000 per month). "The Delhi government should implement the announcement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 to double the incentive of ASHA. For this, if necessary, use your influence over the Central government as well," the association demands. "ASHA workers should not be forced to do any work without incentive or under pressure," the association said. These apart, the incentive should be given as per Rs 650 per day or Rs 18,000 per month for the work done by them during the Covid. It should be implemented from March 2020. Apart from this, the 45th Indian Labour Conference was held in 2012-13 in which all the unions along with the Central government and state government met. It was recommended that all the scheme workers should be given the status of an employee and salary according to it, but so far no government has done it, said the association. (Mohammad Suaib can be contacted at mohammad.k@ians.in) New Delhi, Sep 5 : Faiz Hameed, the head of Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, rushed to Kabul after a clash between Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Haqqani-supported groups in which thr Taliban co-founder sustained injuries. The Haqqani and many other Taliban factions simply do not accept Haibatullah Akhundzada as their leader, as per Michael Rubin in 1945 website. Whereas the Taliban had said that they would unveil their new government on September 3, the day passed without any official word of the appointment of Akhundzada whom the group's representatives earlier signaled would be the Islamic Emirate's supreme leader based in Kandahar, Rubin said. That delay also postponed Baradar's efforts to become political leader in Kabul. The delay may signal a much greater crisis within the Taliban, hence Hameed's emergency trip, he said. The deeper problem with which Hameed now struggles is the fact that a unitary Taliban has always been illusionary. The Quetta Shura is different from the Haqqani Network is different from the Northern Taliban. While Western diplomats and even Pakistani officials may consider the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as having no legitimacy in Afghanistan, there is no indication that the group truly concurs. Such factionalism initially played into Taliban hands: They could feign compliance and blame attacks on splinter groups even as Taliban leaders privately approved the attacks to bleed the Afghan government, Rubin said. Some Afghan factions seek a more inclusive government and are not enthusiastic about efforts to fight the Panjshiris. The Taliban largely conquered Afghanistan on the back of political deals rather than military victories and are unenthusiastic about the losses they now sustain in ground fighting in the valley and its approaches. It is Hameed and the factions to which he directly dictates that want to finish off Ahmad Massoud and Amrullah Saleh, the two main leaders of the resistance, he added. With Hameed's hand clearly exposed, the question for US policymakers then becomes why anyone should negotiate or recognise the Taliban when Hameed's emergency visit affirms that they are merely an ISI puppet, Rubin said. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan says Washington has leverage over the Taliban. "Hameed's dream would be keeping the illusion alive long enough to gain control over Afghanistan's $9.4 billion reserves. A far better approach for Washington, however, may be to designate Faiz Hameed as the terrorist he is and the organization he heads as a terrorist entity which for too long has victimised Afghanistan and undermined any hope Pakistanis have to be a democracy and a normal state", he added. Tel Aviv, Sep 5 : Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced that he had held a meeting with Jordanian King Abdullah II last week at the latter's palace. According to a statement released by Herzog's spokesman on Saturday, the Israeli President was invited by the Jordanian King, reports Xinhua news agency. During the "warm" meeting, the discussed "deep strategic issues at both bilateral and regional levels", as well as exchanged views on issues ranging from agricultural cooperation to the climate crisis, the statement said. It was Herzog's first meeting with the Jordanian King since he took office in July. Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett met King Abdullah II shortly after his swearing-in in July. "There is a sense in the region of a desire to make progress, a desire to speak," said Herzog after the meeting. The latest meetings are believed to signal the warming of ties between Israel and Jordan. Kolkata, Sep 5 : Political controversy erupted over the announcement of a bypoll in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency from where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to contest. The controversy stemmed from the notification of the commission where the highest electoral body, quoting chief secretary of the state H.K. Diwedi, said that the bypoll in Bhabanipur constituency is being conducted because of the 'special request' from the Government of West Bengal. The Election Commission quoting chief secretary H.K. Diwedi, in its notification on Saturday said, "He (Chief Secretary ) cited that under Article 164(4) of the Constitution of India, a Minister who is not a member of the Legislature of the State for a period of six consecutive months shall at the expiration of that period cease to be a Minister and there will be a constitutional crisis and vacuum in the top executive posts in the government unless elections are held immediately. He has also informed that in view of administrative exigencies and public interest and to avoid vacuum in the state, bye-elections for 159- Bhabanipur, Kolkata from where Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister intends to contest elections may be conducted". "Taking into consideration the inputs and views of the Chief Secretaries Concerned States and respective Chief Electoral Officers, while the Commission has decided not to hold bye-elections in other 31 Assembly Constituencies and 3 Parliamentary Constituencies and considering the constitutional exigency and special request from the State of West Bengal, it has decided to hold bye-election in 159-Bhabanipur AC," the notification added. The notification immediately attracted debate in political circles. BJP Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari said, "There is no understanding between the Election Commission and the BJP. Will the Election Commission be able to explain why bypolls are not being held in 31 Assembly constituencies in the country? The state chief secretary Hare Krishna Diwedi wrote to the Election Commission that if there is no bye-election in Bhabanipur, there will be a constitutional crisis in the state. He can't write that. Bye-elections are not being held in six more constituencies. What complication is being created for that? We will make this an issue". "We wanted an election in all the places but the Election Commission decided to conduct polls only in Bhabanipur. The Election Commission is an autonomous administrative body and they are free to make their own decisions. How can the Trinamool Congress influence the commission? We have no role in this. Wherever there is an election we will win," Trinamool youth leader Debanshu Bhattacharya said. Political experts are of the opinion that a chief secretary cannot make a request for a particular constituency. "Being the chief secretary of the state, he cannot say this. He has not been entrusted with the responsibility to lead Mamata Banerjee to victory. The candidates have not been announced and it is technically impossible for him to know who will be the candidate," Sephologist Biswanath Chakraborty said. On Saturday, the ECI announced the date for the bye-election in Bhabanipur and election in two other Assembly constituencies -- Samserganj and Jangipur in Murshidabad district on Saturday. The elections in these three constituencies will be held on September 30 and counting is scheduled to be held on October 3. The elections in Samserganj and Jangipur were withheld because of the death of the candidates before polls during the recently concluded Assembly election in West Bengal. On the other hand, bye-election in the Bhabanipur Assembly constituency is scheduled because the existing MLA Sovondeb Chattopadhyay resigned to make room for chief minister Mamata Banerjee. Banerjee lost to the Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhiakri in Nandigram in the recently concluded polls and is still not an elected member of the Legislative body. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Washington, Sep 5 : At least three people and three others injured in a shooting incident in Washington D.C., police in the US capital said. In a statement, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department said the shooting erupted in 600 block of Longfellow Street, NW at around 7.30 p.m. on Saturday night, reports Xinhua news agency. A total of six people were shot and rushed to local hospitals, with three pronounced dead. Three others were being treated for non-life threatening injuries. D.C. Police Chief Robert Contee said the suspects exited a vehicle and fired shots down the block, into a crowd of individuals hanging out there. He said it was not yet known why the crowd was targeted. The three slain individuals appeared to be young adults, Contee said. With the suspects still at large and the manhunt underway, police are offering up to $75,000 to anyone able to provide information on the suspects' whereabouts. Canberra, Sep 5 : Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday declared that interstate travel will return to normal in the country by the end of 2021 despite the current Covid-19 outbreaks and lockdowns in major cities. Morrison promised that domestic borders will be open and Australians will be allowed to gather in large numbers for Christmas on December 25, reports Xinhua news agency. Australia has abandoned the Covid-zero approach to the pandemic amid outbreaks in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra that have plunged about half of the population into strict lockdowns. "Holding onto Covid zero will only hold Australians back as the world moves forward," Morrison told News Corp Australia. Federal, state and territory governments have agreed to open borders and ease restrictions when 70-80 per cent of adults are fully vaccinated against the virus. At the current rate of vaccination, Australia may hit those milestones within this year, according to local media. "Everyone can make plans for a family Christmas, with all our loved ones at the dinner table," Morrison said. "Nobody wants Covid to be the virus that stole Christmas, and we have a plan and the vaccinations available to ensure that's not the case." His optimistic comments came as Australia reported 1,683 new locally-acquired cases of Covid-19 on Sunday, the second highest record number after more than 1,700 fresh infections were registered the previous day. The country's overall infection tally thus increased to 61,619, while the death toll stood at 1,036. Of the new cases, 1,485 were from New South Wales (NSW), the current epicentre of the pandemic in the country, where the state health department also recorded three deaths on Sunday morning. "There have been 126 Covid-19 related deaths in NSW since June 16, 2021," said the statement from NSW Health. Victoria, the second-most populous state, reported a further 183 new local cases. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) reported another 15 new cases, down from a record-high of 32 on Saturday. For the second consecutive day, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr urged Canberra residents to come forward for Covid tests when needed. "It is critical that if you have any symptoms, you come forward for testing immediately," he said on Sunday. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) New Delhi, Sep 5 : Sonia Gandhi has been the interim president of the Congress since the resignation of Rahul Gandhi following the debacle in various polls, but all the decisions and meetings are taking place at Rahul Gandhi's residence, which makes him the de-facto party chief. The Congress dissenting group of 23, which wrote a letter last year for visible and effective leadership, point out that the issues raised by them remain the same as no forward decisions have been taken. Many of the letter writers were adjusted in different committees of the party, but they have not been involved in the consultation processes. This has further miffed the group and sources within the group say that the issue remains the same. Be it Chhattisgarh or Punjab, the epicentre of the meetings was 12, Tughlak lane, the residence of Rahul Gandhi. The two important meetings happened there in which T.S. Singhdeo and Bhupesh Baghel were present and later with Baghel also the meetings were held at Rahul's place only. These events have made it clear that the decision making in the Congress is now confined to Rahul Gandhi. The Punjab issue was settled at Rahul Gandhi's residence with Navjot Singh Sidhu appointed as the party president in the state. A meeting with Sonia Gandhi took place afterwards, but the decision was taken at Rahul Gandhi's residence which was backed by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. After Sidhu attacked the Congress leadership, the reaction came from Manish Tewari, a former Union minister, who said that if they utter a word they are being named. He used a Urdu couplet to describe the situation, "hum aah bhi bharte hai tau, ho jaate ha badnaam, wo qatal bhi karte hain tau charcha nahi hote." Last year on August 23, leaders including Tewari wrote a letter to Sonia Gandhi for a 'visible and effective leadership and elections from the block to CWC level which were still pending. But nothing has moved and the Congress apparatus is working under Rahul Gandhi. The grudge of the G-23 leaders is that either he should take the responsibility fully or make way for someone else. Most of them want Sonia Gandhi to function as full time president, but sources say due to health reasons she is reluctant. The Congress leaders are upset over the growing clout of K.C. Venugopal, the General Secretary organization of the party. There has been simmering tension in the Kerala unit against him with one of the leaders expelled from the party -- secretary P.S. Prasanth -- who was expelled from the party hours after he wrote to Rahul Gandhi. Both Ramesh Chennithala and Oomen Chandy are said to be upset over the party affairs. Despite Rahul Gandhi calling the shots, things are not improving. The issue of Rajasthan is pending from the last one year and now it is being said that the much awaited cabinet expansion in the state will take place soon. In Chhattisgarh, the Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel flexed his muscles after bringing more than 50 MLAs to Delhi in a show of strength. The Congress is facing tough times and is going to face elections in six states -- Uttar Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Goa, Punjab, Manipur and later Gujarat. In Delhi and Mumbai, the Municipal body polls are slated which are also considered as prestigious elections. For Goa the Congress has appointed P. Chidambaram as Senior observer and for Manipur Jairam Ramesh, but for other states there is no clarity. The election results early next year will decide the fate of the Congress. In the recently concluded Assembly elections, the party lost in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry and only solace was Tamil Nadu where it is a junior partner of the DMK. London, Sep 5 : Indian opener Rohit Sharma has said that he was only thinking about playing the role he had been assigned to play in England conditions on Day 3 of the fourth Test, and that milestones didn't really matter to him. Sharma recorded his first overseas Test hundred with a magnificent 127 off 256 balls. He also had a 153-run stand with Cheteshwar Pujara, who made 61 off 127 balls. "Honestly speaking, I was not thinking about all the things (milestones) because that doesn't really matter to me. Getting runs is important, yes. All those first milestones and first overseas hundred, all that will happen if it has to happen. That was never in my mind. What was in my mind was to play my role. I am opening for the first time in England. I had a very important role to play," Sharma said on Sunday. "I am glad I could play that role. That is the most important thing I was focusing on and making sure I get the job done. When you open the innings, it is always a nice feeling to get that challenge upfront with the new ball, facing some of the quality bowlers as well. So that was what in my mind," said Sharma to Pujara in a video released by BCCI on Sunday. Sharma also talked about how he felt about helping India take a lead of 171 at stumps on day three. He also mentioned about the opening stand of 83 runs with KL Rahul. "It's a good feeling. As a team, we stand in a very good position at the moment. So, that is a good feeling. We knew we had our work cut off because we were 100 runs behind in the first innings. "So, we knew we have to bat well to get past that and then build on a big lead. I think all the batters, including KL (Rahul) as well, to start off with. We had a good partnership. We know in England how crucial the new ball is. Once we played that out, runs can come by very quickly." Sharma went on to talk about Pujara's quick start to his knock. "Very happy for you, Puji. Someone just told me you had 35 off 50 balls." In reply, Pujara thanked him and Rahul for blunting the new ball. "It's a good start (chuckles). Thanks to you guys, because the ball was old, I could play my shots. It was slightly easier to bat." Sharma remarked that roles had been reversed. "The role has been reversed a little bit. Normally, I like to play the shots and get off to the scoreboard quickly and you take time, the roles have reversed now. But I am happy, I am happy to play as many balls as possible. That was for me the biggest challenge on this tour because runs and shots will come as long as you spend time in the middle, get a feel of the pitch, bowlers, conditions, runs will come." At stumps on day three, India were 270/3 and lead by 171 runs with Virat Kohli (22 not out) and Ravindra Jadeja (9 not out) at the crease. Mumbai, Sep 5 : DJ Sheizwood is returning with another single, 'Peete Peete Pi Gaya' after 'Main Sharabi'. The release date of the song has been delayed due to the demise of television actor Sidharth Shukla and now it will release on September 6. DJ Sheizwood says the track will be dedicated to the late actor. He says: "There are very few actors' journeys which leave an indelible mark on you and Sidharth Shukla was one of them, he led his journey with dignity and aplomb. Extremely entertaining and fitness is what I saw as common factors amongst us. We had scheduled the launch of the song the same day as his demise but pushed it ahead as a mark of respect and remembrance for him, we are dedicating the song to him with due credits." DJ Sheizwood adds: "He will remain close to our hearts always and we hold a prayer for him the day we all get together for the official launch. This song celebrates life and will be dedicated to him and my entire team feels for him." It is a rhythmic number with funky beats and Hindi-Punjabi lyrics. The song starts with a fun opening verse and then launches into club mode with the party beats. DJ Sheizwood shares: "This is our festive offering to the audience. Festivals are just around the corner and setting up a new playlist is a priority. Hope the audience likes it as much as we do." 'Peete Peete Pi Gaya' is sung by Shabab Sabri and DJ Sheizwood, music of the track is composed by DJ Sheizwood, lyrics by Vanish Vish and it features Simran Ahuja, Tousif Sultan and Ali Shaquib. It is directed by Aziz Zee and produced by Inndresh Badola and PS Creations. New Delhi, Sep 5 : The BBC has come under fire after the network shot down C. Christine Fair, a scholar on South Asia, for speaking about Pakistan's jihad policy in Afghanistan during a programme. "Really disappointing. @BBCWorld shutting down @CChristineFair as she tries to advance a cogent critique of Pakistan's role in Afghanistan. This is poor journalism; not what you expect from the Beeb," said Theo Farrell on Twitter. "Shame on @bbcworldservice for not letting Georgetown University Prof. @CChristineFair finish answering the question. This is an example how if BBC censors Afghanistan analysis. It is a fact Pakistan supports Taliban, the Taliban leaders have Pakistani passports & work with ISI," Mariam Amini said. "Quite gross from @BBCNews: our "impartiality" doctrine was used to basically shut down @CChristineFair when she explained Pakistan's jihad policy in Afghanistan that has brought us all to this catastrophe - an issue on which there is no 'balance' or 'other side', factually", Kyle Orton said. "How is it @PhilippaBBC's job to shut a guest down? Surely, she could have invited a Pakistani official later to give their view. As a news anchor, she should know that many people have the same analysis/view as @CChristineFair whether one agrees with it or not," former Pakistan diplomat Hussain Haqqani said. Baghdad, Sep 5 : At least 13 security members were killed and six others injured in an overnight attack carried out by the Islamic State (IS) terror group in Kirkuk province, a provincial police source said on Sunday. The attack took place late Saturday night when IS militants attacked a federal police outpost in a village near the town of al-Rashad in the south of the namesake provincial capital Kirkuk, about 250 km north of Baghdad, the source told Xinhua news agency. Thirteen policemen were killed and six others wounded in the attack at the outpost as well as from roadside bombs leading to the village, he added. The attackers withdrew from the scene after the arrival of more security forces to the area, al-Taie added. Over the past few months, IS militants have intensified attacks on Iraqi security forces in the province where the militants previously controlled, leaving dozens dead and wounded. The security situation in the country has been improving since Iraqi security forces defeated IS militants in 2017. However, IS remnants have since retreated to deserts and rugged areas, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 5 : After a 12-year-old boy succumbed to Nipah virus attack on Sunday, two health workers who were in contact with the boy are now under surveillance. State health minister Veena George, who reached Kozhikode in the morning along with state PWD minister P.A. Mohammed Riyaz and state Transport minister A.K. Saseendran held a meeting of the health, revenue and police officials to review the situation. The review meeting mainly revolved around the steps to be taken to manage the situation arising after the death of the 12 year-old boy and the return of Nipah after it was contained in the state on June 10, 2018. In the last Nipah attack in 2018, 17 people had lost their lives and the government and health department are now not taking any chances. According to the health department officials, two health officials, who were on the contact list of the boy, have developed symptoms of the virus. A total of 188 people are in the contact list and 20 of these are from the index list or high-risk category. State Health Minister Veena George told media persons that one of the health workers is from the Kozhikode Government Medical College hospital and the other is from the private hospital where the boy was treated earlier. The health Minister while speaking to the media persons after the review meeting at the Kozhikode government guest house said, "There is no reason to worry but have to be highly alert. A ward at the Kozhikode Government Medical College has already been converted to Nipah ward and a control room is opened." She said that the three-storied pay ward at the Kozhikode Government Medical College will be allotted for Nipah and high-risk patients and the health workers will be soon shifted in that facility. The minister also said that a team from National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune will reach Kozhikode soon and set up a virology lab at Kozhikode Government Medical College hospital. This lab is for initial screening for Nipah virus. The minister also said that medical teams are visiting Chathamangalam panchayath to find out the contact source of the disease. She said that all necessary precautions were taken by Saturday evening itself before the test result of the child was announced. Meanwhile the authorities have declared a high alert in Kozhikode district. The roads within 3 km of the residence of the deceased boy were cordoned off with a heavy police posse being deployed for duty. The health department has already closed Ward no 9 of Chathamangalam panchayath and restrictions imposed in wards 8, 10, and 12. The staff of the local hospital at Omassery in Kozhikode district where the child was first taken for consultation after he developed fever are also put under alert. Health authorities have already informed the local people to immediately report any instances of fever, vomiting and other health ailments. New Delhi, Sep 5 : Riding high on the success of beastly gaming machines, Taiwanese tech giant ASUS is undoubtedly one of the most liked brands for gaming enthusiasts across the globe. And its convertible gaming laptop "ROG Flow x13" -- launched at Consumers Electronics Show (CES) 2021 -- might woo the audience once again. The ROG Flow x13 is priced at Rs 1,39,990 and the XG Mobile is available in two configurations -- RTX3070 with 8GB RAM priced at Rs 69,990 and RTX3080 with 16GB RAM that costs Rs 1,39,990. The ultra-thin laptop is available with a 120Hz full HD panel or a high-res 4K panel that's protected by tough Corning Gorilla glass and features a narrow-frame design. We used the laptop for a while and here's how it fared. Unlike its predecessor, the ROG Flow x13 features a subtle design with the branding done on a metal nameplate. We found that the 360-degree hinge does a great job in converting the laptop into different modes and it is sturdy and stands firmly in whichever position you keep it. Users can leave it in clamshell mode for traditional laptop usage or flip the screen to the back to use it as a tablet. They can even switch it to tent or stand modes to increase cooling that lowers processor temperatures by up to 8-degree Celsius. The ROG Flow x13 is an ultra-thin laptop that weighs 1.3 kilograms and is 15.8mm thin. The laptop with a 13.4-inch display looks stunning. It also has a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button for that extra layer of security that worked perfectly fine. One can choose between an immersive 4K panel and a full HD+ 120Hz panel for super-smooth gaming. Both are pantone validated with a 16:10 aspect ratio, giving more space for toolbars and tabs. Also, both panels are covered with Corning Gorilla Glass, protecting the touchscreen-enabled panel. Also, talking about the keyboard, we found it to be comfortable to use. The convertible laptop is powered by AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS clocked at 3.30GHz coupled with 16GB RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD. And for lag-free gaming, there's an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 GPU. We found that it is powerful enough for tasks like playing games, editing files or photos, etc. The ROG XG Mobile reinvents external graphics by combining performance and versatility with true portability and advanced vapour chamber cooling keeps the ROG XG Mobile's graphics strong. The ROG Flow x13 includes a 62Wh battery that can be charged via a 100W USB Type-C charger. We found it to be above average as it lasted for around half a day on a single charge. The audio output is serviceable for a small room, as we did not found it to be very loud in a larger space. Conclusion: ASUS ROG Flow x13 packs a powerful performance. It is definitely a boon for gamers at the same time it is also relevant for those who are looking thin and easy to carry laptops for office purposes, editing as well as general usage. (Vivek Singh Chauhan can be contacted at vivek.c@ians.in) New Delhi, Sep 5 : With an eye on next year's assembly polls, the BJP government in Uttarakhand has planned to felicitate the families of over 1,700 martyrs from the state. The Uttarakhand government will also collect soil from the martyr's home which will be used in construction of proposed 'Sainik Dham'. Minister of Soldier Welfare and Industrial Development in Uttarakhand, Ganesh Joshi told IANS that in the proposed 'Saheed Samman Yatra', families of 1,757 martyrs will be felicitated. "In a month-long proposed yatra, which will start in the first week of October, the family members of all martyrs will be felicitated and soil from their courtyard will be collected. All the soil collected from the martyr's courtyard will be used in sainik dham, for which foundation stone was laid in January this year," Joshi said. Joshi mentioned that Saheed Samman Yatra and collection of soil from martyrs' homes is a government program and everyone is welcomed to join it. The proposed 'sainik dham' in Purkul Gaon would have the details of all the defence personnel from the state who have laid down their lives for the country since Independence. During the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Uttarakhand as the 'Sainik Dham' as the state has given and continues to give several brave soldiers to the country. The sources in saffron camp said that the yatra was supposed to start from September 1 but was postponed due to bad weather conditions in the state. A BJP leader said that the yatra will be used as an opportunity to reach out to defence personnel from the state which plays a crucial role in elections. Another senior BJP functionary from state said that the party does not have the exact number of ex-servicemen and serving defence personnel from the state but there is general perception that every sixth jawan (soldier) in the country is from Uttarakhand. "Similarly at the state level it is believed that one member from each family in Uttarakhand is either serving defence personnel or was ex-servicemen." "There is no exact count of ex-servicemen and serving defence personnel but they and their family members play a crucial and decisive role in deciding the electoral fortunes of political parties. And the party will use this opportunity to win their support," a party insider said. New Delhi, Sep 5 : The Delhi Police have arrested a gang of four economic offenders allegedly involved in an insurance fraud case targetting veteran army officials. The group was cheating the veterans in the name of facilitating release of outstanding insurance of maturities and bonus. The fraudsters were demanding money from their targetted persons. According to the police, on target were as many as 54 retired army officers, of which, 13 allegedly fell prey to the fraudsters and together coughed crores of rupees. Four arrested have been identified as Raj Rajput (36), Prabhat Kumar (33), Ram Naresh (52) and Ram Sagar (28). The group was involved in various other cases of frauds and have cheated people in several states, Delhi police said. "Fraudsters were calling up veterans for release of some monetary benefits to them from AGIF (Army Group Insurance Fund). They made telephone calls to the pensioners; next of kin by promising them a large sum of money in the range of Rs 3-4 lakh and, in turn, demanded very small amounts of Rs 30,000-40,000 in advance in the name of processing fees for releasing the funds," Additional Commissioner of Police (Economic Offences Wing), R.K. Singh. Singh further added, "One of the victims Colonel G.M. Khan from Army Service Corps paid Rs 1.27 crore to these fraudsters from his account till date. Other retired army officers were also targetted by the alleged persons and 12 more officers deposited varying amounts in the bank accounts as per the instructions of these cheats." Police said that more than 50 bank accounts were analysed apart from verification of all the available addresses of the account holders and the phone numbers used by the economic offenders. "The investigation has revealed that the bank accounts in which the amounts of the victims were credited were opened by accused Ram Naresh and Ram Sagar in the names of various firms on rented addresses. Owners of the properties had no clues about these offenders. The cheated amounts were withdrawn in cash immediately either through ATMs or cheques. Analysis of bank accounts revealed that accused Prabhat Kumar was withdrawing cash through self cheques," Singh added. The Delhi Police had registered a case under sections 420, 120-B of India Penal Code on September 17, 2019 and were in search of these fraudsters. Pune, Sep 5 : Actors Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanathara were reportedly spotted in Pune, shooting for their much-talked about film together. The two prolific actors have come together for Tamil director Atlee's next project. While no official confirmation has come from either the stars or the director, the pictures have gone viral on social media. It is being speculated than an action scene was being shot when the two got papped. The team will have a 10-day shooting schedule in Pune. The film is said to have a great cast, which includes Sanya Malhotra, Sunil Grover and Priyamani. Telugu actor Rana Daggubati is also expected to join them later in the shoot. This film marks the first collaboration of Atlee with Shah Rukh, who will also be seen in YRF's 'Pathan'. Mumbai, Sep 5 : The Congress' Maharashtra unit on Sunday slammed right-wing publication, Panchjanya, for suggesting that global IT giant, Infosys was allegedly funding Maoists, Leftists and the "tukde-tukde" gangs in the country, and must be "blacklisted". "Infosys, set up by the Padmashri couple N.R. Narayana Murthy and Sudha N. Murthy, is a globally-respected IT major. Its contribution to Indian economy is also immense. But since the past 7 years, the Bharatiya Janata Party and Sangh Parivar will decide on the credentials of people," Congress state spokesperson Sachin Sawant said. As the column in Panchjanya created controversy on several fronts, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh quickly dissociated itself from the publication, saying it is "not the mouthpiece of the RSS and the article or opinions expressed in it should not be linked with the RSS". "As an Indian company, Infosys has made seminal contribution in progress of the country. There may be certain issues with a portal run by Infosys, but the article published by Panchjanya in this context only reflects the individual opinion of the author (Chandra Prakash)," RSS' Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar said. The magazine article has alleged that "the direct and indirect support of Infosys has come to the fore for many disruptive activities going on in the country", that it is behind certain propaganda websites, and groups engaged in spreading caste hatred are beneficiaries of its charity. "Shouldn't the promoters of Infosys be asked what are the reasons behind its funding anti-national and anarchist organisations. Should a company with such a dubious record be allowed to participate in government tendering processes," it had asked. Virtually accusing Infosys of being anti-national, the publication accused the company of deliberately wanting to create anarchy by providing poor services and proving a blot on 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' drive. The Panchjanya write-up sought that the company should be "blacklisted" and a financial penalty imposed for its poor performance, hinting that Infosys maybe planning to play around with sensitive data of IT payers. "The reason for suspicions of conspiracy with the ITR portal is also political. People are asking whether some private companies are trying to create chaos at the behest of the Congress. Infosys appoints people of a particular political ideology to important position, and most are from West Bengal. If it takes important contracts of government of India, will there not be a possibility of influence by China and ISI," it wondered. Sawant strongly condemned the BJP, RSS, the Sangh Parivar and the magazine's campaign against Infosys and questioned its locus standi to make such baseless wild allegations against such renowned companies or those not in conformity with its ideology. (Quaid Najmi can be contacted at q.najmi@ians.in) New Delhi/Raipur, Sep 5 : An FIR has been registered against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel's father, Nand Kumar Baghel, who made objectionable comments against the Brahmin community. The comments have now gone viral on the social media. The complaint was filed by one Avanish Pandey and others. The FIR has been lodged at Deen Dayal police station in Raipur against Nand Kumar Baghel under IPC Sections 153-A and 505-A. Reacting to this, Chief Minister Baghel said that nobody is above law. On Saturday, the Brahmin community took out a rally and demanded action against Nand Kumar Baghel as the BJP upped its ante on the issue against the Chief Minister. Baghel said, "As a son I respect my father but as the chief minister the law is supreme." In a counter attack, the Chief Minister has demanded apology from the BJP and said it has disrespected the farmers. The incident relates to D. Purandeswari, the BJP In charge of the state who allegedly made objectionable comments against the CM in Bastar. The BJP and the Congress in the state have been trying to corner each other on various issues and often controversy erupts on statements. Chhattisgarh Janta Congress leader Amit Jogi said, all the leaders should refrain from making objectionable comments and they should learn from Ajit Jogi, Raman Singh and T.S. Singhdeo. New Delhi, Sep 5 : After the RSS distanced itself from Panchjanya's article attacking software company Infosys for hurting the country's economic interest, the BJP on Sunday said that everyone is entitled to express their point of view in a democracy. BJP national spokesperson Nalin Kohli told IANS that they (Panchjanya) put across a point of view and everyone is entitled to do so in a democracy. "After all we cherish freedom of press," Kohli added. Many in the BJP, however, believe that the article has not gone down well with the top leadership in the union government and the party organisation and that was the reason behind RSS' quick clarification on the article. "The article sent a wrong message and was not well received by the party leadership and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has already asked Infosys to fix the glitches in Income Tax portal by September 15," a party insider said. Earlier, in a social media post RSS's Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Sunil Ambekar said that the article published by Panchjanya reflects the individual opinion of the author. "As an Indian company, Infosys has made seminal contributions to the progress of the country. There might be certain issues with a portal run by Infosys, but the article published by Panchjanya in this context only reflects individual opinion of the author," Ambekar said. "Panchjanya is not a mouthpiece of the RSS and the said article or opinion expressed in it should not be linked with the RSS," Ambekar added. In its cover story titled 'Saakh Aur Aghaat' the Panchjanya has accused Infosys of hurting the country's economic interest and helping 'Tukde-tukde gang', naxals and other anti-national forces. Pointing to regular incidents of glitches in IT portals developed by Infosys, resulting in trouble for tax payers and investors, the Panchjanya article said that such incidents brought down the trust of taxpayers in the Indian economy. The article called Infosys 'naam bade aur darshan chhote' (great cry and little wool). The Panchjanya article claimed that this was not the first time Infosys had done this to a government project. "First time mistake can be called a coincidence but if the same mistake happens repeatedly, it raises doubts. There are accusations that the Infosys management is deliberately trying to destabilise India's economy," the article said. Mumbai, Sep 5 : Actress Arshi Khan is appalled at how many people are trying to hog the limelight over actor Sidharth Shukla's death. She calls this behaviour "disgusting". "It is disgusting that people look out for self-benefit whenever a popular celebrity dies. I'm disappointed with many people I know, who are coming out as 'wannabes' over Sidharth Shukla's death. Their action and statements in media is sounding like overacting and fake. Later they themselves will feel sorry about it," Arshi tells IANS. The actress, who rose to popularity with 'Bigg Boss 14', suggests that such people should focus on themselves instead. "People claiming they are 'numb', and are 'unable to come out of it' need to be involved in prayers and meditation and pray for Sidharth's soul. It will be more helpful then involving themselves in giving bytes. They can also do some good cause like feeding less fortunate people or doing charity in Sidharth's name," she says. Sidharth Shukla died on September 2 due to a heart attack. Chennai, Sep 5 : Tamil Nadu is planning to organise 10,000 Covid vaccination camps on next Sunday to inoculate 20 lakh people on a single day, state Health minister Ma Subramanian said on Sunday. "We are conducting these camps, as directed by our Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, on September 12. A meeting to discuss the finer points would be held with the District Collectors, Joint Directors, and Deputy Directors of the Health Department in a day or two," Subramanian told IANS. He said that he will be visiting the Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, and Virudhanagar districts to check on the arrangements of these camps. Subramanian also said that by Saturday night, the state has reached a major milestone by inoculating 3,50,20,070 people. On Saturday itself, 6,20,255 people were vaccinated, he said, adding that this was the highest coverage in a single day since January 16 when the drive began. The minister also said that the state will receive the largest volume of vaccines, 19,22,080 doses, by Sunday, as it had requested an additional share for vaccinating the population of the nine districts bordering Kerala. Vaccinating these people of the border districts would help in tackling the increase in Covid-19 cases in Kerala where the daily count is 25,000 to 30,000, he added. Hyderabad, Sep 5 : Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday called for improving the doctor-population ratio in the country. He also underlined the need to improve the healthcare infrastructure and increase the number of medical colleges in the country. Addressing the 11th Annual Medical Teachers Day Awards of the Association of National Board Accredited Institutions (ANBAI) in Hyderabad, Naidu noted that in India, there is one doctor for every 1,456 people, while as per the recommendations of the World Health Organisation (WHO), the doctor-population ratio should be 1:1,000. The Vice President called for focusing on improving healthcare infrastructure in the rural areas, noting that the Covid-19 pandemic has "reminded us of our responsibilities in this regard". He also called for increasing the number of medical colleges. He said to improve this ratio, the government is making efforts to establish at least one medical college in every district headquarter. He suggested that all stakeholders in medical education also play their role in this regard, highlighting the fact that a large number of doctors prefer to render their services in the urban areas as compared to the rural areas. Naidu said both medical education and healthcare should become affordable for the common man, and everyone connected with this sector has a responsibility to ensure this. Referring to the technological advancements across the world, he said the latest technologies should be adopted and state-of-the-art equipment be made available for diagnosis and treatment. He stated that the Covid pandemic has taught a lesson to all including doctors and scientists. Stating that medicine is one of the noblest professions, he said it should be the endeavour of every physician to play his role to uphold the values and sacredness of the profession. Young doctors and medical students should imbibe the ethics and high values of the profession and implement them in their day-to-day life, he added. Appreciating the yeoman service rendered by doctors during Covid pandemic, he said that they not only treated the patients but also gave counselling, confidence, and solace to them. Naidu was all praise for the ANBAI for its efforts to provide education based on highest standards. He said it was commendable that leading hospitals and medical institutions of the country came together to impart graduation in medical education through the ANBAI. The Vice President paid tributes to former President, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary which is celebrated as Teachers' Day. He called Radhakrishnan a great teacher and philosopher. Naidu said teachers shape the lives and careers of the students and especially in medical education, students have to be groomed to become great doctors. Gurugram, Sep 5 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said it is going to organise tje 'Kisan Mazdoor Khet Bachao Yatra' across Haryana to give voices to the farmers who are agitating against the three agricultural lawst. Under the leadership of Rajya Sabha member and Haryana co-in-charge Dr Sushil Gupta, this yatra began from Rohtak on Sunday and will culminate on September 13 at Palwal. It will pass through all the 90 Assembly constituencies through a route of more than 400 km in eight days. MPs, MLAs and representatives of district panchayats will also accompany Gupta. Dr Sarika Verma, President of AAP Badshahpur, said that for the last 9 months, farmers have been demanding the repeal of the three "black" agricultural laws of the Centre and are sitting on protests around Delhi, leaving their homes and fields, but the government has not listened to them. "More than 600 farmers have also been martyred during the agitation. But the government is still not willing to listen to them. We have given martyr status to the farmers and demanded pension to their widows, job to one member of the family," she said. Mukesh Dagar, Gurugram District President of AAP, informed that more than 50,000 people will participate during the yatra. "The main objective behind this yatra is to make the local people aware of these black laws. The South Haryana rally will be held on September 12-13. In Gurugram, it will be held on Sunday, September 12." Meanwhile, Gupta claimed that the state's Manohar Lal Khattar government has brought new orders to grab the land of the farmers. As per the new order, the Shamlat land (land which is owned by the village panchayat) will be transferred to the government, he said. "Earlier, the people of the village were collectively the owners of the land, now this land is being snatched away from them and that too without giving them a single rupee. Now the Haryana government will be its owner," he said. "If the government will acquire the land of the farmers, it will give it to industrialists. It is clear that the present government has started the process of taking the land from the farmers," Gupta added. New Delhi, Sep 5 : Calling protesting farmers "own flesh and blood", BJP MP from Pilibhit, Varun Gandhi on Sunday urged the union government to re-engage with them to reach a common ground. Sharing a small video of a crowd at 'kisan mahapanchayat' in Muzaffarnagar on Twitter, Varun Gandhi said, "Lakhs of farmers have gathered in protest today, in Muzaffarnagar. They are our own flesh and blood. We need to start re-engaging with them in a respectful manner: understand their pain, their point of view and work with them in reaching common ground." While party leaders in the national capital refused to comment on Varun Gandhi's tweet, Uttar Pradesh BJP spokesperson Harish Chandra Srivastava told IANS that the Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath government are committed for the welfare of farmers. "Varun ji is a senior MP and party leaders raised some points. But the Modi and Adityanath governments have shown their commitment for farmers' welfare and have already taken several welfare measures for them," Srivastava said. On many occasions, the saffron leaders blamed the opposition parties for politicizing the protest and misleading the farmers against three farm laws passed by the parliament last year. The union government and the BJP emphasized that the new farm laws will benefit the farmers. The Government held 11 rounds of talks with farmer leaders which failed to break the ice. A senior BJP leader said that Varun Gandhi's tweet is nothing but an outburst against the way he was sidelined in the party. "Varun Gandhi was feeling sidelined in the party since 2019 and most recently was asked not to campaign during the recently held panchayat elections," he added. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) had called kisan mahapanchayat on Sunday at the Government Inter College ground in Muzaffarnagar which turned out to be a massive show of strength. Farmers across the country came together under the banner of the SKM for the mahapanchayat. The Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) had extended their support to the mahapanchayat. The farmers unanimously gave a call for complete Bharat Bandh on September 27 in protest against the three contentious farm laws. New Delhi, Sep 5 : Hitting out at the BJP in wake of the article in a right-wing publication attacking software company Infosys, the Congress demanded apology from the ruling party. "The BJP should apologise to the whole country... the mother institution of the BJP is RSS... they should apologise to the service sector in general and Infosys in particular and (Commerce and Industry Minister) Piyush Goyal ji also should come forward and tell why he made objectionable comments against Indian industry," Congress spokesperson Gaurav Vallabh said. "... I will request honourable Finance Minister to immediately address the press to develop confidence in the service sector as these type of statements lower the morale of the service sector... we are known as a pioneer and a growth engine as far as a service sector is concerned," he added. In a cover story titled "Saakh Aur Aghaat", the Panchjanya, perceived to be affilaited to the RSS, accused Infosys of helping the "tukde-tukde gang", Maoists, and other anti-national forces The RSS has distanced itself from the article. In a social media post, its Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Sunil Ambekar said that the article "reflects the individual opinion of the author". "Panchjanya is not a mouthpiece of the RSS and the said article or opinion expressed in it should not be linked with the RSS," he added. The BJP, meanwhile, only said that everyone is entitled to express their point of view in a democracy. Washington, Sep 5 : Texas-based Firefly Aerospace's first Alpha rocket exploded mid-air after a successful launch, media reports said. Firefly's Alpha rocket launched on the company's first-ever orbital test flight on September 2, lifting off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 9.59 p.m. EDT. After the first 2.5 minutes of the flight, the two-stage, 29-metre Alpha suffered a fatal problem, exploding in a dramatic fireball high in the California sky, Space.com reported. "Alpha experienced an anomaly during first-stage ascent that resulted in the loss of the vehicle," Firefly representatives said in a tweet. "Prior to entering the countdown, the Range cleared the pad and all surrounding areas to minimise risk to Firefly employees, base staff, and the general public. We are continuing to work with the Range, following all safety protocols," they added. The Alpha rocket was terminated over the Pacific Ocean after the anomaly, officials in the US Space Force said. "There were no injuries associated with the anomaly. A team of investigators will convene to determine the cause of the failure," it said in a statement. Alpha carried about 92 kg payload on the flight, which Firefly called DREAM (short for "Dedicated Research and Education Accelerator Mission"). The plan was to carry this gear to an orbit 300 km above Earth, according to The Everyday Astronaut, which streamed the launch live. DREAM's payloads included a collection of memorabilia submitted by schools and other educational institutions, as well as a number of tiny satellites, the report said. The mission aimed "to capture humanity's dreams of the future of space and to inspire people around the globe to dream big and reach for the stars", Firefly representatives had shared on Twitter, before the flight. In February this year, the company was awarded approximately $93.3 million by NASA to deliver a suite of 10 science investigations and technology demonstrations to the Moon in 2023. The delivery is planned for Mare Crisium -- a low-lying basin on the Moon's near side. Firefly Aerospace will be responsible for end-to-end delivery services, including payload integration, launch from Earth, landing on the Moon, and mission operations, NASA said. The award is part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative -- a key part of the Artemis programme, which aims to return astronauts to the moon by 2024 as a stepping stone to the first human mission to Mars. New Delhi, Sep 5 : Is the bureaucracy frustrating and sabotaging a cleaning drive in the Finance Ministry? The issue has gained traction as a former Secretary level officer was in a quagmire due to his questionable relations with an advocate. The incident had put a crucial Finance Ministry Department in very bad light. To put its house in order, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, assisted by the then Minister of State, Anurag Thakur, took an extensive course correction measure culminating in issuance of two massive transfer orders transferring a phenomenal 395 officers, right from rank of Additional Secretary to Under Secretary equivalent, in Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in one go on July 15, 2021. The three most important apex organisations falling under the CBIC, namely the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), the Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI), and the Directorate General of Vigilance were given the utmost attention in this cleaning drive. This can be fathomed by the fact that no less than 65 officers were transferred out from the DRI, 66 officers transferred from the DGGI, and 21 officers were transferred from the Vigilance Directorate. The DRI is prime agency for investigating and prevention of smuggling at airports and custom ports, and the DGGI the agency for investigating and prevention of GST evasion and GST frauds.Vigilance is the agency which keeps watch on functioning of these bodies. All three combined form the backbone of the CBIC which is responsible for safeguarding indirect taxes revenue. The importance attached by the Finance Minister to these orders can be ascertained by the fact that in these transfer order it was specifically mentioned that all the officers transferred out were to be relieved immediately, latest by July 27, 2021. The transferred officers were ordered to join their new place of posting on or before August 10, and not only this, the controlling officers of these transferred officers were ordered to submit a compliance report to Ministry by August 20. The transferred officers were barred from representing against these transfer orders. But the bureaucracy seems to have found out a way out. For instance, a Principal Commissioner, appearing in order Number 82/2021, has not been relieved in defiance of orders of the Ministry. The person was to be replaced by another officer but no replacement is given in the order. The result is that this person is still occupying the post from which he has been transferred under express orders of the Finance Minister. Similarly, another senior person in North Zone has also not been relieved. Such accommodations have caused much heartburn in the IRS cadre. One officer on the condition of anonymity said that such subterfuge was not heard off in the department and cadre till recently and transfer orders were always issued on time and were obeyed in letter and spirit. Amaravati, Sep 5 : Andhra Pradesh's ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) on Sunday dismissed the opposition BJP's allegations that the state government is imposing restrictions only on Hindu festivals. Brahmin Corporation Chairman Malladi Vishnu slammed the state BJP leaders for politicising the government's decision to restrict the celebrations of festivals, noting that the restrictions were imposed as per Union Home Secretary's directives in view of Covid-19 pandemic. He told reporters that the restrictions were imposed only on the public celebrations keeping the possible Covid third wave in view, and the issue should not be politicised. He pointed out that in order to avoid mass gatherings, the state government postponed the events like the YSR Achievement awards and Teacher's Day celebrations. He said even 75th Independence Day celebrations were organised without allowing public participation in the state function. The restrictions are part of the preventive measures keeping public safety in view during the pandemic, he said, suggesting celebrations be held at home. He criticised the BJP leaders for not speaking up on vaccines, Covid testing or those issues that actually benefit people. He said that state BJP chief Somu Veerraju has been intentionally politicising the issue to mislead people and create disputes among them. Vishnu was reacting to Veerraju's statement criticising the state government's orders restricting the celebrations of Vinayaka Chavithi. He had questioned why the state government was imposing restrictions only on Hindu festivals leaving all other festivals. He demanded the DGP withdraw the orders restricting on Hindus celebrating Vinayaka Chavithi. The YSRCP leader on Sunday released to the media GOs about restrictions imposed on Eid-ul-Azha and Muharram. He also pointed out that celebration of the annual Rottela Panduga in Nellore district was also not allowed in view of the pandemic situation. New Delhi, Sep 5 : The Delhi police on Sunday said it has arrested four cyber fraudsters involved in over hundred cyber-fraud incidents across six states. The group duped people of over Rs one crore on the pretext of offering dealership of iconic food brands to aspiring businesspersons. They had created several websites to show themselves as authentic and a well-organized system, police said in a statement. "A business aspirant, Rishika Garg came across a website offering dealerships of food brands immediately. She connected with the website and completed documentation process in order to buy franchise. She paid around Rs 74 lakh. Later, she was again asked to pay Rs 6 lakh when she realized she was being cheated," police said. On the basis of a complaint filed by Garg, police swung into action. During the investigation it was found that the fraudsters were using multiple bank accounts and a large number of bogus SIM from different states. Police conducted investigation at various places across the country, including Bihar, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. One of the accused, identified as Vikas, told the police that he sought to change his locations between Bihar and Ludhiana with the help of his relatives Vinod and Santosh. "Vinod helped Vikas to technically change his locations every time because he was working with a CEO of an IT firm," police said, adding, the accused have promoted their fake website with the help of Google ads. Delhi police have launched a special drive against cyber frauds since August 25. New Delhi, Sep 5 : After walking along the banks of the Ganga, a group of army veterans on Sunday declared they will come up with a Ganga Health Dashboard for water quality, work to close 329 nullahs falling into the river, and ensuring Ganga as a legal entity. The army veterans, under the banner of Atulya Ganga, also announced to conduct mass communication activities by via of 'cyclothons' and 'walk the talks' along the Ganga with the involvement of local communities, working for the Nishad (fisherfolk) community, large-scale tree plantation along the river banks, and for including the topic of Ganga rejuvenation in school syllabus. These are part of the first five-year action plan after the veterans walked 5,530 km for 190 days as part of the 'Mundmaal Parikrama' (circumambulation) of the Ganga from December 2020 till June this year. "While walking along the Ganga, we geo-tagged as many as 329 nullahs falling into the Ganga and collected a total of 224 water samples, one at every 15 odd km. The pollution control board has so few water quality monitoring stations. If we do not check water quality at frequent intervals regularly, we do not know the correct picture, it remains under-measured," Atulya Ganga cofounder, Col Manoj Keshwar said while initiating the discussion "Ganga Rejuvenation: The Way Forward". He summed up the findings from during the seven month walkathon as: need for clearly demarcating the land that can be called as Ganga river and its floodplains, more research on "Gangatva", the quintessential Ganga quality that makes the river water revered, need to increase awareness about Ganga's status today, need to rethink dams and barrages in view of the havoc caused especially in the high Himalayan regions and the dying of the ecological flow, and the high siltation in plains in Bihar and Jharkhand. Calling for inclusive approach, he said that Atulya Ganga will actively work with Nishads and work towards forming a National Commission on Fisherfolks Community. Highlighting the Nishads' role, he said: "There is already lot of migration happening. If Nishads leave the Ganga belt, sooner or later, everyone will have to leave." Atulya Ganga mentor, author and journalist, Abhay Mishra said: "Why has Ganga cleaning never become a people's movement? Because the community on the Ganga banks was never involved anywhere." Environmentalist, Gandhian and author of "Jal Thal Mal", a book on sanitation, Sopan Joshi reminded the gathering to not bother about saving the Ganga but think of "what you will do to save yourself? Think of how you will deal with your sewage?" "All this development is being carried out without assessing the carrying capacity. Is everything on sale in the name of Ganga?" asked Mallika Bhanot from NGO Ganga Avahan as she painted a scary picture of the devastation being thrust upon Uttarakhand due to developmental projects. Green India Foundation had partnered with Atulya Ganga right from day one of the walk and had gone on to plant 30,000 indigenous trees along both the banks during the walk. Calling it as 'Vrukshamaal Parikrama', the team not just planted the trees but also ensured someone from the locality was given the responsibility to take care of their growth. "This is very important in view of the fact that against the national average of 23 per cent of forest cover, Ganga basin has only 16 per cent forest cover. Of the states along the Ganga, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar have barely 6-7 per cent of the forest cover and the most distressful is that if we look at just the Ganga banks, the forest cover reduces further to 2-3 per cent," said Green India Foundation's Vijay Shukla, adding that the team plans to continue to plant trees along the Ganga banks over next five years. Sanjay Gupta of India River Alliance underscored the need of demarcating the river boundaries, which, he said, will automatically solve many problems related to floodplains encroachment etc. K.L. Mukherjee from West Bengal said de-silting in the lower reaches of the Ganga and using that silt for various purposes - such as for brick manufacturing - can be worked out to be a commercially viable activity with technical solutions. Dr Vijay Verma spoke on the saints of Matri Sadan in Haridwar and the sacrifices made by its saints for pollution-free, and free-flowing Ganga. Prof Anjali Capila spoke about the river songs from Gangotri till Haridwar. The veterans termed their effort as "an audacious, unprecedented, continuous, multifaceted and record making Atulya Ganga Parikrama, the unbroken walkathon for Ganga Rejuvenation started on December 16, 2020 at Prayagraj and concluded successfully on June 23 this year. This was the brainchild of Gopal Sharma, 79, an ex-military engineer and mountaineer, Lt Col Hem Lohumi, 70, an Antarctica pioneer and mountaineer, Col Keshwar, 53, along with fellow veterans, Maj Gen Brajesh Kumar, Maj Gen Vinod Bhatt, Lt Gen S.A. Cruze, and Lt Gen S.D. Duhan. New Delhi, Sep 5 : Taliban militants in Afghanistan have shot dead a policewoman in a provincial city, BBC has reported. The woman, named in local media as Banu Negar, was killed at the family home in front of relatives in Firozkoh, the capital of central Ghor province. The killing comes amid increasing reports of escalating repression of women in Afghanistan. Details of the incident are still sketchy as many in Firozkoh fear retribution if they speak out. But three sources have told the BBC that the Taliban beat and shot dead Negar in front of her husband and children on Saturday. Relatives supplied graphic images showing blood spattered on a wall in the corner of a room and a body, the face heavily disfigured, the report added. The family say Negar, who worked at the local prison, was eight months pregnant. Three gunmen arrived at the house on Saturday and searched it before tying members of the family up, relatives say. The intruders were heard speaking Arabic, a witness said. The Taliban told the BBC they had no involvement in Negar's death and are investigating the incident. Spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said: "We are aware of the incident and I am confirming that the Taliban have not killed her, our investigation is ongoing." He added that the Taliban had already announced an amnesty for people who worked for the previous administration, and put Negar's murder down to "personal enmity or something else". Shimla, Sep 5 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Sunday inaugurated the renovated 134-year-old police assistance room built by the British India at the historic Mall Road here. He said the importance of this police assistance room functional for the last 134 years exists even today. The state is doing efforts for the preservation of its heritage buildings. The Chief Minister urged corporate organisations to assist in developmental works under corporate social responsibilities. He said even during the coronavirus period many organisations helped in strengthening the health infrastructure in the state. Thakur appreciated the efforts of police department to renovate the heritage police assistance room. He said that people, especially tourists would get police assistance through this assistance room. Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj also appreciated the efforts of police department for renovating the police assistance room and said Shimla is a tourist place of historical importance. Therefore, the government is doing all efforts for the preservation of heritage buildings of Shimla. Director General of Police Sanjay Kundu said Rs 25 lakh were spent on the renovation of the assistance room. Itanagar, Sep 5 : Arunachal Pradesh MLAs from constituencies along the India-China border have come together to prevent the exodus of border residents to urban areas by further developing the 1,080 km frontier area. Assembly Speaker P.D. Sona, who represents Mechuka assembly constituency bordering China, and will lead the newly-formed "Indo-China Border Development Legislators' Forum of Arunachal Pradesh (ICBDLFAP)", on Sunday said that the forum was constituted to formulate plan and strategies to curb the migration of people from the border villages to urban areas. "The villagers along the international borders are still lacking basic amenities due to which they migrate to urban areas in search of better life and livelihoods," Sona said on the necessity of the forum, formed following the meeting of the legislators here on Saturday. MLAs Phurpa Tsering, Mutchu Mithi, and Dasanglu Pul reiterated similar concerns and supported forming "a common platform of legislators of the border areas to emphasise the important issues, as collective requests would be effective". MLA Lokam Tassar, convenor of the ICBDLFAP, suggested modifying the guidelines of the existing Border Areas Development Plan, increase of allocation and submission of block-wise utilisation certification, instead of the existing collective one, which, according to the MLAs, "unnecessarily hampers the implementation of BADP schemes". The forum would soon submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister Pema Khandu on the issue. The 11 MLAs of the border areas stressed that the region need to be developed on priority basis in order to check people's migration. "The inhabitants of the border villages are considered India's first line of defence. They have never failed in reporting transgressions by the Chinese troops. In the past few years, there has been a steady migration of the villagers to state capital Itanagar and other urban areas for livelihood. Basically the border areas remained backward owing to topographical factors and inaccessibility," Tassar said. To maintain their livelihood, people in the areas chiefly practice diverse trades and profession including "Jhuming" (slash and burn method of cultivation) and wet rice cultivation, horticulture, fish farming, carpet making, wood carving, breeding of Mithun, Yak, Sheep and other livestock. Apart from China to the north and the northeast, Arunachal Pradesh also borders Bhutan (160 km), and Myanmar (440km). Guwahati, Sep 5 : The outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent, which had declared a unilateral ceasefire in May in view of the Covid-19 pandemic situation, on Sunday announced a 3-tier council with self-styled "commander-in-chief" Paresh Baruah (Paresh Asom) as President of the Supreme Council. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who has repeatedly appealed to the ULFA-I and other militant outfits to initiate talks with the government, to come to the mainstream, and contribute to further develop the state, on Sunday said that fresh move is on to bring the outfit to the peace process. According to a statement of the militant outfit sent to the media organisations, in the restructured organisational set-up, self-styled 'Major General' Nayan Asom will be the President of both the Higher Council and the Lower Council. The outfit, which had recently further extended its unilateral ceasefire, had, in another positive development, after several decades, abstained from calling for a boycott of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15. The ULFA-I, which is also known as an anti-talk outfit, and various other extremists groups in the northeastern region, regularly called for a boycott of Republic Day and Independence Day functions. In 2005, the ULFA engaged the Peoples Consultative Group (PCG) to discuss the peace process with the Centre, and at least three rounds of discussions were held with the then Manmohan Singh government. However, the outfit subsequently pulled itself out of the talks, citing the government's renewed offensive actions against it. The pro-talk faction of the ULFA was headed by General Secretary Anup Chetia, who was extradited to India from Bangladesh in November 2015, and later, joined the peace process. New Delhi, Sep 5 : The Central government on Sunday reiterated its position that it has always been ready for talks with the farmers. Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur's comment that the government has always been ready to talk with the farmers came in wake of Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait's reported announcement towards the end of Muzaffarnagar Kisan Mahapanchayat that the farmers would run a campaign against Prime Minister Narendra Modi to protest the three farm laws. The government has repeatedly maintained that it has always been ready to discuss farm laws with farmers. "We have deposited Rs 1.5 lakh crore directly into accounts of the farmers under the Kisan Samman Nidhi for helping the farmer. During Covid-19 time too, we have ensured that farmers get all the more help through banks," Thakur told media persons. "Our government has also raised an Agricultural Infrastructure Fund for Rs 1,00,000 crore. Many more agriculture mandis have been opened during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's time and they have been connected to e-NAM," he added. Earlier in the day, thousands of farmers under various banners had assembled at Muzaffarnagar in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh to protest the three farm laws, and also to announce a political campaign ahead of upcoming Assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. New Delhi, Sep 5 : A day after the arrival in Kabul of the head of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Lt Gen Faiz Hamid, the Taliban on Sunday said that he is in Afghanistan to improve bilateral relations between Kabul and Islamabad. Meanwhile, sources close to Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, the leader of Hizb-e-Islami party, said that Hamid also met Hekmatyar, and they discussed the current situation in the country, Tolo News reported. Earlier, Pakistani media reported that Hamid was in Kabul at the invitation of the Taliban, but the Taliban said that Pakistan had proposed his visit to Kabul. Ahmadullah Wasiq, deputy head of the Taliban's Cultural Commission, said the Taliban leaders talked with Hamid about bilateral relations and the problems of Afghan passengers at Torkham and Spin Boldak passes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Tolo News reported. "This Pakistani official has come to solve Afghan passengers' problems at the border areas, especially in Torkham and Spin Boldak. They wanted (his visit to Kabul) and we accepted," Wasiq said. Asked by a reporter about his visit to Kabul, Hamid said: "Don't worry, everything will be okay." Hamid also said that his country will provide technical support for Afghanistan to restart operations at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul. "Although Hamid says his visit is for Afghanistan-Pakistan issues and for the Afghan passengers, I think his trip to Kabul has caused concerns among the Afghans and it means Pakistan will recognize the government that the Taliban will announce," said Sami Yousufzai, a journalist. Hamid arrived in Kabul on Saturday and is the only high-ranking foreign official to visit Kabul following the Taliban's takeover of the city, the report said. Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 5 : As the nation celebrates Teacher's Day on September 5 and accolades and awards for teachers pour in, life is uncertain for a group of Kerala teachers who brave wild animals, hostile weather and treks into deep forests to keep single teacher schools running. There are 344 teachers across the state who have taken this job of uplifting the lives of children who live in deep forests. These teachers are, however, have not been given their due and are still working as temporary hands. Sukumaran T.C is an example of such an exemplary teacher who braves all odds and walks 7 km one way to teach children in tribal hamlets within the forest area of Chekkady in Wayanad district since January 1, 2001. Talking to IANS, Sukumaran said: "Life is tough and I had to trek 14 km through the dense forests and had even seen a tusker directly 20 metres from me and there was no point that I could turn back and run. I walked past him with a pounding heart and even now I feel a tremor inside me when I think of that incident. Several times I had seen a calf and elephant in the forest but had not ventured into the road." Almost all the teachers across the state are facing a similar situation and Mariamma, 43, a of a single teacher school in Idukki district, echoed the same difficulties and trauma she faces while traveling deep in the forest to teach children of Muthuvan tribe. "I have to walk 23 km one way to reach the tribal hamlet deep inside the forest. I start by 7 a.m. and after brisk walking for four hours, reach the tribal hamlet of Muthuvan tribe. Narrow roads and the presence of wild animals like elephants, leopards, and boars make the journey too risky. I have encountered elephants en route as well as venomous snakes. Life is a risk day in and day out but giving light to the lives of these children makes me forget all these issues and it's my passion now for the past twenty years," Mariamma told IANS. Both the major political fronts of Kerala, the ruling LDF and the opposition UDF, had long been promising these teachers that they would be made permanent and that they would be provided pensions but nothing has materialised. Sukumaran said: "We are expecting this government to finally issue an order making us permanent employees. That would give a semblance of self-respect as well as security to an otherwise uncertain life we have led for the past several years." He said that Lissy, a teacher at Kattampuzha in Ernakulam district, was trampled to death by a wild tusker a few years back and said that this can happen to any of these teachers. On the Teachers Day, these group of dedicated educators remain hopeful that the government would take decisions that would wipe out misery from their lives. Colombo Sep 6 : The Sri Lankan Navy has apprehended a trawler, allegedly involved in drug trafficking, in the high seas off Male, and brought it back to Colombo. Seven persons, all Pakistan nationals, were taken in custody, and 336 kg heroin was seized in the operation earlier this week. The trawler, reportedly acting as a multi-day fishing trawler, was transporting drug consignments to other boats, and investigations are still in progress. No weapons were recovered so far. The stock of heroin weighing 336 kg with a street value of around Rs 3.1 billion was detected by the Sri Lanka Navy was found in this operation. A seven-member crew were found to be Pakistan nationals with a multi-day fishing vessel used to transport the heroin from a foreign port. The operation was the culmination of a stringent three weeks of surveillance and information sharing between the Navy and intelligence agencies. Uncommon is a timeless book (1 of 2 volumes) showing the value of Sunday school across the nation over a period of 200 years from the late 1700s to the present day. Author L. David Cunningham shares the stories of Uncommon Sunday School Teachers, Volume 1: High Profile People Who Dedicated Their Lives to Teaching Sunday School ($20.49, paperback, 9781662812224; $31.49, hard cover, 9781662812231; $9.99, e-book, 9781662812248). While many will recognize the names of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. or President Jimmy Carter, the same people will likely not be aware of their devotion as Sunday school teachers. Sunday school ministry helped shape the lives of these national leaders, as well as others whose stories are told in this inspiring tribute. Uncommon is a timeless book (1 of 2 volumes) showing the value of Sunday school across the nation over a period of 200 years from the late 1700s to the present day, said Cunningham. L. David Cunningham is the retired Florida Baptist State Convention Sunday School director. (1984-2001). He served as Minister of Education for First Baptist Church, Orlando, (1973-84) prior to his selection by the state convention. A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Cunningham served churches in Music and Education ministry from 1955 1972 in Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma and Alabama. He is a graduate of Ouachita Baptist University (B.A. 1959), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MRE 1965), and was Ordained by Plymouth Park Baptist Church, Irving, Texas. David and his wife Nancy make their home in Jacksonville, Florida. ### Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the worlds largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Uncommon Sunday School Teachers is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com. Building on their existing commitments, the five-year partnership has been designed to increase representation of disabled talent both on-screen and off-screen, to widen the range of stories produced and give disabled writers and creatives greater choice when it comes to the sort of stories they wish to tell.Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent creators are some of the least well represented groups on television in the UK. Put simply, we want to change that fact, said Anne Mensah, Netflix vice president, series, UK. Together with the BBC, we hope to help these creators to tell the biggest and boldest stories and speak to the broadest possible British and Global audience. Its been hugely exciting to develop this project withthe BBC Drama team and we are incredibly passionate about the creative possibilities of this partnership.In the collaboration, the BBC and Netflix will consider projects from UK producers that have been created or co-created by writers who identify as deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent. All projects are to be created or co-created by deaf, disabled and neurodivergent writers. Pitches can draw imaginatively on any genre, precinct or world. We are looking for ideas which feel ambitious and elevated, and which challenge the limits that the industry might unconsciously put on disability. The intention of the partnership is to firmly place the shows alongside our most talked about and original dramas already being developed.We recognise the need for change and we hope that in coming together the BBC and Netflix have created a funding model which will help level the playing field for deaf, disabled and neurodivergent creators in the UK, added BBC director of drama Piers Wenger. We would like to thank [Anne Mensah, Netflix vice president, series, UK] and her team for the readiness and vision they have shown in coming on board to develop this initiative with us.The BBC and Netflix will issue a creative brief and outline of the process which will be made available to all producers, alongside a webinar. All projects will be assessed and developed jointly, but the BBC will be the point of entry for all project submissions and pitches for the initiative. The opportunity is open to eligible UK based production companies only (please see eligibility criteria below). Submissions should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. It goes without saying that Republicans are pretty disturbed by the Biden administration's incompetent, neglectful, poorly planned, and disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan. But quite a few Democratic officeholders in Washington, who don't see it as their job to go down with President Joe Biden's Before he became president, stories about now-President Joe Biden phoning friends and even strangers to offer comfort after deaths in their family were legend. Having endured the awful deaths of a wife and baby daughter in 1972 and elder son Beau in 2015, Biden was, in news-speak, "shaped by grief." Politico's Michael Kruse called grief Biden's "superpower." The quick-with-a-hug Biden entered office as a seeming natural "comforter in chief." Something has changed. Biden's halo of compassion lost some sheen Sunday at Dover Air Force Base when he talked privately to the families of 13 fallen service members who died in Kabul. During the "dignified transfer" ceremony, Biden was caught on camera repeatedly checking his watch. Later, after Biden approached grieving family members to offer his condolences, many said that his remarks lacked authenticity. "I was able to stand about 15 seconds of his fake, scripted apology and I had to walk away," Cheyenne McCollum, whose brother Lance Cpl. Rylee McCollum died in the terrorist attack, told "Fox and Friends." Asked about some families' disappointment with Biden's attempt to console them, White House press secretary Jen Psaki declined to expound on what was said. She did offer that Biden is grateful for the families' sacrifice and "he knows firsthand what it's like to lose a child." Psaki's response was as tone-deaf as Biden's remarks to mourning families, as both the president and his spokesperson made these 13 deaths about Biden and his grief. "When he just kept talking about his son so much it was just -- my interest was lost in that. I was more focused on my own son than what happened with him and his son," Mark Schmitz, whose 20-year-old son Jared was killed in the explosion, told The Washington Post. "I'm not trying to insult the president, but it just didn't seem that appropriate to spend that much time on his own son." "I think it was all him trying to say he understands grief," Schmitz added. "But when you're the one responsible for ultimately the way things went down, you kind of feel like that person should own it a little bit more. Our son is now gone. Because of a direct decision or game plan -- or lack thereof -- that he put in place." Biden frequently mentions his son Beau, who was awarded a Bronze Star for his service in Iraq, as a way to show kinship with U.S. troops and their families. Better to talk about Beau Biden's military service than the president's five student draft deferments. Now he is the commander in chief, and he's found himself in the position of former President George W. Bush. This time, mourning parents aren't blaming a president for sending their children to war to die. They're angry that he ordered a botched withdrawal in which their children were killed -- and he thought it was about his grief. He doesn't know what to say to them, and I don't know what to say about him, other than: He doesn't seem to be in command. COPYRIGHT 2021 CREATORS.COM In mid-August, owing to shoddy planning and execution, the Biden administrations frenetic troop withdrawal paved the way to the Talibans lightning takeover of Afghanistan. The United States left stranded behind enemy lines at least hundreds of U.S. citizens and tens of thousands of Afghans who supported American efforts. Billions and perhaps tens of billions of dollars of weapons from pistols, assault rifles, and machine guns, to Humvees, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft fell into Taliban hands. In self-defense, Biden and his team launched volleys of obfuscation, culminating with the presidents Aug. 31 White House speech in which he portrayed flagrant ineptitude as the extraordinary success of tough-minded statecraft dealing with the inevitable disarray and violence following a hard-but-correct decision to end Americas two-decades-long military presence in Afghanistan. With the crisis unfolding on the ground halfway around the world, White House gaslighting heightened confusion about the purpose of American foreign policy. Even as the Chinese Communist Partys quest for global hegemony has supplanted Islamic extremism as Americas leading geopolitical challenge, the Biden administrations Afghanistan debacle shows that the United States has yet to come to grips with the lessons for freedom from Americas 20 years of war against jihadism. Neither military necessity nor sober diplomatic calculation determined President Bidens decision to remove all American troops from Afghanistan by Aug. 31 in the middle of the Talibans warm-weather fighting season, much less his teams conduct of the tragically ill-conceived pullout. Contrary to his insistence in an Aug. 16 White House address to the nation, which he repeated in White House remarks on Aug. 20, at an Aug. 26 White House press conference, and again on Aug. 31 Biden was not hamstrung by the Trump administrations February 2020 agreement with the Taliban. Since taking office in January, the 46th president has aggressively exercised his executive prerogative to rescind Trump administration executive orders, repudiate Trump administration priorities, and reverse Trump administration policies. Had the Biden administration genuinely considered itself bound by the Doha agreement, it would have taken seriously the provision that conditioned the withdrawal of American troops on [g]uarantees and enforcement mechanisms that will prevent the use of the soil of Afghanistan by any group or individual against the security of the United States and its allies. The Talibans manifest failure to live up to their end of the bargain nullified the United States obligation to complete the withdrawal. Nothing in the Doha agreement, moreover, compelled the Biden administration to vacate Bagram Airfield in early July in the middle of the night, well in advance of the final troop pullout and without informing the bases Afghan commander. Nor did the agreement require the Biden administration to complete the withdrawal before evacuating all American nationals and Afghans who had worked with the United States. Biden also repeatedly misled the nation by suggesting that he faced a stark choice: continue Americas failed efforts at nation building or remove all American troops. Biden falsely implied that the only conceivable purpose of retaining a modest military presence in Afghanistan was to promote democracy and freedom. There was also, for example, our counterterrorism mission to consider. The president could have ordered a small security contingent to remain in Afghanistan to preserve the stalemate. By continuing to provide aircover and intelligence, several thousand U.S. troops could very well have sustained the Afghan National Army. This would prevent the country from falling into the Talibans hands and reverting to a launching pad for jihadism against American targets around the world. Meanwhile, though the Talibans conquest of Afghanistan might trigger a surge of regional instability, Zhou Bo, a senior colonel in the Peoples Liberation Army from 2003 to 2020, boasted in the New York Times that China is ready to step into the void left by the hasty U.S. retreat to seize a golden opportunity, including Chinese Belt and Road Initiative construction projects in Afghanistan and mining of the abundant rare-earth mineral deposits there. Chinese state-run media warned Taiwan that American fecklessness in Afghanistan shows that the United States cannot be trusted. Aesthetics and domestic political considerations seem to have impelled Biden to set a firm date of Aug. 31 to make a clean break with his predecessors policies. Proud of its commitment to making American foreign policy work better for the middle class and working class, the Biden administration pandered to its own dubious perceptions of those classes preferences. Apparently, the president and his advisers anticipated a public relations bonanza from celebrating the conclusion of Americas involvement in Afghanistan by the 20th anniversary of al-Qaedas 9/11 attacks. The costs of this subordination of national security to partisan politics are staggering. The U.S. actions that plunged Afghanistan into chaos are reverberating around the world. The demonstration for all to see of weakness, amateurishness, and perfidy disheartens Americas friends and emboldens Americas enemies. And it compounds confusion and controversy at home two decades in the making and growing about Americas purposes abroad. In 2000, George W. Bush campaigned against nation building in foreign policy and in favor of humility on the world stage. In September 2001, eight months after he entered the White House, he confronted the smoldering ruins of the twin towers of New York Citys World Trade Center, the charred and gaping gash in the Pentagon, and the burned-out remnants of United Flight 93 in a western Pennsylvania field, along with the almost 3,000 Americans killed and tens of billions of dollars of near-term damage to the country. Al-Qaedas attacks that day, undertaken in service of the religious war that Osama bin Laden declared in 1996 against the United States and the freedom and democracy to which it is dedicated, changed President Bushs calculations. In the face of the threat posed by rogue states as well as stateless terrorists acquiring weapons of mass destruction biological, chemical, and nuclear Bush resolved that the United States must go on the offensive. In October 2001, he dispatched troops to Afghanistan to eliminate the haven that the ruling Taliban provided to bin Ladens al-Qaeda network. Within two months, Operation Enduring Freedom destroyed al-Qaedas camps and routed the Taliban. Determined to prevent Afghanistan from serving again as a base for jihadism, the administration eventually adopted the promotion of democracy and freedom in Afghanistan as one of its objectives. In mid-March 2003, Bush launched Operation Iraqi Freedom to oust Saddam Hussein who, in defiance of numerous U.N. Security Council Resolutions, had long pursued WMD. By the end of April, coalition forces drove Saddam from Baghdad and gained control over the country. Following the conclusion of major military operations, U.S. and international investigators, despite uncovering numerous plans and programs, found little evidence that the dictator had made significant progress in acquiring WMD. Convinced, nevertheless, that dictatorship was a principal source of poverty, religious extremism, and political instability in the Middle East, the Bush administration expanded the U.S. mission in Iraq to include the promotion of democracy and freedom. Gross miscalculations, grave setbacks, and recurring deceptions and self-deceptions in Afghanistan and Iraq over the last two decades have brought nation building another way of saying the promotion of democracy and freedom, since rights-respecting democracy is the only sort of regime that the United States seeks to build into disrepute. More than 7,000 American soldiers lost their lives in Afghanistan and Iraq and tens of thousands were wounded. Direct Afghanistan and Iraq war costs to the U.S. taxpayer exceed $2 trillion. Notwithstanding genuine accomplishments in the two countries, Iraqs Shiite-led government leans toward Iran, the worlds leading state-sponsor of terror and the United States primary adversary in the region, while a better trained and equipped Taliban now control more of Afghanistan than on 9/11. For many on the left and the right, the Biden administrations calamitous pullout cements the conclusion they reached by the end of the Bush administration: promoting democracy and freedom are beyond Americas capabilities, impose destabilizing practices and institutions on local populations, and have no place in a responsible U.S. foreign policy. The better conclusion, however, is that to serve the nations surpassing interest in securing the conditions conducive to freedom at home, U.S. foreign policy must responsibly identify opportunities to advance it abroad. In support of that conclusion, the two decades since the Sept. 11 attacks furnish several lessons of freedom, paid for with blood and treasure. First, the conventional categories of foreign policy analysis realists vs. idealists, isolationists vs. interventionists, and nationalists vs. globalists should be set aside because they reflect hidebound dichotomies that derail clear thinking about Americas role in the world. The challenge is not to choose one of the poles but to secure American freedom by striking a reasonable balance among competing imperatives. U.S. foreign policy should begin with a clear-eyed assessment of the motives, aims, and geopolitical logic that drive nation-states while never losing sight, on the one hand, of how customs and ideas shape regime conduct and, on the other hand, of the rights inherent in all human beings. U.S. foreign policy should be grounded in Americas needs and priorities, which include the preservation of a free and open international order, while fashioning plans to act abroad from speeches, educational initiatives, and foreign aid to (always as a last resort) military operations to defend U.S. interests. And U.S. foreign policy should insist that sovereign nation-states are the fundamental political unit of international affairs even as securing freedom at home compels America to cultivate a diversity of friends, partners, and allies and to maintain and reform international institutions to promote comity and commerce among nations. Second, the United States must distinguish between promoting democracy and promoting freedom. Both conservatives and progressives have a bad habit of treating these undertakings as synonymous. They are not. Although liberal democracies such as the United States weave together freedom and democracy to the benefit of both, they are separable and distinct achievements. Democracy refers to the peoples rule through fair elections. Hence, promoting democracy usually implies regime change. In contrast, freedom which in the first place means the ability to choose how to live ones life instead of being commanded by another can be a matter of degree and enjoyed to a greater or lesser extent under a variety of regimes. Accordingly, freedom can be advanced more religious liberty, more economic freedom, more free speech, more independence in the judiciary incrementally and without replacing an authoritarian regime with a democratic one. Because freer nations are not only more respectful of human rights but also tend to be more productive, more reliable, and more aligned with the United States interest in a free and open international order, hardheaded political calculation requires the prudent allocation of scarce resources to advance freedom abroad. Third, Americas ability to advance freedom abroad is, in most circumstances, severely limited. In 2012, after devoting the better part of a decade to establishing the American University of Iraq in Sulaimani, John Agresto reconsidered Americas post-9/11 foreign policy aims. It is one thing, Agresto argued, to say that all people deserve freedom. That proposition reflects the principles of the American Declaration of Independence and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. However, Agresto added, it is flat-out wrong to say that all people desire freedom. That proposition is contradicted by history and the diversity of nations and peoples today. Indeed, some people would rather be holy than free, or safe than free, or be instructed in how they should lead their lives rather than be free, Agresto observed. Many prefer the comfort of strong answers already given rather than the openness and hazards of freedom. There are those who would never dream of substituting their will for the imams or pushing their desires over the customs and traditions of their families. Some men kiss their chains. Fourth, because the desire for freedom and equally important to the establishment and preservation of free institutions the appreciation for the right of others to a like freedom depend on a peoples traditions, the U.S. foreign policy establishment must improve its understanding of other nations cultures. Such cultural understanding is a prerequisite not only to understanding strategic competitors and adversaries but also to determining where advancing freedom is most feasible and to ascertaining the best available means. A crucial step in the acquisition of such cultural understanding is a concerted national effort to encourage the serious study of critical foreign languages. Fifth, the United States must rededicate itself to educating Americans for liberty. Citizens indoctrinated from grade school on up with the notions that oppression is pervasive in the United States, that government and society must allocate rewards and burdens based on race, and that America is a uniquely iniquitous nation will be in no position to safeguard freedom at home, let alone understand the limited means by which America can advance it abroad. Instead, from K-12 through college the core curriculum must explore the principles of freedom on which the United States is based and the constitutional traditions through which those principles have been institutionalized an exploration that includes the nations tragic betrayals of those principles and the heroic struggles to set things right. Individual freedom, human equality, the consent of the governed, limited government, and a foreign policy dedicated to securing American freedom should be seen for what they are not a set of partisan commitments but the nations precious heritage and the basis on which right and left in America can constructively debate, and cooperate in determining, whats best for the nation. The debacle in Afghanistan coupled with the magnitude of the China challenge make the learning of these lessons of freedom from Americas 20 years of war against jihadism a vital national interest. For U.S. presidents there is a high bar when it comes to accountability. It was put there by Harry Truman in the form of a frontier aphorism about accepting responsibility. He placed it on his Oval Office desk for all to see. The buck stops here! it read, a reminder to Truman and all who came after him that it is unseemly for a commander-in-chief to shirk this duty, or to make excuses when things go wrong. The greatest part of the presidents job is to make decisionsbig ones and small ones, dozens of them almost every day, Truman explained in his farewell address. The papers may circulate around the government for a while, but they finally reach this desk. And then, there's no place else for them to go. The presidentwhoever he ishas to decide. He cant pass the buck to anybody. No one else can do the deciding for him. Thats his job. Yet, its also human nature to try and deflect culpability by pointing out others shortcomingsso much so that Jesus of Nazareth warned his followers against it. And presidents are all too human, as Americans have been reminded in the last few weeks watching Joe Biden pass the buck for the violent and chaotic U.S. exit from Afghanistan. He hasnt reminded anyone of Harry Truman. I take responsibility for the decision, Biden said Tuesday. On Aug. 16, he was equally explicit: Im the president of the United States, the buck stops with me. Except that he has blamed, in turn, faulty intelligence, Afghanistans president, the Afghan army and, of course, Donald Trump. Most incongruously, Biden even blamed the Americans left behind in Kabul who couldnt make it past Taliban checkpoints to the airport. Since March, we reached out 19 times to Americans in Afghanistan, with multiple warnings and offers to help them leave Afghanistan, he said. All the way back as far as March. Among those who havent appreciated Bidens buck-passing are the families of the 10 U.S. Marines and three other service members killed by a suicide bomber at the Kabul airport. These Gold Star families are not alone: Bidens job approval rating has plummeted in the past two weeks. Voters judge presidents by their actions, even when the results are beyond their ability to control. But it also seems that many Americans respect leaders who own up to their mistakes. Doing so, however, cuts against a modern political ethos in which politicians are relentlessly on the offensive and always blaming the other side. Although this wasnt always the culture in U.S. politics, the tension between taking the heat and wanting to passing the buck is not new. In the aftermath of the CIAs Bay of Pigs debacle, for example, John F. Kennedy sounded resigned to accepting blame. In April 1961, during the 10th press conference of his three-month-old presidency, Kennedy acknowledged as much while answering a question from legendary NBC correspondent Sander Vanocur about why information wasnt more forthcoming from the administration about the disastrous attempt to invade Cuba. Theres an old saying that victory has 100 fathers and defeat is an orphan, Kennedy noted ruefully. Further statements, detailed discussions, are not to conceal responsibility because I'm the responsible officer of the government But almost immediately, Kennedy aides gave background briefings to reporters in which they pointed fingers at Kennedys predecessor. And while it was true that the CIA planned this ill-conceived Cuba adventure under Dwight Eisenhowers tenure in the White House, it was Kennedy who gave the go-ahead. When Stewart Udall, a member of Kennedys Cabinet, made the mistake of publicly faulting Eisenhower, Richard Nixonwhod been Ikes vice president and JFKs 1960 opponentissued a blistering public statement. It was left to White House press secretary Pierre Salinger to clearly say that, yes, the buck stopped with President Kennedy. JFK was hardly alone. Some of Americas most popular postwar presidents have struggled living up to Harry Trumans example. Their first instinct is usually best, but they dont always stick to it. After the horrific Lebanon barracks bombing in 1983, a suicide attack that killed more than 20 times the number of Marines lost recently at the Kabul airport, a statement was drafted by White House aides that seemed to hold the military commanders accountable. President Reagan refused to give it. Instead, he ordered that no military officer be court-martialed or disciplined and told the White House press corps: If there is to be blame, it properly rests here in this office and with this president. And I accept responsibility for the bad as well as the good. By 1987, during the endless recriminations for the scandal known as Iran-contra, Reagan wavered from this path, however. White House aides quietly told reporters that the president was gratified when former National Security Adviser John Poindexter admitted that he had concealed from Reagan that profits from Iranian arms sales had been diverted to Nicaraguan rebels known as the contras. The buck stops with me, Poindexter said. But no American had ever voted to elect Adm. Poindexter president and his mea culpa was widely panned. Reagan had a convenient habit of not remembering decisions that turned out badly. This excuse was a double-edged sword for a 76-year-old president. It skirted the line of admitting that he was out to lunch, as satirist Art Buchwald pointed out wryly. The White House has changed its strategy in regards to what the president knew about the contra connection and when he knew it, Buchwald wrote. Originally, the president didnt know anything. He didnt even know where Nicaragua is. The larger scandal, although this point seemed to elude Democrats and the media, wasnt the contra angle. It was that the administration had sold lethal armaments to the ayatollahs at a time the U.S. was leading an embargo against Iran in hopes of retrieving American hostages. Ultimately, when confronted with the evidence that he approved this ill-fated scheme, Reagan fessed up, albeit reluctantly. A few months ago I told the American people that I did not trade arms for hostages, Reagan said in a March 4, 1987, Oval Office address. My heart and my best intentions still tell me that is true, but the facts and evidence tell me it is not. In 2012, on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, protesters demonstrated outside the U.S. Embassy in Cairo, Egypt. Meanwhile, the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya, was overrun by an armed and well-organized mob that killed four Americans, including Ambassador Chris Stevens. In the aftermath, President Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, and leading Capitol Hill Democrats pointed fingers in every direction other than the White House. At first, they conflated the two events in Cairo and Benghazi. Then, they blamed some schmuck in California for making an anti-Muslim video and dispatched U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice to appear on all the networks to peddle this dubious story. When finally conceding that the Libyan attack was a well-planned operation that had nothing to do with Cairo militants whod never even heard of the video in question, nobody in the White House stepped forward except to point fingers at the State Department. We werent told they wanted more security, Biden insisted during an Oct. 11 vice presidential debate. Getting the message, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton channeled John Poindexter. I take responsibility. I'm in charge of the State Departments 60,000-plus people all over the world275 posts, she told CNN. The president and the vice president wouldnt be knowledgeable about specific decisions that are made by security professionals. That makes sense, but Clinton didnt really mean it; she was just protecting the White House. After an independent review board found that the State Department had ignored requests for enhanced security, the responsibility for this disaster fell to four unnamed careerists who faced some undescribed discipline and the resignation of an undersecretary who remained as a consultant to the department. In the Obama administration, one might say, the buck stopped with a dedicated career public servant named Eric Boswell. It will surprise no one that Donald Trump was almost uniquely the un-Harry Truman. A man who actually boasted that hed never read a presidential biography, Trump didnt even give lip service to the ethos espoused, if often in the breach, by his predecessors. In January 2019, his administration played chicken with congressional Democrats over funding his beloved (by him) border wall. The Democrats said they werent going to appropriate the money and then stuck to their guns. On the 20th day of the partial government shutdown that resulted, Trump was asked on the White House driveway whether the buck stopped with him on the shutdown. The buck stops with everybody, Trump replied before launching into an attack on the Democrats record on crime. In a nice play on words, one CNN wag quipped that the buck really stopped for 80,000 federal employees not getting paychecks. And though Trump had a valid point about the shutdown, this attitude would foreshadow his style of leadership when things really got scary: i.e., when COVID-19 hit these shores. Asked by NBCs Kristin Welker whether he bore any responsibility for the CDCs botched and tardy rollout of a coronavirus test, Trump replied, No, I dont take responsibility at all. He then added mysteriously, We were given rules, regulations, and specifications from a different time. In a subsequent tweet, Trump amplified, President Obama made changes that only complicated matters further. So, for Trump, the buck stopped with Obama. Joe Biden has returned the favor in the wake of the awful Afghanistan pullout. As things started to unravel, the 46th president said it was the 45th who had left the Taliban in the strongest military position since 2001. Biden went on to blame many others (though never himself) while adding a new wrinkle to the presidential avoid-the-blame game. This disaster wasnt my fault, he said, but didnt it all turn out great? He was talking about the airlift efforts, and in evaluating himself, this president likes to grade on the curve. The mission, Biden proclaimed, was an extraordinary success. 73, of Traverse City, died Sept. 6, 2021. Marty was the former owner of The Diner and Marty's 3 Mile Carryout. He is survived by wife, Betty; children, Mitchell and Melissa; grandchildren; brother, Bill and step-children, Alyssa, Aislyn and Lucas Johnson. Marty was preceded in death by his s On Sept. 10 around 11:10 p.m., Banning Police was called regardinga possible shooting at a residence in the 1300 block of Almond Way in Banning. Local Athens sign shop FastSigns places the first of a handful of animal graphics on the outside of the new Athens Area Humane Society building on Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 in Athens, Georgia. The organization is currently in the process of moving from their Mars Hill Road location in Watkinsville to a larger facility off of Atlanta Highway. Beckley, WV (25801) Today Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 79F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms during the evening, then cloudy skies overnight. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. COLEBROOK Hundreds of people spent a picture-perfect, late-summer day at the 76th annual Colebrook Fair Saturday. After a one-year hiatus because of the COVID-19 pandemic, people were back in force some with masks, and some without to browse through several dozen vendor booths, play games that included a frog-jumping contest, sample baked goods and an assortment of other foods and walk-through a car show. The fairs highly popular and entertaining cardboard regatta was well-attended, and kids were treated to face-painting, pony rides, balloon-twisting, a pet show and a pie-eating contest. This is fabulous. Its small town America at its best, said Beth Smith, who traveled with her family from Shrewsbury, Mass., to attend the fair and visit her mom, Sally Bainbridge, a Colebrook resident. We need more of this, and its great to see people back enjoying themselves together, Bainbridge said. Quite a few activities were for children, which, as Town Clerk Debbi McKeon said, was one of the main purposes of the fair, traditionally held on Labor Day weekend since its beginnings. The fair began in 1944 during World War II and was a way to get the kids playing together and give them something fun to do, she said. The frog-jumping contest was one of the events in the first fair and continues to this day. According to McKeon, a local teacher thought a little fair would be fun for her students during World War II. The first fair was small, with live music from a bandstand, a fortune teller and a table with farm products and crafts. But it was successful, and the next year, they held the fair again and people came from surrounding towns. Colebrook Associates, a civic organization that provides support to local residents in need, took over the fair in 1946, and with the towns help, the Colebrook Fair became an annual activity. In 2012, the town took over the fairs operations and added more attractions. The fairs traditional activities remained, supervised by local volunteers. McKeon said, We missed last year, but its great to see so many people back this year. The number of people really increased when the car show was started about nine years ago. Many people were milling about the antique and new cars, on display in a lower field near the town center. Inside the Senior and Community Center, a silent auction and baked goods sale were taking place, which benefited the center and its programs, said Deborah Crowell, Senior and Community Center director. (We) are back open and holding events, so we encourage people to come down and join us, Crowell said. We are selling pies, have a raffle and holding a silent auction to raise money for the center. Its really great to see a big crowd. A larger group of spectators were gathered around the Colebrook Volunteer Fire Departments trucks, on display near the Senior and Community Center. Members of the departments rescue team gave a demonstration of the jaws of life that is used to extract people trapped in a car after an accident. During the morning, music by Frank and Sam Guglielmino of the Mad River Band entertained the crowd, with Jim Moore and the Guglielminos performing in the afternoon. Julia Stewart and her husband, Mike, owners of Simply Jam, were near the Senior and Community Center kitchen where she and her spouse whip up their tasty creations. We really needed something like this, especially the kids, said Julia Stewart. Its nice to see smiles and people interacting. Some have masks and others dont but I dont see anyone getting upset at anybody else about their choice, and thats a good thing. One of the vendors, Colossal Kielbasa, traveled from Stratford for the Colebrook Fair. We started as a small undertaking to raise money for our mens society at St. Josephs Church in Stratford, said Rob Shandrowski, who was working the busy booth with his brother, Joe Shandrowski and Brian Putorak, the latter whipping up some softly fried pirogues with onions. It was a good day in Colebrook, this town of some 1,700 people that probably best be described as usually blissfully sleepy. But that term didnt apply Saturday the towns center was alive with people, and lots of laughter, banter and smiles. While the vehicles manufactured by Tesla seem too big for middle-class Indian pockets, recent reports suggest that prices of the same might be slashed considerably soon. According to a report by Electrek, Tesla CEO and tech mogul Elon Musk is also working on taking the self-driving experience to new heights as the upcoming vehicle will be fully automated and without a steering wheel. What causes the price drop? The price reduction is being accredited to Tesla's brand new battery cell from its new cell manufacturing unit, which will impressively bring down the costs by 50%. In India, however, the heavy excise duties imposed on the import of vehicles by the Central government might further catapult the prices. Currently, Indians spend Rs 50 lakhs for the lowest-priced vehicle, Model Y. The government charges 60% import tax on Tesla cars above Rs 29 lakhs and 100% on cars above this range. In a recent meeting between the Central government and the company in August, the former advised considering importing partially built cars for exemption in taxes. What's new? In another surprise to Teslaratis, Musk has plans to hit the roads, this time without a steering wheel. Notably, the cars will be all-automatic in an attempt to go fully driverless. Besides, the cars will be a hatchback version instead of a sedan like Model X and Model S. As per reports, Tesla will commence the production by 2023 from its manufacturing unit Gigafactory in China's Shanghai from where it will also ship the units globally. Meanwhile, Tesla has amplified the buzz around its presence in India, as it won the Centre's approval last month for four of its variants, names of which are undisclosed yet, reported Tesla Club India on Twitter. The company currently provides four variants, namely Model S, Model X, Model Y and Model 3, with the Cybertruck in process. This development is a level up for the leader in the electric car market, as Tesla reinvented its steering wheel from the conventional steering system to an aeroplane-like steering wheel for the new Model S released back in January. Image Credit: Unsplash Dil Bechara actor Sanjana Sanghi surely knows how to celebrate momentous occasions with pomp and fervour. Sanjana rang in her 25th birthday looking magical in the Maldives, showering fans with frequent updates from her dreamy vacation. Her social media posts are a testament that her 'quarter-life century' is something the actor will remember for a long time. In her posts, she can be seen enjoying a luscious breakfast buffet, devouring a delicious birthday cake with drinks in a serene setting as she sizzles in beautiful outfits. Have a look at her birthday timeline. Sanjana Sanghi clocks 25 years in the Maldives Her birthday posts began with the actor penning a heartfelt note, expressing gratitude to her fans and followers, hoping that her 25th year would be 'limitless, peaceful & calm'. She wrote, "Thank you, from the bottom-most pit of my heart for the abundance of your love, your embrace & blessings. Its just as warm & fuzzy as the beautiful sun & the sand here. Thank you for making the fire and desire only soar higher to work as hard as I possibly can to tell stories and entertain you. Its such an honor[sic]." Calling her time off in order to 'reset and repurpose', she mentioned, "Ive been crazy about birthdays since I was a little girl, as a day to celebrate love, friendship, learnings & life. And its been all that, and more. For the first time ever, I chose to make sure to zoom out, get some time away to reset, repurpose. Now, diving back into that ocean - and its brimming both with gratitude & overwhelm[sic]. In the second post, Sanghi can be seen in a mint green co-ordinate set as she poses in a gorgeous backdrop. Uploading a string of photos, she wrote, "Quarter-life century & slices of paradise unlocked. [sic]." In the ultimate birthday post series, Sanjana can be seen having a gala time by the pool, as she raised a toast to her birthday while devouring a delicious looking cake that read," Happy Birthday Sanjana". Posting the short video, Sanjana wrote, "Issa jive to 25[sic]." More on Sanjana's work front The actor, who marked her Bollywood appearance with a short cameo in Ranbir Kapoor's Rockstar, rose to fame after starring in late Sushant Singh Rajput's Dil Bechara. She will be seen next in Kapil Verma's Om: The Battle Within with Aditya Roy Kapur. For the unversed, Sanjana has also essayed supporting characters in movies like Hindi Medium and Fukrey Returns. (IMAGE- Sanjanasanghi96/ INSTA) Thor: Love and Thunder star Chris Hemsworth has always been vocal in showing love towards his family members on social media, including his goofy brother Liam Hemsworth. The actor keeps uploading unseen photos of the Hemsworth clan as they embark on various adventures. Now, in lieu of Father's day in Australia, Chris took to his Instagram account and posted a series of unseen family photos, and addressed his father as 'big b****y champion'. Chris Hemsworth celebrates Father's day by sharing rare photos In the first photo, Chris can be seen posing happily with his father as they click a selfie. But what follows is sure to tickle fans' curiosity, the two other photos are throwbacks, showcasing Chris and his brothers Liam and Luke from their childhood days. One can see the uncanny resemblance between Chris and his father's younger self. The 38-year-old wrote a lovely message, that read," "Happy Fathers Day you big b****y champion!! Thanks for always being there. Love ya da.". Have a look. As soon as he uploaded the picture, netizens pointed at similarities in the father-son duo. One user called them "Thor and Odin., while another Wow, So alike!!!". Among others was Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson who quickly reacted to Hemsworth's post, wishing the duo on father's day. "Wow that Apple did not fall far from that tree. Happy Fathers Day to both of you studs," he wrote. More from Chris Hemsworth's Instagram Chris Hemsworth's Instagram is filled with goofy photos of his family doing the most random chores. Recently the actor's old pictures have resurfaced in which he can be seen trying to kiss a cow. The Marvel star was trending on his 2016 trip to India with wife Elsa following his brief romantic take with a cow. Chris uploaded the photo, captioning it, Give us a kiss gorgeous. Have a look at the hilarious snap. Meanwhile, Chris celebrated his 38th birthday last month on August 11 as well as recently wrapped the shoot for his much anticipated Thor: Love and Thunder. The upcoming Marvel movie is directed by Taika Waititi, and will also star Tessa Thompson, Natalie Portman, Christian Bale, Chris Pratt, Jaimie Alexander, Pom Klementieff, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Sean Gunn, Jeff Goldblum, and Vin Diesel in pivotal roles. It is scheduled to be released in the United States on May 6, 2022, as part of Phase Four of the MCU. (Image Credits- Chris Hemsworth/ INSTA) New Delhi, Sep 5 (PTI) The Delhi government will fund the education of government school teachers who get selected in the world's top 100 universities for pursuing courses, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said on Sunday. He was speaking at a function where 122 teachers and principals were honoured with the State Teacher Award. "In the last five years, we have sent our teachers and principals to Cambridge, Finland, Singapore and the US. The courses for which our teachers went there were such courses which these universities had prepared for us," Sisodia said. "All the best universities in the world are known for their own tailored courses. We believe that if our teachers apply for such courses, they can get selected on the basis of their abilities. That's why the Delhi government has decided today on Teachers' Day, that our teachers will be able to apply for prestigious courses in the field of education in the world's 100 top ranked universities," the deputy chief minister said. He said the Delhi government will bear the full cost of their programme and in the next few days, the Department of Education will issue necessary guidelines regarding this. Sisodia appreciated the efforts made by the teachers for improving the quality of education in schools. Noting that the education system has been badly affected due to the Covid pandemic, he said after the closure of schools, no one had any idea how to proceed with the teaching-learning process. "But the teachers and principals of our schools showed incredible grit and determination in responding to this situation in the face of difficulties. Our teachers delivered the message of 'Learning Never Stops', ensuring how to reach out to their students through new mediums and innovations, and continue their studies. Their efforts are really commendable," he added. Sisodia said teachers have been the biggest contributor to nation building. "Our teachers influence millions of lives everyday with their work. These teachers prepare our children who are the foundation of our nation. Today, the revolutionary changes that have come in the education system of Delhi are a result of the collective efforts of Team Education of Delhi," he said. Every year on the occasion of Teachers Day, the Delhi government honours the teachers with the State Teacher Award and expresses gratitude through a grand celebration. This time, many changes have been made in the award. Earlier, this award was given only in the academic field but this time many people belonging to other fields were felicitated. This year, the number of awards has been increased from 103 to 122 as compared to last year. Sisodia also released the first edition of the Education Department's e-magazine 'Nai Udaan'. This year, the Delhi government has introduced the 'Face of DOE (Directorate of Education) award and it was given to Raj Kumar, a music teacher who entered the Guinness Book of World Records, and Suman Arora, who had helped government school students crack IIT. PTI SLB SNE (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) In a significant development, India-Denmark conducted a Joint Commission meeting during External Affairs Minister's (EAM) visit to Denmark. While speaking on relations between the two countries, the EAM added that 'Denmark is the only country with which we've green strategic partnership'. Jaishankar, who arrived in Denmark for two days (September 4 and 5) from his visit to Croatia, was received by Queen Margrethe II. EAM Jaishankar also met with his Danish counterpart Jeppe Kofod and reviewed the progress of the joint working groups in various sectors. Emphasising the 'green strategic partnership,' EAM Jaishankar said that 'we also want to grow back greener'. What's unique about our relations with Denmark is that Denmark is only country with which we've green strategic partnership. The way we look at it, everybody says build back better, but we also want to grow back greener: EAM S Jaishankar after India-Denmark Joint Commission meet pic.twitter.com/b4d4TaVABj ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 India-Denmark relations According to the External Affairs Minister, 200 Danish companies are operating in India and the number is increasing. In the meeting, both the countries discussed how bilateral cooperation can be further enhanced. Importantly, one more working group has been added to the already 10 groups, informed the Foreign Ministry. In his address, the EAM hoped for Denmark's support to India. We've 200 Danish companies operating in India. We've growing number of Indian companies here. We also discussed apart from our own bilateral cooperation how we could carry forward our larger trade-investment agreements with EU & which we've, I believe have Denmark's support: EAM pic.twitter.com/bPy1pwH49h ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 Taking to his Twitter, Jaishankar described the meeting with 'CEOs of Vestas, Grundfos, CIP, Haldor Topsoe and Maersk and Chamber' as 'productive'. Productive discussions with CEOs of Vestas, Grundfos, CIP, Haldor Topsoe and Maersk and Chamber representatives. They help to make our Green Strategic Partnership happen. Thank FM @JeppeKofod for the initiative in bringing us together. pic.twitter.com/2UlnyyDRmE Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 4, 2021 Denmark's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jeppe Kofod also tweeted describing the enhancement between both the nations as 'excellent progress'. Excellent progress on DK-India relations with @DrSJaishankar on historic visit to Denmark New steps taken to deliver on #GreenStrategicPartnership, including launching new important cooperation on Health #dkgreen #dkpol #India #DKmeansBusiness pic.twitter.com/dkwe0FgV1A Jeppe Kofod (@JeppeKofod) September 4, 2021 EAM Jaishankar's visit to Slovenia, Croatia, and Denmark According to the ministry, Jaishankar was scheduled to visit Slovenia from September 2-3 and head to Croatia on September 3. The EAM was in Denmark on September 4-5, before returning to India. The ministry also informed that the minister will hold discussions with his EU counterparts on issues of mutual interest. The leaders are also expected to discuss stands on the common issues they face. "Slovenia currently holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, and has invited EAM to attend an informal meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of EU Member States on September 3," the MEA said. EAM will also hold a bilateral meeting with the Foreign Minister of Slovenia Dr Anze Logar, apart from calling on the Slovenian leadership. EAM will attend the Bled Strategic Forum (BSF) being held in Slovenia, and participate in the panel discussion on "Partnership for a Rules-Based Order in the Indo-Pacific," the ministry added. (With ANI inputs) (Image: ANI) During the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's visit to Denmark, the leader 'virtually' met with the Indian community in Copenhagen. EAM Jaishankar lauded the Indian diaspora for the 'image they have built of India'. Jaishankar, who arrived in Denmark for two days (September 4 and 5) after a visit to Croatia, was received by Queen Margrethe II. Taking to Twitter, EAM Jaishankar stated, "Pleasure to meet the Indian community in Denmark, even if virtually. Appreciate the image they have built of India. Confident they will remain an effective bridge between our two countries. Our deepening relations are also a reflection of their contributions." Pleasure to meet the Indian community in Denmark, even if virtually. Appreciate the image they have built of India. Confident they will remain an effective bridge between our two countries. Our deepening relations also a reflection of their contributions. pic.twitter.com/quWsZD5jRr Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 5, 2021 MEA Jaishankar in Denmark EAM Jaishankar met with his Danish counterpart Jeppe Kofod and reviewed the progress of the joint working groups in various sectors. Emphasising the 'green strategic partnership,' EAM Jaishankar said that 'we also want to grow back greener'. According to EAM Jaishankar, over 200 Danish companies have been operating in India and the number is on a rise. In the meeting, both the countries discussed how bilateral cooperation can be enhanced. Importantly, one more working group has been added to the already 10 groups, informed the Foreign Ministry. In his address, the EAM hoped for Denmark's support of India. Taking to his Twitter, Jaishankar described the meeting with 'CEOs of Vestas, Grundfos, CIP, Haldor Topsoe and Maersk and Chamber' as 'productive'. "Productive discussions with CEOs of Vestas, Grundfos, CIP, Haldor Topsoe and Maersk and Chamber representatives. They help to make our Green Strategic Partnership happen. Thank FM Jeppe Kofod for the initiative in bringing us together," EAM Jaishankar said on Twitter. Productive discussions with CEOs of Vestas, Grundfos, CIP, Haldor Topsoe and Maersk and Chamber representatives. They help to make our Green Strategic Partnership happen. Thank FM @JeppeKofod for the initiative in bringing us together. pic.twitter.com/2UlnyyDRmE Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 4, 2021 Denmark's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jeppe Kofod also tweeted describing the enhancement between both the nations as 'excellent progress'. Excellent progress on DK-India relations with @DrSJaishankar on historic visit to Denmark New steps taken to deliver on #GreenStrategicPartnership, including launching new important cooperation on Health #dkgreen #dkpol #India #DKmeansBusiness pic.twitter.com/dkwe0FgV1A Jeppe Kofod (@JeppeKofod) September 4, 2021 EAM Jaishankar's visit to Slovenia, Croatia, and Denmark According to the ministry, Jaishankar was scheduled to visit Slovenia from September 2-3 and head to Croatia on September 3. The EAM was in Denmark on September 4-5, before returning to India. The ministry also informed that the minister will hold discussions with his EU counterparts on issues of mutual interest. The leaders are also expected to discuss stands on the common issues they face. (With inputs from ANI) Nipah virus has returned to haunt Kerala with a 12-year old boy on Sunday succumbing to the infection, the first such incident three years after it wrecked havoc in parts of Kozhikode and Malappuram districts of the state. As Kerala reeled under a daily increase of nearly 30,000 cases of COVID-19, the deadly Nipah virus has come as another thorn in its side, prompting the state to further heighten the alertness of its health machinery to prevent an outbreak of a different infection. Acting swiftly, the state and central governments rushed their teams to Kozhikode to assess the situation in the areas of Chathamangalam Panchayat. State Health Minister Veena George, who is camping in Kozhikode district said situation was under control and there was no need for any panic. Meanwhile, a team from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reached the state to provide support as two others also displayed symptoms of the virus infection. The child developed fever on August 27 and was first admitted to a local clinic. Later, he was taken to a private hospital from where he was brought to the Medical College Hospital. However, he was shifted to another private hospital afterwards but died at 5 AM on Sunday. The Health department has published the route map of the deceased child detailing the time and location where he had been since August 27. The government has also asked the public to approach the Health department in case of any symptoms related to Nipah. Two healthcare workers, who are among the 20 high-risk contacts of the deceased 12-year old boy, have been identified with symptoms of Nipah virus infection, George said here on Sunday, adding that, all the high-risk contacts will be shifted to the Kozhikode Medical College. "We have identified 188 contacts till now. The surveillance team have marked 20 of them as high-risk contacts. Two of these high risk contacts have symptoms. Both are healthcare workers. One works with a private hospital, while the other is a staff member of Kozhikode Medical College hospital," she told reporters after chairing a high-level meeting to take stock of the situation. Other contacts of the child have been asked to remain in isolation. The pay ward at the Medical College Hospital has been completely converted into a dedicated Nipah ward, she added. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday said ministers Veena George, A K Saseendran, P A Mohammed Riyas and Ahamed Devarkovil are coordinating the containment efforts. Vijayan also informed that the government has ensured the availability of medicine and other related equipment. "The ICMR has assured us that the monoclonal antibodies from Australia will be made available to us within seven days," he said in a statement. The Health department has traced all the close contacts of the child including the hospital staff. Meanwhile, the 12-year old boy was laid to rest at nearby Kannambarath Khabaristan by Health department officials after following complete health protocols. The officials, clad in PPE kits, performed the last rites. Only a few close relatives wearing similar gear, were in attendance. The Kozhikode corporation health staff sanitised the entire area after the rituals. Later, the body was buried in a 12-foot specially prepared grave. The samples of the boy, which were sent to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, confirmed presence of the virus. George said the three km radius from the child's house has been made a strict containment zone. The adjacent areas are also under strict surveillance. "We have asked the Pune NIV authorities to arrange a point-of-care testing facility at the Kozhikode Medical College hospital. The NIV team will reach here and will do the needful. If in the initial test, the patient is found positive, then the sample will be sent to Pune NIV again for confirmation. That result will be made available within 12 hours," George added. The Health department has opened two dedicated phone lines at the Nipah ward of the medical college hospital --0495-2382500 and 0495-2382800. The Minister said 16 teams have been formed for various purposes including contact tracing, surveillance, tracing the cause among other things. The Minister had also said that it was being examined why the case was again reported in Kozhikode as had happened in 2018 when the first infection was recorded in the same district. The first Nipah virus disease outbreak in South India was reported from Kozhikode district in Kerala on May 19, 2018. There have been 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases as of June 1, 2018. The outbreak was contained and declared over by June 10, 2018. Thereafter, in June 2019, a new case of Nipah was reported from Kochi and the sole patient was a 23-year old student, who later recovered. With this year's reporting of a case, it is the fifth time the virus has been detected in India and the third in Kerala. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) Arunachal Pradesh Assembly Speaker Passsang Dorjee Sona on Saturday urged the legislators whose constituencies are near the boundary with China to forward suggestions on how to check migration of people from border villages to urban areas, an official statement said. The speaker was chairing a meeting with such MLAs to discuss various issues pertaining to the developmental needs of the people in border areas. Sona, who himself represents Mechukha Assembly Constituency bordering China, said people living along the international borders are still devoid of basic amenities owing to which they migrate to urban areas in search of a better life, the statement said. In order to check peoples exodus, the border areas need to be developed on priority, he said and sought suggestions from the members. Members Phurpa Tsering, Mutchu Mithi, Dasanglu Pul, Lokam Tassar, Tsering Tashi and Talem Taboh who attended the meeting echoed similar concerns and suggested setting up a platform of legislators from border areas to highlight the issues, as individual requests are not effective. Accordingly, the members unanimously constituted "Indo-China Border Development Legislators' Forum of Arunachal Pradesh" with Sona as chairman, Lokam Tassar as convenor and others as members. During the course of discussion, the members also suggested modification of existing Border Area Development Programme guidelines, fund enhancement and submission of block-wise utilisation certification instead of existing collective one which hampers implementation of BADP schemes. The members also decided to submit a memorandum to the chief minister soon highlighting their grievances to be taken up at the appropriate level. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) Taking a fresh jibe on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday said 'hope you had a goodnight'. The attack from Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) leader came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi topped the approval rating chart of world leaders with a 70% rating, according to the data published by the global enterprise. MP CM used the Congress leader's earlier statement 'this morning I woke up at night' to mock him. Shivraj Singh Chouhan's jibe on Rahul Gandhi Good morning, Rahul ji. Hope you had a goodnights sleep and you didnt wake up in the morning during middle of the night. https://t.co/Ma5Cetaynw Shivraj Singh Chouhan (@ChouhanShivraj) September 5, 2021 The survey results were published on Saturday which had ratings of 13 of the world leaders including United States' President Joe Biden, United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and others. Global Enterprise's survey result on world leaders Apart from thumping approval to PM Modi, other leaders that followed the Indian leader included Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and Italy Prime Minister Mario Draghi with 64% and 63% approvals, respectively. Global Leader Approval: Among All Adults https://t.co/dQsNxouZWb Modi: 70% Lopez Obrador: 64% Draghi: 63% Merkel: 52% Biden: 48% Morrison: 48% Trudeau: 45% Johnson: 41% Bolsonaro: 39% Moon: 38% Sanchez: 35% Macron: 34% Suga: 25% *Updated 9/2/21 pic.twitter.com/oMhOH3GLqY Morning Consult (@MorningConsult) September 4, 2021 As per the data mentioned above, German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the number 4 position with 52% approval while United States' President Biden was at the 5th spot with 48% approval. The 6th spot was taken by Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison. Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, was on 7th with 45% approval while United Kingdom's Prime Minister Boris Johnson, lagging 4% behind at 41, was on the 8th. Jair Bolsonaro, President of Brazil, featured on the list at number 9 with 39% approval, and the 10th was Moon Jae-in, President of South Korea with 38% approval. The last three spots on the list were acquired by Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez, President of France Emmanuel Macron, and Prime Minister of Japan Yoshihide Suga with 35%, 34%, and 25%, respectively. According to Morning Consult, they conduct more than 11,000 daily interviews globally about leadership approval. Daily global survey data is based on a 7-day moving average of all adults in a given country with a margin of error of between (+/-) 1-3%. Heavy gunfire erupted on September 5 near the presidential palace in Guinea's capital and prolonged for hours, a witness told international media agencies. Raising security concerns in the country, which boasts of a long history of military coup d'etat and junta military attempts, soldiers who staged an uprising in the capital city, Conakry, said on television that they have dissolved the constitution and the legitimate government in the West African State. On the other hand, the Defence Ministry said an attack on the presidential palace by mutinous forces has been put down. Later, The ministry issued a statement saying that the presidential guard and other security forces had contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants. However, the statement could not be independently verified and there exists no immediate comment from President Alpha Conde. Security and sweeping operations are continuing to restore order and peace, the statement said. Heavy gunfire breaks out at Guinea's presidential palace Heavy gunfire broke out near Guinea's presidential palace in Conakry, and several sources have said that an elite national army unit led by a former French legionnaire, Doumbouya, was behind the attack. An unidentified militant, draped in Guinea's national flag and surrounded by eight armed soldiers, said in the broadcast that they planned to form a transitional government and would provide more details later. Rumour has it that the video shared on social media where soldiers spoke showed President Alpha Conde surrounded in a room by armed forces. Other videos show military vehicles patrolling Conkary's streets, and one military source said that only the bridge connecting the mainland to the Kaloum neighbourhood, which houses the palace and most government ministries, had been sealed off. Meanwhile, Guinea's Defence Ministry confirmed that the attempted insurgency has been put down. Guinea's President criticised for corrupt system, authoritarian rule President Conde has faced mounting criticism since he assumed the third term in office, saying the two-term limit did not apply to him because of a constitutional referendum he had put forth. He was re-elected, but the decision called for violent demonstrations on the streets. The Opposition told the media that dozens were killed. Conde, who is 83, could remain in power until 2030 if he wins again in 2025. He first came to power in 2010 in the country's first democratic election since independence from France in 1958. While few observed his presidency as a fresh start, others claim that Guinea is mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule. Opponents say he failed to improve Guineans' history, most of whom live in poverty despite the country's vast mineral riches. In 2011, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his residence overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. The rock-propelled grenade landed inside the compound while one of his security officers was killed. Image Credit: AP In a shocking incident, an Australian man died after he was attacked by a shark on the New South Wales (NSW) north coast on Sunday, September 5. When the paramedic force of New South Wales rushed to Emerald Beach near Coffs Harbour and evacuated the man from the water, the victim was found critically injured. The victim who is believed to be in his late 20s sustained severe injuries on his right arm as well as his back, died hours later, said the NSW paramedics, reported 9News. Australia: Man dies after shark attack in Australian beach The incident took place 550 kilometers from North Sydney, away from Emerald Beach. When the NSW official was reported about the incident, the emergency crew reached the scene including an ambulance and a helicopter medical team. The victim was first given CPR before medical aid, however, he did not respond to any of the medical assistance and was later declared dead. As per the media reports, several bystanders who were present at the scene tried to rescue the man and did not succeed in the attempt. The rescue officials said that the local surfers were incredibly brave in a challenging situation. An NSW official said it was devastating for everyone present at the scene. In wake of the incident, the beach security officials closed the entrance and the surrounding areas of the beach. The incident has escalated fear among the locals and security officials have been deployed at the site. Emerald Beach is one of the popular locations among locals and is a place for many to enjoy surfing and swimming. However, due to the incident, the swimmers and surfers were asked not to go near the water. According to media reports, this was the second fatal shark attack recorded in Australia this year. The first incident happened in May this year near the coast of Forster, which is located some 137 kilometers away from the north of Sydney. Although the state is facing a complete lockdown, individuals are allowed to leave their homes for exercise, which includes going swimming at the beach. (IMAGE: Unsplash) (With Inputs from ANI) Following the Talibans violent takeover of Kabul, China seeks to strike a common position with Afghanistans key neighbour Iran to firm up its growing role in the war-torn nation. Beijing is already coordinating its evolving policy on Afghanistan with its ally Pakistan and Russia. Now, it is awaiting the formation of government by the Taliban to decide on recognising it amidst firm indications by the US and other western countries that they will not be in a hurry to endorse the new government. According to PTI, on September 4, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. In his talks, Wang said that China has noted that the insurgent group might announce the formation of a new government in the coming days. He hoped that the new government would be open and inclusive, make a clean break with the militants and establish and develop good relations with other nations, especially neighbouring countries. Wang said, As common neighbours of Afghanistan, China and Iran need to strengthen communication and coordination to play a constructive role in achieving a smooth transition and peaceful reconstruction of Afghanistan. Further, the Chinese Foreign Minister lashed out at the US. He said that the claim of the United States that the withdrawal from Afghanistan allows it to shift its focus to China and Russia serves as an excuse for its own failure and reveals the nature of its pushing for power politics in the world. He warned that if the US cannot learn due lessons, it is bound to make mistakes more severe than those in Afghanistan. 'Iran ready to strengthen coordination with China' Amir-Abdollahian, on the other hand, said that the root cause of the chaos in the war-torn nation is the irresponsibility of the US. He said that Iran also holds that Afghanistan should establish an inclusive government reflecting the interests of all ethnic groups in the country. He even called on the international community to spare no effort to provide humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and prevent any turmoil in the nation from triggering a wave of refugees. He added, Iran is ready to strengthen coordination with China to help Afghanistan get out of difficulties at an early date. Meanwhile, Iran's President has called for elections in Afghanistan to determine the country's future, where he hopes peace will return after Western troops have left and the Taliban have seized control. Speaking on state TV on Saturday, Ebrahim Raisi said that the Afghan people should vote to determine their own government as soon as possible. "A government should be established there which is elected by the votes and the will of the people," he said. (With inputs from PTI) Hundreds of people took to the streets in Geneva to demonstrate against the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. The protestors included Afghan nationals living in Switzerland, who raised slogans and displayed placards urging the Federal Government of Switzerland to not recognise the Taliban as a legitimate regime in Afghanistan. Demonstrators also called out the Taliban for its lack of humanitarian efforts towards the citizens in the war-torn nation. Over 350 people initiated the protest march from Palais de Wilson to the Broken Chair. The protesters held placards that mentioned slogans like "Afghan lives matter," and "We want peace." Some protest leaders also presented a list of demands on behalf of the Afghan community in Geneva. The speakers at the march also appealed to the Swiss government to systematically consider cases of asylum seekers from Afghanistan, the ANI reported. Protests against Taliban regime The Taliban took over Afghanistan on August 15 after it seized all major cities in the country, except Panjshir Valley. Since the annexation, the militant group has faced several demonstrations against its outright violation of human rights and inefficiency to form an inclusive government. On September 3, women in Herat province protested against the Taliban. As per reports, the protests turned violent after the Taliban, on Saturday, launched tear gas and attacked the all-women protestors on their way to the Presidential palace. Look to the footage: What is happening with #women marches in #Kabul. It seems civilian and political protest are not allow any more. Taliban trying to stop women march which happening second day in row. #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/vqa8QONLOj Zaki Daryabi (@ZDaryabi) September 4, 2021 Woman news publisher Zaki Daryabi, who was also present at the protest, captured videos of Taliban militants stopping the protest march in Kabul. The video also showed a woman, who was later identified as Rabia Sadat, with a bleeding forehead. In the three-day running protest, women in the protest demanded the right to education and to hold jobs. On the other hand, scores of people in the UK also initiated an anti-Taliban protest last Sunday. People took to the streets of central London on August 21 to condemn the forced annexation of Afghanistan. The protestors held placards and raised slogans against the Taliban, who have failed to shape an inclusive administration in the country. Taliban desires 'economic ties with all countries, especially the US' Meanwhile, the Taliban under the leadership of co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar tried to paint a more moderate picture, compared to its last regime in 1996. On August 21, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar expressed his desire to establish 'economic and political ties with all countries around the world, especially the US.' Baradar took to Twitter to announce the official conclusion of the war and expressed his will to "resolve remaining issues through talks." He also tagged Taliban Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid in the tweet. In additional developments, the Taliban has also been instrumental in convincing the world that it aims to discontinue allegiance to the terrorist organisation Al Qaeda. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid, who emerged out of the shadows soon after Kabul's capture, promised to "recognise and honour" women's rights as per Islamic Law. However, he failed to elaborate further on the topic when asked for details. Meanwhile, Ghani Baradar took to Twitter and instructed: "All Mujahideen to be kind to the people and respect the feelings of the general public regarding the flag." (With inputs from ANI) (Image: ANI/AP) Citing the current social and political turmoil in Afghanistan after the Taliban's takeover, European Union Commissioner Margaritis Schinas has said that the situation in the war-torn country could pave the way for the formation of a common migration policy. The Talibans sweeping advance last month has sparked fears that Europe could face a migration crisis similar to that in 2015 when the arrival of one million migrants stretched security and welfare systems. In an interview with Austrian daily Wiener Zeitung, Schinas noted that the world is in a major crisis, however, he added that the EU did not cause the situation, yet the bloc has been called upon to be a part of a solution. The EU Commissioner said that he wanted to avoid a reflex that takes Europe back to the crisis year 2015 before it is even clear how the situation will develop. He further said that the EU was prepared in a better way this time with stronger external border protection and financial resources to assist Afghanistans neighbours, while EU states policies were increasingly converging. Therefore, I see now as the moment to agree on a common European migration and asylum policy, as we proposed in the EU Commission in September, Schinas said. Further, the EU Commissioner said that migration has long foiled the unity among the 27-member bloc. He said that the difference remained among members, with strong resistance to a deal among the populists on the right and left fringes. However, he also said that he saw a window for a solution after the French presidential polls in May 2022, by when there would also be a new government in Germany. EU may spend 300 million to resettle 30k refugees Meanwhile, anti-migrant sentiment is running high in Europe. Austrias Chancellor Sebastian Kurz has reiterated his decision to not take migrants, saying that a potential Afghan wave in Europe must not take place. Greece has also completed a 40-kilometre wall on its border with Turkey and installed a surveillance system to prevent possible asylum seekers from trying to reach Europe after the Talibans takeover of Afghanistan. The Greek government has already said that it would not allow refugees to cross into Europe and would turn people back. EU countries are trying to avoid another large-scale influx of migrants and refugees from Afghanistan. Several EU officials have suggested setting up deportation centres in countries neighbouring Afghanistan so that European countries can deport Afghans who have been denied asylum even if they cannot be sent back to their homeland. The European Union has even floated a plan to spend 300 million euros to resettle nearly 30,000 Afghan refugees inside the bloc in an attempt to avoid a migration crisis. The European Union is also considering a 600 million euro (USD 709 million) assistance package for the neighbouring nations to fund the refugee influx from Afghanistan. A report carried by FT revealed that the EU will provide the financial package for Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Iran, and other regional neighbours of Kabul for hosting the immigrants from Afghanistan following the abrupt and hasty withdrawal of the US troops that granted Taliban control of the territory. (Image: AP) A plane landed on Sunday morning at Taiwan's Taoyuan International Airport carrying 400,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccines donated by the Polish government. Poland's vaccine donation has been made after Taiwan provided the European nation with medical supplies last year when the pandemic broke out. In 2020, Taiwan donated 1 million face masks, 5,000 pieces of Personal Protective Equipment and 20,000 surgical protection outfits to Poland. Taiwan has recently received vaccine donations from the US, Japan, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Lithuania and Poland after falling behind on its vaccine purchases. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) Thirteen police personnel have been killed in an attack in Northern Iraq. According to AP, the police personnel were killed when gunmen opened fire at a police checkpoint in northern Iraq, sparking clashes between police personnel and the attackers. The attack took place on Saturday at the checkpoint in Satiha village, Kirkuk province. Police personnel killed in Northern Iraq A security official who spoke on the condition of anonymity informed that 13 policemen were killed while five police cops have been injured in the attack, according to AP. The security official revealed that the clashes between police personnel and the militants lasted for about an hour. The security official has blamed the attack on Islamic State militants, however, the militant group has not claimed responsibility for the attack. According to The Associated Press, the Iraqi forces have been carrying out operations against Islamic State militants in the northern region and the deserts of western Iraq. This is not the first time that an attack has been carried out in northern Iraq. Earlier in July, an attack was carried out amidst a funeral procession in northern Iraq. Iraqi military in a statement had informed that a "terrorist" attack was reported in the region, as per the Associated Press. An Iraqi security official on the condition of anonymity told The Associated Press that eight people had been killed as the armed militants had opened fire on the crowd. The official further informed that the attack was carried out by the Islamic State group. Meanwhile, on August 29, French President Emmanuel Macron visited the northern city of Mosul in Iraq. Mosul also suffered widespread destruction during the war to defeat the IS in 2017 and Macron, on his Sunday visit, pledged to fight shoulder-to-shoulder with the regional governments against terrorism. The French president also said that IS carried out the deadly attacks across the globe from its self-declared caliphate in parts of Syria and Iraq. As per The Associated Press, Macron said that IS did not differentiate between the religion and nationality of the people when it came to victims of the attacks. Furthermore, the French president noted that the IS-led attacks killed several Muslims. IMAGE: Unsplash/RepresentativeImage Inputs from AP In a major development affecting international travellers, Turkey has eased quarantine rules for travellers from India. Starting September 4, Indian passengers would be exempted from mandatory quarantine given they have been fully inoculated using COVID vaccines approved for emergency use by WHO or the Turkish administration. As of now, Covishield has been given a green light by WHO while Sputnik has been okayed by Turkish health officials. In an online statement, the Turkish Embassy in New Delhi further stated that all passengers, regardless, would be required to submit a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. It also specified that children below the age of 12 years are exempted from the compulsory rule. Additionally, the airline staff would also be exempted from the precautionary requirement. For unvaccinated travellers, isolation for 10 days would be compulsory. On the tenth day they would also be required to take an RT-PCR test. All those with a negative report would be freed from quarantine while isolation would be extended to 14 days for those who do not take the COVID test. Updated Quarantine Arrangements For Travelers To Turkey From India pic.twitter.com/OExkFOpmdj Turkish Embassy - New Delhi (@TurkeyinDelhi) September 4, 2021 The Philippines lifts travel ban on India Starting September 6, the Philippines will lift the travel ban on India and nine other countries, according to the Presidential Palace announcement. President Rodrigo Duterte approved the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to lift the current travel restrictions on India and nine other countries starting September 6, Presidential Palace spokesperson Harry Roque was quoted as saying by PTI. The other countries are Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, the official said. Cambodia lifts ban on travellers on India Previously, Cambodia had lifted its travel ban on passengers from India. Health Minister Mam Benhueng asserted that Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen has approved the lifting of the ban on people travelling from India. Bunheng in the statement added that the order of lifting ban on travellers from India will take effect from August 6, reported Xinhua. Cambodia had banned travellers from India in April to curb the spread of the Delta variant of the novel Coronavirus. Image: AP As a part of the ongoing international Maritime Partnership Exercise, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tabar reached the Alexandria harbour on September 5, Sunday. The ship was received by Indian defence attache and the Egyptian Naval officers on its arrival at the port, ANI reported. As a part of the goodwill trip, the ship sailed off the Algerian coast with another the Algerian Naval ship 'Ezzadjer' on 29 August. India's stealth frigate INS TABAR is visiting ALEXANDRIA for a Port Call on 3-4 Sept 2021 and for joint exercises with Egyptian Navy. Ambassador @AjitVGupte welcomed the ship and met Captain and crew.#INSTabar visited 9 countries in Europe & Africa on its goodwill tour. pic.twitter.com/LJDRbVUBW0 India in Egypt (@indembcairo) September 4, 2021 Indian Ambassador to Egypt, Ajit Gupte met the Captain of the ship and the crew members after the ship docked at Alexandria port. The Indian diplomat was given a tour of the ship were learned about the activities and related events to the ship's deployment, the Indian Navy said in a statement. Later, a celebratory dinner was organised by the Indian Embassy in Egypt on the ship that hosted the Rear Admiral of Alexandria Naval Base Ayman al-Daly as a Chief Guest and several other dignitaries from the Indian and Egyptian diaspora. "A reception was hosted by INS TABAR on the evening of 3 Sept 2021, during its port call in Alexandria," Mr. Gupte wrote on Twitter. The reception was also graced by senior officers from the Egyptian Navy ships Hudra and Lesbos. Additionally, senior Commanding officers from Cyprus Navy ship Andreas Loannides were also present at the occasion. The ships were visiting Alexandria as a part of the Bright Star exercise with Egypt. "Indian cuisine and lively music band of INS Tabar made the evening a memorable one," the Indian Embassy in Egypt wrote on Twitter. INS Tabar takes part in a landmark goodwill exercise INS Tabar visited nine countries as part of her ongoing goodwill exercise. The third of the Talwar-calas frigate of the Indian Navy was an integral part of the international Maritime Partnership Exercise with Algerian Navy ship 'Ezzadjer.' "As part of the exercise, diverse activities including coordinated manoeuvring, communication procedures and steam past were undertaken between the Indian and Algerian warships," Indian Navy said through a press release. According to a spokesperson of the Navy, the exercise enabled the two navies to understand the concept of operations followed by each other, enhanced interoperability and opened the possibility of increasing interaction and collaboration between them in the future. The ship transited across the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, Suez Canal, Mediterranean Sea, North Sea, and Baltic Sea while making port calls at Djibouti, Egypt, Italy, France, UK, Russia, Netherlands, Morocco, and Arctic Council countries like Sweden and Norway and reached Egypt on September 5. Indian warships on a goodwill visit As many as four Indian warships including INS Mysore, INS Tabar, INS Ganga, and INS Aditya have been deployed on a goodwill visit to several maritime nations of Africa and the Indian Ocean. According to a defence spokesperson, the highly equipped naval warships held exercises with the international navies and coast guards of Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, Seychelles, and Mauritius besides making port calls at Reunion Island and Mozambique to consolidate bilateral relations and interoperability at the sea. The visits aim to demonstrate the Indian Navy's blue water capability to deploy, operate and sustain a maritime task force well away from home for an extended duration. With inputs from ANI Image: @indemcairo/Twitter At least two people have been injured after debris from an intercepted ballistic missile fell on the residents of Dammam in Saudi Arabia. On Sunday, 5 September 2021, the Armed Forces of Saudi Arabia intercepted a barrage of projectiles that were fired upon them by Iran backed Houthi rebels. Later, the Saudi Press Agency reported that roughly 14 homes suffered damages by the fire ignited by the missiles. The Ministry of Defense: Interception and Destruction of (3) Ballistic Missiles and (3) Bomb-laden Drones Launched by the Iran-backed Houthi Militia Towards the Kingdom, Injuring Two Children and Damaging 14 Houses.https://t.co/5ng74KzzuA#SPAGOV pic.twitter.com/eSOou59cDo SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) September 5, 2021 Later a military spokesperson, Brigadier General Turki al-Malki confirmed that the Houthis had launched three bomb-laden drones along with three ballistic missiles. Meanwhile, a Houthi military spokesperson confirmed the same highlighting that the rebel forces had launched a military operation deep in Saudi Arabia but stopped short of revealing further details. The attack also prompted the US Consulate to offer an alert to American citizens in Dhahran, Dammam and Khobar. There are reports of a possible missile attack or explosion this evening, September 4, in the tri-city area of Dhahran, Dammam, and Khobar. The Consulate urges US citizens to review precautions to take in the event of an attack and stay alert in case of additional future attacks. U.S. Consulate General in Dhahran (@USAinDhahran) September 4, 2021 It is imperative to note that Riyadh and Houthis have been engaged in a shadow war in Yemen since 2014. The deadlocked conflict began after Houthis seized much of the countrys north along with the capital Sana'a. The occupation prompted a Saudi led coalition to wage a war in an attempt to restore President Abed Rabu Mansour Hadis government. However, the conflict has been ongoing since then and has even witnessed an uptick in Houthi attacks in recent months. Increased attacks On Tuesday, a bomb-laden drone targeted the Abha airport in southwestern Saudi Arabia, wounding 8 people and damaging a civilian plane, Saudi state television reported. It is important to note here that this is the latest assault on the kingdom amid its grinding war with its neighbouring Yemen. While no one has claimed responsibility for the attack as of now, the bomb-laden drone attack is the second such strike on Saudi Arabia in the last 24 hours. The previous attack, which was blamed on Yemen's Iran-backed Shiite Houthi rebels, had scattered shrapnel across the tarmac but had caused no casualties. Since 2015, Yemen's Houthi rebels battling the Saudi-led military coalition have targeted international airports, along with military installations and critical oil infrastructure, within Saudi Arabia. These attacks, which are often striking near the southern cities of Abha and Jizan, have rarely caused substantial damage but wounded dozens, killed at least one person and also rattled the global oil markets. Image: Spa_Eng/Twitter Saudi Arabia said it intercepted a ballistic missile fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels, which sent debris crashing down over a neighbourhood near Dammam that wounded at least two people. Images published by the state-run Saudi Press Agency showed glass and debris across a townhouse there, which is in the kingdom's eastern reaches and near to the headquarters of the state-run oil giant Saudi Aramco. In the attack, military spokesman Brig. Gen. Turki al-Malki said the Houthis launched three bomb-laden drones and three ballistic missiles. Yemen's Houthi rebels did not immediately acknowledge launching the attack. Saudi Arabia is mired in a yearslong, deadlocked war backing Yemen's toppled government against the Iranian-backed Houthis. The Saudi-led war, which began in March 2015, has seen an uptick in recent months amid a Houthi effort to capture the city of Marib. That also has seen renewed, long-range attacks by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia. A bomb-laden drone on Tuesday crashed into the kingdom's Abha airport, wounding eight people and damaging a civilian plane. Airstrikes and ground fighting in Yemen have killed more than 130,000 people and spawned the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) A 116-year-old woman named Ayse Karatay from Turkey has become one of the oldest woman to beat COVID-19 in the world. Karatay was moved from the intensive care unit (ICU) to the general ward at a City Hospital in Eskisehir, western Turkey, her son Ibrahim told a Turkish news agency Demiroren. According to her son, Ayse Karatay was admitted to the hospital after she displayed symptoms of the virus last month. "My mother fell ill at the age of 116 and stayed in the intensive care unit for three weeks...Her health is very good now and she is getting better," AP quoted Ibrahim as saying. Ayse had received only one shot of the Chinese Sinovac vaccine before she was infected by the virus, he informed. The doctors suspected that the elderly woman caught the virus from one of their family members. Ayse is a resident of Emirdag in Afyonkarahisar in western Turkey. She was treated at a City Hospital in eastern Turkey to ensure a speedy recovery. As per AP, Karatay was born during the Ottoman Empire, when exact dates of birth were rarely officially recorded. She set the record of being the oldest woman to survive COVID-19, pushing French nun Sister Andre to the second position. Meanwhile, on 5 September, 2021, the number of deaths reported globally this week was around 67,000. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO) bulletin, the tally is similar to last week. The global COVID-19 tally has reached nearly 216 million and the cumulative number of deaths stands around 4.5 million. Another oldest person who survived COVID-19 French nun Sister Andre tested positive for COVID-19 in January 2021. On being tested, Sister Andre was shifted to Sainte Catherine Laboure retirement home in Toulon, Southern France. She recovered from the disease just days before her 117th birthday. As per BBC, spokesperson of the retirement home David Tabella, told Var Martin newspaper that Sister Andre was not cornered by the disease, instead, she was "concerned about other residents." According to the Gerontology Research Group's (GRG) World Supercentenarian Rankings, Sister Andre is the second oldest person in the world and first in Europe. She was born in 1904 during the Russian-Japanese War. She was born as Lucile Randon and took the name Sister Andre in 1944. (With inputs from AP) (Image: AP/PIXABAY) At least 13.4 million people throughout a war-ravaged Syria are in need of urgent humanitarian assistance, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) said on Saturday. The statement came as Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths concluded his first-ever trip to Syria, Lebanon and Turkey. Notably, Syria and Lebanon have been battered by decades of political instability and economic crisis pertaining to a gruesome civil war. Calling for greater access and expanded funding, Griffiths said that the UN needs to be able to reach people who depend on its aid both from Turkey and from within Syria. Humanitarians and donors must keep Syria high on our collective agenda to prevent an entire generation being lost. It is worth mentioning that the UN leader not only held constructive meetings with Syrian and Lebanese lawmakers but also with officials from aid organisations including the Syrian Arab Red Crescent and Red Crescent Societies. 1. Today I wrapped up my visit to Turkey. I had constructive meetings with @ikalin1, @MFATurkey, @Kizilay & the Governor of Hatay. I applauded the generosity of the Turkish people and their Govt in welcoming Syrian refugees & facilitating cross-border humanitarian operations. Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) September 3, 2021 3. Aid transported from Turkey to Syria remains a lifeline for millions of people in NW Syria. Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) September 3, 2021 What is happening in Syria? Al-Assad triggered a bloody civil war in 2011 after he tried to suppress opposition to his authoritarian rule, which now extends to 10 years. While armed fighting has now ended, the government and militias continue to engage in a war of nerves and occasional assaults. With the coronavirus contagion wreaking havoc, the Syrian economy has plunged manifold with roughly 80 per cent of the population living under the poverty line. My conclusions: - Hopeful that engagement with the Government will yield more results. Improving humanitarian access and protection of civilians will remain our priorities. (11/13) Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 31, 2021 - Convinced that we must dramatically increase our early recovery assistance, based on objective needs and the wishes of Syrians themselves. (12/13) Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 31, 2021 - Concerned that needs in Syria keep growing while funding keeps shrinking. Humanitarians and donors must keep Syria high on our collective agenda to prevent an entire generation being lost. (13/13) Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 31, 2021 What is happening in Lebanon? Lebanon, at present, is battling multiple crises -- a constant war with Israel, new coronavirus variants, political instability, and debt crisis -- all while trying to revive itself from the horrendous explosion that jolted Beirut in August last year. The current economic crisis in the country has thrown more people into poverty as tens of thousands have lost their jobs since anti-government protests first erupted in late 2019. As per the World Bank, the countrys economy contracted 19 per cent in 2020 and is expected to shrink again this year. In Beirut, Griffins announced an allocation of USD$4 million from the Central Emergency Response Plan (CERP) to aid the countrys exacerbating fuel crisis and support the continuity of essential services. I just finished a brief visit to Beirut to learn firsthand from the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, @JWronecka, @rochdi_najat and the humanitarian community about the unique crisis in Lebanon. I also had a chance to speak with our talented @OCHALebanon team. (1/3) Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 31, 2021 Lebanon faces profound uncertainty. The humanitarian community, though, is resolved to assist all vulnerable populations, whether Lebanese, refugees or migrants. With donors support, humanitarians will respond to peoples needs as long as required, but not a day longer. (2/3) Martin Griffiths (@UNReliefChief) August 31, 2021 Image: AP Pakistan's Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Faiz Hameed met former Afghanistan Prime Minister Gulbuddin Hekmatyar on Sunday. A source close to the Hezb-e-Islami leader confirmed to TOLO News that the ISI chief met Hekmatyar last night after holding a meeting with other Taliban leaders. It is important to mention that former Mujahideen leader Gulbuddin Hekmatyar along with Ex-Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai and Afghan High Council for National Reconciliation Chairman Abdullah Abdullah had formed a 'Coordination Council' to manage the peaceful transfer of power to the Taliban after Ashraf Ghani fled the country. During the meeting, Hameed and Hekmatyar reportedly discussed the creation of an inclusive government. Faiz Hameed is currently in Kabul to assist the Taliban with the government formation, as per reports. Earlier today Tolo News reported that the Taliban is going to announce a new government for Afghanistan soon. ISI chief arrives in Kabul Pakistan's ISI chief Faiz Hameed arrived in Kabul on Saturday morning. Hameed led a delegation of senior Pakistani officials to Kabul to discuss the 'future of security, economic and trade ties' between the two countries. However, sources have claimed that Hameed has reached Kabul to assist in the Taliban government formation. He is the highest-ranking Pakistani official to reach the war-torn nation at the invitation of the Taliban Shura. As per sources, Faiz Hameed arrived at Hotel Kabul Serena on Saturday morning. He also visited the Pakistan Embassy along with senior officials. The ISI chief claimed that he had arrived in Taliban-run Afghanistan to hold talks with Ambassador of Pakistan to Afghanistan Mansoor Ahmad Khan. We are working for peace and stability in Afghanistan, says Hameed reportedly said upon his arrival in Kabul. On Friday, a Taliban delegation led by top leader Sher Muhammad Abbas Stanekzai had also held a meeting with officials of the Pakistan Embassy in Qatar. The visit by the ISI chief comes weeks after he was seen offering prayers with the Taliban leadership after the fall of Kabul. The viral images also included Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Sheikh Abdul Hakim, who is the Taliban's former shadow chief justice. It has already been reported, that the new Afghan government will be led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. As Taliban intensifies its attack on Panjshir, residents of Panjshir valley have appealed to international organisations on Saturday for humanitarian aid. The letter, released by office of 'caretaker' Afghan President Amrullah Saleh highlights the economic blockade by the Taliban disallowing electricity, telecommunication. Estimating 2,50,000 residents stuck in Panjshir including people who migrated to the Valley after the fall of Kabul, Saleh said that genocide, mass starvation may occur if the world does no pay attention. Saleh seeks foreign aid for Panjshir residents Explaining the displaced people are currently staying in mosques, schools, health centres, he added that they were in desperate need of food, shelter, water, sanitation, health care. Appealing to the international community, the United Nations, Red Cross, Red Crescent and other NGOs, Saleh urged them to rapidly respond to the overwhelming humanitarian crisis. Moreover, he urged the international community to prevent the Taliban's onslaught on Panjshir and negotiate a political solution to stave off human casualties. Earlier on Friday, UN chief Antonio Guterres announced that he will convene a high-level humanitarian conference for Afghanistan on 13 September to advocate for a swift scale-up in funding & full, unimpeded access to those in need. While the US has completed its evacuation process and withdrawn completely from Afghanistan, many Afghans seek to leave the country as the Taliban finalises the new government formation. Nearly 130,000 were airlifted out of Afghanistan by US of which many are still in transit, undergoing security vetting and screening in other countries, including Germany, Spain, Kuwait and Qatar. While Taliban has claimed capture of Panjshir, the Northern Resistance's leader Amrullah Saleh confirmed that he is still in Panjshir saying, "The Resistance is continuing and will continue. I am here with my soil, for my soil and defending its dignity". Saleh added that the Taliban is doing racial profiling and forcing 'military age men' of Panjshir to walk on minefields, apart from blocking phone lines, electricity and access to medicines. He called on the United Nations and other world leaders to take note of the "criminal and terrorist behaviour of Talibs", backed by Pakistan. Taliban Takeover The Taliban took over Kabul on August 15 after major cities like Kandahar, Herat, Mazar-e-Sharif, Jalalabad and Lashkar Gah fell without resistance as US troops retreat after 20 years from war-torn Afghanistan. The hasty withdrawal of the US troops saw thousands of people attempting to flee from Afghanistan with several clinging to a departing US plane's wheels, leading to them falling to their deaths. The Taliban has finalised its talks for 'peaceful transition' as Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar gears up to lead the new government with Mullah Mohammad Omar's son Mullah Yakub and Abbas Stanekzai pipped to be in his cabinet. After the challenges that COVID threw to the world, even animals have faced the repurcussions of the pandemic. Recently, it has come to light that monkeys in Bali have started raiding villagers' homes in a desperate search for food. Since the monkeys have no access to their preferred food sources, such as bananas, peanuts, and other food items brought in by tourists who are restricted to curb spread of the novel Coronavirus, the monkeys have been venturing into a snatching business, said the villagers. Bali monkeys raid village homes in search of food Due to COVID restrictions, the number of tourists visiting the location has dramatically fallen, causing the monkeys to raid the villages. The locals of Sageh village have expressed concern over the issue, and it has been observed that money these days monkeys are hanging out on their house roofs in an attempt to swoop down and snatch anything they get. To avoid a major raid in the village, people have voluntarily started taking fruit, peanuts, and other food items to the Sangeh Monkey Forest to prevent them venturing into the village. As many as 600 wild monkeys live in the forest sanctuary, swinging near the trees of the famous Pura Bukit Sari temple. The monkeys near the temple area are considered as scared and the jungle is most often used by the locals for wedding photoshoots, as well as by international visitors. Many times, the monkeys are easily coaxed to sit on a lap or shoulder in return for a banana or a snack. It is important to mention here that the Sangeh Monkey Forest used to have about 6000 tourists a month, but due to the pandemic, the number has dropped to 500. Pandemic is the cause of monkey raid in Bali Earlier, in July, when Indonesia had imposed restrictions on air travel and tourists, the sanctuary temporarily closed. The monkeys were deprived of food and, moreover, the temple has also witnessed low donations, making it difficult for the temple management to buy food. The villagers, however, have helped the temple by providing some donations, but due to the economic situation, they are also unable to give more. Temple's operations manager, Made Mohon, said the food costs run about Rs 850,000 ($60) a day. Since the monkey of the Sangeh Forest has been in contact with humans for centuries, they have mostly relied on food provided by humans rather than finding it in the forest. The monkeys are not afraid of anything and can cross any limit in search of food, many times they have broken the tiles of the houses in an attempt to jump down, said Mohon. (IMAGE: AP) (With Inputs from AP) An independent Bangladeshi lawmaker Rezaul Karim Bablu presented a "weird" proposal at the Bangladesh Parliament on Saturday. Mr Karim sought the Bangladesh government to pass a bill that issued a ban on working people from marrying. The proposal drew sharp criticism and made many fellow parliamentarians burst out in laughter. "Men holding jobs want to marry working women, likewise, women in service want to marry service holders . . . if the trend continues you can't resolve the unemployment problem in the country," Karim said. As per reports, the independent lawmaker from Bogura 7 constituency raised his "bizarre" demand to meet the issue of unemployment in the country. He also argued that children of couples who work are often subjected to an abusive childhood. "They are often exposed to abuse by domestic workers," he said during the session. He also urged the law minister to sanction the bill and enact it as a law in a bid to address the issue of 4 crores unemployed youth in the country. "This unemployment problem is not being solved as working men are marrying working women and vice versa," Bablu added. Parliament bursts into laughter "There is freedom of speech in the country so anyone can speak. You can say whatever you want. Even if a member of parliament enjoys that right, vs representatives of the people, cannot do or say whatever we want," Bangladeshi Law Minister Anisul Huq The proposal was met with strong criticism as well as laughter. Bangladeshi Law Minister Anisul Huq outrightly rejected Karim Bablu's proposal, calling it "unconstitutional." "I cannot move two steps off the House if I accepted the proposal...this is unconstitutional!". Huq said. He also added that the idea was a manifestation of "freedom of speech," which allowed Bablu to present his thoughts. Huq also said that such a "weird proposal" would not be endorsed by any public representative. "It would endanger their career," he added. Meanwhile, Karim Bablu was also reprimanded by the presiding Speaker of the House Shirin Sharmin Choudhary when he tried to reignite the topic. Choudhary asked him to specifically address the topic that was being discussed. Lawmaker Bablu's proposal was told off by several fellow parliamentarians. While many burst into laughter, some criticised him for the questionable comments. However, this is not the first time MP Bablu made such "bizarre" remarks, the Daily Star reported. In 2019, Karim Bablu received massive disapprobation for blaming "feminist campaigns" on rising incidents of rape in the country. He also became the cynosure of media when he posted a picture of himself with a pistol on Facebook. With inputs from ANI Image: @BangladeshJatiyaSansad/Unsplash (representative) The Nepal government on Sunday warned its citizens against carrying out any "reprehensible and disgraceful" actions that may hurt the dignity of the friendly nations after some people burnt effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during protests in the country. In a statement, Nepal's Home Ministry said that in the past few days, "the activities of chanting slogans, holding demonstrations and protest and burning effigies to tarnish the image of the neighbouring friendly nation's Prime Minister has caught" its attention. The home ministry statement, however, did not identify the leader. But it expressed objection towards such "reprehensible and disgraceful" actions. The strong statement came after some students and youth organisations belonging to both the ruling alliance and the Opposition burnt effigies of Prime Minister Modi during protests over the death of a Nepalese youth when he was crossing the Mahakali river near the border with India in July. "The Government of Nepal wishes to have a friendly relationship with all friendly nations and is determined not to let any activities that may harm the national interest. We request everyone not to carry out any action that may hurt the dignity and respect of the friendly nations," the statement said. Nepal has a long tradition of solving the dispute with the neighbouring nation through diplomatic channels and mutual dialogue, the statement said. "In future as well, diplomatic initiative and mutual discourse will be utilised while solving any dispute," it said. The Home Ministry will take action to control the activities targeted against the friendly neighbouring nation and will punish those who involve themselves in such unlawful activities, it warned. Jaya Singh Dhami, 33, of Byas rural municipality in Darchula district, is stated to have jumped into the river from the carriage of the tuin (a makeshift ropeway with a box attached for seating) he was clinging to after he saw an approaching patrol of the India-Nepal border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Officials in India said the man was crossing over to the Indian side "illegally" using the tuin and was coming from Darchula in Nepal to Gasku in Dharchula in Uttarakhand''s Pithoragarh district. A Nepalese committee investigating the death of Dhami has concluded that the incident occurred in the presence of Indian security personnel. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) The group behind the annual Tiananmen Square memorial rally in Hong Kong said Sunday it will not cooperate with police conducting a national security investigation into the group's activities, calling it an abuse of power. Police notified the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China last month it was under investigation for working for foreign interests, an accusation it denied. "There is no single reason or evidence saying why they can accuse us of being a foreign agent," Chow Han Tung, vice chairwoman of the group, said at a news conference called to address the police investigation. The investigation is part of a broad crackdown on Hong Kong civil society following mass pro-democracy protests in 2019. Authorities have tightened control over the city with a sweeping national security law imposed by China's ruling Communist Party and other changes that have forced similar civil groups to disband or seen their leaders arrested. Police had asked the alliance to hand over any information about groups they had worked with overseas or in Taiwan, as well as contact information. They did not mention what specific incidents was prompting the investigation. Chow said the alliance has not been able to reach a consensus on whether to disband. It plans to hold a general meeting on Sept. 25 to discuss the matter again. In August, the prominent Hong Kong Civil Human Rights Front, made up of a slew of member organizations, said it could no longer operate and chose to disband. The group organized large protests in 2019. More than 100 pro-democracy activists have been arrested under Hong Kong's national security law, which outlaws subversion, secession, terrorism and foreign collusion to interfere in the citys affairs. Many other activists have gone into exile abroad. Critics say the law restricts freedoms Hong Kong was promised it could maintain for 50 years following the territory's 1997 handover to China from colonial Britain. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) The head of the ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross) has arrived in Afghanistan for a three-day visit. Peter Maurer reached on Sunday and plans to visit rehabilitation centres and medical facilities. He will also meet ICRC staffers. "Afghans have suffered from 40 years of conflict and they now face years of work to heal and recover. The International Committee of the Red Cross is dedicated to staying here to help that recovery," President Maurer said, "The future of all Afghans relies on the continued compassion, empathy and investment from the outside world." The ICRC is a humanitarian organisation located in Geneva. A part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the ICRC has won three Nobel Peace Prizes (in 1917, 1944 and 1963). The ICRC in its website said that the war-torn country is facing a humanitarian crisis. Thousand of people were wounded in the past few weeks as fighting raged in cities. It informed that the organisation has treated over 7,600 people injured by weapons in the first two weeks of August. More than 40,000 people injured were treated by ICRC-supported facilities in June, July and August. "The ICRC has access across the country. We have been working in Taliban-controlled areas for years and we have a positive working relationship with them, at both the top level and the local leadership level. The changes in Afghanistan have not changed our relationship with them, and the current situation doesn't change the way we seek to operate," it informed. Afghanistan Crisis Due to the fall of the US-backed government, the likelihood of an economic crisis is looming large over the war-ravaged nation. The country is also fighting acute drought, heading towards food scarcity and humanitarian crisis. The Taliban has seized control over Afghanistan after the fall of the Ashraf Ghani administration and the withdrawal of US troops last month. The terrorist organisation is now all set to form its government, with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar likely to be its leader. This time, the Taliban has assured inclusive government. However, prohibiting co-ed schools and music speak differently. They have also started an offensive against minorities. Suhas Yathiraj Wins Silver: PM Modi & Prez Kovind Hail Shuttler's Success At Paralympics Suhas Yathiraj made history by becoming the first IAS officer to win a medal at the Paralympics. Following the fantastic effort Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter and congratulated Suhas Yathiraj for his silver medal-winning effort. Read Full Story Here Bihar: 'There's Only One Leader,' Says RCP Singh On Nitish Kumar, Denies Factionalism Refuting reports of disunity in the party, Janata Dal-United (JDU) Leader RCP Singh on Saturday said, 'you have half-baked information'. Assuring that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is the 'one leader,' Singh added that 'it is not like my workers or his'. RCP, who had taken the baton of the party's top position from Nitish Kumar ahead of the 2020 Assembly election, stepped down from the post following JD-Us one person one post policy, after being chosen as a Union cabinet minister in the new Modi 2.0 government cabinet expansion. Read Full Story Here Afghanistan crisis: Amrullah Saleh Appeals To UN For Humanitarian Aid To Panjshir Amid Taliban Face-off As Taliban intensifies its attack on Panjshir, residents of Panjshir valley have appealed to international organisations on Saturday for humanitarian aid. The letter, released by office of 'caretaker' Afghan President Amrullah Saleh highlights the economic blockade by the Taliban disallowing electricity, telecommunication. Estimating 2,50,000 residents stuck in Panjshir including people who migrated to the Valley after the fall of Kabul, Saleh said that genocide, mass starvation may occur if the world does no pay attention. Read Full Story Here Tokyo Paralympics: PM Modi Lauds Krishna Nagar's 'Outstanding Feat' As He Strikes Gold In Badminton Prime Minister Narendra Modi came forward and congratulated para- shuttler Krishna Nagar as he struck solid gold in the Tokyo Paralympics 2020 in the Men's Singles SH6 event final with an emphatic win over Hong Kong's Chu Man Kai in three sets on Sunday. Read Full Story Here Pakistan: Blast In Quetta Kills At Least Three, Tehreek-e-Taliban Claims Responsibility A blast has been reported in Pakistan's Matsung Road in Quetta and Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) has claimed responsibility for the attack. As per the initial reports, the frontier corpse (Pakistan Security Force) was the target of the blast. Read Full Story Here Telangana CM KCR Meets HM Amit Shah In Delhi, Seeks Nod For IPS Cadre Review In The State Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) on Saturday, 4 September met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and requested him to approve the IPS cadre review in the state. The CM also highlighted that the state government has reorganised the existing 10 districts into 33 districts for better administrative functioning. Read Full Story Here Delhi Needs 1.5 Crore COVID-19 Vaccine Doses To Fully Inoculate Eligible Population: AAP The Delhi government needs at least 1.5 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses to completely vaccinate its eligible population against the infectious disease, informed Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Atishi. Speaking about the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination drive in the national capital, she highlighted that most of the people have received their first doses but a large number of people are yet to be fully vaccinated. Read Full Story Here West Bengal BJP Questions Bhabanipur Bypoll Schedule, Asks 'No COVID-19 There?' Miffed with the Election Commission's decision to hold by-polls in Bhabanipur, Bengal BJP on Saturday, alleged that EC has made itself a 'laughing stock'. BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya questioned why bypolls were being held only Bhabanipur asking, "Is there no COVID there?". Rubbishing claims of a constitutional crisis, Bhattacharya alleged that law and order was not favourable in the state to hold polls. Read Full Story Here Teachers' Day: PM Modi, Union Ministers Extend Greetings, Pay Tribute To Dr Radhakrishnan Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh on Sunday, 5 September greeted the teaching fraternity on the occasion of Teachers' Day. Extending his good wishes, PM Modi said it was commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in difficult times of COVID-19. The PM paid tributes to former president S Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary which is celebrated as Teacher's Day. Read Full Story Here 'Won't allow screening of films' | BJP Demands Apology From Javed Akhtar Over Comparison Between RSS & Taliban BJP leader Ram Kadam came down heavily on writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar's remarks against the RSS, asking him to issue an unconditional apology for the same. In a recent statement, Javed Akhtar had drawn parallels between the Taliban and Right-wing organisations that demanded a 'Hindu Rashtra' in India. Read Full Story Here Taiwan's air force on Sunday, 5 September 2021, scrambled its jets soon after Chinese aircraft entered its air defence identification zone, as per ANI reports. The Taiwanese defence ministry in the tweet mentioned that 19 Chinese aircraft entered its air defence identification zone. The Chinese jets that entered Taiwan air defence included one Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft, four H-6, 10 J-16 and four Su Kai-30 aircraft. Chinese aircraft enter Taiwanese air defence zone Taking to Twitter, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence, informed, "19 PLA aircraft (Y-8 ASW, H-6*4, J-16*10 and SU-30*4) entered #Taiwans southwest ADIZ on September 5, 2021". As per the tweet of the Taiwanese defence ministry, the 19 Chinese jets that entered Taiwan air defence included one Y-8 anti-submarine aircraft, four H-6, 10 J-16 and four Su Kai-30 aircraft. As soon as the Taiwanese Air Force detected Chinese aircraft activities, they dispatched their air patrol troops to respond to them. Furthermore, the ministry said that it has deployed an anti-missile system that is monitoring Chinese activity. 19 PLA aircraft (Y-8 ASW, H-6*4, J-16*10 and SU-30*4) entered #Taiwans southwest ADIZ on September 5, 2021. Please check our official website for more information: https://t.co/4krSmean3X pic.twitter.com/1sV3OA4ode Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. (@MoNDefense) September 5, 2021 China aircraft have been frequently entering Taiwan's air defence zone. Earlier on Saturday, four Chinese jets had entered Taiwan's air defence identification zone. Taking to Twitter, Taiwan's Defence Ministry on Saturday wrote "4 PLA aircraft (JH-7*2 and Y-8 ASW*2) entered #Taiwan's southwest ADIZ on September 4, 2021." Earlier on September 3, the Taiwanese Defense ministry in its tweet wrote, "4 PLA aircraft (Y-8 ELINT, Y-8 ASW and H-6K*2) entered #Taiwans southwest ADIZ in the morning of September 3, 2021". 4 PLA aircraft (JH-7*2 and Y-8 ASW*2) entered #Taiwans southwest ADIZ on September 4, 2021. Please check our official website for more information: https://t.co/FCj4iSD1Ge pic.twitter.com/irpR1nn3Eb Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. (@MoNDefense) September 4, 2021 4 PLA aircraft (Y-8 ELINT, Y-8 ASW and H-6K*2) entered #Taiwans southwest ADIZ in the morning of September 3, 2021. Please check our official website for more information: https://t.co/A84oijwDk2 pic.twitter.com/1lWHwCf7j1 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C. (@MoNDefense) September 3, 2021 Meanwhile, members of the European Parliament have urged the EU to have closer ties with Taiwan. The MEPs have further issued warnings over the continued tensions across the Taiwan Strait. The European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs adopted a report on Wednesday, calling for a "stronger partnership" between the European Union and Taiwan. The European Parliaments Foreign Affairs Committee urged the European Union to begin work on a bilateral investment agreement with Taiwan. China, however, opposed the 'EU-Taiwan Political Relations and Cooperation' report, saying that it violates the countrys 'One China Principle', as per ANI. The report calls for a stronger political relationship between the European Union (EU) and Taiwan. IMAGE: AP Inputs from ANI After the Taliban takeover, the humanitarian crisis in the war-torn country has been getting worse. People who are stranded in Afghanistan are facing poverty and severe health issues. In fact, pictures of the people of Afghanistan also went viral in which they were seen selling goods from their houses on roads in order to feed their family. During the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs committee meeting on Afghanistan, Gunnar Wiegand had said that due to lack of access to funds the situation may turn into a catastrophe in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The Taliban's Mullah Baradar on Sunday met with Martin Griffiths, UN under-secy-general for humanitarian affairs at the Foreign Ministry in Kabul. Taliban's spokesperson Mohammad Naeem took to his Twitter handle and claimed that Griffiths has assured that the UN will continue its support and cooperation with Afghanistan adding that the next meeting of donor countries would focus on getting more aid. It is pertinent to mention that Taliban's Mullah Baradar meeting with Martin Griffiths comes after United Nations (UN) chief Antonio Guterres, on Friday, announced that he will convene a high-level humanitarian conference for Afghanistan on 13, September to advocate for a swift scale-up in funding & full, unimpeded access to those in need. HRW on the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan In view of the ongoing crisis, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has urged other countries to take immediate action and provide necessary aid to the people of Afghanistan. In a statement, the HRW stated that donor governments need to create a coordinated plan of action to address other issues, including education, the banking system, and other critical needs that require the cooperation of the Taliban regime, who are currently depriving women and girls of their basic human rights. Meanwhile, people around the world continue to protest against the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Recently, Hundreds of people took to the streets in Geneva and protested against the terrorist group. The protestors included Afghan nationals living in Switzerland raised slogans and displayed placards urging the Federal Government of Switzerland to not recognise the Taliban as a legitimate regime in Afghanistan. Demonstrators also called out the Taliban for its lack of humanitarian efforts towards the citizens in the war-torn nation. (Image Credits: ANI/AP) International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), a critical indicator of the health of the worlds biodiversity, released the list of endangered species on September 4. In an updated 'Red List', IUCN underlined that nearly two in five sharks were on the verge of extinction due to overfishing. The international community also listed Indonesias Komodo dragons, the worlds largest living lizards, in the category of endangered species. According to the organisation, the Red List now includes 1,38,374 species, of which 38,543 threatened with extinction. Todays IUCN Red List update is a powerful sign that, despite increasing pressures on our oceans, species can recover if states truly commit to sustainable practices, said IUCN Director-General Dr Bruno Oberle in a statement released on Saturday. Four of the shark species showed signs of recovery Apart from issuing red flags to several species, IUCN Director-General also applauded the efforts of the country engaged in improving biodiversity after it had published the red list last year. According to him, seven most commercially fished tuna species were reassessed this year, of which four of them showed signs of recovery. "Thanks to countries enforcing more sustainable fishing quotas and successfully combatting illegal fishing," Oberle said. In the updated list, the Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) moved from Endangered to Least Concern, while the Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus Maccoyii) moved from Critically Endangered to Endangered. The albacore (Thunnus alalunga) and yellowfin tunas (Thunnus Albacares) both moved from the "Near Threatened" to "Least Concern" category. "These Red List assessments are proof that sustainable fisheries approach work, with enormous long-term benefits for livelihoods and biodiversity. We need to continue enforcing sustainable fishing quotas and cracking down on illegal fishing, said Chair of the IUCN SSC Tuna and Billfish Specialist Group, Dr Bruce B Collette. "Tuna species migrate across thousands of kilometres, so coordinating their management globally is also key." Komodo dragon threatened by impacts of climate change The worlds largest living lizard, the Komodo dragon, has moved from Vulnerable to Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The species, which is endemic to Indonesia and occurs only in the World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park and neighbouring Flores, is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change. It further warns of rising global temperature and subsequent sea levels to reduce the Komodo dragons suitable habitat by at least 30% in the next four decades. In addition, the international organisation also stressed that the Komodo dragons outside protected areas are under severe threat due to ongoing human activities. Image Credit: Unsplash After months of being restricted to smaller audiences the National Chilean Circus celebrated on Saturday being able to play to larger crowds as coronavirus restrictions were eased in Santiago. Authorities in the Chilean capital have eased virus measures to allow attendances of up to 1,000 people in open-air shows. Carlos Salas, who performs as clown, said he was happy to see so many smiling children again on Saturday. Circus producer, Elias Gonzalez, said the new measures marked a "beautiful day" for the circus which allowed many shows to reopen after a tough period for the industry. The easing of restrictions has come on Chile's National Circus Day, a date the circus representatives said has been celebrated since 1885. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) In a bid to prevent health risks, Brazil has imposed a ban on the distribution of Chinese Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines. This came after Brazil's federal health regulator, Anvisa, found that China's Sinovac vaccines were not inspected, and approved by Anvisa for emergency use and that these vaccines were manufactured in an unauthorised plant. Brazil's health institute suspended more than 12 million shots that have already entered the country, while more than 9 million doses are ready for shipment. Brazil bans use of 12 million Chinese Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines According to a statement issued by the health regulatory body of the Brazilian government, "It has determined the precautionary interdiction of batches of CoronaVac vaccine, prohibiting the distribution and use of batches in the plant not approved by the Authorization for Emergency Use (AUE)". As per media reports, the ban was imposed after a consignment consisting of over 12 million COVID jabs entered the country in 25 batches, while another lot of 9 million doses of the Chinese vaccines were being prepared for shipment. It is to mention that Brazil's Butantan Institute, which is a biomedical research center, informed the Brazilian health regulatory body about the Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines. Butantan Institute, which has partnered with China's Sinovac Biotech in manufacturing the COVID-19 vaccine, alerted the government health body that the Chinese medical institute is producing the vaccine in an unauthorised plant. Anvisa said it would investigate the matter and inspect the plant during the 90-day ban. While informing the government health body, Butantan mentioned that more doses made at the same manufacturing point were on the way to Brazil. However, Butantan's biomedical center did not reveal the location of the unauthorised plant. Many Brazilians have already been inoculated against the virus, while several big cities in Brazil have started vaccine booster shots. Although the use of Sinovac vaccines is now suspended, the vast majority of Brazilians are administered the same China-made Sinovac vaccine. Earlier, North Korea had also rejected around three million doses of Chinese Sinvoc vaccines, claiming that the country does not require them and the vaccines should be shipped to countries in greater need, reported the UNICEF. (With Inputs from ANI) (IMAGE: Shutterstock/DanielSchludi/Unsplash) Relatives and friends of coronavirus victims gathered in Buenos Aires to pay homage to their loved-ones and protest against the government's management of the pandemic on Saturday. Stones bearing the names of some of more than 112,000 people who died due to COVID-19 in Argentina were placed at the Plaza de Mayo, in front of the Government House. Protesters expressed their disapproval of President Alberto Fernandez's handling of the pandemic. At the end of March 2020, Argentina imposed one of the world's longest and strictest lockdowns. A reported 112,444 people have died of COVID-19 in Argentina since the beginning of the pandemic. (Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com) A UK-based scientist, Tariq Rashid, landed in trouble after he decided to print a t-shirt commemorating the glory of German mathematician Georg Friedrich Bernhard Riemann, who made contributions to analysis, number theory, and differential geometry. According to the news website, Theregister.com, the UK based scientist uploaded his design to Teespring, an American company that operates Spring, a social commerce platform that allows people to create and sell custom products. Math-inspired t-shirt stuck in limbo Rashid got a surprise after the company informed him about holding his order. Upon enquiring about the current status, the social commerce platform told that the word "Zeta" belonged to the Greek alphabet and is currently protected legally by Affinity Client Services. Meanwhile, the news outlet is reportedly coordinating trademark licensing for companies practising Greek letters in their names. According to the reports, the main motive of the coordination is to evade business confusion among two similar-sounding names, not to grant sole ownership of a term in all circumstances. French antitrust regulator asks Google to pay USD 600 mn Recently, France's Competition Authority imposed on Google a penalty of 500 million euros (almost USD 600 million) for non-compliance with one of its rulings made last year regarding the issue of the tech giant's compensations to French publishers for the use of their content. In 2019, France's General information Press Alliance, comprising around 300 national and regional media outlets, filed a complaint against Google for its refusal to operate under the European legislation on neighbouring rights, designed to make digital corporations account for their use of media content online. In the ruling in question, Google was ordered to conduct negotiations "in good faith" with French publishers on the payment for the use of their content, something that the digital giant failed to do, according to the regulator. 25 times Bollywood copied hit Pakistani songs Meanwhile, this is not the first time a company claims its ownership to use a word or a tagline. In India, there have been several instances when a foreign country blames Bollywood for copying particular scenes and lyrics of songs. According to divaonline.com, at least 25 superhit Bollywood songs were copied from Pakistani songs. Some of the popular songs are: Kundi Na Kharkao Raja, Tumhe Apna Banane Ka, Agar Tum Mil Jao, Lambi Judaai, Mar Jawaan Mit Jawaan, Dil Mera Tod Diya Usne and the most popular item song Munni Badnaam Hui. However, there were no reports of filing counterclaims by the original artists. (With inputs from ANI) (Image Credit: Pixabay) As the United States ended their two-decade-long war in Afghanistan on August 31 with the departure of the US troops, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Mark Milley said that the Afghan army's "collapse" in front of the attacks of Taliban was unfolded at a very faster rate. The involvement of the US in Afghanistan has come under criticism when the quick fall of the US-trained Afghan army was witnessed after the Taliban's rapid capture of Kabul. Remarks of US General on the quick fall of Afghan Army In an interview with Fox News, General Mark Milley said, The collapse of the Afghan army happened at a much faster rate and [was] very unexpected by pretty much everybody. And then with that is the collapse of the Afghan government." General Milley had previously expressed his sorrow and outrage over what had transpired in the military-conflict nation throughout the past 20 years as the US concluded its evacuation operation from Afghanistan. Milley further informed Fox News that the US exit from the war-torn nation has taught several lessons and one of which was that the discovery of the pitfalls in the security forces of Afghanistan. "The Army itself - the army and the police forces were a mirror image in many ways - and we created and developed forces that looked like Western forces," Milley said, as per ANI. He further added that he believes one of the most important lessons gained from the Taliban gaining power is that those troops may not have been built adequately for the mission. More on the evacuees from Afghanistan According to Milley, over 25,000 Afghan evacuees have been relocated from Afghanistan to US military stations throughout the world. In Germany, the Ramstein base has already processed over 30,000 people. He even added that perhaps 200 of the 30,000 Afghan migrants processed at the Ramstein facility are currently undergoing further background investigations. He thinks they've had a couple of hundred ... who popped 'red. Milley also mentioned the 13 US service personnel killed in the twin suicide bombing in Kabul during his conversation with Fox News. Apart from that, the top US general anticipated a civil war in Afghanistan in the not-too-distant future. He said that as per his military assessment there will be a situation that might likely deteriorate into a civil war. On 31st August morning, US troops have left Afghanistan, concluding a turbulent and chaotic withdrawal from the country's longest battle. According to US Defense Secretary Lloyd J Austin III, the US has evacuated about 6,000 Americans and more than 124,000 Afghans from the war-torn region. (Image Credit: AP) The Entergy Corporation Louisiana stated that as Hurricane Ida impacted severely in some regions of Louisiana, so, there is a huge possibility that those areas might remain without electricity for over three weeks. As per PowerOutage.us, over 6,30,000 people in the state are still lacking power supply on Sunday morning even one week after Hurricane Ida touched down on the Gulf Coast. Over 7 Lakh affected by power failure in Louisiana Entergy Corp. Louisiana, which serves over 1 million customers with electricity, estimates that the huge majority of its customers will have the power problem fixed by Wednesday. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards made the announcement on Saturday, stating that one of the most pressing issues faced by Southeast Louisiana currently is the lack of electricity. He further said that there isn't a consistent pace of regeneration of electricity, and that has been the case always. He has expressed his satisfaction as some people are getting electricity and reassured that the rest will also get power back in a while. During the mid-Saturday, the total number of customers without electricity was nearly 718,559, which included houses and businesses. Edwards said at a press briefing in Livingston Parish indicating the number of customers that a lot more people are still left but the number came down from a peak of 1.1 million consumers without electricity directly following Hurricane Ida's devastation in Louisiana. According to Edwards, the power infrastructure requires strengthening, however, there are restrictions. He further said that even if they will end up doing it, this will necessitate a significant investment which will compensate for itself over time. Initiation began to restore the power supply Entergy Louisiana further stated that its 24,000 storm team employees are working as safely and swiftly as possible to restore the power supply in the state. The company said in a statement on its website that with the combination of the 24,308 distributing poles which were damaged or destroyed, 29,084 spans of electricity wires broken, and nearly 5,742 defective transformers, the workers were able to discover 212 transmission buildings which were destructed by Hurricane Ida. It further states that all these require total rebuilding. On Saturday, the electricity failure has become so severe that New Orleans started transferring powerless residents to powered camps in northern Louisiana and Texas. The new shuttle program uses charter buses to transport visitors from the local convention centre. Stating the situation, Edwards added that the administration is doing all they can to provide relief as soon as possible, he even urged those who are affected by Ida to remain patient. After the disastrous Ida struck the state, twelve people died in Louisiana, out of which, four of them died due to carbon monoxide poisoning, said Edwards, while urging residents to exercise caution when using generators for power supply. (Image Credit: AP) A week after making landfall in the eastern US state of Louisiana, Hurricane Ida has now led to a colossal oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. On Sunday, 5 September 2021, United States Coast Guards informed that it had deployed a private team of divers to locate the source of the spill while clean up crews were constantly engaged in tackling the disaster. The Associated Press deemed the source of the ongoing spill to be underwater at an offshore drilling site about two miles from Port Fourchon. Photos of the spill that have surfaced online show a thick slick of oil drifting more than a dozen miles eastward towards the Gulf Coast. Meanwhile, speaking to the Associated Press, a spokesman for Lt. John Edwards asserted that multiple response teams were monitoring the spillage to gauge the scope of discharge and environmental pollution. Furthermore, he also disclosed that the discharge is believed to be crude oil from an undersea pipeline owned by Talos Energy Company. All Image: AP Flash Floods Meanwhile, at least 45 were killed and over a hundred injured after a flash flood triggered by indecent rains hit several parts of New York on Thursday late at night. According to reports, many people were stuck in their houses when the deadly flood hit the streets of New York, meanwhile, several people took shelter in the cars. However, Democratic Governor Phil Murphy informed the drowning of 40 people in their homes and cars. In a record, New Jersey reported the highest death toll with 23 people killed in the deadly flood, while 13 people were killed in New York City, police said. According to the police, out of 13, 11 of them died in flooded basement apartments, which often serve as relatively affordable homes in one of the nations most expensive housing markets. Hurricane Ida made landfall in the US state of Louisiana on Sunday and soon after, National Weather Services issued an alert warning residents of flash floods throughout the week. Ida, a category 4 storm hit American soil on the same day as Hurricane Katrina hit the Mississippi and Louisiana 16 years ago. The tropical storm left the city of New Orlean in a blackout, obliterating buildings and veering the flow of the Mississippi River as it rushed to the countrys one of the most important industrial corridors. Image: AP Minister of State for External Affairs (MoS MEA), Meenakashi Lekhi will represent India at the UN Security Council ministerial open debate on 'transitions' under the agenda item 'United Nations Peacekeeping Operations' on September 8. Meenakashi Lekhi is on her first official visit to Colombia and the US from September 4 to 9. Since assuming office as MoS for External Affairs, this is her first official visit. Taking to Twitter, Meenakashi Lekhi informed about her participation in the UNSC Open Debate. During the visit to NY,I will participate in the UNSC Open Debate on 'Transitions' under the agenda item 'United Nations Peackeeping Operations'. I will also interact with members of Indian community. See press release for more information: https://t.co/3S6LJBBenU @IndiaUNNewYork Meenakashi Lekhi (@M_Lekhi) September 3, 2021 Ambassador of India to the UN, T S Tirumurti shared a picture of Meenakashi Lekhi's arrival in New York. After her arrival, Lekhi addressed the Indian community at the "Jan Aashirwad Abhar" event. The event was organised by Prem Bhandari, Jaipur Foot USA Chairman and social activist. She lauded the efforts of the Indian community and highlighted that they act as goodwill ambassadors for the country. She added that their achievements in the professional, business and education fields contribute to the country's goodwill. She expressed gratitude towards the Indian community for extending necessary help in times of need. Speaking at the event, Bhandari also expressed gratitude towards Indian Foreign Secretary, Harsh Vardhan Shringla for extending the partnership to organise 12 prosthetic fitment camps on August 5, 2020. Bhandari made a special mention of the relaxed Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) regulations which caused suffering for about 6 million OCI cardholders. Delighted to receive Honble Minister of State for External Affairs Smt Meenakshi Lekhi @M_Lekhi this morning at New York. @MLekhiOffice @MEAIndia pic.twitter.com/zZMrti42WU PR/Amb T S Tirumurti (@ambtstirumurti) September 3, 2021 During her visit to Colombia from September 4 to September 6, Meenakashi Lekhi will call on the top leadership of the country. She is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister of Colombia, Marta Lucia Ramirez. The two leaders will discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest. Lekhi will also be interacting with leading Indian and Colombian companies and the Indian Community residing in the country. While on her visit to New York from September 7 to 9, Lekhi will participate in the Security Council Ministerial Open Debate on 'Transitions' under the agenda item 'United Nations Peacekeeping Operations' that will be convened on September 8 under the Council's Irish Presidency. She is expected to meet with senior UN leadership. Lekhi will also interact with the Indian community in New York as part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. (IMAGE: PTI) (Inputs from ANI) Uzbekistan might have the best lines of communication with the Taliban of any Central Asian state. But Tashkent is now facing problems after the Taliban requested the return of 585 Afghan government military personnel along with more than 40 warplanes and helicopters that crossed the border into Uzbekistan in mid-August. Uzbek authorities have reportedly been speaking with other countries about taking the Afghan soldiers. And Uzbek authorities are also contending with small numbers of Afghans who continue to try to escape from Taliban rule and flee into Uzbekistan. Uzbek authorities are turning the Afghans back at the border, a move that some countries and international organizations are criticizing. On this week's Majlis podcast, RFE/RL media-relations manager Muhammad Tahir moderates a discussion that looks at how Uzbekistans government is dealing with the Afghan spillover since the Taliban seized control over most of the country in mid-August. This weeks guests are, from Britain, Shahida Tulaganova, a documentary filmmaker who has been working to get journalists out of Afghanistan; also from Britain, Alisher Ilkhamov, the Eurasia program officer at the Open Society Foundations; from Prague, Alisher Sidiq, director of RFE/RLs Uzbek Service, known locally as Ozodlik; and Bruce Pannier, the author of the Qishloq Ovozi blog. Listen to the podcast above or subscribe to the Majlis on iTunes or on Google Podcasts. More than 50 Crimean Tatars have been detained by the Russian intelligence service in Ukraines Russia-controlled Crimea region, Ukrainian officials said on September 4. Ukrainian Ombudswoman Lyudmyla Denisova said Russias Federal Security Service, the FSB, had first detained five minority Crimean Tatar activists, including well-known activist Nariman Dzhelyal, the deputy chairman of the Mejlis representative body for the Tatars in Crimea, and raided their homes. In response, more than 50 Crimean Tatars gathered in front of the FSB's branch in Crimea's capital, Simferopol, to protest the detentions. As a result, more than 50 Crimean Tatars have been detained," Denisova wrote on Facebook on September 4. Some of them were brutally forced onto police buses, Denisova said, adding that two journalists were among those detained. They were shoved into buses with force and beaten and taken to different police precincts in the temporarily occupied Crimea, where they're being questioned without lawyers present, she said. Denisova called on the entire international community to use all possible leverage...in order to end repressions against the indigenous population. Russian authorities have not yet commented on the arrests. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy demanded the release of the detained Crimean Tatars in a tweet on September 4. The occupants of Crimea once again resort to persecution of Crimean Tatars. Regular raids and detentions take place in their homes, Zelenskyy wrote. All those detained must be freed! Since Russia seized Crimea in 2014, Russian authorities have prosecuted dozens of Crimean Tatars for allegedly belonging to the Hizb ut-Tahrir Islamic group, which is banned in Russia but not in Ukraine. Moscows takeover of the peninsula was vocally opposed by many Crimean Tatars, who are a sizable minority in the region. Exiled from their homeland to Central Asia by the Soviet authorities under dictator Josef Stalin during World War II, many Crimean Tatars are very wary of Russia and Moscow's rule. Rights groups and Western governments have denounced what they describe as a campaign of repression by the Russian-imposed authorities in Crimea who are targeting members of the Turkic-speaking Crimean Tatar community and others who have spoken out against Moscow's takeover of the peninsula. Russia took control of Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014 after sending in troops, seizing key facilities, and staging a referendum dismissed as illegal by at least 100 countries. Moscow also backs separatists in a war against government forces that has killed more than 13,200 people in eastern Ukraine since April 2014. With reporting by AP and dpa Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi says talks to revive the Iran nuclear deal are on his government's agenda, but that they should not be held under "pressure" from Western countries. Raisi told state television on September 4 that his government is "pursuing outcome-oriented negotiations." France and Germany -- the two European Union countries in the deal -- have urged Iran to return to negotiations after a break in talks following Iranian elections in June that brought Raisi to power. Iran does not hesitate to talk and negotiate, Raisi said. But the Americans and the Westerners are looking for dialogue with pressure," he said. "I ordered negotiations to be on the agenda, but not with the pressure they are pursuing," he added. Six rounds of talks on reviving the 2015 deal have been held in Vienna since April. In August, France, Germany, and Britain voiced grave concerns about reports that Iran had produced uranium enriched to 20 percent fissile purity, raising fears that Tehran might be pursuing nuclear weapons. Later in the month, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed the reports that Iran had for the first time produced 20 percent pure metal uranium and said it had significantly increased its production capacity for 60 percent enriched uranium. The nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), limits Tehran to refining uranium to 3.67 percent. Iran, which says its nuclear ambitions are purely for civilian purposes, said it informs the IAEA about its activities. It also has said that its moves away from the deal would be reversed if the United States returned to the accord and lifted sanctions. Iran's chief nuclear negotiator, Abbas Araqchi, said in July that "enough has been negotiated and now is the time for countries to decide." After six rounds, he said, We are almost nearing its final stages. Under the deal between Iran and Britain, France, Germany, China, Russia, and the United States, Tehran agreed to suspend many of its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief. In 2018, then-President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the deal and called for a broader agreement to include Iran's regional activities and missile program. President Joe Biden, who defeated Trump last year, has said that he wants Washington to rejoin the nuclear deal. With reporting by Reuters Thousands of Montenegrins blocked the roads to Cetinje, a former capital of Montenegro, before the inauguration of Metropolitan Joanikije as the leader of the Montenegrin branch of the Serbian Orthodox Church on September 5. Hundreds clashed with the police in Cetinje around the medieval monastery where the inauguration took place. Montenegrins who demand looser ties with Serbia saw the choice of location for the church ceremony as a challenge to their identity. CETINJE, Montenegro -- The new head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro has been inaugurated, arriving by helicopter under the protection of police who dispersed hundreds of protesters with tear gas. The decision to anoint Bishop Joanikije II as the new Metropolitan of Montenegro at a historic monastery in the town of Cetinje, the former capital, has provoked ethnic tensions in the small Balkan nation. Demonstrators said the choice of venue was an insult to Montenegro's centuries-old struggle for sovereignty and independence. Protesters have clashed with police, setting up road barriers with trash containers, tires, and stones to prevent church and state dignitaries from attending the inauguration. Riot police responded by using tear gas and firing gunshots in the air. Hospital officials in Cetinje said at least 60 people were injured in the clashes, including 30 police officers. At least 15 people were arrested. The protesters broke through a police blockade at the entrance to Cetinje and threw stones at them, shouting, "This is Montenegro! and This is not Serbia! Montenegrin state RTCG TV said. Montenegrins remain deeply divided over their countrys ties with Serbia and the Serbian Orthodox Church. About 30 percent of the country's population of 600,000 identifies as Serb, and the Serbian Orthodox Church is the predominant religion in the country. Pro-independence Montenegrins have advocated for a recognized Orthodox Christian Church separate from the Serbian one. Joanikijes inauguration ceremony started with the arrival on September 4 of the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Porfirije, in Podgorica, Montenegro's capital. Patriarch Porfirije attended the inauguration of Joanikije, whose predecessor, Metropolitan Amfilohije, died in October at age 82 after contracting COVID-19. The Serbian Orthodox Church played a key role in demonstrations last year that helped topple a long-ruling pro-Western government. Montenegros new government includes staunchly pro-Serb and pro-Russian parties. Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic and some government ministers close to the Serbian Orthodox Church supported the installment of Joanikije in Cetinje. Montenegro's previous leaders defied Russia to seal the countrys membership in NATO in 2017. Montenegro also is seeking to become a European Union member. With reporting by AP Heres the main reason why Aleksei Navalny has become such a potent political force and a threat to the Kremlin: his splashy exposes documenting corruption and ostentatious spending by government officials, usually accompanied by his acerbic wit. But theres another, equally potent reason: his Smart Voting campaign, an effort that aims to loosen the chokehold the Kremlin-allied United Russia political party has on elected legislatures nationwide. And thats why, with just weeks to go before nationwide elections to choose a new lower house of parliament, authorities have stepped up a crackdown on anything connected to Smart Voting. "They are definitely fighting against Smart Voting," Abbas Gallyamov, a Moscow-based political analyst, told Current Time, the Russian-language network run by RFE/RL in cooperation with VOA. "We can't forget that Smart Voting is the most dangerous of all of Navalny's projects, at least at the present moment, he said. Smart Voting Goes High-Tech The September 17-19 elections are crucial not only for cementing United Russias grip on the countrys political life. Theyre also key to any constitutional maneuvering that the Kremlin might undertake in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, when President Vladimir Putin may seek a fifth term. The problem for the Kremlin is that, at least since last year, polling for United Russia has been at historic lows. The opposition, headed by Navalny, has shown unprecedented effectiveness -- using the Smart Voting tactic to secure victories for hundreds of opposition candidates in local elections across the country in 2018, 2019, and 2020. In past years, the effort was more of a traditional word-of-mouth and public-relations campaign promoted by Navalny and his allies through their networks. We all want to see the Beautiful Russia of the Future as soon as possible, but we have to be realistic.... Smart Voting helps make the first step toward restoring true competition to our political life. This year, with the national Duma elections looming, Smart Voting has gone high-tech, with a downloadable app launched on August 24 that identifies in most races the candidate most likely to defeat their ruling party rival, regardless of party affiliation or ideology, and urges voters to cast their votes for that candidate. Far from being simple vote-for-this-other-candidate-because-we-said-so guidance, Navalny strategists have made Smart Voting into a sophisticated algorithm, taking into account things like a particulars regions voting history, the other campaigns, interviews with local political analysts and experts, and other factors. Moreover, alternative candidates identified by Smart Voting arent necessarily considered liberal or even opposition candidates. Sometimes they are affiliated with one of the alternative political parties -- the Communist Party, the Liberal Democratic Party, or A Just Russia -- whose presence in the Duma is effectively endorsed by the Kremlin but arent really considered truly independent of Kremlin pressure. "We all want to see the Beautiful Russia of the Future as soon as possible, but we have to be realistic," it says on the Smart Voting website. "It is not going to happen overnight. Smart Voting helps make the first step toward restoring true competition to our political life. On its website, Smart Voting claims that, in 2019, it reduced the number of United Russia lawmakers in the Moscow city legislature from 38 to 25. Among other things, the system all but ended decades of opposition infighting about whether to participate in elections -- seen by many as Kremlin-manipulated -- and also enabled those opposed to United Russia's stranglehold to vote as a relatively powerful bloc. "The main conclusion of the recent campaign is simple: Voters need to register on the Smart Voting website and cast their votes in accordance with its recommendations, Ilya Yashin, an activist who is among the many prominent opposition figures whom the government barred from seeking a Duma seat, wrote on Facebook after local elections last September. If we do everything in a smart way, then next year United Russia will lose its majority in the federal parliament, Yashin wrote. Smart Voting threatens to be a particularly powerful weapon in the competition for the half of Duma seats that are awarded in single-mandate districts. In the 2016 Duma elections, United Russia was awarded more than 90 percent of such seats because of the first-past-the-post voting system. Thats despite polling just over 40 percent of the vote, according to disputed official figures. Political consultants within the Putin administration seem to have reached the same conclusion as Yashin. "We are seeing the authorities trying to break the [Smart Voting] infrastructure or make it as difficult as possible to access it," said Stanislav Andreichuk, co-chairman of Golos, an election-monitoring NGO that was declared a "foreign agent" by the Justice Ministry in August. Through Navalny has been jailed in a notorious prison east of Moscow since February, his team in August released that downloadable app to help people figure out how to Smart Vote. The app is called, simply, Navalny. The governments Internet regulator, Roskomnadzor, has ordered Apple and Google to delete the Navalny app from their stores. So far, the two U.S.-based tech giants have refused, and face potentially huge fines. Navalny's supporters have said Roskomnadzor has also been trying to block Russian users from downloading the app. Globalcheck, an NGO that monitors the accessibility of Internet resources in the former Soviet Union, says that accessibility -- the real-time availability of the app from various Internet providers -- plummeted to 50 percent after the app was launched, and since then has ranged largely between 50 and 70 percent. Some users have reportedly claimed that they were unable to use the app even when using a virtual private network, or VPN. "There has been an order to do everything to prevent voters from finding out about the Smart Voting recommendations, to prevent them from consolidating their votes," Navalny project manager Leonid Volkov said in a post to Facebook on August 25. 'Strongly Encouraged' This spring, Navalnys organization, known as the Anti-Corruption Foundation, revealed that its computer servers had been hacked and that data on hundreds of thousands of people supportive of the foundation had been stolen. According to an investigation carried out by Current Time in May, digital footprints showed that the hack, which resulted in the leak of data about some 529,000 of Navalny's supporters, seemed to have been carried out by people connected to the presidential administration. Over the summer, police stepped up raids and the questioning of people across Russia; many of those targeted were asked specifically about Navalny. By the end of August, according to OVD-Info, a rights group that monitors law enforcement agencies, police had visited more than 1,400 people in at least 11 regions who had shown support for Navalny. At first, we thought it was some sort of joke. All of the reports came in as if they had been copied and pasted. They weren't merely similar, but identical. According to Yelena Makarova, a lawyer with the group, those targeted were asked to explain why they had donated to Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which has been banned as an "extremist" organization. They were also asked why they had downloaded Navalny's Smart Voting application or why they had signed a petition pledging to protest Navalny's imprisonment. "At first, we thought it was some sort of joke," she said. "All of the reports came in as if they had been copied and pasted. They weren't merely similar, but identical. Russians targeted by police were "strongly encouraged" to file a legal complaint against Navalny and his staff for purportedly failing to protect databases with their personal information, OVD-Info said. At least one person was told directly that if he refused to write a complaint against Navalny, he would be taken to a police detention center and held there until he changed his mind, Makarova said. The BBC, citing an unnamed source "close to the Federal Security Service (FSB)," reported on September 1 that the order for the police visits had come from Putin's presidential administration and was being carried out by Interior Ministry units controlled by the FSB. Real Smart Vote, Fake Smart Vote In addition to efforts to block the Smart Voting website and the app, and police intimidation, Volkov said "innumerable fake Smart Voting sites" and apps have flooded the Internet. A huge, expensive advertising campaign by fakes has been launched on social media so that people would be confused by the various recommendations and unable to distinguish the real from the fake, Volkov said. In addition, multiple media outlets allied with, or backed by, the government have been attacking the campaign. "Smart voting is a manipulative and destructive tactic, the main goal of which is to destroy the Russian system of governance," one article published by the Siberia-based Federal Press website on August 30, said. "The project is not based on creation, but on destruction, which is the very essence of extremism." A month before the Navalny Smart Voting app was launched, an unknown wool-trading firm with three employees based in the southern Stavropol region registered "Smart Voting" as its trademark. On September 1, the company filed a lawsuit against Google, insisting that the search-engine giant block all "illegal" uses of the phrase. Gallyamov, the Moscow analyst, said that the flurry of activity targeting Smart Voting indicates the level of Kremlin concern. The only thing that can be done in such a situation to save its election prospects is to refocus the voting of its opponents, he said. In each election district across the country, there are probably two or three candidates whom opposition voters might support, he said. "If each of them picks up a reasonable percentage, then none of them will get more than the United Russia candidate, who will be backed up by administrative resources, Gallyamov said. This kind of refocusing is the main hope of the authorities he said. That is why Smart Voting is their main enemy." Written by RFE/RL senior correspondent Robert Coalson based on reporting from Russia by RFE/RL's Russian Service and Current Time Yes! I got it as soon as possible Yes, but only so I could take my mask off Not yet, but I plan to No. I have no plan to get vaccinated Vote View Results News featured popular urgent Rockdale County looking for new director, deputy director of transportation Special Photo John Moretto Special Photo Michael Anderson CONYERS Like many other governments and businesses during the current economic climate brought on by the pandemic, Rockdale County government is looking to fill a number of positions, with 26 job openings listed on the county website, including the director and deputy director positions in the Department of Transportation. John A. Moretto was named DOT director in January 2020, succeeding Brian Allen, who had been director since 2017 (Allen remains as a consultant with the county). Moretto is a civil and transportation engineer with more than 23 years of extensive transportation and government-related experience. Eighteen of the 23 years included strong leadership management training of designers, engineers, operators, and traffic signal technicians. In June of this year, the Board of Commissioners approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (ATL) and $105,000 as a grant match for the development of a transit master plan. At the time, Rockdale County Commission Chair Oz Nesbitt Sr. credited Moretto for making sure the county followed the correct path to determining what type of transportation is needed, adding that in a call he had earlier in the day with Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff, that Ossoff was excited for Rockdale County. We got with Chris Tomlinson, the executive director of ATL and part of the conversation today with Sen. Ossoff, talked about everything that Moretto talked about, Nesbitt said on June 22. So we are high up on the radar and were moving. But had we not pumped the brakes and followed his (Morettos) leadership to do it the way it needs to be done, we never would have been able to get to the point where were at with ATL and Chris Tomlinson and all the folks on the state level, let alone whats happening on the federal level. According to Toni Holmes, director of Talent Management for the county, Moretto voluntarily resigned and deputy director Michael Anderson had an involuntary separation, which by definition means a separation initiated by the employer against an employees will and without his or her consent for reasons other than misconduct, delinquency, or inefficiency. Rockdale County lists the starting annual salary for director of transportation, depending on qualifications and experience, to be between $106,000-$120,000. The starting annual salary for deputy director is listed between $78,000-$101,000. Rocky Mount, NC (27804) Today Some sun in the morning with increasing clouds during the afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Mostly cloudy skies. Low 69F. Winds light and variable. (reuters.com) - The Democratic Republic of Congo will seek compensation from the owners of an Angolan diamond mine after a tailings dam leak polluted drinking water, causing 12 deaths and making thousands of people ill, the country's environment minister said on Thursday. The late-July leak from Angola's biggest diamond mine turned a tributary of the Congo River red following a rupture in a spillway for the mine's tailings dam, which stores mining industry waste meant to stay undisturbed. Researchers at Kinshasha University last month pointed to "huge pollution" that affected some 2 million people, killed fish and caused diarrhea among river communities. Congo, which shares a 1,600-mile (2,575 km) long border with Angola, will seek compensation in line with the "polluter pays" principle, where those who produce pollution should bear the cost of mitigating it, Eve Bazaiba told a media conference after visiting the country's southern Kasai province. Workers of the world are united in their disdain for the traditional work model and are marshaling changes in employment. The Great Resignation The great resignation is a tide that is building to swamp employment as usual and reshape work as we know it. Also known as The Great Awakening this trend has produced record resignations. In April, four million Americans quit their jobs, according to the U. S. Department of Labor. The same survey showed 3.9 million workers quit in June. Burnout While conservative politicians rail against federal aid as the cause of this phenomenon, research does not bear that out. (See the story below). Stress from working in a pandemic has been cited as a major cause of the great resignation. We basically burned out the global workforce over the last year. One of the ways people deal with burnout is switching employers, Melissa Swift of Korn Ferry consulting told Axios. Some companies, such as Linkedin, Hootsuite, and Bumble have are willing to give employees time off to recover from covid burnout. Sometimes Its Just the Job The pandemic certainly added to worker burnout. However, research shows a deeper job dissatisfaction. A Microsoft report shows that 41 percent of workers worldwide are considering quitting. Leading the way are Generation Z (18 to 25-year-old) workers. Over half (54 percent) of that age group are considering resigning their jobs. Research by Adobe produced similar findings. The Adobe study shows 59 percent of Gen Z employees are dissatisfied with their jobs. Changes in Employment Triggered by Tedium Almost two-thirds of Gen Z employees told Adobe they feel pressured to work conventional hours. While about a quarter of them say they are most productive outside a 9 to 5 framework. Another frustration is repetitive mundane work. Many workers complained in the Adobe report that invoices, file management, forms, and other paperwork reduced their effectiveness. Workers spend a third of the workweek on mundane, repetitive work, with 86 percent of enterprise workers and 83 percent of SMB (small business) leaders saying these tasks get in the way of doing their jobs effectively, states the report. Adobes report also found that half of the workers surveyed said they would switch jobs for one that provided more efficient technological tools. More Control Another reason workers want to see changes in employment is to gain more personal freedom. A whopping 61 percent of workers told Adobe they would switch jobs to gain more control over their schedules. A Prudential survey found that 42 percent of employees would refuse to work for an employer that did not offer remote work options. Helping Unemployed Hasnt Wrecked Job Market Enjoy your weekend. Monday,(Labor Day) 7.5 million Americans will lose unemployment benefits, according to The Century Foundation, and another three million will lose income for those providing dependent care. Some politicians and pundits think this will cause a drop in unemployment. However, recent history does not support that idea. In fact, it indicates a decline in consumer spending. No Benefit to Cutting Aid Governers in 26 states announced they would cut off federal benefits in June. Their rationale was that benefits deterred unemployed workers from seeking jobs. However, only eight of those states saw an improvement in employment, according to the U. S. Department of Labor. In addition, nine states and the District of Columbia saw unemployment decline even though they did not cut aid. Politics, not economics, drove the attack on unemployment insurance, maintains The Century Foundations, Andrew Stettner. Twenty-five of the 26 governors who cut federal unemployment benefits are Republicans. Cutting Benefits Cuts Consumer Spending Cutting benefits early had little to no impact on unemployment. However, it has had unintended consequences. Joint research by economists at Harvard University, Columbia University, University of Toronto, and Amherst finds that local economies have suffered from the cuts. Household spending in the 26 states that opted out of benefits dropped almost $2 billion from June through August, according to the report. Meanwhile, the White House is urging states with high unemployment to extend jobless benefits past Labor Day. The administration says those states could pay for the cost with over $350 billion allocated for the American Rescue Plan. Worklife M `enage `a Trois One of the growing changes in employment is the number of people holding down two remote jobs at the same time and not telling either employer. Go To The Website A website has sprung up to help double jobbers called Overemployed.com. The site was launched by a disgruntled employee who uses the name, Isaac. Isaacs company began shedding jobs during the pandemic and he feared his head was on the chopping block. To hedge his bets, Isaac looked for a new job. When he got it, Isaac had an awakening. He realized he could work both jobs at the same time. A New Community Isaac discovered there were other people facing the same challenges he had. That is when he founded the website and began growing a community. Overemploymnet.com features tips for working two jobs at once. The site covers issues such as the legality of working two jobs, tax issues, managing conflicting meetings, and juggling two 401Ks. It also has a forum where users can communicate directly. Over nine thousand users are part of Overemployments Discord community with another five thousand subscribing to its newsletter. However, those numbers are the tip of the iceberg. In August we had about 190,000 users who visited our website, Isaac told SA in an email. Most of those were in the U. S. However, some were from Canada and the U.K. Job Satisfaction The site is designed to help people safeguard themselves financially from changes in employment, such as layoffs, salary cuts, and loss of benefits. However, Isaac admits there is another reason. But more than anything else, Isaac writes, I wanted to organize a community to give the man, aka Corporate America, the middle finger for always trying to screw the little people over. Keeping It Going Flipping off the boss may give a sense of inner peace, but is it sustainable? Oh, super sustainable, says Isaac. The Pandemic resulted in the big unplugging from the crazy lives we dropping off kids to school, commuting to work, BS meetings, pick up kids, and commute home. Kids drop off and pick up is back and its been the best because both my spouse and I can stop work and go do that together. Quality of living is way up, hours are still 40 hours tops or less. We dont work past 5 pm. Dinner and the rest of the night are family time. No night meetings. Simply say no to BS work socialization. Get things done, step out of my work and into my life. The New Workweek For Isaac and other double jobbers, the 40-hour workweek is an outmoded concept. Why we do it to ourselves with the notion of a 40-hour workweek still beats me, writes Isaac. Im more productive than ever, and Id rather work 20-25 hours a week in spurts to great productivity and creativity than sit and participate work for 40 hours. Its laisse faire free market, now labor is exercising that concept in a digital, knowledge worker way. No Extras One of the keys to successful double jobbing is setting work expectations. Get your job(s) done. No more, no less, says Isaac. First, set your own priorities, else your manager or work will prioritize your life for you. Isaac maintains that climbing the corporate ladder is the path to fools gold. I dont go volunteering to go above and beyond for a potential promotion, says Isaac. I 2x instead its a promotion I can guarantee for myself and my family. Read More How to Save On Some of Lifes Most Expensive Items Did You Receive $10,200 in Unemployment Tax Breaks? If Not, Do This Side hustles that might make you $100 in a day WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) The Islamic State-inspired extremist who attacked shoppers in a New Zealand supermarket had been fighting deportation for immigration fraud, leaving the nation's leader expressing frustration at the process. The new details about the attack Friday in Auckland emerged as the condition of some of those injured in his attack improved. Three critically injured patients remain in intensive care but are in stable condition, Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield said Sunday. Police added that the condition of one of the critically injured patients had improved. Bloomfield said a fourth person still hospitalized is in stable condition, while the three others have been released and are recovering at home. The attacker, Ahamed Samsudeen, 32, arrived in New Zealand 10 years ago on a student visa. A Tamil Muslim, he applied for refugee status on the basis of being persecuted in Sri Lanka, where a civil war ended in 2009 with the defeat of a Tamil rebel group. Immigration New Zealand declined his application, but he won his appeal, gaining permanent residency in 2014. Police first noticed Samsudeen's online support for terrorism in 2016 and by the following year, immigration agents knew he wanted to fly to Syria to join the Islamic State insurgency. They began reviewing his immigration status, fearing he could be a threat. In 2018, Samsudeen was jailed after he was found with Islamic State videos and knives, and the following year, his refugee status was canceled after authorities found evidence of fraud. My understanding is that in the process of investigation into the terrorist, it was discovered that some of the documents that he had used in order to get his refugee status looked to have been fabricated, Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson said. But Samsudeen appealed, triggering a lengthy process that automatically allowed him to stay in New Zealand until his appeal was heard. Immigration authorities tried to argue he should remain behind bars, but in July, Samsudeen was set free. Police trailed him around the clock, fearing he would launch an attack, but unable to do more. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said her government will change the laws this month to enhance penalties for terrorist plots. Undercover officers just outside the supermarket were able to shoot and kill Samsudeen within a couple of minutes after he charged at them with the knife. His appeal against deportation was due to be heard later this month until coronavirus restrictions delayed the hearing to a date that had not yet been set. At the time of the terrorist attack, the offender's attempt to overturn the deportation decision was still ongoing, Ardern said. This has been a frustrating process." BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) Families looking for their loved ones who evacuated from Hurricane Ida to a state shelter are getting help from the state. The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services on Saturday launched Connect, a tool that will help families connect with each other. The number to call is 225-342-2727. Thank you for reading! You have reached your 30-day limit of free access to SentinelSource.com, The Keene Sentinels website. If you would like to read two more articles for free at this time, please register for an account by clicking the sign up button below. We hope you find The Sentinels coverage of the Monadnock Region valuable. We rely on our subscribers to bring you strong local journalism and hope you will consider supporting our work by taking advantage of this special subscription offer here. Should San Franciscos Muni transit service restore all of the bus routes it eliminated during the pandemic or scrap many of those low-ridership routes in favor of more highly trafficked lines? The agency is asking riders for feedback on what kind of service should be offered next year. Muni posted details of three alternatives for 2022 service on Saturday as part of a process of deciding what adjustments to make. Some service has been restored since the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency reduced service last year because of the coronavirus pandemic. During that time, and even spanning the past several years, Muni officials said they have observed the needs and travel patterns of riders change. Muni spokesperson Erica Kato said Friday that transit officials have seen travel patterns shift from the major focus on downtown as neighborhood trips expand across the city. Were committed to providing adequate service to neighborhoods that have previously been underserved by the Muni system, Kato said. Muni is proposing three options: the Familiar Alternative, the Frequent Alternative and the Hybrid Alternative. The Familiar Alternative would restore the all-day routes that havent been restored since the start of the pandemic. Muni officials said this scenario would allow riders to essentially return to their previous routes, would require relatively little effort to implement, and would acknowledge that some residents have chosen where to live, or where to locate businesses, based on the location of Muni lines. The Frequent Alternative would boost service on high- ridership Muni lines and improve connections to grocery stores, hospitals, schools and workplaces. Wait times and crowding would be decreased, Muni officials said, but not all of the pre-pandemic Muni bus routes would be restored. Muni officials said this scenario would maximize ridership and shift resources from downtown trips to those connecting local neighborhoods. The Hybrid Alternative would try to balance the familiar and frequent alternatives by truncating and extending routes and using the freed resources to increase frequencies on high-ridership Muni routes. This scenario would decrease wait times and crowding, Muni officials said. Muni is posting an online survey for community members. Agency officials said the survey answers will be used to inform a proposal for Muni service in 2022 that will be brought to the Board of Directors at the end of 2021. Residents who take the Muni service survey are asked several questions, such as weighing what is more important as a rider: a shorter distance to stops or a shorter wait time at stops. The survey also asks how frequently residents used Muni before and during the coronavirus pandemic. Cat Carter, communications manager for the San Francisco Transit Riders, said Sunday that she is concerned that the process seems rushed and may not reach riders who might not respond to online surveys or signs posted at bus stops. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. You are talking about significant changes to service with only a month or two of outreach, she said. Carter also said the competing trio of scenarios could pit riders in different neighborhoods against one another, which may not be helpful at a time when Muni advocates are looking at several possible revenue measures next year, including a bond and tax that would be paid by property owners in transit-rich neighborhoods. Is this really the best time to do this and end up pitting riders in different communities against one another? she said. Taking away service doesnt seem to be a good way to build the goodwill we are going to need to pass the measures. Lauren Hernandez and J.K. Dineen are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: lauren.hernandez@sfchronicle.com, jkdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ByLHernandez, @sfjkdineen One of the first actions Gavin Newsom took as governor was to declare a moratorium on executions in California, which now has 699 inmates on the nations largest Death Row. If Newsom is recalled from office Sept. 14, most of his prominent opponents say they plan to reverse that moratorium, though its unclear whether they would actually get to oversee any executions. Californians voted to retain the death penalty. This man came out and he ignored the will of the people, Larry Elder, the Los Angeles talk show host who has led recent polls of replacement candidates, told an interviewer for the CalMatters news group. He was referring to ballot measures in 2012 and 2016 that would have repealed the states death penalty law. I strongly support the death penalty in California. ... It should never have been changed, Kevin Faulconer, the former San Diego mayor, told KQED radio in San Francisco. Id do what Newsom said he was going to do respect the will of the voters, Assembly Member Kevin Kiley, R-Rocklin (Placer County), said in a statement provided by his campaign. Caitlyn Jenner, the reality TV star and former Olympic athlete, also says she favors the death penalty. The most notable exception among Newsoms foes is John Cox, the San Diego County businessman and unsuccessful Republican candidate for governor in 2018, who has said his Catholic faith led him to oppose capital punishment. Unlike other policy changes that would require approval from the Democratic-controlled Legislature, a new governor could repeal the moratorium with the same type of executive order that Newsom used to impose it. Sponsors of the recall raised the issue in their petitions and state ballot arguments, saying Newsom had unilaterally overruled the will of the people regarding the death penalty. Californians have voted to retain the death penalty four times in the last 49 years, though the majorities were much smaller in 2012 and 2016 than they had been in 1972 and 1978. In 1986, the states voters, for the first time in California history, denied new terms to three state Supreme Court Justices, Chief Justice Rose Bird and Justices Joseph Grodin and Cruz Reynoso, in a campaign that focused on the courts reversals of death sentences. Yet the issue has not been a prime topic in the recall campaign, which has focused on Newsoms handling of the coronavirus pandemic and the reopening of public schools, his opponents demands for lower taxes, less environmental regulation and more sweeps of homeless encampments, and the governors efforts to link his rivals to former President Donald Trump. Those issues have more of an impact on most Californians daily lives than capital punishment. Voters appear to care more about keeping the death penalty on the books than carrying it out. Under its current laws, the state executed 13 prisoners from 1992 through January 2006. A federal judge then ruled that Californias execution procedures, equipment and staff training were so flawed that anesthesia would fail and an inmate would remain conscious and in agony while dying. No one has been put to death since then, while attempts to revise the procedures have remained tied up in court. Since Californias death penalty was reinstated by lawmakers in 1977 and expanded by the voters in 1978, the leading causes of death among condemned prisoners have been illness and suicide. And voters in 2010, 2014 and 2018 decisively elected two governors, Jerry Brown and Newsom, who were outspoken opponents of the death penalty. The 699 Death Row inmates include 31 who have lost all appeals of their convictions and sentences. Newsoms March 2019 order blocked their executions, dismantled the execution chamber at San Quentin State Prison and withdrew the changes the state had proposed in lethal execution procedures during the court case. Proposition 66, which voters approved in 2016 while refusing to repeal the death penalty, sought to speed up executions by limiting appeals as well as regulatory review of new lethal injection methods. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. But no such method had won court approval before Newsoms order. His successor after a recall could also face renewed legal challenges from prisoners, based on federal laws and any newly discovered evidence they offer. It is not clear how long those issues would take to resolve, or whether the courts would clear the way for any executions to take place by January 2023, when Newsoms successor would leave office unless he or she was elected to a new term. Will the new governor have the political will to put the needed priority on these efforts? Who can say? observed death penalty advocate Kent Scheidegger, legal director of the Criminal Justice Legal Foundation and author of Prop. 66. An argument in favor would be that carrying out executions sends a clear and highly visible message that California is once again determined to dish out just deserts to criminals, and the namby-pamby Brown/Newsom approach is history, he said. On the other hand, the opposition remains large and determined enough that considerable political capital would have to be spent in the effort. But a death penalty opponent said a recall could lead to a reopening of the execution chamber. While state law normally requires officials to put new rules on hold for 180 days to allow for public comment and take additional time to assess those comments, he said, the law also provides regulatory shortcuts, said Robert Sanger, a Santa Barbara defense attorney and board member of Death Penalty Focus, a Sacramento nonprofit. Recalling the final months of the Trump administration, when 13 prisoners were put to death in an unprecedented wave of federal executions, Sanger said Californians under an outgoing post-recall governor could also see a line of people to be executed. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko If youre Black in America, the chances of being elected president are about the same as being elected governor. Only two have ever been voted into a states highest office, and neither was in California. If Larry Elder wins Californias recall election, he would make history. As a Black man, Im filled with dread. Elder is known for being the Black voice in conservative white spaces who advances racist tropes in America. His ability to otherize his own people is unique. He perpetuates the archaic absent Black father myth, despite evidence showing that Black men are a crucial part of Americas care economy. He says systemic racism doesnt exist while millions of his own people experience it every day. When we march against police brutality, Elder scoffs and victim-blames. He wont bring California together. He profits from dividing it. The reason I think he has even reached this level in prominence is because theres these deep racial tropes that white folks still hold and he validates them, said Shawn Ginwright, a professor of education and African American studies at San Francisco State University. To have a Black man say what he says is sort of a certification of white supremacy. It sort of solidifies it. But it isnt just Elders problematic views or his political inexperience, domestic abuse allegations and penchant for spreading vaccine misinformation that worry me. Its that electing him would mark the moment California turned its back on Black residents. Maybe we should have seen this coming. It didnt take long for people to grow tired of hearing about Black equality after last summers George Floyd protests. By July, multiple Black Lives Matter murals in the Bay Area had been defaced, including one in Martinez, where the vandals were charged with a hate crime. In the months that followed, voters rejected lifting the states 24-year ban on affirmative action, and slavery reparations cemented itself as one of the more divisive issues in America. Mass incarceration also came into sharper focus after May 2020. San Franciscos progressive district attorney, Chesa Boudin, began facing a recall attempt in April as opponents said his attempts to redress the unevenly harsh sentencing of people of color meant he wasnt tough enough on crime. Theres a pervasive sentiment connecting the Boudin backlash and the rise of Elder: anti-Blackness. Its obvious there is a strong conservative streak thats always been around, but its making itself known more now, said San Francisco resident Phillip Dupree, who in August posted on Twitter about Black signature-gatherers for the Boudin recall. You can see it in the Newsom recall, the Boudin recall. Recent poll data from the nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California show Newsom isnt as close to being recalled as he was a month ago. According to the poll, 58% of likely voters oppose removing Newsom from office while 39% want to see him gone. Still, Elder is by far the most popular of the 46 recall candidates, with 26% support from likely voters. The next closest is Republican and former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, whos polling at 5% likely support. Its here that Elder raises another alarm for me. He represents the political weaponization of brown skin by white powers. The result: social regression masquerading as racial progress. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. I know how white conservatives see Elder. But I was curious about how a Black conservative views his campaign. So I reached out to Corrin Rankin, the vice chair of the Central Valley of the California Republican Party. Rankin told me she isnt supporting any candidate in the recall, but when it comes to Elder, she did say seeing such a vocal, outspoken Black person in the race is a reminder that Black people are not a monolith. Most people when it comes to politics are moderate and think of things with common sense. They dont want the pendulum to swing too far in either direction, Rankin said. At the same time, they want to see things get done so that we all live a better life in California. Rankin preaches the importance of dialogue and understanding differing perspectives. But it isnt right-of-center Black people like her who usually gain national attention. Its the more extreme voices like Larry Elder, Candace Owens and even Kanye West. Elders most visible supporters arent Black. Hes celebrated by white people for his diversity, yet they dont acknowledge how his views will only further marginalize folks that look like him. Post-George Floyd, Elder is a byproduct of California whitelash. The term, coined by CNNs Van Jones in 2016, describes white Americas sometimes rapid pushback against social progress after it comes in waves. Its how a country goes from Barack Obama to Donald Trump. Or how Elder gets so close to political power. California voters must vote no on removing Newsom and reject Elder. This isnt the Black voice we need leading our state. Not now. Not ever. San Francisco Chronicle columnist Justin Phillips appears Sundays. Email: jphillips@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @JustMrPhillips Evacuated residents of the city of South Lake Tahoe were allowed to return home on Sunday afternoon, days after the entire community at the southern tip of the lake came under threat of being overtaken by the Caldor Fire as it swept down into the basin. But frustrated residents of Grizzly Flats, 40 miles away and one of the first areas to be evacuated after the conflagration erupted to the west three weeks ago, were still under a mandatory stay-away order Sunday afternoon, unable to learn whether their homes were among the 500 structures to burn, a toll that counted the 1850s post office and the elementary school. Behind the barricades, PG&E and AT&T crews worked to get the lines back up to the steady buzz of chain saws felling trees and trimming branches. A new blaze erupted Sunday afternoon in the Placer County foothills area of Auburn. Cal Fire reported that the Bridge Fire, sparked under the Foresthill Bridge, had prompted evacuations of visitors in the Auburn State Recreation Area, on the east side of Highway 80 and historic Old Town Auburn. The fire quickly burned more than 210 acres on both sides of Foresthill Road, with no containment, Cal Fire said. Regarding the downgrading of the evacuation order in South Lake Tahoe, firefighters who were holding that line have managed to hold it to where they feel comfortable going from an order to a warning, said Jaime Moore, a public information officer for the Caldor Fire. But Moore cautioned that there is still risk of shifting weather conditions and residents should remain vigilant. Hot and windy weather could still thwart containment efforts and reverse progress against the fire, officials said. I would caution (residents) on complacency, Moore said. They shouldnt unpack and take everything out of their cars and think all the danger is gone. Remaining under mandatory evacuation in the Tahoe area were Meyers, Christmas Valley and Fallen Leaf Lake. Residents of Caldor Road, near where the fire started in the area surrounding Grizzly Flats, were allowed back home even while those within the Grizzly Flats community were still left dangling. Tiffany Odling had just made it back to her Caldor Road home when she got a text from her sister warning her to get ready to go again. Everybodys got to keep their head on a swivel, and be on the lookout for fires, she told a Chronicle reporter who stopped by her driveway Sunday. Cal Fire officials said at a Sunday evening briefing that they hoped to announce very soon when Grizzly Flats residents could get back home, pending completion of inspection of fallen trees and other hazards in the area. Once the fire danger is gone, the evaluation of hazards is part of the decision on letting people return, they said. Noble Moran, who lives in Grizzly Flats and was staying with friends in the area while he waits, had heard his house survived, but hes not sure. Were just hoping for the best, he said. In the Bay Area, Sundays Spare the Air Alert was extended through Monday because of air quality concerns, with Caldor threatening to send smoke to the region. A stubborn area of Caldor Fire resistance remained Wrights Lake, an isolated area to the northeast, on the western border of the Desolation Wilderness. Cal Fire operations section chief Tim Ernst said that on Sunday morning the fire broke through the containment line. Firefighters managed to drag a hose line up to fend it off and connect to pumps that were airlifted in. Containment of the blaze moved south into Christmas Valley and Meyers, where crews continued to work on a really aggressive mop-up, Jake Cagle, a fire operations section chief with the U.S. Forest Service, said Sunday. We want to open up the community for you; we understand the impact. But, again, you have to understand the safety factors into that. While residents of Grizzly Flats were kept away, residents of Somerset, 12 miles to the west, were allowed back in. Jennifer McKim-Hibbard lost her home in Grizzly Flats, while her mothers home in Somerset was spared. Part of me is relieved because thats my family home, and part of me is excited because we have a spot to go to if we need to, said McKim-Hibbard. But in another part of me it brings out the jealousy. McKim-Hibbard moved there last year and delved into the community as part of the fire safety council, president of the PTA and manager of the local pub. It has been a torturous few months for her family members, as they lost part of their home earlier this summer in an electrical fire. They were already sleeping in an RV in their front yard when they had to evacuate on Aug. 17. Now, she said, her home probably looks like the bottom of a barbecue pit. Jacquie Odling, Tiffanys mother, expected about the same after staying nearly three weeks in motels. But she got home to find her home just like we left it, albeit a lot more aromatic, because of decayed fruit in a bowl on the table. Firefighters had stopped the flames about 10 feet from her rear fence and ripped out a few panels as they fought to protect the house. The only other property damage was the garden plot ravaged by deer that came in through the broken fence. Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California Odlings first nights sleeping at home were uneasy, with the knowledge that hot spots and spot fires are intermittently popping up nearby. You feel a gust of wind, and your heart starts racing, she said. During their odyssey, the Odlings grandparents, kids and grandkids, 11 in all tried to stick together, but it was tough as they had to move out of some motels to make way for firefighters and others because they just didnt feel comfortable. They stayed in Roseville (Placer County), Folsom (Sacramento County), and Cameron Park and Placerville, both in El Dorado County. Sometimes the family split up, but they got together to celebrate birthdays and go out to dinner when they could. Matthew Odling, 13, said the evacuation was both fun and stressful. The WiFi down there in Roseville was great. Its awful here, he said, back home. But other than that it was too much stress. I was awake for three nights. I couldnt sleep. McKim-Hibbard said theres no way she and her family will leave Grizzly Flats behind, even if she has to rebuild from the ground up. I know that by the time spring comes, thats when we can finally start (rebuilding). And that just seems like a really long time from now, when you have nothing. The Caldor Fire, which ignited Aug. 14, had burned more than 215,000 acres and was 44% contained Sunday, Cal Fire said. To the northwest, firefighters on Sunday reached 56% containment of the largest fire burning in California, the Dixie Fire, which now has scorched 898,951 acres across Butte, Tehama, Plumas, Shasta and Lassen counties. Cal Fire said Dixies flames increased Sunday in Lassen Volcanic National Park, fed by light winds and dry vegetation. Officials were constructing more contingency lines, as hotter and drier weather, with low humidity, was expected through this week. San Francisco Chronicle staff writer J.K. Dineen contributed to this report. Michael Cabanatuan, Sam Whiting, Trisha Thadani and Jessica Flores are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com, swhiting@sfchronicle.com, tthadani@sfchronicle.com , jessica.flores@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ctuan, @samwhitingsf, @trishathadani, @jesssmflores BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP) A Georgia man who had already been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison has had more time added to his sentence for threatening a judge and a witness. Wilbert Stephens of Brunswick was sentenced Wednesday to serve 14 and a half years in federal prison to be served after his prior sentence is complete. He pleaded guilty in May to solicitation to commit a crime of violence and mailing threatening communications. San Francisco stubbornness is holding the republic hostage. The hostage takers are two of Californias oldest and most powerful mules. U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer are past retirement age, but refuse to quit their jobs now, when they could be replaced by allies who share their California values. Their stubborn insistence on staying in power could end up elevating right-wing political forces hostile to California, and to democracy itself. The 88-year-old Feinstein, by not quitting while Gov. Gavin Newsom remains in office, could end up being replaced by a Trump-loving Republican. If Newsom is recalled and Feinstein dies or becomes incapacitated in the next year, during a Larry Elder governorship, the Senate would flip back to Republicans. The 83-year-old Breyer, by not retiring while President Joe Biden could nominate a replacement who could be confirmed by a Democrat-controlled Senate, risks having his seat go to another right-wing justice. Why do Feinstein and Breyer cling to power, despite the risks? The conventional wisdom chalks their stubbornness up to their age and diminishing cognition. But I dont buy into such ageism. Instead, I see their political pig-headedness, their refusal to acknowledge present-day realities, and their unwillingness to cede their power as proof of just how much they were shaped by their shared hometown, San Francisco. Is there any human settlement on this godforsaken Earth more stubborn than San Francisco? Even in California, where going your own way is the leading religion, San Francisco proudly defies conformity and good sense with politics, culture and ideas that leave us scratching our heads. Of course, San Francisco owes its existence to its stubbornness its the rare global city to be thoroughly destroyed (by earthquake and fire in 1906) and to rebuild itself. Stubbornness remains a requirement of daily survival. While other Californians are routinely warmed by the sun, San Franciscans, isolated on a cold peninsula, must rely on their inner fire. So how can we expect Feinstein or Breyer to know when to quit when they are from a place where just getting around town means theres always another hill Telegraph, Nob, Russian to climb? Both the senator and the justice come by their San Francisco stubbornness honestly. Feinstein, who is Jewish, was hardened first by the stubborn and demanding nuns at Convent of the Sacred Heart High School and then, as a supervisor and mayor, by the citys brutal, tribal, and quite male 1970s and 80s politics. Breyer got a taste of those politics through his father, who was legal counsel to the board of education, and developed his talent for arguing as a debater at Lowell High. Both Feinstein and Breyer only went as far as Stanford University for college. Feinstein and Breyer also embody the local combination of privilege and self-righteousness that can make the place and its people so infuriating. Even now, with their city boasting unsurpassed beauty, epic wealth and unrivaled cultural power, San Franciscans, including these two powerful people, still talk as if they are outsiders and underdogs. The way that Feinstein and Breyer hold to such obtuse and outdated outlooks is itself very San Francisco. People dont grow up, they grow old, the late, great San Francisco Chronicle columnist Herb Caen wrote. One fateful way to counteract that is to live in the past, the occupational hazard of San Franciscans. Caens old warning points to a current irony: Defiance of reality has never been more popular across the United States. So is it any wonder in our polarized and angry age that the rest of the country has come to prize the brand of stubbornness nurtured by San Francisco? In the past decade, Californians, improbably, reinstalled that stubborn old coot Jerry Brown in the governorship, and they made former San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, running on a platform of resistance to national political norms, Browns successor. Newsom is now trying to defeat a recall with a stubborn strategy of calling the vote illegitimate and telling people not to even bother voting on the question of who might succeed him if hes recalled. The attempt to recall Newsom is mostly grounded in misinformation and right-wing fantasy, but it does respond to a very real California frustration with the San Francisco political machine and its stubborn self-regard, even as the state is consumed by multiple crises. I recently called one of my favorite San Franciscans, Quentin Kopp, a former judge and legislator who even San Franciscans think is too stubborn. When I asked him whether San Franciscans are more stubborn than the rest of us, he immediately answered, Yes and then stubbornly deflected my questions on the roots of that stubbornness. Kopp, who is 93, still swims every day and goes to his law office, where he represents clients that include a group of judges in their 70s and 80s who have been shut out of judicial assignments by the California Supreme Court. When I asked about Feinstein and Breyer, he was adamant that both should stick around. Term limits for politicians have been a failure, he argued. And Breyer, as a judge, should not make political decisions about anything, including retirement. As for Feinstein, Kopp said he had just conveyed to a top senatorial aide that she shouldnt bend to critics who see signs of diminished capacity or senility. The message from the city by the Bay is clear, America: If youre waiting for stubborn San Franciscans to relent to outside pressure to retire, dont hold your breath. Joe Mathews writes the Connecting California column for Zocalo Public Square. MODESTO When Don Doud voted for Gavin Newsom to become Californias governor in 2018, he didnt know much about the former San Francisco mayor and lieutenant governor except that he was a fellow Democrat. That changed in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic, as Newsoms daily news conferences became appointment viewing for Doud, 75, a retired teacher from Modesto just as they did for many other Californians. Navigating the once-in-a-century crisis, the governor struck Doud as responsible and capable. So a year later, with Newsoms strict pandemic response fueling a campaign to remove him from office before the end of his first term, there was no question Doud would oppose it. He did the right things. He tried to influence people to take the pandemic seriously, Doud said during a double-masked visit to the county library in downtown Modesto on a recent Wednesday afternoon. Ive been pretty happy with him. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle California voters are returning their mail ballots for the Sept. 14 recall election as the state grapples with a resurgent fourth wave of the coronavirus that has again pushed hospitals to capacity in some rural areas. But an issue that once seemed like it could be Newsoms biggest liability is suddenly looking like the thing that could save his governorship. In the final weeks of the recall contest, Newsom is leaning into his role as the man behind a new round of mask mandates and vaccine requirements, despite the criticism they have generated from the Republican candidates seeking to replace him. While leading contenders promise to overturn his orders and even block local public health officials from adopting their own, Newsoms closing message for Democratic voters is a dire picture of the alternative if he is removed from office. Road to the recall This story is the fourth in an occasional series on key issues for voters who will decide Sept. 14 whether to remove Gov. Gavin Newsom from office. Find all of The Chronicle's coverage at www.sfchronicle.com/recall. Guide: Step-by-step guide to recall election, the ballot and getting your vote counted. sfchronicle.com/recall-ballot See More Collapse In an ad released last month by his campaign, a woman gravely intones that the election is a matter of life and death. And during a news conference last week in Oakland, Newsom warned that California could turn into Florida or Texas without him, invoking two rival states with a diametrically opposed approach to the pandemic where the rate of new coronavirus cases is currently several times higher. There is no more consequential decision to the health and safety of the people of California than voting no on the Republican-backed recall, Newsom said. Interviews with nearly two dozen voters in Stanislaus County underlined the deep divide over Newsoms pandemic response and underscored the potential wisdom in his strategy of emphasizing it. The Central Valley county of more than half a million residents is more politically moderate than much of the state; there are nearly as many Republicans registered to vote as Democrats, and Newsom narrowly lost the governors race there in 2018, by fewer than than 3,000 votes. Yet the Democrats that The Chronicle spoke to were almost unanimous in citing Newsoms leadership during the pandemic as the reason that they would vote to keep him in office. Republican voters, who strongly disliked Newsom and overwhelmingly favored recalling him, shared a laundry list of complaints about the governor, but his pandemic response rarely rose to the top. Cindy de Visser, 60, who has an almond farm in Oakdale, is most frustrated by the high taxes and regulations that she blames for shutting down local dairies and pushing her friends to move to Idaho and Texas. She said she wouldnt mind if she saw progress, but the roads are terrible. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle Where is all that money going? she said as she shopped in downtown Oakdale on a sweltering morning. I just want someone new to come in and fix it. A moderate Republican, de Visser said she is OK with some of the public health mandates, like requiring masks in schools if it means children can return for in-person instruction. But having already gotten COVID-19 and the vaccine, she is tired of the restrictions and ready for people to take more responsibility for their own health. If I have to put on a mask again, its going to be difficult, she said. I feel like the state of California has more control over my own life than I do. Newsom has always been a divisive politician an avatar of elitist San Francisco progressivism who seems to uniquely irritate conservatives but the split in public opinion grew into a chasm during the pandemic. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle While the governor received national praise for instituting the first statewide stay-at-home order in the country, his public health measures also inspired turbulent protests at the State Capitol, where he was compared to Hitler, and breathed life into a nascent recall petition. That effort caught fire in November, after The Chronicle reported that Newsom had attended a birthday party for a friend at the fancy French Laundry restaurant in the Napa Valley, in violation of his own rules about limiting mixing between households. The dinner a symbol for many of the governors hypocrisy and overreach continues to figure prominently in the campaigns of recall supporters. For months, as the election inched closer and victory over the coronavirus slipped out of Californias grasp, Newsom tiptoed toward new public health regulations that risked snowballing into a political fracas, including a mask mandate for schools and a requirement for state workers to get vaccinated or regularly tested. But a CBS News poll last month demonstrated why, despite vocal denunciations from some corners, the Newsom campaign now believes playing up his pandemic response could be a boon for the governor. The poll found that 60% of California voters think Newsom is doing a very good or somewhat good job handling the coronavirus outbreak, including 87% of Democrats and 56% of independents. Nearly 70% of voters approved of mandatory vaccinations for health care workers, something Newsom ordered last month. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle While returning a book to the library in Modesto, Jeanine Oliver-Nomof applauded the mask mandate for schools as not too damn much to ask and a recent vaccine requirement for school employees as a benefit for the greater good. Cant we think about each other? said Oliver-Nomof, 63, who retired from teaching fifth grade in nearby Waterford last year after the pandemic sent classes online. Oliver-Nomof said she is impressed with how Newsom stepped up at the beginning of the pandemic, especially compared with what she considered a lack of leadership from then-President Donald Trump, and the governors response improved her view of him. Do I think he should have gone to Napa and had that dinner? No. It was stupid. It was stupid, she said. But thats the only thing Im shaking my head about. Approval figures lag significantly among Republicans. In the CBS News poll, only 27% said Newsom is doing a good job with the pandemic and more than half disapproved of vaccine requirements for health care workers, as well as private businesses adopting them for employees and customers. The top Republican candidates in the recall are maneuvering carefully through the sentiment. Nearly all have publicly shared that they are vaccinated but believe it should be a personal choice. Front-runner Larry Elder, a conservative radio personality, has promised to overturn mask mandates for schools and vaccine requirements for health care workers, state employees and school staff, a position that several of his competitors have echoed. The governor is looking for a campaign issue, so he rolls out these mandates that dont exist in any other state, and then less than a week later, hes up running ads, Assembly Member Kevin Kiley of Rocklin (Placer County) said at a debate last month. Once again, hes playing politics with COVID and hes playing politics with the vaccine. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle Conservative voters in Oakdale, a small Stanislaus County city that bills itself as the Cowboy Capital of the World because of its long history of rodeo champions, were similarly fed up with the recent orders around masks and vaccines. But talk to them about why they want Newsom out, and the first answers are usually about the state not sufficiently prioritizing vegetation management to prevent wildfires, widespread homelessness or how revenue from the gas tax is being used. It can take a while to get to the complaints about overly restrictive lockdowns or Newsoms hypocritical behavior during the pandemic. At some point, Americans have to decide for themselves they have to take the risk, Cherie Charmbury, 37, a stay-at-home mom who leans libertarian, said as she waited with a group of friends to enter a fundraiser luncheon for the Cowboy Museum at the local community center. The few Republican voters who pointed to the pandemic response as their top issue also expressed doubts about the seriousness of the coronavirus itself. Jeff Otto, 50, an engineer from Modesto who was picking up lunch in Oakdale, said the pandemic was a fraud that had destroyed businesses and families. He was furious that Newsom had deferred to the Fauci flip-flop a reference to changing public health guidelines from National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director Dr. Anthony Fauci. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle The governor is the last line of defense against the federal government for we the citizens, and he has given away all of our rights, Otto said outside his idling car, the air conditioning already blasting for his waiting passengers. Im looking for a candidate who is going to stand up for our individual freedoms, for our constitutional rights. Newsom still has a careful line to walk on restrictions, after more than of year of whipsawing lockdowns and reopenings has left voters, even in his Democratic base, fatigued at the prospect of another retreat in the face of the delta variant. Though she is vaccinated, Liz Mendez, 37, an insurance agent from Modesto, said she does not support forcing people to get the shot if they dont want to. But shes OK with policies giving people an option to show either proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test to access certain businesses, venues or events, because then they still have a choice. A Democrat, Mendez planned to vote against the recall because Newsom was taking charge and he was doing it in our best interest during the pandemic, she said as she left Modestos Vintage Faire Mall with a bag from Sephora. It made me feel safer, because although we should all be concerned, not everyone did take it seriously. Another shopper, Carla Rodriguez, 25, said she had not been vaccinated yet because she wanted to wait a year to see how things went first. Now officials at Sacramento City College, where she is studying to be a dental assistant, have given her until October to get vaccinated if she wants to return for the fall semester. Though shes dragging her feet, she said she ultimately expected to get the shot because she has only one year left in her studies. Rodriguez understands the threat of the coronavirus her entire family was infected in December, she said, and she was shopping with a mask on because she wanted to protect her parents but the mandates dont quite sit right with her. A political independent, she said she was leaning toward the recall because she was not satisfied with Newsoms pandemic response and was looking for a change. Its starting to be forceful, she said. It should be a persons choice at the end of the day. Alexei Koseff is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: alexei.koseff@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @akoseff Shyla Lanes recall ballot is sitting there at her home, staring at her. Blank. Its saying,Fill me out. Lane said. And Im saying, Im not ready yet. Lane is a lifelong Californian sitting in no-voters land as the Sept. 14 recall election day approaches: The middle. She feels like neither side is talking to her. Shes a Democrat who is leaning toward firing Gov. Gavin Newsom in part, she says, because he hasnt done enough to lower the cost of housing or address homelessness. Shes a hair stylist who was frustrated because her Contra Costa County workplace was shut down several times during the pandemic along with other small businesses, while people could continue to go to Costco and Target. Shes horrified and saddened by the homeless encampments near her Oakland apartment. Yet the 33-year-old cant bring herself to vote for the top GOP candidates because they oppose mask and vaccine mandates. And so her ballot remains at her home. Just like those of 3 of every 4 California voters who have yet to cast their mail-in ballots, according to a running tally complied by the Sacramento firm Political Data. I dont think that theyre speaking to moderates or people that are really undecided, Lane said. If theres anything that has been reinforced during this 75-day campaign sprint, its that Californians are divided by unscalable partisan barriers. The recall candidates have reinforced that split by appealing to the most partisan voters in their own parties and theyve found receptive audiences. Most Democratic likely voters say they oppose the recall (90%), and most GOP likely voters favor it (82%), according to a nonpartisan Public Policy Institute of California survey released last week. About 44% of independent voters who make up about one-quarter of the electorate back recalling Newsom. If the recall were a music festival, it would be called Preach to the Choir Fest and part of the audience would be ignoring the festivals mask mandate. For Democrats, the partisan appeals are nakedly strategic. There are twice as many registered Democrats as Republicans in California they just need to go out and vote. So Newsom has spent the past few months trying to wake up snoozing Democratic voters by warning of a Republican takeover of California by Donald Trump-loving candidates. The strategy appears to be working as the latest polls say the recall is headed for failure. The Republicans strategy is a bit more baffling. Save for a few attempts to reach out to the middle by former San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer, the GOP candidates have spent most of their time railing on Newsom and doing little to propose ideas that would expand their base beyond the 24% of Californians who are registered Republicans. More Information 90% Most Democratic likely voters say they oppose the recall 82% Most GOP likely voters favor the recall 44% Less than half of i ndependent voters - who make up about one-quarter of the electorate - back recalling Newsom Source: Public Policy Institute of California See More Collapse The result: The same number of likely voters support the recall now around 40% as in March, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. That is far short of the 50% it will take to dump Newsom. At a time when Republicans could have provided appealing solutions to voters like Lane, Republicans zipped closed the flap on their promised big tent, making it harder for them to seize this generational opportunity to win their first statewide office since 2006. Given that only a quarter of voters are registered Republicans, Mark Baldassare, the CEO and president of the Public Policy Institute of California, told me that you need to attract a substantial number of independent voters and you need to be a candidate whose views are considered more in the mainstream of what moderate voters want. Neither shows signs of happening. One person who understands how lonely it can be living close to the middle in California is ex-San Luis Obispo state Sen. Sam Blakeslee, a former GOP Assembly leader whom the Sacramento Bee dubbed one of the Legislatures most bipartisan decision-makers before he retired in 2012. Blakeslee understands that some voters in the middle are frustrated with pace of progress under Newsom but arent crazy about the Republican options. So is he. I get it. Believe me, I sit close to those feelings, said Blakeslee, who is vice chair of the advisory board to California Common Cause. This has devolved into a kind of a silly debate about the far right and far left and protecting California values. What this really should be about is whats happening to the middle class in California. Were seeing crime, were seeing homelessness, were seeing soaring home prices, were seeing the middle class collapsing. Blakeslee said: I know Gavin, I respect Gavin, I actually have a lot of affection for Gavin. But Ive been deeply disappointed with his execution, because the state is facing increasing peril. I asked Newsom during his campaign stop last week in San Franciscos Chinatown what he would say to voters in the middle who want to know what hed do differently for the remaining year-plus of his term if he survived the recall. Instead of reflexively scaremongering about what could happen if conservative talk show host Larry Elder were elected he saved that for the end Newsom used the word proud nearly two dozen times in his three-minute, 37-second response to tout his accomplishments over a challenging 18 months. Newsom replied that California has had better health outcomes than Florida and Texas states led by Trump-friendly, mask-mandate shunning GOP governors and better economic outcome than those two states. He looked back over 2 years in office to say that he is proud that California had returned $12 billion in tax rebates from its budget surplus, added 200,000 child care slots, made community college free, and fostered a business climate that was home to nearly 100 companies that had initial public offerings. As for the issues close to Lanes heart housing and homelessness Newsom offered hope and implicitly asked for a bit more time. We have plans, we have strategies, we have money, we have the political will and a $12 billion investment to address those issues in an unprecedented way. Blakeslee isnt buying it, yet remains conflicted. He voted yes on the recall but isnt fired up about the alternatives. He said he decided to go ahead and support Faulconer. Im not sure its with a huge enthusiasm. But I think hes a responsible gentleman who has life experience, elected experience, and who can discharge the responsibilities of the office. So why isnt there a Republican candidate that has excited more Californians? Elder is lapping the GOP field, yet only 26% of voters back him, according to the Public Policy Institute survey. Faulconer is drawing 5%. Republicans are still trying to find our footing in a post-Trump world, Blakeslee said. He wished the GOP would avoid social debates. I think that if we as Republicans can consolidate around quality-of-life issues, we would have Democrats up and down the state flocking toward our banner, he added. Polls say theyre not. And when the voters ultimately weigh in with actual votes on Sept. 14, their answer could say a lot about where both parties are headed next and whether their routes will include a detour through middle-of-the-road California. Joe Garofoli is The San Francisco Chronicles senior political writer. Email: jgarofoli@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @joegarofoli Another possibility is being investigated in a case that one sheriff has called the most mysterious of his career. John Gerrish, 45, Ellen Chung, 30, and their 1-year-old daughter Miju as well as their family dog Oski were found dead Aug. 17 in the Devil's Gulch area in the south fork of the Merced River in the Sierra National Forest. Responding agencies treated the scene as a hazmat situation because of uncertainty about the cause of the fatalities, and everything from toxic algae to dangerous mine gasses to murder has been probed. According to a New York Times feature on the family, now lightning strikes have been added into the mix. Law enforcement are "investigating possible lightning strikes in the area" at the time of the deaths, the Times reported. According to the National Weather Service, being struck by lightning is "primarily an injury to the nervous system, often with brain injury and nerve injury. Serious burns seldom occur." Death, which is extraordinarily rare, can be due to cardiac arrest. NWS data from 1989-2018 shows that 10% of people hit by lightning die, averaging 43 fatalities per year in the United States. Craig Kohlruss/Associated Press The family's hike was intended to be just a daylong trip, which prompted concern from multiple friends when the family didn't come home. The temperature at the time, according to the sheriff's office, ranged from 103 to 109 degrees. Friends have said Gerrish and Chung were experienced hikers who loved adventure, and once went backpacking in the Himalayas. A handful of causes of death have been ruled out. Previous autopsy data provided by the Mariposa County Sheriff's Office excluded acute trauma, such as stabbing, gunshot wounds or blunt-force trauma. They also do not believe the family was killed by toxic gas escaping from an abandoned mine shaft. There are signs that park officials are concerned about something in the nearby environment. Sierra National Forest officials last week issued a closure of the Merced River Recreation Site "due to unknown hazards found in and near the Savage Lundy Trail." The trail is set to be closed until Sept. 26, or sooner "if conditions change" around the area. The Bureau of Land Management closed campgrounds and recreation areas along the Merced River, between the towns of Briceburg and Bagby, Friday after receiving test results of water samples downstream from where the family died. Algal blooms can form in waterways that are shallow and warm. These algal blooms can produce toxins that can make people and pets extremely sick," Elizabeth Meyer-Shields, a BLM field manager, said in a statement. We will continue to monitor for the algaes presence and look forward to when the public can safely recreate in the Merced River. Closure to the Merced River's recreation areas will stay in effect until Sept. 17. Craig Kohlruss/Associated Press While speculation continues over the role of harmful algal blooms, officials posted signs as early as mid-July around the area warning about the risks of drinking water near the area. Water samples from around the scene and with the family were sent early last week to the California State Water Resources Control Board and to independent labs, said the sheriff's office. Toxicology results are expected in the upcoming weeks, while investigators requested access to Chung and Gerrish's cellphones and social media accounts last week. The California Department of Justice and sheriff's office workers are investigating the deaths, which are being handled as a hazmat and coroner investigation. We know the family and friends of John and Ellen are desperate for answers, our team of Detectives are working round the clock," said Mariposa County Sheriff Jeremy Briese in a statement last week. "I've worked in different capacities but Ive never seen a death like this," Briese told reporters. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Google Maps When a man heard the sound of power tools outside of his San Francisco home near Mount Davidson on Thursday, he decided to peer outside of his window to investigate. He was surprised to find two men lying next to his neighbors car, attempting to steal the catalytic converter a valuable part that can be removed within seconds. PARIS (AP) As a filmmaker, Shahrbanoo Sadat watched with fascination as Taliban fighters took over her city and terrified crowds animated the streets. But as an Afghan woman, she also watched the scene through another prism and knew: It was time to flee. After her familys harrowing escape from Kabul, Sadat is now warning world governments: The Taliban is a terrorist group and the world should realize they are dangerous, she told The Associated Press in Paris on Sunday. Im losing my belief in democracy, in human rights, in womens rights, she said, because she feels that Western countries arent doing enough to defend these things in Afghanistan. Sadat, whose first film Wolf and Sheep won an award linked to the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, and nine family members were among thousands of Afghans brought out by foreign governments before the last U.S. troops pulled out last week. They spent 72 hours in line at the Kabul airport, fighting to get out. The first night, Afghan troops were very aggressive, shooting from 6 p.m. until 10 a.m. We couldnt go forward, even a few meters. So the family tried another gate. We slept in a queue, moving every five minutes a few centimeters, she said. Taliban forces pulled out the corpses of 11 people who had been crushed to death in the desperate crowd, she said. Once in France, she was taken to an abandoned building in a Paris suburb that the government hastily converted into temporary shelter for those fleeing Afghanistan. For three days, we were in complete quarantine so we couldnt go anywhere. I didnt have internet," she said. "When they released us, we had only two hours and I ran to the mobile shop to get a SIM card. But other people, they went to the Eiffel Tower, she said. I was angry because ... we lost a country and people seemed to me very careless," thinking about tourism instead of their homeland, she said. "But on the other hand, we already lost it, so what is the point of crying? Sadat joined a protest Sunday by aid groups and others demanding that Western governments do more to help those left behind and put pressure on the Taliban. Some Afghans who have been struggling for years to get asylum joined the demonstration, along with those who recently arrived. Sadat is worried about relatives still in Afghanistan and about one of her actors, who stayed in his native Panjshir province to try to defend Afghanistans last remaining pocket of resistance to the Taliban, which stepped up its assault of the region Sunday. The Taliban have sought to recast themselves as different from when they ruled in the 1990s, when they blocked women and girls from working and education and banned television and music. But many are skeptical that will hold true. Sadat said differences were palpable before she left. She described a vendor refusing to sell her ice cream because Taliban fighters stood nearby enjoying the same ice cream she was denied. They didnt look at me but I looked at them ... like a film director doing a casting, she said. But as an individual, I was so scared. Fellow female Afghan filmmakers who fled the Taliban begged the world not to forget the Afghan people, warning at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday that a country without culture will eventually lose its identity. Sadat hopes to join her sister and partner in Germany, and revive work on her latest film, a romantic comedy. She remains determined to make films despite her exile. Its important to talk about Afghanistans war from an Afghan perspective, and a feminine perspective, she said. ___ Follow all AP stories on developments in Afghanistan at https://apnews.com/hub/Afghanistan. PA/AP LONDON (AP) A former close aide to Prince Charles stepped down temporarily from his role as chief executive of a royal charity amid reports that he helped secure an honor for a Saudi donor. The Sunday Times and Mail on Sunday newspapers reported that Michael Fawcett coordinated support for an honor for Saudi businessman Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz. September traditionally marks the start of Hawaiis shoulder season, when the number of visitors dips as mainland and local families send their children back to school. Its a time of warm weather, low airfares and tourist-enticing events such as the Aloha Festivals, set to begin its 75th anniversary with a Royal Court investiture in Waikiki on Sept. 18. But with coronavirus cases and hospitalizations surging to record levels across the state, many in the islands are questioning the ethics of traveling there now. While Gov. David Ige has simply asked visitors and residents to postpone nonessential travel, others point to the decisive action of a real-life royal, Queen Liliuokalani. This Labor Day weekend would normally have seen hundreds of domestic and international competitors, and thousands of supporters and spectators in Kailua-Kona for the worlds largest outrigger canoe competition, the Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Race, founded in 1972. But in the spirit of the races namesake, whose birthday is Sept. 2, the organizers first limited the event to paddlers from Hawaii Island, and then recently canceled it altogether. Queen Liliuokalani witnessed many illnesses and several pandemics in her time and always put her people first, ensuring their resiliency and survival, according to the Aug. 11. statement from Kai Opua Canoe Club, which specifically recalled the steps the monarch took to limit the spread of smallpox while she was serving as regent in 1881. As regent, Liliuokalani summoned her cabinet and made the decision to shut down Oahu, stopping inter-island travel, prohibiting vessels from taking on any passengers, and quarantining the sick. These regulations were so strictly enforced that when they were raised, no cases outside of the area where the sickness first appeared were reported, the statement noted. Barbara Koenig, a medical anthropologist and registered nurse who recently retired as a professor and director of the UCSF Bioethics Program, notes that the ethics of travel depend on who is making the decision and about what. For example, the government has to balance the health benefits of a total lockdown with the impact on a tourism-dependent economy. If no one can eat and no one can work, then it doesnt matter if you close down the economy, she noted. The other groups of decision makers are all those people who are making individual choices to fly to particular areas, Koenig said. They should definitely not go to an area with no hospital or ICU beds, because if they get sick, theyre going to burden the system further. Koenig said she had considered traveling to Hawaii this summer, because Id been in the San Francisco fog all summer, and its been hard not seeing the sun or having warmth. But when everyone pointed out to me Hawaii is a place you shouldnt go right now, I took it off my list. On the other hand, some travel may be justified despite the risk to the health system, Koenig said, such as that of a friend who lives in Northern California but flies one week a month to take care of her nearly 100-year-old mother. Thats someone who has a justifiable reason to go and take the additional burden of risk, Koenig said. Shes not just going to surf and lie on the beach. While Hawaii currently allows visitors to avoid a mandatory 10-day quarantine by showing proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID test from specific providers within 72 hours of arrival, unvaccinated travelers should not come to Hawaii for ethical and medical reasons, according to Koenig. I certainly dont think you should fly to Hawaii if youre unvaccinated, Koenig said. If youre going to make the island safe, youre going to need to do that. Thats not an ethical analysis, its just the facts on the ground. For the benefit of going to Hawaii, you have the obligation of getting vaccinated. If you dont want to, you can go other places. Besides the ethical and health incentive, residents and visitors to Oahu will have another reason to be vaccinated starting Sept. 13, when the city and county of Honolulus Safe Access Oahu program begins. Employees and patrons of restaurants, bars, museums and movie theaters who are 12 and older will be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours. The Kahala Hotel & Resort announced Thursday that it will go one step further, requiring all employees not just those in its food and beverage outlets to be vaccinated by Sept. 30, or undergo weekly testing if approved for medical or religious exemption. BAGHDAD (AP) Gunmen opened fire at a federal police checkpoint in rural northern Iraq, sparking clashes that killed 13 police, a security official said Sunday. He blamed the attack on Islamic State militants. The attack late Saturday on the checkpoint in Satiha village in Kirkuk province also wounded five police. The security official said the clashes with the militants lasted for nearly an hour. BEIRUT (AP) Lawyers of six Syrian refugees arrested in Lebanon said on Sunday that the country's security services have given them a 24-hour ultimatum either leave Lebanon to a third country or be deported to Syria, the war-ravaged country they fled. Lawyer Mohammed Sablouh said the move is highly unusual, is a violation of Lebanons international obligations and laws, and seriously endangers the mens lives. The authorities know very well that since the (men) were arrested outside the embassy, they are therefore wanted by the Syrian regime, and there is a really high probability they would be tortured or in grave danger, Sablouh told The Associated Press. This is a violation of the anti-torture convention and Lebanese laws. There was no immediate comment from Lebanese security, and it is not immediately clear who is responsible for the decision that came 10 days after the men's arrest, and without a court ruling. The threat of deportation is particularly concerning given that violence has recently resumed in the hometown of most of the arrested Syrians. Five of the men are from the southern province of Daraa, where clashes have recently erupted between government and allied forces and opposition gunmen, wrecking a three-year old Russian-negotiated truce. According to Lebanese law, the men should be put on trial, and could be either sentenced to prison or sent home after serving their sentences. Lebanon is home to over 1 million Syrian refugees, who now make up more than a quarter of the population. In Spring of 2019, Lebanons Higher Defense Council, a government body in charge of national security and headed by the President, decided to deport refugees who entered Lebanon illegally after April 2019 a clear violation of international laws. Amnesty International said since then and up until August of the same year, nearly 2,500 Syrians were forcibly deported back to Syria. Deportations slowed down during the pandemic restrictions of 2020, according to local monitors. Sablouh said the lawyers will appeal to prosecutors on Monday for an immediate stay of the order. The men were arrested in the last week of August, first by the Lebanese army, for entering the country illegally. They were picked up outside the Syrian embassy where they were to be issued passports. Four days later, they were transferred to the custody of general security. On Thursday, Amnesty International urged authorities against deporting the men, saying it would endanger their lives and calling for their release, or sending them to trial. "Arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance and torture remain rife in Syria, and armed hostilities in some parts of the country have intensified significantly, said Lynn Maalouf, regional deputy director for Amnesty International. No part of Syria is safe for returns and these men must be protected. The ultimatum was made by telephone to lawyer Jihad Deeb, who represents five of the six men, on Sunday a weekend day making the ultimatum even more impossible to meet. Meanwhile, the passports of the men were still with the Syrian embassy. The caller said the men have 24 hours to produce passports and visas to a third country, or they will be deported. Deeb said three of the men were members of the opposition in Daraa, who had reached a settlement with the Syrian government there, but escaped nearly three weeks ago when they were asked to fight against other opposition members. They told me: "Ustaz (Mr.), please let them sentence us to death in Lebanon, but not send us back to the Syrian regime," Deeb said. Currently Reading Alert: United Arab Emirates announces plan to invest billions in economy, liberalize residency for foreigners TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) The parent company of a defunct pro-democracy paper in Hong Kong, Apple Daily, is liquidating its assets and the board is stepping down, according to a stock exchange filing Sunday. Next Digital, a publicly traded company, said in an announcement that all members of its board would resign, and that they hoped to liquidate their assets in an effort to pay staff. The company's shares had been stopped from trading since June and its bank accounts had been frozen. Its most well-known product, Apple Daily, was forced to shut down that month by authorities after five of its editors and executives were arrested as part of a national security investigation. This meant the Company could no longer legally pay Apple Dailys staff, including reporters, and the Company was also banned from paying costs of doing business such as buying ink and keeping the electricity on, the board said in its statement Sunday. They added that they hoped liquidators will be allowed by the Hong Kong government to authorize payments that directors were banned from approving, including for creditors and for former staff. The four board members who will resign are: Chairman Ip Yut Kin, Mark Lambert Clifford, Louis Gordon Crovitz and Lam Chung Yan. Their resignations will be effective by 11:59 p.m. local time Sunday, according to the announcement. Next Digital was founded by tycoon and pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai. The company publishes a magazine as well as an Apple Daily in Taiwan. Hong Kong's Apple Daily was the company's main paper, growing into an outspoken voice for defending the financial capital's freedoms that were not found in mainland China. On its last day, the paper sold all one million copies. Lai was arrested by Hong Kong police last year and is currently serving a sentence of 20 months. PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (AP) Bells will be ringing Sunday to mark the 116th anniversary of the signing of the Portsmouth Peace Treaty, which ended the Russo-Japanese War. On Sept. 5, 1905, Portsmouth celebrated by ringing bells throughout the city. In 2010, the New Hampshire Legislature passed a bill designating that day as Portsmouth Peace Treaty Day. BOSTON (AP) The return of cooler weather also means the return of the fall hunting season in Massachusetts. Early Canada goose hunting began on Sept. 1, black bear hunting season opens statewide on Sept. 7, while pheasant hunting season opens Oct. 16. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) A gay substitute teacher was wrongfully fired by a Roman Catholic school in North Carolina after he announced in 2014 on social media that he was going to marry his longtime partner, a federal judge has ruled. U.S. District Judge Max Cogburn ruled Friday that Charlotte Catholic High School and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Charlotte violated Lonnie Billard's federal protections against against sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Cogburn granted summary judgment to Billard and said a trial must still be held to determine appropriate relief for him. After all this time, I have a sense of relief and a sense of vindication. I wish I could have remained teaching all this time, Billard said in a statement released Friday by the ACLU, which represented him in court. Todays decision validates that I did nothing wrong by being a gay man. Billard taught English and drama full time at the school for more than a decade, earning its Teacher of the Year award in 2012. He then transitioned to a role as a regular substitute teacher, typically working more than a dozen weeks per year, according to his 2017 lawsuit. He posted about his upcoming wedding in October 2014 and was informed by an assistant principal several weeks later that he no longer had a job with the school, according to the ruling. The defendants said that they fired Billard not because he was gay, but rather because he engaged in advocacy that went against the Catholic Churchs beliefs when he publicly announced he was marrying another man, the ruling said. But Cogburn ruled that the school's action didn't fit into exemptions to labor law that give religious institutions leeway to require certain employees to adhere to religious teachings, nor was the school's action protected by constitutional rights to religious freedom. "Plaintiff is a lay employee, who comes onto the campus of a religious school for the limited purpose of teaching secular classes, with no mandate to inculcate students with Catholic teachings," Cogburn wrote. The diocese released a statement to The Charlotte Observer saying that it disagreed with the ruling and was considering how to proceed. The First Amendment, federal law, and recent Supreme Court decisions all recognize the rights of religious organizations to make employment decisions based on religious observance and preference, the statement said. They do not and should not compel religious schools to employ teachers who publicly contradict their teachings." This story originally appeared on KCRA. Evacuation orders for the City of South Lake Tahoe were downgraded to warnings, allowing for residents to begin returning to the area, officials announced Sunday. The orders were changed to warnings at 3 p.m., and the city's 22,000 residents can now return to their homes. With evacuation warnings, there is still a risk of needing to evacuate in case fire activity flares up. However, Cal Fire in its latest update said crews have been focusing on mopping up around structures, saying they have had "a very productive day" making progress in subduing the flames. Video by KCRA 3 taken around 1 p.m. showed California Highway Patrol officers taking down roadblocks on Highway 50 at Stateline. National Guard service members who assisted with the Caldor Fire have packed up and left the area. Cal Fire operations section chief Tim Ernst said there no major runs Saturday on both the eastern and western zones of the fire, which is California's 15th largest wildfire. Heat and dryness picked up over the course of the day with hot spots popping up and a lot of work continues in the Wright's Lake area, along the Highway 50 corridor, along the northern side of the fire and where the blaze is challenging Highway 88, he said. More evacuation orders were downgraded Saturday, which include: The area described as South of Mormon Emigrant Trail, West of North South Road, North of Omo Ranch Road, East of the intersection of Omo Ranch and Slug Gulch Road, South of the community of Blue Mountain, East of the intersection of Capps Crossing Road and Cypress Point Road. Officials say, however, this does not include the community of Grizzly Flats. Grizzly Flats Road will remain closed at Steely Ridge Road. Dean Gould, a supervisor with the U.S. Forest Service, said on Sunday that crews were having "a dramatic, positive impact on hundreds of thousands of people." Acreage, containment and structure outlook The Caldor Fire, which ignited near Little Mountain between Omo Ranch and Grizzly Flats, has burned at least 215,400 acres, or 336 square miles, and containment stands at 43%, Cal Fire said in its Sunday morning update. Click here to see a map showing the fire's progression. As of Sunday morning, Cal Fire said 712 homes and 18 commercial properties had been confirmed destroyed. The fire also damaged fiber lines. Cal Fire noted, however, that damage inspection is in progress. Approximately 80% of structures had been inspected as of Saturday evening, the agency said. Roughly 27,670 structures remain threatened, and evacuation orders are in place for tens of thousands of people. Latest evacuation updates Several areas had evacuation warnings were lifted Saturday. They include: - Ant Hill - South of Bucks Bar Road, North of Fairplay Road, West of the intersection of Perry Creek Road and Slug Gulch Road, East of the West end of Highview Drive - Everything South of Omo Ranch Road between Fairplay Road and North South road in El Dorado County - Springer/Leisure - South of Pleasant Valley between Bucks Bar Road and Newtown Road, East of Bucks Bar Road to Mt. Aukman Road. This includes the area of Gopher Hole Road and Moonshadow - Camino Heights/Newtown - South of Highway 50, North of Pleasant Valley and West of Snows Road With evacuation warnings, people are not required to leave the area, but it is recommended in case fire activity flares up. Officials say anybody who returns to that area who feels unsafe should call 911 immediately. Click here for the complete list of evacuation orders and warnings Road closures - Highway 88 is closed between Peddlers Ridge and the Highway 88/89 interchange - Highway 50 is closed in both directions from the Sly Park Road exit to the California/Nevada state line - Highway 89 at the Placer County/El Dorado County line in Tahoma Click here for more information on highway closures Shelter information - Shelter: Green Valley Community Church, 3500 Missouri Flat Road, Placerville, CA - Shelter: Cameron Park CSD, 2502 Country Club Drive, Cameron Park, CA - Shelter: Rolling Hills Church, 800 White Rock Road, El Dorado Hills, CA - Temporary evacuation point: Italian Picnic Grounds in Sutter Creek, 581 Hwy 49 Sutter Creek, CA 95685 - Shelter: Truckee Veterans Hall, 10214 High Street Truckee, CA 96161 - Shelter: Douglas County Community & Senior Center (Douglas Co. residents only), 1329 Waterloo Lane, Gardnerville, NV - Shelter: Reno Sparks Convention Center, 4590 South Virginia Street, Reno, NV - RV Dry Camping and Large Animals: Dayton Event Center/Rodeo Grounds, 500 Schaad Lane, Dayton, NV; Lyon County Fair Grounds 100 95A East Yerington, NV Animal evacuation information - El Dorado County Animal Services (small animals): 6435 Capitol Ave., Diamond Springs, CA. For animal evacuation questions or assistance, call 530-621-5795. - Saureel Vineyards (large animals): 1140 Cold Springs Road, Placerville, CA. Call 530-621-5795 for more info. (This is full) - Amador County Fairgrounds (large animals): 18621 Sherwood Street, Plymouth, CA In Nevada: - Reno Sparks Convention Center, 4590 South Virginia Street, Reno, NV - Lyon County Fair Grounds Dry Camp Only, 100 95A East, Yerington, NV - Dayton Event Center/Rodeo Grounds Dry Camping Only, 500 Schaad Lane, Dayton, NV - Douglas County Fairgrounds, 920 Pinenut Road, Gardnerville, NV Caldor Fire structure damage map El Dorado County officials launched a structure damage map so residents can see the status of their homes. The map is updated daily at 9 a.m. Click here to sign up for El Dorado County's alert notification system Battling the blaze In the west zone Fire behavior decreased Saturday due to a morning smoke inversion and slow wind speeds and more progress was made overnight mopping up and containing minor spotting, Cal Fire said in its Sunday morning incident report. "Today crews will work along the more active areas along the northeast and southeast areas of the West Zone tying in with existing control line and mopping up," Cal Fire said. In the east zone Crews are continuing an aggressive mop up operation and direct firefighting tactics after "minimal to moderate" fire activity on Saturday night, Cal Fire said. Officials said wildland firefighting modules will be hiking into the Desolation Wilderness so crews can engage directly with the fire using minimal suppression techniques. The fire continues in the south and southwestern sides of Echo Lake, and the northern flank is holding within current containment lines. Spotting behavior has also decreased on the northeastern side of the flank. In the north, contingency groups work to reduce fuel using masticators along roadways surrounding Fallen Leaf Lake and Angora ridge. "There is still much work to be done tying in dozer lines and holding along the south and southeast flank of the fire above Caples Lake," Cal Fire said. "However so far, firefighters are making good progress going direct." Three first responders and two other people have been injured in the fire. The fire's cause is under investigation. The Caldor Fire is one of several destructive wildfires that have sparked in California this year. The state's landscape is covered in extremely dry vegetation after a dry winter and early heat waves this year. Experts have said climate change has made the West warmer and drier in recent years, which has increased the potential for wildfires to be more frequent and destructive. Caldor Fire timeline Aug. 14 The Caldor Fire ignites near Little Mountain between Omo Ranch and Grizzly Flats. Aug. 17 The community of Grizzly Flats was mostly leveled by the fire, and two civilians were injured. Gov. Gavin Newsom also declared a state of emergency in El Dorado County, allowing for access to federal funds to assist in subduing the fire. Aug. 20 Officials close Highway 50 to allow for first responders to travel across easier. Aug. 21 A spot fire jumped north of Highway 50. Aug. 28 The Caldor Fire reaches the mountain community of Strawberry, but crews were able to protect structures. Aug. 30 The fire jumps east of Highway 89 near Echo Summit. U.S. Forest Service officials also announced they would close all national forests in the state as wildfire risk increases. Sept. 1 Gov. Gavin Newsom visited the fire zone Wednesday and spoke with KCRA reporter Mike TeSelle from Camp Sacramento. "It's loss and I think that's really the story in the last couple of years. The anxiety. The loss, the fear. And now you see loss of lifestyles, places traditions. Grizzly Flats wiped off the map. Greenville wiped off the map. Prior to that up there, Paradise," said Newsom, referencing towns ravaged by California wildfires. "So it's remarkable to put it into perspective what we're up against in the context of a different kind of language and understanding of what this means for communities that have been completely torn asunder." Newsom also announced that within hours of California's request, the White House approved an emergency declaration to increase federal funding to assist with the Caldor Fire. Sept. 2 Officials say the Caldor Fire had its slowest growth rate since Day 1 of the fire. The Associated Press contributed reporting. More Caldor Fire coverage - El Dorado County extends assistance center services for those impacted by Caldor Fire - Caldor Fire: Experts weigh in on wildfire effects on Tahoe-area bears, other animals - Health experts advise Caldor Fire evacuees returning home to reduce smoke inhalation - Tahoe evacuees report price-gouging during Caldor Fire - Caldor Fire: 'Hazard trees' hampering highway reopening - Some Caldor Fire evacuees returning home after being evacuated for 2 weeks - Heres how you can help victims of natural disasters without getting scammed - Detrimental to firefighters: Evacuees urged to not leave hoses, sprinklers running at home - Fire crews save Camp Sacramento from Caldor Fire flames for now - VIDEO: Tahoe man plays violin while being stuck in evacuation traffic - GALLERY: Before and after photos show the Caldor Fire's impact on Lake Tahoe - Red Cross volunteer on Caldor Fire: 'Everyone who needs help will be helped' - 'Caldor is a real tough one for us': Cal Fire chief talks about blaze's progression - Sly Park homes remain unscathed as Caldor Fire burns nearby - Wildfire Smoke: Heres what AQI really means - El Dorado County assistance center opens for those impacted by Caldor Fire - Galt officer dies after crash while en route to Caldor Fire - Containment efforts continue on Caldor Fire; town of Meyers prepares to evacuate - With Caldor Fire threatening, Lake Tahoe prepares for emergency - Christmas Valley residents prepare for the possibility of Caldor Fire evacuations - Caldor Fire creates worry for El Dorado County winemakers, fruit growers - Getting the word out. How deputies alert people to evacuation orders - Thousands evacuate to shelters in El Dorado, Amador counties as Caldor Fire burns - Heres how wildfire evacuees can cast their ballot for the CA recall election - How to help people impacted by Northern California wildfires - Video: A look at a Grizzly Flats neighborhood damaged in El Dorado County - 'A miracle': Woman learns Grizzly Flats home is still standing after Caldor Fire - Entire neighborhoods wiped, few homes stand in Grizzly Flats following Caldor Fire - 'It was getting too close for comfort': Caldor Fire evacuees rush to escape flames - US military's firefighting aircraft assist in battling Caldor Fire SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. (AP) Tens of thousands of people forced to flee South Lake Tahoe could begin returning to their homes after evacuation orders were downgraded to warnings Sunday afternoon as crews made progress against a massive wildfire. The orders that sent 22,000 people in and around the resort fleeing last week were reduced to warnings as the fire virtually stalled a few scant few miles from the forest areas straddling the California-Nevada border. California Highway Patrol officers began taking down roadblocks on State Route 50 at Stateline, Nevada, KCRA-TV reported. Members of the National Guard who had helped on the fire had left the area. The threat from the Caldor Fire hasn't entirely vanished but downgrading to a warning meant those who wish could return to their homes in what had been a smoke-choked ghost town instead of a thriving Labor Day getaway location. So far it hasn't been a mad rush of cars," South Lake Tahoe Fire Chief Clive Savacool said at an evening briefing. We're happy to see that people are slowly trickling in, just because the city does need time to get ready." Savacool said officials hoped to have the local hospital emergency room open within 24 hours and said paramedics were staffing fire engines for emergency medical care. However, he said people with health problems might want to consider staying away because of the smoky air. People who do return should have enough medication and groceries and a full gas tank in order to be self-sufficient, Savacool said. Law enforcement was still patrolling so your home will still be safe, Savacool said. However, authorities also warned that in the absence of humans, bears had gone to town, spreading trash everywhere that must be picked up. The delicate balance between humans and bears has been upset, and anyone who thinks a bear may have entered their home should call law enforcement, El Dorado County sheriff's Sgt. Simon Brown said. Mandatory evacuation orders on the Nevada side of the state line were lifted Saturday, although Douglas County authorities urged residents to stay alert, saying the fire still has the potential to threaten homes. The wind-driven fire, which at its peak had burned as much as 1,000 acres an hour in the northern Sierra Nevada, was mainly held within current containment lines overnight and was now 43% contained, according to Cal Fire. Most of the western and southern sides of the fire had been corralled, although some areas still were off-limits. No homes had been lost on the eastern side of the fire nearest to the lake and crews managed to carve more fire line along one edge of a fiery finger, which hadnt moved east, Tim Ernst, a fire operations chief, said at a morning briefing. Everything has held real well despite some flareups among timber and some hot spots in the west and southeastern sections of the nearly 340-square-mile (880-square-kilometer) blaze, Ernst said. Winds that drove the flames through tinder-dry trees, grass and granite outcroppings eased in recent days, and fire crews were able to double down on bulldozing, burning or hacking out fire lines. The fire that began on Aug. 14 has destroyed more than 700 homes, razed much of small hamlet of Grizzly Flats and injured nine firefighters and civilians, Cal Fire reported. California and much of the U.S. West have seen dozens of wildfires in the past two months as the drought-stricken region sweltered under hot, dry weather and winds drove flames through bone-dry vegetation. In California, nearly 14,500 firefighters were battling 13 large, active fires. Since the year began, more than 7,000 wildfires have devoured 3,000 square miles (nearly 8,000 square kilometers), Cal Fire said. No deaths had been reported specifically from the fires. However, authorities said two people assigned to fire-related duties died from illness this week, officials said. Marcus Pacheco, an assistant fire engine operator for Lassen National Forest with 30 years of experience, died on Thursday. He was assigned to the Dixie Fire burning north of the Caldor Fire, authorities said. Other details werent immediately released. The Dixie Fire began in mid-July in the northern Sierra Nevada and is the second-largest wildfire in recorded state history. It has burned nearly 1,400 square miles (3,625 square kilometers) in five counties and three national parks and forests, according to Cal Fire. A retired firefighter who was hired to help with the French Fire died from complications of COVID-19, authorities said. He was identified as Allen Johnson. Our team, the firefighting community and the world lost a great friend, mentor, teacher and comrade last night, said a Facebook posting last Wednesday from California Interagency Incident Management Team 14. The French Fire in Kern County was 52% contained after burning about 41 square miles (106 square kilometers). Fire concerns have shut down all national forests in the state. California has experienced increasingly larger and deadlier wildfires in recent years as climate change has made the West much warmer and drier over the past 30 years. Scientists have said weather will continue to be more extreme and wildfires more frequent, destructive and unpredictable. FORT JACKSON, S.C. (AP) The U.S. Army's training base in South Carolina plans a ceremony Friday to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the United States. Fort Jackson officials will lay a wreath at 5 p.m. Friday at the Centennial Park. BERLIN (AP) German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed full support Sunday for Armin Laschet, the center-right Union blocs candidate who is hoping to succeed her as chancellor in this months German national election. Merkel and Laschet on Sunday toured the town of Hagen and another region in North Rhine-Westphalia state that were badly damaged by flooding in July. Laschet is also the governor of North Rhine-Westphalia, a western state that is the country's most populous. Armin Laschet leads this biggest state of Germany very successfully, Merkel told reporters in Hagen. Somebody who can lead such a state can also lead Germany as chancellor. Germanys parliamentary election takes place on Sept. 26. Merkel, who led the Union bloc to four election victories, said in 2018 that she would not seek another term. She has presided over the European Union's biggest economy since 2005. Laschet, who also leads the Christian Democratic Union party, is lagging behind the center-left Social Democrats in the polls. He has received particularly unfavorable reviews after a series of slips on the campaign trail in recent months. The Social Democrats success in the polls is helped by the relative popularity of their candidate, Finance Minister Olaf Scholz, who is also vice chancellor in Merkels coalition government. At a press conference with Laschet, Merkel said in the next three weeks a full commitment is needed on all levels, both from the government and the campaigners. There are a lot of things we need to do at the same time: there's the coronavirus, the floods and then there is also the election, Merkel said, adding that I think that together we will do it well and Armin Laschet knows he has my support. ___ Follow APs coverage of Germanys election at https://apnews.com/hub/germany-election JACKSON, Miss. (AP) As patients stream into Mississippi hospitals one after another, doctors and nurses have become all too accustomed to the rampant denial and misinformation about COVID-19 in the nation's least vaccinated state. People in denial about the severity of their own illness or the virus itself, with visitors frequently trying to enter hospitals without masks. The painful look of recognition on patients' faces when they realize they made a mistake not getting vaccinated. The constant misinformation about the coronavirus that they discuss with medical staff. Theres no point in being judgmental in that situation. Theres no point in telling them, You should have gotten the vaccine or you wouldnt be here, said Dr. Risa Moriarity, executive vice chair of the University of Mississippi Medical Centers emergency department. We dont do that. We try not to preach and lecture them. Some of them are so sick they can barely even speak to us. Mississippi's low vaccinated rate, with about 38% of the state's 3 million people fully inoculated against COVID-19, is driving a surge in cases and hospitalizations that is overwhelming medical workers. The workers are angry and exhausted over both the workload and refusal by residents to embrace the vaccine. Physicians at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the only level one trauma center in all of Mississippi, are caring for the sickest patients in the state. The emergency room and intensive care unit are beyond capacity, almost all with COVID patients. Moriarity said its like a logjam with beds in hallways, patients being treated in triage rooms. Paramedics are delayed in responding to new calls because they have to wait with patients who need care. In one hospital in Mississippi, four pregnant women died last week, said state health officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs. Three of the cases required emergency C-sections and babies were born severely premature. This is the reality that were looking at and, again, none of these individuals were vaccinated, Dobbs said. Moriarity said its hard to put into words the fatigue she and her colleagues feel. Going into work each day has become taxing and heartbreaking, she said. Most of us still have enough emotional reserve to be compassionate, but you leave work at the end of the day just exhausted by the effort it takes to dredge that compassion up for people who are not taking care of themselves and the people around them, she said. During a recent news conference, UMMCs head, Dr. LouAnn Woodward, described the toll of the low vaccination rate on health care workers. We as a state, as a collective, have failed to respond in a unified way to a common threat, Woodward said. As the virus surges, hospital officials are begging residents to get vaccinated. UMMC announced in July that it will mandate its 10,000 employees and 3,000 students be vaccinated, or wear a N95 mask on campus. By the end of August, leaders revised that policy, vaccination is the only option. Moriarity said this surge has taken a toll on morale more than previous peaks of the virus. Her team thought in May and June that despite Mississippis low vaccination rate, there was an end in sight. The hospitals ICUs had few COVID patients. Then cases surged with the delta variant of the virus, swamping the hospital. Numbers of total coronavirus hospitalizations in Mississippi have dipped slightly, with just under 1,450 people hospitalized for coronavirus on Sept. 1, compared with around 1,670 on Aug. 19. But they are still higher than numbers during previous surges of the virus. In the medical centers childrens hospital, emergency room nurse Anne Sinclair said she is tired of the constant misinformation she hears, namely that children cant get very ill from COVID. Ive seen children die in my unit of COVID, complications of COVID, and thats just not something you can ever forget, she said. Its very sobering, continued Sinclair, who is the parent of a 2-year-old and a 5-year-old and worries for their safety. I just wish people could look past the politics and think about their families and their children. To deal with overflow COVID patients, Christian relief charity Samaritans Purse set up an emergency field hospital in the parking garage of UMMCs childrens hospital. The hospital is treating an average of 15 patients a day, with the capacity for seven ICU patients. Nurse Kelly Sites, who has also treated COVID patients in hotspots like California and Italy, said its heart wrenching to know that some of the severe cases could have been prevented with the vaccine. Many patients are so sick they cant talk. Nurses walk around with scripture verses on duct tape on their scrubs and will recite them to their patients. Samaritan's Purse is an international disaster relief organization with missions spanning multiple continents. Sites has responded to 20 missions, in Haiti, the Philippines, Liberia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other places. To respond to the United States is quite surreal for us, she said. Its a challenge because usually, home is stable. And so when we deploy, were just going to the disaster. This is the first time where home is a disaster. ___ Leah Willingham 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. ___ This story was first published on Sept. 5, 2021. It was updated on Sept. 7, 2021 to correct the spelling of dredge in Dr. Risa Moriaritys quote in paragraph 10. It also corrects the story to say that while UMMC had few to no COVID-19 patients in its ICUs in May and June, the hospital still had other patients there. Lastly, the AP had previously reported that Dr. LouAnn Woodward fought back tears as she described the toll of the states low vaccination rate on health care workers. While Woodward used strong language, she was not fighting back tears. MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) A group of South Carolina House members will start their work on redistricting in the coming week. The House ad-hoc committee holds its first public meetings in Myrtle Beach on Wednesday and Florence on Thursday. The committee has five Republicans and three Democrats. The House committee will hold 10 meetings across the state, with the last one on Oct. 4 at the Statehouse, when they hope their proposed new maps have been released. Both the House committee and a similar Senate subcommittee which already held 10 hearings across the state will use the new 2020 U.S. Census data to draw maps for the 46 state Senate districts, 124 state House districts and seven U.S. House districts. The new maps will use 2020 U.S. Census data released in August. The two chambers usually dont alter the other chambers map. Both chambers will work together on the U.S. House map. Some people at the Senate meetings have asked for public input after the proposed new districts. Senators said they expect to do that before their maps are sent to full Senate for approval during a special session this fall. This weeks House hearings are Wednesday at the Horry-Georgetown Technical College conference center and Thursday at Florence-Darlington Tech in Florence. All meetings start at 6:30 p.m. and will be streamed at the South Carolina Statehouse website. South Carolina added nearly 500,000 people from 2010 to 2020 to become the 23rd largest state in the U.S. with 5.1 million people, according to the Census. Much of that growth was along the coast and the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina. Twenty-four of South Carolina's 46 counties lost population, mostly in rural areas. FORT MADISON, Iowa (AP) An Iowa prison inmate serving a life sentence for murder died Saturday from complications related to COVID-19 and multiple preexisting medical conditions, authorities said. Phillip Benito Cuevas, 81, was in hospice care at the Iowa State Penitentiary, the Iowa Department of Corrections said in a news release. JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) Republican Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is urging the General Assembly to prohibit local election workers from helping absentee voters correct mistakes, a move that would mean some votes aren't counted. We would like to see legislation that does not allow for curing of absentee ballots, Deputy Secretary of State Trish Vincent told the House Elections Committee last week. Curing is a common term for fixing errors. The Kansas City Star reported this week that the request adds to a growing list of measures advanced by Republicans to alter the state's elections, including restoring a photo ID requirement and making it harder to amend the state constitution through voter-initiated ballot measures. Some similar proposals failed this year but could be considered again in the 2022 session. During the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Missouri lawmakers temporarily made all voters eligible to cast a ballot by mail, but required most to have their ballot notarized. Missouri previously required an excuse for voting absentee. More than 28% of Missouri voters cast ballots by mail in November, up from 8% in 2018. The House in March passed a bill that would allow no-excuse absentee balloting for three weeks before an election but voters would have to show photo ID. The Senate didn't debate the proposal but could revive it next year. I dont think were going to go back to the mail-in like we did during COVID, said Republican Rep. Dan Shaul of Imperial, chairman of the House Elections Committee. State election authorities rejected 5,437 mail ballots in November. That rejection rate of 0.6% was lower than the overall U.S. rate of 0.8%. Some election officials attempt to cure ballots. KOMU-TV reported in October that clerks in Boone and Cole counties attempted to help voters with ballot problems. If the voter forgets to sign it, why is it OK for an election authority to call them and say you didnt sign this, do you want to come and sign it? Vincent said. Do they get to get their ballot out of the tabulator and say, Oh, I didnt mean to vote that way, can I change it? But some lawmakers say the General Assembly should instead set rules allowing mistakes to be fixed. Why wouldnt the state establish a procedure for voters to cure their votes we say we want people to be able to vote and for their votes to matter and to be counted, said Rep. Joe Adams, a University City Democrat. CONCORD, N.H. (AP) New Hampshire U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas has reintroduced a bill to help small business owners and rural entrepreneurs grow. New Hampshires small businesses are the backbone of our economy, but half of small businesses are currently unable to access adequate capital when they seek it, Pappas said in a news release last week. WASHINGTON (AP) Three people were killed and three others were wounded Saturday night in a shooting in Northwest Washington, the Metropolitan Police Department said. The shooting occurred about 7:30 p.m. EDT in the 600 block of Longfellow Street in the Brightwood Park neighborhood, according to information posted on the police department's Twitter account. BEMIDJI, Minn. (AP) Four congressional Democrats who are part of the progressive Squad and want President Joe Biden to stop construction of the Enbridge Line 3 oil pipeline traveled to the shores of the Mississippi River to make their plea. Reps. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, Cori Bush of Missouri, Ayanna Pressley of Massachusetts and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan were spending the holiday weekend visiting Bemidji and other parts of northern Minnesota to speak with members of Indigenous communities and others who have been protesting the project. LAS VEGAS (AP) The last scene of his life unfolds in 12 grainy seconds. Tupac Shakurs swinging hard in the final footage captured of him alive. Its 8:49 p.m. on Sept. 7, 1996. Heavyweight champ Mike Tyson has just broken down Bruce Seldon without breaking a sweat at the MGM Grand hotel, dispatching his foe in 109 seconds, ending things with a left hook unleashed like a tiger from a cage. Shakurs hyped after the bout. Twenty blows! Twenty blows! associates recall him exclaiming upon Tysons destruction of Seldon in under two dozen punches. As hes walking back through the hotel, Shakur spots Orlando Anderson, a known gang member who got into it with a member of Shakurs Death Row Records crew, Travon Tray Lane, that year at a mall in Andersons native Los Angeles. Shakur pounces. He instigates a brief but brutal brawl in the hotel lobby that leaves Anderson flat on his back, absorbing kicks and the casino carpet at once. Security cameras capture the scene, following Shakur departing the property in an adrenalized, get-the-hell-out-my-way strut. And thats the last we ever see of him alive. Two hours later, Shakur is gunned down in his black BMW as it idles at a red light on Flamingo Road and Koval Lane. Four .40 caliber bullets: two in the chest, one in the thigh, one in the arm. Theyd end the life of a legend. Six days after the shooting, Tupac Shakur died. He was 25. Two and a half decades later, no one has ever been arrested for his killing. Why? It depends on who you talk to, says Stephanie Frederic, a journalist and film producer whos worked on the Shakur biopic All Eyez on Me and the A&E documentary series Who Killed Tupac? If you ask the Las Vegas police department, theyll tell you its because, Well, the people who know arent talking. When you talk to the people who do know, theyre like, Oh, that situation is handled. Theres too many dirty details, Frederic tells the Las Vegas Review-Journal, too many people who will come under fire, too many secrets that will probably get out, that shouldnt be out. Theres so many entanglements. Tupacs murder has spawned a smorgasbord of conspiracy theories, his death catalyzing a cottage industry of books, documentaries, even a big-time Hollywood film starring Johnny Depp, City of Lies, released in April. The Mob Museum in Las Vegas weighed in this week with a panel discussion titled, One Night in Las Vegas: The 25th Anniversary of the Tupac Shakur Murder. The event featured panelists Frederic, Public Enemy frontman Chuck D, Frederick Reynolds, a former police officer who assisted in investigating the many gang-related shootings and murders in Compton in the aftermath of Shakurs death, and rapper E.D.I. Mean, a childhood friend of Tupac who was in the Shakur-formed hip-hop group the Outlawz and who was traveling in the car behind Shakurs on the night of the shooting. Sometimes when you do something in hindsight, like 25 years or 50 years later, the people who were involved can be much more open about what they have to say, says Geoff Schumacher, vice president of exhibits and programs at what is officially called the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement. If youre the reporter on the scene, the police are going to give you only the minimal amount of information about what occurred, he said. What were hoping is that with this 25-year anniversary program that we can shed some light on what happened. WHAT? HES GONE? A voice conveys the same urgency as the sirens blaring in the background. I got a couple guys shot! a Las Vegas police officer shouts, speaking over the sound of a helicopter whirring nearby. In audio recordings of police radio traffic on the night of the shooting obtained by the Review-Journal, you can hear the chaos unfold as various officers arrive on the scene. Gold chains around his neck slathered in blood, Shakur is rushed to University Medical Center. Suddenly, Las Vegas becomes the center of national and international news cycles. Even though this incident occurred before social media and really before the internet became a thing, the news still spread incredibly fast, recalls Schumacher, a longtime journalist who was the city editor at the Las Vegas Sun when Shakur was shot. People were flocking to Las Vegas to somehow be a part of this. Frederic was among them. A former West Coast correspondent for BET, shed chronicled Shakurs rise to stardom and had recently been on the set with him during the filming of his video for I Aint Mad at Ya, in which Shakur is forebodingly shot and killed. When she got the call at her L.A. home that Shakur had been attacked, she immediately got on a plane to Vegas. Frederic basically camped out at the hospital, watching as celebrities and community figures from Jesse Jackson to MC Hammer came to visit Shakur. It was chaotic. It was emotional. People kept saying to me, Hes been shot before; hell be OK. But there was something about it that just seemed different, she recalls. People would drive by and blow their horns or drive by with one of Tupacs songs blasting from their car radio. It was intense, she continues. And you knew that this time was different because of the looks on the faces of the people when they would walk out of the hospital. I watched them come and go, and you saw the worried looks on their faces. You just knew that this time was different. Still, there was hope. On the Thursday after the shooting, talk began to circulate that, although Shakur had allegedly lost a lung, he was recovering from multiple surgeries. We all sort of got word that everything was going to be OK, Frederic recalls, that he just may pull through this another one but life was going to be different for him. The very next day, Tupac Shakur was removed from life support by his mother, Afeni Shakur. We were like, What? Frederic remembers. I think we were all just shocked. What? Hes gone? A DEAFENING CODE OF SILENCE It wasnt for a lack of witnesses. Fourteen shots were fired and at least that many eyeballs saw it all go down. The Death Row Records crew rolled deep, including the night of Tupacs shooting, when the BMW he was traveling in with Death Row Records founder Suge Knight was part of a group of vehicles full of his posse save for the right-hand lane, where a white Cadillac would pull up and open fire. Remember, there was a caravan of cars at Koval and Flamingo, Frederic says. There was Suge and Tupac in that BMW, there was a Death Row guy in front, to the left immediate left, upper left and there were cars behind him all that Death Row entourage. So you better believe they saw that car come up and the gun come out. And yet, no one talked then. And no ones talking now. To this day, none of those guys will tell you what happened, Frederic says. Ive talked to all of them that are still living. They will not tell you. A number of people including Las Vegas police have pointed to this code of silence as a prime reason why Shakurs murder hasnt been solved. No witnesses would cooperate, says Wayne Peterson, the retired head of the Las Vegas police homicide division when Tupac was shot, explaining the challenges the investigation faced in the A&E documentary series Who Killed Tupac? According to Peterson, Suge Knight showed up for police questioning three days after the shooting with three lawyers in tow. The police would say to Suge Knight, Who shot Tupac? and he would not answer, even though, certainly, he looked the guy right in the eye when the shooting was occurring, Schumacher says. Theres other people who certainly know who did it as well, and nobody said anything. This ultimately led to nobody being arrested for the crime. But if no one in the Death Row crew was talking, everyone else was, as theories about who was behind the shooting proliferated in the weeks and months that followed. There were arguments made that the killing was a result of the East Coast-West Coast hip-hop feud between Sean Puffy Combs Bad Boy Records label and Death Row Records, that Knight himself ordered the hit because he owed Shakur a large royalty payment and feared that the rapper was going to leave his label, even whispers that governmental entities wanted Shakur silenced for his ability to speak to and lead the African American community. Nevertheless, the evidence continually points back to Anderson, his desire for revenge after getting assaulted by Tupac in public, and the rivalry between L.A.s Bloods and Crips gangs (Anderson was a member of the Southside Compton Crips; Trayvon Lane and other figures in the Death Row crew were affiliated with the Mob Piru gang, a set of the Bloods). The same type of gun used in the killing was found in a duffle bag with a Las Vegas mailing address inside it in the backyard of the home of the girlfriend of one of Andersons close friends. Perhaps most damning, Andersons own uncle, Southside Compton Crips member Duane Keith Keefe D Davis, implicates his nephew in a recording made by former Los Angeles Police Department detective Greg Kading as Davis was being investigated on drug charges in 2009. Davis, who lives in Las Vegas and claims to have been in the white Cadillac with the gunman, later confessed to his role in the killing in 2018 after being diagnosed with cancer. But what did Anderson have to say in his defense when all this was going down? Frederic was determined to find out. WAS THE KILLER KILLED? He smiles when theres nothing to smile about. He squirms in his seat like a kid sitting outside the principals office, awaiting an inevitable tongue-lashing. Anderson looks anything but comfortable. Flanked by his lawyer, hes just been asked a point-blank question about a point-blank shooting: Did you kill Tupac? He denies it, but his answer only raises more questions. When you analyze his answer, it doesnt come back good for him, explains Frederic, who conducted the exclusive interview just six weeks after Tupacs death. He stutters. His eyes shift. The interview is featured in Who Killed Tupac? Landing it wasnt easy. At the time, it was probably one of the most dangerous things to do, to try to secure an interview with the Southside Crips, Frederic recalls. I went down to Compton and started asking around, and they basically told me, Get out of here. Not everyone had a cellphone back then, so I was handing out cards and, eventually, I got a callback. Anderson was getting death threats at the time. Word of his alleged involvement in the shooting had gotten out. He was feeling the heat; he wanted to tell his side of the story. But his response probably did little to dissuade anyone who believed him to be the shooter. So why was he never apprehended? Even with the MGM Grand security footage, police initially failed to make the connection between Andersons beatdown and Shakurs shooting. We dont think this guy even knew who Tupac was or who he was even dealing with, Las Vegas police Sgt. Kevin Manning told the Review-Journal in a story that ran the day before Shakurs death. Anderson was interviewed after the altercation, but no charges were filed at his request nor did police obtain his name. In the initial aftermath of the incident, with Anderson speaking to the police as Shakur fled the scene, local authorities didnt think that Anderson had the time to organize the hit. Because of the timing, we dont believe there is any significance in regards to the shooting, Manning said. He (Shakur) had already left. I suppose it is possible, but its also possible that pigs might be able to fly someday. Metro failed to talk with Anderson after the shooting, though Compton police later identified him and his gang affiliation, believing him to be the triggerman. Less than two years later, on May 29, 1998, Anderson was killed in a gang-related shootout at age 23. To some, this means that Tupacs murder will never officially be solved. To others, it means that it already has been. When the hood doesnt believe that the police will solve it, they take matters in their own hands, Frederic explains. Has the case been solved? Not to public satisfaction, she acknowledges, but to the satisfaction of many others. CAIRO (AP) A bus overturned on a highway linking the Egyptian capital with a Suez Canal city, killing at least 12 people and injuring 30 others, the countrys state-run news agency reported Sunday. The accident took place late Saturday on the Cairo-Suez desert road near the city of Suez, the MENA news agency reported. BRATTLEBORO, Vt. (AP) A two-year project to rebuild a stretch of Vermont Route 9 between Brattleboro and Wilmington starts next week with some preparation work. Crews from Pike Industries of Belmont, New Hampshire, will be doing shoulder work on the 12.5-mile section before the pavement will be removed next spring, Matt Bogaczyk, project manager for the Vermont Agency of Transportation, told the Brattleboro Reformer. PHOENIX (AP) A little black sign greets visitors as they walk into the San Xavier del Bac Mission south of Tucson. Welcome to this house of worship. Please speak quietly, so as not to disturb those in prayer, God bless you. This is what the San Xavier del Bac church was always meant to be: A place of prayer. One of refuge. A place for the Tohono Oodham people to come together and worship, said Father William Minkel, known as Father Bill to his congregation and pastor of the mission since 2019. The church doesnt always feel this way for the people of Wa:k Village, however. As the years have gone by, the church has filled up with more visitors than community members. Its increasingly become a place for tourists as theyre more able to retire and visit, Minkel said. And its been evolving. My concern is that it doesnt happen at the expense of people of faith and the Tohono Oodham community. Sometimes people here feel like its not their church anymore. San Xavier del Bacs history goes back centuries. In 1692, Italian missionary Father Eusebio Kino visited the southern Arizona village of Wa:k the village of water for the first time. With 800 people living there, it was one of the largest villages of the Tohono Oodham people. Kino established a mission and named it San Francisco Xavier del Wa:k in honor of St. Francis Xavier, his patron saint. He planned to make it the cabecera, or the hub, for all the other missions in the region, said Father Greg Adolf, a local historian and the priest of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Sierra Vista. Kino laid the foundation for a large church in 1700. He dug ditches and placed stones as the base for sun-dried adobe blocks. But he did not live to fulfill his dream. After his death in 1711, other missionaries resided for brief periods at the location. It was the villagers who upheld the mission who acted as faithful custodians of the several churches on the site and caretakers of the vessels and ornaments during long periods without a resident missionary, Minkel said. The reason it still stands is an outgrowth of the faith of the people, he said. In 1783, the construction of the present church of adobe and plaster began under the leadership of Fray Juan Bautista Velderrain. Native workers from Mexico and Franciscan missionaries worked together to complete the mission. After 14 years, the White Dove of the Desert was finished in 1797. San Xavier del Bac is one of the few mission churches in the Southwest that still serves the original population for which it was built. Thats why preserving it for the Tohono Oodham people is crucial, Adolf said. The Patronato de San Xavier, an organization comprising tribal members and other local residents, has been carrying out preservation work at the mission for more than 30 years. Until the COVID-19 pandemic, many tourists visited San Xavier. Docents showed them around the church and grounds, Minkel said, which made it feel more like a museum than a worship space. Tour buses filled the parking lot. Guests often walked to the front of the church for photos with the Spanish Colonial-style adornments as the backdrop. These were the first things Minkel noticed when he arrived in 2019. And soon after his arrival, his mission became simple: He wanted to preserve what the church had meant to the people since its start. Its a bit off-putting when youre coming to pray and theres groups of people, Minkel said. If their interest is simply history and taking pictures of the artwork and not realizing that someone is there praying for someone who is sick in the hospital, you dont want that dynamic to have a chilling effect on a persons peace of mind. The church is imbued with traditions, said Felicia Nunez, who has lived on the reservation since she was born 60 years ago. Ever since she was a little girl, her parents took her to the church where they were married. As a child, she participated in all the feast events. It brings to us our faith, our belief and how to be a devoted Catholic, Nunez said. As the Patronato advertised and sought support for the renovation project, more tourists came to see the church. Guided tours started in 2011, Minkel said. Docents leading large groups would interrupt community members who had come to worship, said Tim Lewis, a member of the conservation team. He and his wife stopped regularly attending the church 10 years ago. Its a religious place and people just dont get it, Lewis said. Its not an attraction. There were signs out there but people are so busy talking so they dont pay attention to whats around them. They get chatty and noisy and its not respectful. I was tired of it. Then COVID-19 changed everything. San Xavier was the first church in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson to shut down at the start of the pandemic. Docents no longer gave tours. The museum and gift shop closed. The parking lot was empty. And for the first time, no one came to church on Easter morning. The only sound was the occasional ringing of a bell. The peal delivered a solemn message: Another person had passed away. Whatever my plans were became secondary to keeping people here safe, Minkel said. Tourists were no longer welcome. For a while, no one in the village was either. But the church has slowly reopened. By June 2020, services had resumed, with some changes. Initially, Minkel celebrated Mass outdoors at the dance ramada instead of inside the church. Later, services were moved to the church courtyard, said village resident Mary Narcho, who attended regularly. Minkel blocked off the parking lot for some time another measure to preserve the place for its people. Community members started coming back to church, as a result, said Lewis, including him and his wife Matilde. When Narcho lost her sister to COVID-19, the church was a place to pray. And after a year of suffering from severe back injuries, Nunez rolled her wheelchair into the church for a healing service. The church started to feel more like a safe space again, Burrell said. Because of COVID, some of them are afraid, so they wanted to get closer to God, he said. They wanted to be safe. Ive talked to community members and theyve said, Oh, I need to go to church more often and be praying for the people. I loved when my people came to church. The museum is still closed. Tours havent resumed. When if they start again is under consideration, Minkel said. Mass is still held outside. One Sunday morning service is reserved for Tohono Oodham members. Father Bill protects that time, Narcho said. FLAT ROCK, Mich. (AP) State officials recommended more home evacuations Sunday in a Detroit suburb following an earlier fuel leak at the Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant that spread flammable vapor in sewers. Response teams were set to go door-to-door Sunday to inform affected areas in Flat Rock, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and Wayne County. SALT LAKE CITY (AP) Anna Stephens is a physics and astronomy student at the University of Utah. At first, she hated the idea of attending class remotely last school year. Stephens deals with chronic pain and fatigue. Shes also autistic and has ADHD. In the past, I had not done well with online classes, she told KUER-FM. For me, theyre not structured in a way that really works with the way I learn. I thought for sure that I would not pass my classes, that I would have to drop out altogether. But she said her professors eventually got the hang of posting notes and lectures online, and that gave her a lot more flexibility to learn on her own terms. So, Stephens fully leaned into the online schooling life, creating an at-home learning environment to meet her physical and mental health needs. She has an ergonomic keyboard on her desk shaped like a pyramid to help manage the pain in her hands. She also has a basket of sensory stimulators to fidget with, like a ball of putty to stretch or a cube with buttons to click. They help keep me focused, she said. It basically just helps keep whatever part of my brain is craving feedback and stimulation, it helps keep that part of my brain relaxed. Plus, she has a great roommate her cat, Tasha, who frequently makes cameos in Stephens Zoom calls. She was an unexpected comfort when it came to moments of high anxiety, which was quite frequent in the last year-and-a-half, she said. That anxiety kicked in again in the runup to this semester when Stephens thought of returning to campus in person. She said her condition made her realize how important it was for her to have the option to attend class remotely. There was certainly more than one occasion where I could not physically get out of bed, or if I could, I wasnt going much further than my desk, she said. Scott McAward, director of the University of Utahs Center for Disability and Access, said for some people the shift to virtual schooling made things harder for some people with disabilities and created more barriers to learning. But he said for others, like Stephens, they had better access to their education because of technology. We actually saw some students return to classes that had not finished their degree program, but were able to do remote learning for courses theyve never had the opportunity to do, McAward said. His office works with around 1,700 students a year. Most have what he called a non-apparent disability, like depression, ADHD or some chronic illnesses. Angela Smith, head of the University of Utahs disability studies program, said in many ways, reimagining how society works during the pandemic has leveled the playing field between disabled and non-disabled people. Once everyone had to rethink how they lived their lives, suddenly a whole host of things became possible that people with disabilities have previously been told werent possible, Smith said. She said students asked to participate remotely in the past and as a professor, she admits it was challenging for her to make that transition to online learning. Still, Smith said policies that promote going back to the way things used to be before the pandemic ignore how excluding it was for many people. It just feels like a huge loss to throw away those insights about how interconnected we are and about how we need to attend to everyones needs, not just throw away a bunch of people because their needs are outside of a perceived norm, she said But University of Utah leaders said even if they wanted to keep some of the learning options from the pandemic in place legally, they cant. During a recent back-to-school town hall, Dan Reed, senior vice president for academic affairs, said laws approved by the Utah Legislature limited their ability to offer students more options. He said the university is mandated to have the majority of its classes in person. Reed also said the university doesnt require instructors to create a virtual version of on-campus courses. Stephens said professors for three of her classes will be posting notes and lectures online for everyone. However, she said shes still expected to attend in person. As she heads back to school, she said she wishes the campus community has learned something over the past year and a half. Im hoping that what weve all gone through as a society allows more compassion for others, she said. Im hoping that kind of mentality carries through to this year, despite it being, back to normal and back on campus. Aside from that, its her final year in school. So she wants what any senior wants to have a good time, make new friends and figure out what the heck to do with her life after she graduates. OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Sunday that people are not bargaining chips, adding the U.S. stands with Canada in calling for the release of two Canadians detained in China for 1,000 days. Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were detained in China in what many countries label hostage politics after Canada arrested an executive of Chinese tech giant Huawei in 2018 on a U.S. extradition request. Kovrig, a Canadian diplomat on leave to an international organization, and Spavor, an entrepreneur, were arrested in apparent retaliation. Both have since been convicted of spying in closed Chinese courts a process that Canada and dozens of allies say amounts to arbitrary detention. Today marks the 1,000th day of the arbitrary detention of Canadian citizens Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig by the Peoples Republic of China (PRC)," Blinken said in a statement. "We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Canada and the international community in calling for the PRC to release, immediately and unconditionally, Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig. He added: The practice of arbitrarily detaining individuals to exercise leverage over foreign governments is completely unacceptable. People should never be used as bargaining chips. The arrest of Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of Huaweis founder, infuriated Beijing, which sees her case as a political move designed to prevent Chinas rise. The U.S. accuses Huawei of using a Hong Kong shell company called Skycom to sell equipment to Iran in violation of U.S. sanctions. Spavor's and Kovrig's relatives and supporters are pushing for some sort of political resolution that could bring them home. They staged a march in Ottawa on Sunday seeking to replicate the 7,000 steps that Kovrig has tried to walk every day in his cramped jail cell to maintain his physical and mental well-being. Its an extremely difficult milestone, but one that we want to mark in this way, in part, to honor the strength and resilience that Michael and Michael Spavor have shown, Kovrigs former wife, Vina Nadjibulla, said. Spavor was sentenced to 11 years in prison on national security charges. China's government has released few details other than to accuse Spavor of passing along sensitive information to Kovrig. Both have been held in isolation and have had little contact with Canadian diplomats. "We worry about him, but we find strength from all the support we get, said Paul Spavor, his brother. China says Spavor and Kovrig committed serious crimes against its national security and, although denying a direct link with Mengs case, routinely mention her when referring to the detention of Canadians in the country. The Chinese Embassy in Canada on Sunday protested comments by Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau referring to arbitrary detention and a lack of transparency in the Chinese judicial process. Those remarks grossly infringed on Chinas judicial sovereignty and violated the spirit of the rule of law, the embassys statement said. Three Canadians convicted in separate drug cases were sentenced to death in 2019. In one, Robert Schellenberg had received a 15-year sentence initially that was abruptly increased to death in January 2019 following Mengs arrest. Canada and other countries face trade boycotts and other Chinese pressure in disputes with Beijing over human rights, the coronavirus and control of the South China Sea. The U.S. has warned American travelers face a heightened risk of arbitrary detention in China for reasons other than to enforce laws. China has tried to pressure Canada's government by imposing restrictions on imports of canola seed oil and other products. SYDNEY (AP) A surfer was fatally bitten by a shark off Australia's eastern coast Sunday as many locals went to beaches to celebrate Father's Day. Fellow surfers, bystanders and paramedics gave the man CPR but he had a critical arm injury and could not be revived, New South Wales ambulance official Chris Wilson said. KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) At least four planes chartered to evacuate several hundred people seeking to escape the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan have been unable to leave the country for days, officials said Sunday, with conflicting accounts emerging about why the flights weren't able to take off as pressure ramps up on the United States to help those left behind to flee. An Afghan official at the airport in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif said that the would-be passengers were Afghans, many of whom did not have passports or visas, and thus were unable to leave the country. He said they had left the airport while the situation was sorted out. The top Republican on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, however, said that the group included Americans and they were sitting on the planes, but the Taliban were not letting them take off, effectively holding them hostage." He did not say where that information came from. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the accounts. The final days of America's 20-year war in Afghanistan were marked by a harrowing airlift at Kabul's airport to evacuate tens of thousands of people Americans and their allies who feared what the future would hold, given the Talibans history of repression, particularly of women. When the last troops pulled out on Aug. 30, though, many were left behind. The U.S. promised to continue working with the new Taliban rulers to get those who want to leave out, and the militants pledged to allow anyone with the proper legal documents to leave. But Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas told Fox News Sunday" that American citizens and Afghan interpreters were being kept on six planes. "The Taliban will not let them leave the airport, he said, adding that hes worried theyre going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan. He did not offer more details. The Afghan official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said it was four planes, and their intended passengers were staying at hotels while authorities worked out whether they might be able to leave the country. The sticking point, he indicated, is that many did not have the right travel papers. Residents of Mazar-e-Sharif also said the passengers were no longer at the airport. At least 10 families were seen at a local hotel waiting, they said, for a decision on their fates. None of them had passports or visas but said they had worked for companies allied with the U.S. or German military. Others were seen at restaurants. The State Department has no reliable way to confirm information about such charter flights, including how many American citizens might be on them, since it no longer has people on the ground, according to a U.S. official. But the department will hold the Taliban to their pledges to let people travel freely, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. The small airport at Mazar-e-Sharif only recently began to handle international flights and so far only to Turkey. The planes in question were bound for Doha, Qatar, the Afghan official said. It was not clear who chartered them or why they were waiting in the northern city. The massive airlift happened at Kabuls international airport, which initially closed after the U.S. withdrawal but where domestic flights have now resumed. Searing images of that chaotic evacuation including people clinging to an airplane as it took off came to define the final days of Americas longest war, just weeks after Taliban fighters retook the country in a lightning offensive. Since their takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast themselves as different from their 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and imposed repressive restrictions across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: Government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. Among the promises the Taliban have made is that once the country's airports are up and running, Afghans with passports and visas would be allowed to travel. More than 100 countries issued a statement saying they would be watching to see that the new rulers held to their commitment. Technical teams from Qatar and Turkey arrived in recent days and are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said official Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Meanwhile, the Taliban stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Fahim Dashti, the spokesman for the group that is fighting the Taliban, was killed in a battle on Sunday, according to the group's Twitter account. Dashti was the voice of the group and a prominent media personality during previous governments. He was also the nephew of Abdullah Abdullah, a senior official of the former government who is involved in negotiations with the Taliban on the future of Afghanistan. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. ___ Associated Press writers Rahim Faiez and Tameem Akhgar in Istanbul and Ellen Knickmeyer in Oklahoma City contributed to this report. BANGKOK (AP) Protesters gathered Sunday in the Thai capital Bangkok, seeking to rejuvenate their movement to oust the countrys prime minister and institute political reforms. More than 1,000 people gathered peacefully at central Bangkoks busy Asoke intersection, while a militant faction that has made a tactic of confronting the authorities clashed with police elsewhere. Protest organizer Nattawut Saikua, a veteran activist and former deputy Cabinet minister, said the rallies at the Asoke intersection will continue every evening. The protests came a day after Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha survived a no confidence vote in Parliament. That offered him a brief respite from widespread criticism that his government had botched its response to the pandemic by failing to secure timely and adequate supplies of COVID-19 vaccines. The protesters targeting of Prayuth predates any controversy over vaccines, and began last year as a pro-democracy movement. Their three core demands had been resignation of Prayuth, who initially came to power as army commander by staging a coup in 2014; amending the constitution; and reforming the monarchy to make it more accountable. The movement lost steam due to its leaders arrests, COVID-19 restrictions and controversy over its critical view of the monarchy, an institution fiercely guarded by the countrys ruling elite, including the military. But Prayuths sinking popularity over the vaccine issue and accusations of corruption have given the protesters an opportunity to garner fresh support, even though attendance at recent rallies has failed to match those held last year, which sometimes attracted upward of 20,000 people. Sundays rally drew disparate groups together. They included participants in recent car mobs who had staged mobile protests in their vehicles; Red Shirt supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted by a military coup in 2006; and progressive students with the tongue-in-cheek moniker Bad Students, whose focus has been education reform. Speakers from the protest stage also included Tanat Thanakitamnuay, the heir to a real estate fortune who had once been active on the other side of the political fence in his support of the military and the monarchy. He now is a prominent protest voice whose profile was raised last month when he suffered a major eye injury as police tried to disperse demonstrators with tear gas. WASHINGTON - Top federal health officials have warned the White House that the Biden administration's plan to begin offering booster shots to most Americans later this month may have to be limited initially, with third shots made available only to people who had received the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine, according to people familiar with the matter. Janet Woodcock, acting commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, and Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told White House coronavirus coordinator Jeff Zients on Thursday that their agencies may not be able to approve a more expansive coronavirus booster plan that they, along with other top doctors across the administration, endorsed last month. Woodcock and Walensky told Zients that, by the end of this month, they may be able to approve and recommend booster shots only for people who received the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. Some officials said Friday that reviews of the other vaccines' boosters could take an additional few weeks, though they cautioned it depends on the data. The people familiar with the discussion spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly. Last month, President Joe Biden announced that his administration would begin offering booster shots for all Americans beginning the week of Sept. 20 pending sign-offs from the FDA and the CDC. Americans were told they should plan to get a third shot eight months after they received their second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine. Biden said people who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine would probably need a booster shot as well, but regulators would need more time to analyze data. Now, Woodcock and Walensky, who have faced criticism for endorsing a plan before their agencies completed their reviews, have warned that staff may need more time to make a determination about boosters for people who received the Moderna vaccine. The FDA has only partial data on Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters. Pfizer and BioNTech submitted late-stage booster data in late August. "We always said we would follow the science and this is all part of a process that is now underway," Chris Meagher, a White House spokesman, said in a statement. "We are awaiting a full review and approval by the FDA and a recommendation by the [CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices]. When that approval and recommendation are made, we will be ready to implement the plan our nation's top doctors developed so that we are staying ahead of this virus." More than 211 million doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine have been administered in the United States, according to the CDC. That compares with almost 146 million doses of Moderna and 14 million doses of Johnson & Johnson. The FDA and the CDC declined to comment. The New York Times first reported the warnings. In an interview Thursday with WebMD, an online publisher of health news, Woodcock said the agency did not have all the data it needs but that it was clear protection from vaccines wanes. "You could talk to me in two months and if a plan hadn't been made, you could be saying, well, why was there no contingency plan" if officials were becoming increasingly concerned, she said. The issue of boosters has been fraught for months, punctuated by fierce debate about whether they are needed and when they should be administered. Critics outside the agency say the announcement that boosters might be available close to Sept. 20 placed too much pressure on the FDA and the CDC to get their reviews done quickly. "I was really relieved to hear that they are going to take more time reviewing the data," said Celine Gounder, an epidemiologist and member of Biden's coronavirus transition task force. "There was some concern that they were jumping the gun for additional doses for the general population." She said there is enough data to justify boosters for "very specific groups, but outside of that there's not really compelling data." She added: "It's almost like they were treating the anxiety rather than the public health issue." This week, news broke that two top vaccine officials, including the head of the FDA's vaccine office, would retire this year. Those familiar with the situation said the career officials were frustrated with the White House announcement on boosters, but it is unclear whether that led to their exit. Other experts argue the agencies were not always as fast as they needed to be, considering the urgent need to slow the spread of the highly transmissible delta variant. Data has shown vaccines lose some anti-virus potency over time, while also suggesting booster shots are effective at bolstering the immune response. Officials involved in last month's booster announcement said it was the culmination of intensive discussion among top doctors across the administration. The physicians grew increasingly concerned about rising cases, hospitalizations and particularly the growing number of breakthrough infections. After months of falling behind the curve on the pandemic, officials wanted to lay out a plan for boosters, with caveats about regulatory approval, because they felt the data was clear on waning immunity. "Everyone wants to be thorough," said one official involved in the process, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe internal discussions. "Everyone wants to assure safety, but it can't be business as usual in the middle of a pandemic." But on Friday, some people familiar with the situation described the Sept. 20 date as "aspirational" - but an aspiration that FDA realized this week it wouldn't be able to fulfill, at least for the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson products. The Moderna data was more complicated than initially expected and required more analysis, said the individuals who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the situation. One issue involves the proposed dose for the third Moderna shot. The company said in a news release Wednesday it had begun submitting booster data to the FDA based on the results of a Phase 2 clinical trial involving 344 people. Six months after their second shot, those participants received a 50-microgram dose, half the amount used for the first two shots. Antibody levels, which had been waning at six months, increased after that booster, including among people 65 and older, the company said. But officials aren't sure whether the 50-microgram dose is the best to use and have indicated they need to understand the data better, according to the individuals. Some wonder if the original 100-microgram dose would offer stronger protection. Those people also said the FDA had repeatedly expressed qualms about the Biden administration setting a target date for the planned start of a booster rollout, especially because the administration wanted it to include Moderna and possibly Johnson & Johnson, in addition to Pfizer-BioNTech. The agency had indicated it probably would not be ready to clear those boosters until October. But the individuals with knowledge said others in the administration wanted an earlier start date and that the week of Sept. 20 represented a compromise. One person said Woodcock signed off on the Sept. 20 date before officials realized that some of the needed vaccine data was more complicated and coming in later than expected. The agency also wants to review raw vaccine data from Israel, which has begun giving booster shots to everyone 12 and older, to see if the FDA agrees with the conclusions of Israeli health authorities. Israeli officials have said the effectiveness of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine wanes six months after the second dose, and that a booster sharply increases protection. The FDA is scheduled to meet with its outside vaccine experts to discuss Pfizer-BioNTech's booster shot on Sept. 17. Johnson & Johnson said it is working with health authorities in the United States and Europe on boosters and that it "continues to diligently generate and evaluate data from ongoing trials as well as emerging real-world evidence." Moderna did not immediately respond to a request for comment. ISTANBUL (AP) Turkey has neutralized nearly 18,500 people that it calls terrorists over the past six years, the Defense Ministry said Sunday. Since the start of this year, that figure was 1,865, spokesperson Maj. Pinar Kara told journalists in Ankara. The ministry uses the term to describe killed, wounded or captured combatants. The vast majority of the 18,455 neutralized since July 2015 are thought to be members of the Kurdistan Workers Party, or PKK, which has waged war on Turkey since 1984. A 2-year ceasefire with the PKK listed as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the European Union broke down in 2015. Turkey targeted the Islamic State group after launching its first operation in northern Syria in 2016 but has since largely focused on the PKK and its affiliates in Turkey, Syria and Iraq. Although the total figure of 40,000 deaths is often cited for the 37-year conflict with the PKK, the International Crisis Group says the precise figure for the overall casualty toll of the conflict is impossible to confirm. Turkeys military conducted 22 operations against suspected insurgents inside Turkey and abroad over the past month, Kara said. Since April, it has been carrying out ground and air operations against the PKK in northern Iraq. These resulted in 244 militants being neutralized, she added. Turning to the withdrawal from Afghanistan, Kara said the Turkish Armed Forces evacuated 1,129 Turkish civilians between Aug. 25 and Aug. 27 and assisted citizens of other countries. She also said that 23,931 military personnel had been dismissed since a coup attempt in July 2016 that saw elements of the military try to overthrow President Recep Tayyip Erdogans government. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) The United Arab Emirates announced on Sunday a major plan to stimulate its economy and liberalize stringent residency rules for foreigners, as the country seeks to overhaul its finances and attract visitors and investment. The nation's plan to lure foreign talent over the next decades reflects an emerging contrast with the other sheikhdoms of the Persian Gulf that are growing increasingly protectionist as they try to diversify their oil-bound economies. Now marking its 50th anniversary, the UAE is seeking to accelerate its economic and social reforms to rebrand for a post-pandemic future. Portraying the country as a liberal, bustling trade and finance hub, the government promised to pour $13.6 billion into the economy in the next year and $150 billion by 2030. Specific projects have yet to be announced, but $1.36 billion has been earmarked for Emirates Development Bank to support the industrial sector. We are building the new 50 years economy, Thani al-Zeyoudi, the minister of state for foreign trade, said in an interview, adding that free trade and openness have long made UAE a major global entrepot. Anyone who is trying to be more conservative and trying to close their markets, the value is going to be only in the short term, but in the long term, theyre harming their economies. Friction has grown between the UAE and its heavyweight neighbor Saudi Arabia, which has taken a different strategy under the young and brash Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. In a push to prepare for a post-oil future, the Saudi government has announced billions of dollars of investments in far-flung tourist projects and tried to diminish the role of expats to get more Saudis working in the private sector. Buried within the raft of the UAE's flashy economic development initiatives on Sunday was a far more practical and drastic change to the country's visa system that governs the legions of foreign workers from Africa, the Middle East and elsewhere who power the country's economy. Since the UAE's independence, the state has tied employment to residency status, lending employers outsized power and forcing people to immediately leave the country if they lose their jobs. We want to rebuild the whole system ... so that the residency system is attracting people and making sure they feel the UAE is home for them," al-Zeyoudi said. Openness is something which we're proud of. The new plans give residents an additional three months to seek other jobs after being fired, allow parents to sponsor their children's visas until the age of 25, and ease visa restrictions on freelancers, widows and divorced people, among other things. It's a subtle shift from the Gulf Arab state's traditional way of treating its vast foreign labor force as an expendable underclass. Ministers also said they sought to double the UAEs economy in the next decade through major trade agreements with countries including Turkey, the United Kingdom and India, as well as Israel after a recent breakthrough deal to normalize relations. The new projects come as the UAE reels from the economic shock of the pandemic, which triggered the collapse of oil prices and crucial tourism markets when lockdowns strangled business and authorities cut spending. The country's economy shrank over 6% last year, according to government data, with credit agencies estimating that the tourist hub of Dubai saw an even sharper decline of 11%. As the virus wrought havoc, with layoffs rippling across the economy and prompting an exodus of foreign workers, authorities last year introduced a series of reforms to draw more people and capital. The UAE offered wealthier expats the chance to retire in Dubai, rolled out a 10-year golden visa to professionals and their families, and passed a new law to allow 100% foreign ownership of companies outside economic free zones. Although such dramatic announcements have become common in the federation of seven sheikhdoms, the government has offered few details about how and when it will deliver on its promises. ____ This story corrects the attribution of quotes in the fourth paragraph to the UAE's minister of state for foreign trade. SAN FRANCISCO (BCN) Police arrested an armed man Tuesday after he is alleged to have threatened parents waiting to pick up their children at a San Francisco elementary school. Police responded to a 4:11 p.m. report of a potentially armed man making threatening gestures and incoherent statements to parents outside a school at Grove and Cole streets just north of the Panhandle neighborhood. Officers responding encountered 39-year-old Brandon Paillett, of San Francisco, and asked if he was armed. Although he told officers he had no weapons, a loaded .38 revolver fell out of his backpack when he threw it at officers in his attempt to evade them; one officer drew his weapon and other officers secured the suspect's weapon and took him into custody, according to police. Paillett was arrested on suspicion of five felonies: - Possession of a firearm on school grounds; - Possession of firearm by a felon; - Possession of ammunition by a felon; - Carrying loaded firearm by a prohibited person; and - Post-Release Community Supervision probation violation. Paillett has a long history of run-ins with San Francisco police. Six weeks ago, he was arrested after allegedly breaking into a woman's home on Roosevelt Way and refusing to leave. He was charged with three misdemeanor counts of false imprisonment, resisting an officer and trespassing. KTVU reported that five days before that incident, Paillett "allegedly [tried] to steal a pet groomers van while the groomer was still inside." He was charged with kidnapping and carjacking, but told the TV station he was released from custody because witnesses did not appear at a preliminary hearing. Copyright 2021 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved. Republication, rebroadcast or redistribution without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Bay City News is a 24/7 news service covering the greater Bay Area. Sharon, PA (16146) Today Thunderstorms likely in the morning. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. High 71F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Mostly cloudy early, then clearing later on. Low 54F. Winds light and variable. Assembly Speaker P.D. Sona, who represents Mechuka assembly constituency bordering China, and will lead the newly-formed "Indo-China Border Development Legislators' Forum of Arunachal Pradesh (ICBDLFAP)", on Sunday said that the forum was constituted to formulate plan and strategies to curb the migration of people from the border villages to urban areas. Itanagar, Sep 5 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh MLAs from constituencies along the India-China border have come together to prevent the exodus of border residents to urban areas by further developing the 1,080 km frontier area. "The villagers along the international borders are still lacking basic amenities due to which they migrate to urban areas in search of better life and livelihoods," Sona said on the necessity of the forum, formed following the meeting of the legislators here on Saturday. MLAs Phurpa Tsering, Mutchu Mithi, and Dasanglu Pul reiterated similar concerns and supported forming "a common platform of legislators of the border areas to emphasise the important issues, as collective requests would be effective". MLA Lokam Tassar, convenor of the ICBDLFAP, suggested modifying the guidelines of the existing Border Areas Development Plan, increase of allocation and submission of block-wise utilisation certification, instead of the existing collective one, which, according to the MLAs, "unnecessarily hampers the implementation of BADP schemes". The forum would soon submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister Pema Khandu on the issue. The 11 MLAs of the border areas stressed that the region need to be developed on priority basis in order to check people's migration. "The inhabitants of the border villages are considered India's first line of defence. They have never failed in reporting transgressions by the Chinese troops. In the past few years, there has been a steady migration of the villagers to state capital Itanagar and other urban areas for livelihood. Basically the border areas remained backward owing to topographical factors and inaccessibility," Tassar said. To maintain their livelihood, people in the areas chiefly practice diverse trades and profession including "Jhuming" (slash and burn method of cultivation) and wet rice cultivation, horticulture, fish farming, carpet making, wood carving, breeding of Mithun, Yak, Sheep and other livestock. Apart from China to the north and the northeast, Arunachal Pradesh also borders Bhutan (160 km), and Myanmar (440km). --IANS sc/vd Some member states, such as Italy and Bulgaria have followed the EU instructions, reports Xinhua news agency. Rome, Sep 5 (IANS) The European Union (EU) has recommended that member states reinstate restrictions for travellers arriving from the US, but some analysts don't expect the change to have a significant impact on the bloc's recovering tourism sector. Even before the recommendation, Germany had tightened restrictions, blocking the arrival of unvaccinated travellers who had recently spent time in the US from entering unless they could prove an "important reason" for entering the country. But in most of the rest of the bloc, travellers from the US can arrive as they did before the guidelines were announced, though any individual state can choose to adjust its entry rules unilaterally. At least one country, Portugal, even announced it had no plans to place restrictions on travellers from the US. The EU placed the US on its "safe list" in June, though Washington did not offer the same status to travellers from the bloc arriving in America. The latest changes come as European economies were experiencing strong economic growth in the wake of 2020 when widespread lockdowns caused economic growth in Europe to slow dramatically. Tourism plays a big part in the European economic recovery plans, especially in countries like Italy, where it accounted for 13 per cent of the country's gross domestic product before the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic early last year. But according to Gianfranco Lorenzo, head of research at the Center for Touristic Studies in Florence, the new restrictions on travellers from the US were unlikely to have an impact on the tourism sector recovery. "Before the pandemic, Italy saw six million travellers a year from the US, but last year it was only 400,000, a reduction of 92 per cent," Lorenzo told Xinhua. "That is not to say that travelers from the US aren't important," he said. "Recovery of the tourism sector has been happening largely without visitors from the US even if their numbers are reduced, the impacts will be minimal, and the restrictions are not permanent." The travel restrictions were put in place after a significant spike in the coronavirus infection rate in the US in recent weeks. --IANS ksk/ The study, published on the pre-print server bioRxiv and yet to be peer-reviewed, captured female octopuses on camera using their tentacles to gather debris, including shells, silt and algae, and launch it toward other octopuses with a jet of water, the CTV news reported. Toronto, Sep 5 (IANS) In a bid to resist male harassment and unwanted mating attempts, female octopuses were observed throwing debris, finds an interesting study led by a team from Australia, Canada and the US. "Some throws appear to be targeted on other individuals and play a social role, as suggested by several kinds of evidence," said the researchers including Peter Godfrey-Smith, of the School of History and Philosophy of Science, at the University of Sydney. "Some throws were directed differently from beneath the arms and such throws were significantly more likely to hit other octopuses," they added. This peculiar behaviour in octopuses has been observed by the team from off the eastern coast of Australia since 2015. While it is common for octopuses to perform similar throws when building and maintaining dens, the act of throwing is rarely seen by any creature in the wild, much less in a social context. The study categorised 101 throws, of which 36 were deemed to be performed in a social context, while more than half were at least partially social. Social throws were defined as those that occurred within two minutes of an interaction with another octopus. Interactions included fights, mating attempts, and approaches or reaches followed by an apparent reaction, the report said. Further, the study showed that of the 24 octopuses observed throwing debris, 11 did so in a social context. Among octopuses that were hit by a throw, none fired back, nor did any hits initiate a fight. In December 2016, one female threw debris 10 times at a nearby male who had repeatedly tried to mate with her, hitting him five times. These actions, combined with the male's apparent efforts to dodge the thrown objects, may indicate intent, the report said. --IANS rvt/vd The attack took place late Saturday night when IS militants attacked a federal police outpost in a village near the town of al-Rashad in the south of the namesake provincial capital Kirkuk, about 250 km north of Baghdad, the source told Xinhua news agency. Baghdad, Sep 5 (IANS) At least 13 security members were killed and six others injured in an overnight attack carried out by the Islamic State (IS) terror group in Kirkuk province, a provincial police source said on Sunday. Thirteen policemen were killed and six others wounded in the attack at the outpost as well as from roadside bombs leading to the village, he added. The attackers withdrew from the scene after the arrival of more security forces to the area, al-Taie added. Over the past few months, IS militants have intensified attacks on Iraqi security forces in the province where the militants previously controlled, leaving dozens dead and wounded. The security situation in the country has been improving since Iraqi security forces defeated IS militants in 2017. However, IS remnants have since retreated to deserts and rugged areas, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. --IANS ksk/ Colombo Sep 5 (IANS) The Sri Lankan Navy has apprehended a trawler, allegedly involved in drug trafficking, in the high seas off Male, and brought it back to Colombo. Seven persons, all Pakistan nationals, were taken in custody, and 336 kg heroine was seized in the operation earlier this week. The United Nations top climate official has urged Australia to have a more honest and rational conversation about urgently abandoning coal power, which he said was in the nations and the worlds best interests. Selwin Hart, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Climate Action, said wealthy nations must stop using coal power by 2030 and the rest of the world must dump it by 2040 if the world is to keep global warming to within the agreed target of 1.5 degrees Celsius. Polands Belchatow plant is the worlds largest lignite coal-fired power station. Credit:Getty Market forces alone show coals days are numbered, as many investors increasingly abandon it in favour of renewables, which are now cheaper in most places, said Mr Hart during a speech recorded for an Australian National University leadership forum. We fully understand the role that coal and other fossil fuels have played in Australias economy, even if mining accounts for a small fraction - around 2 per cent - of overall jobs. The Australian Christian Lobby received $138,000 in JobKeeper payments last year despite reporting surging revenue, while the organisations managing director, Martyn Iles, bemoaned that the federal government was out of money. The influential conservative lobby group is one of a number of industry groups, think tanks and not-for-profits, including the left-leaning Australia Institute and the Australian Council of Social Services, that received the JobKeeper payments when their revenue either rose, or fell less than the threshold amount. Martyn Iles, managing director of the Australian Christian Lobby. The Morrison governments JobKeeper scheme has come under scrutiny after an independent analysis found that at least $13 billion was paid to companies that did not need it. Last week, under sustained public pressure, Harvey Norman repaid $6 million in JobKeeper subsidies after reporting surging revenue and profits. A further $14.5 million paid to its privately owned franchisees was not repaid. Money from the $90 billion wage subsidy scheme was paid directly to employers and was meant to go to businesses or not-for-profits that suffered a fall in revenue. In its first phase, introduced in March 2020, businesses only had to say they expected revenue to fall to receive it. Sydneys rail network came within hours of being thrown into disarray last year because of safety concerns and the readiness of a controversial $40 billion corporation that had been set up to artificially inflate the state budget. The Herald can reveal that an operating licence for the Transport Asset Holding Entity (TAHE) was signed on June 30 last year, a matter of hours before the midnight transfer of $40 billion worth of trains and other public rail assets to the independent for-profit corporation devised by Treasury. About $40 billion of rail assets including trains are owned by the governments Transport Asset Holding Entity. Credit:Louise Kennerley Documents tabled to NSW Parliament, together with others obtained by the Herald, show months of escalating tension and disagreement between Transport for NSW and Treasury bureaucrats over the scheme. The confidential documents reveal top rail officials were on standby to receive a wave of last-minute legal documents as the two government departments struggled to find common ground on the terms of the crucial operating licence. Mrs. Norma Lokkerbol, AKA Miss Rose. September 4, 1951. Credit:Staff photographer The jury returned to court shortly after half past nine after deliberating for five hours 20 minutes. The court was crowded. Fleming was escorted into the court by two policemen. He stood in the dock looking nervously towards the jurors as their names were called. When the foreman announced the verdict Fleming showed no sign of emotion. HANDSHAKES After Mr. Justice Clancy had discharged the jury and adjourned the Court, Flemings solicitor, Mr. L. Halliday, led him to the barristers room. On the way several people shook hands and congratulated him. His counsel, Mr. J. W. Shand, K.C., and Mr. Ken Asprey, Mr. Shands junior, followed. Fleming was sitting on a table nervously smoking a cigarette when reporters and photographers were admitted. Asked about his plans for the future, Fleming said he had not made up his mind. I have been under a big strain and I want a holiday, he said. He added that he never had any doubts that he would be acquitted. HIS ORDEAL When he was asked if he thought he would ever forget the ordeal of the trial, Mr. Asprey interrupted and said: It will take a long time. Fleming said he felt no resentment against anyone. The police had simply done their duty. A reporter suggested his ordeal must have been a nightmare. Fleming said: It was more than that. He added: I knew I would get justice. Flemings two brothers, Joseph and David, were in court. Joseph Fleming and Fleming are joint owners of the 9,000-acre Mt. Parry Station. BROTHERS TASK David Fleming has had power of attorney while his brother has been in custody. Mrs. Florence Mackay, Mrs. Flemings mother, who has attended the court every day, was in her room at her guest house when the jury returned with its verdict. When Fleming left the court about 50 or 60 people were waiting. Fleming pushed his way through the crowd and was whisked away in a car. Mr. Asprey said Fleming would probably spend the night in Tamworth. Mr Shands four-hour address to the jury on behalf of Fleming was described by the senior Crown Prosecutor, Mr. C. V. Rooney, K.C., as one of the most brilliant in his court experience. The trial lasted nine days. Fleming was elected chairman of the Quiundi Cooperative Association at its last annual meeting. He registered a Red Poll cattle stud about 1936. As a stud breeder he met with considerable success and was generally recognised as one of the leading studmasters of the Red Poll breed in Australia. Many people rang radio stations and newspaper offices last night asking for the verdict evidence of the great public interest taken in the trial. Closing stages in the Fleming trial Mor C. V. Rooney, K.C., Crown Prosecutor, rejected the defence theory of suicide when the trial of Thomas Langhorne Fleming for the murder of his wife was resumed here to-day. After a long retirement the jury acquitted Fleming, 43, a grazier, who was alleged by the Crown to have poisoned Mrs. Betty Fleming, probably with cyanide in a glass of beer. The trial lasted nine days. Mr. Rooney, sharply criticised a suggestion made by Flemings counsel, Mr. J. W. Shand, K.C., yesterday, that Mrs. Fleming put poisoned Minties in Flemings poison cupboard to inculpate him. Was it likely, he asked, that the dead woman would reach out of her grave to brand her husband a murderer, and her children the children of a murderer? Mr Rooney said Fleming told lies because he knew he dared not let the truth come out. He added: An innocent man can always afford the luxury of truth, a guilty man cannot. Normal, Happy Woman The evidence of those close to her and the major part of her diary showed Mrs Fleming to be a normal active happy woman devoted to her home and children, Mr Rooney went on. She was a contented woman without the slightest melancholy and without any tendency to brood. It was only in the last two months before her death that her diary contained any expressions of grief. Dr. McGeorge had said she might have been suffering from melancholia through a physical change in life, and that if she was, the condition was induced from the inside and not by external pressure. Mr. Rooney: This means that her melancholy was not due to her husbands unfaithfulness but to something in her makeup that has been there since birth. There is nothing in her diary until late in April to indicate she was suffering from melancholia. NO DOUBTS ON INNOCENCE DECLARES Mrs. LOKKERBOLL Loading Anita and Nandos had just purchased the perfect investment property in Macquarie Park last year. They were in the final stages of settlement and just needed to transfer about $1 million to finalise the sale. A day before they transferred the funds, the couple allegedly received what appeared to be a legitimate email from their lawyer asking them to pay the funds into a different account. Little did the couple know, scammers were allegedly impersonating their lawyer. This type of scam is known as a business email compromise (BEC) scam. Nandos and Anita fell victim to an email scam. Credit:Edwina Pickles The unsuspecting couple allegedly transferred the money to the new account. However, when the money never arrived in their lawyers account, alarm bells started to ring. The couple, who live on the north shore, informed the police and their bank. Police have seized a white utility from a property in the NSW Hunter Valley as they investigate the disappearance of child Anthony AJ Elfalak. Police confirmed on Sunday evening that they had seized a ute from a property at Bulga, a village which is about 78 kilometres north-east of where the three-year-old child was last seen. A white Ford ute is seized during the search for missing child AJ Elfalak. Credit:Nine News AJ, who has autism and is non-verbal, vanished from his home on Yengo Drive at Putty about 11.30am on Friday. A major search effort involving more than 100 police and rescue volunteers is set to continue on Sunday evening and into Monday. A man has faced court, charged with murder after a stabbing death at a caravan park in Dandenong South on Saturday night. Police were called to the park on South Gippsland Highway, south-east of Melbourne, about 10pm on Saturday over reports of an altercation between several people. Police are investigating a death in Dandenong South. Credit:Paul Rovere Police found a 41-year-old man with life-threatening stab wounds. The man died at the scene. Jeremy Newell, 25, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries under police guard. He was charged with murder on Sunday night by homicide squad detectives. Domestic violence victims are ending up saddled with Centrelink debts and facing prosecution because their partner has given false information or coerced them into concealing the relationship. Welfare rights advocates say there is little legal recourse for victims to waive debts because, under the law, both people in a couple are responsible for the information given to Services Australia even in cases where there is violence or abuse. The law prevents Centrelink debts from being waived if false information is given even if its the result of an abusive relationship. Credit:Kate Geraghty Illawarra Legal Centre solicitor Ian Turton says if theres any deliberate conduct involved in the debt, there cant be any appeal to have it waived. In many cases, victims also face prosecution. Were talking about people being left with debts of $40,000, $50,000, sometimes more, he said. London: On August 16, Australias high commissioner George Brandis made an urgent phone call to Britains Health Secretary Sajid Javid with an exotic request. When Javid, a self-described long-time fan of Australia, answered his mobile he was more than happy to help, and the two nations were soon on their way to a massive vaccine deal. Im delighted we have agreed a vaccine swap with our Australian friends to boost both countries vaccination programmes and protect as many people as possible the first doses will arrive on Sunday evening, Javid later told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. The virus does not respect international borders and it is vital the world works together to ensure everyone has access to vaccines so we can live safely and get back to doing all the things we love, he said. She was like, help, help. Then I saw the stabber, I was looking straight at him and he was like, Allah, Allah. Police escort shoppers to their cars after the attack. Credit:Getty Images He looked like an evil guy. His eyes were wide, like he was fried or something. The man, maskless, was wearing a khaki top and camouflage pants and was holding a large chopping knife. Nand saw two other victims by the milk and yoghurt freezer one woman was hiding underneath a trolley to protect herself. Auckland terrorist Ahamed Aathill Mohammad Samsudeen was shot dead at the scene of his attack. There were a couple of guys beside me, Im like, weve got to do something, mate, we cant just run away. One guy had a pole with him, like the ones you see at a bank with a sign on top. Im like, youve got to go hit him and take the knife off him, and Ill jump in and tackle him. He wasnt going to stop, he kept chasing people. We were about two metres away from him. I said are you gonna hit him? and the guy said I cant do it so he gave [the pole] to me. We were about one metre apart and I told him drop the f...ing knife, drop the f...ing knife. He was like, Allah, Allah. Hes not gonna drop the knife. I wanted to hit him from behind because he had the knife waving at me. I stepped back and then he went past me a couple of metres. Then I heard an undercover cop say to me stay back, stay back, Ive got a gun Im going to shoot him. So I just stepped back and yeah, he unloaded five or six shots at him bang, bang, bang in the chest area. The attack occurred in a Countdown supermarket. Credit:Getty Images He didnt say anything to him, he just told me to step back and ...bang, bang bang. I thought he would say drop the knife. Loading My opinion is he was going to kill more people and hes not going to stop until someone killed him. You could see it in his eyes. Nand went back to the first woman hed encountered. She was lying on the floor, her head on the bottom shelf, blood pouring from stab wounds to the hand and stomach. She didnt want to move or get up. She asked me if the ambulance was coming. I said yes, the ambulance is coming, just stay with us. I gave her a baby blanket and a nappy, to stop the bleeding. I also got a pillow for her. Nand says the officer told him to watch the attacker. He says go and guard the body, just in case it moves. It was crazy. Im like, what do you want me to do? Hes dead. Nand took a photo of the dead terrorist on his phone. It shows the bearded man sprawled across the nappy aisle on his back, a smear of blood by his left hand. He doesnt consider himself a hero. All I wanted to do was help the lady I saw. She asked for help and I thought I need to do something, Ive got three kids, I need to go home and sleep at night and not say I didnt do anything. Michelle Miller saw the action from a different perspective. She had arrived at the supermarket around the same time as Nand. The 54-year-old mother of two grown children had until recently worked as a security guard, looking after props and equipment on the Lord of the Rings Amazon TV production. But she had to quit her job about three months ago when she was hit by a car, badly damaging her ankle. During lockdown shed been making arts and crafts for special needs children. She left her home in Avondale and drove to New Lynn to get some milk and toilet paper from Countdown. She had just gone through the checkout when she heard a commotion. I saw this man with a knife and he was stabbing people, there was a lot of screaming. It was horrific. He just kept saying the same words, it was in a strange language. Miller says the mans knife was big, like a chopping knife. Some of the victims were elderly. I saw blood and people lying on the floor. I left my stuff there and ran out. As I went out the door I heard gunshots going off. My heart was racing, I was in shock, I couldnt believe it. I take my hat off to the police, I really do. It wasnt a cold-hearted killing. I mean, they gave him an opportunity he didnt take that opportunity to surrender himself and thats when the police moved in and ... shot him. Over at the hot chicken stand, Monica Seve, 19, and her boyfriend, Luciano Iketau, also 19, were looking for food to take on a visit to a relatives grave. Seve graduated in March from the New Zealand School of Tourism with qualifications in tourism, airline and flight attending and hospitality management. Shed currently a full-time house-keeper. I heard people screaming, Seve says. I started to walk over towards it, and everyone else turned around and said run, hes got a knife. They ran outside to their car, which was parked right in front of the entrance. I saw this lady, she was holding her phone in one hand, you could tell she was one of the victims because she was walking really slow. We saw her hip was bleeding, where shed been stabbed. I said look, youre in shock, you need to sit down. All she said was Im so scared. Seve sat the woman down by a trolley bay. I was taking off her sweater and someone came and said youve gotta go, theres a gun. She got so scared she tried to hide between the two trolley lines. I said weve got to go and she just got up and ran. She left her phone and bag behind. I wanted to find her in case she had run off and hid and was bleeding to death or something, but I couldnt find her. I just had to trust someone had taken her to the hospital. She and Iketau found the womans drivers licence and managed to get hold of her family to let them know what had happened. There was a lot of blood, Seve says. It had gotten on to my jumper and my hands and all over her jeans. I had a lot of adrenaline, I was surprised at how calm I was able to keep myself. Normally I would have probably passed out along with her. The womans husband later told Stuff she was in a stable condition and should be OK. A man named Tim, who didnt want to give his surname, arrived at the supermarket as people ran out screaming hysterically. He passed a woman whod been stabbed in the shoulder. Inside, her saw an elderly man lying on the ground with a stab wound. He was lying right by the till ready to pay for his shopping the poor guy. Tim says hes had a lot of stuff happen in his past I even had a gun to my head, many years ago. So it doesnt affect me as much as most people. I was gonna try and find this fulla and try and creep up behind him. I was gonna throw my Bibles at the hua. Cos thats me, Ill help anybody thats in need when its life threatening. PHILIPSBURG:--- Last Thursday the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard (DCCG) director, Frank Boots, and a delegation paid a visit to the Council of Ministers. During this visit the DCCG director introduced his organization to the Council of Ministers. The delegation, upon invitation of the Prime Minister who proposed the introduction of the Coast Guard to the Council of Ministers in order to increase the awareness of the organization and the mandated objectives. The DCCG director, Frank Boots gave the introduction of the DCCG through a presentation in which he gave an explanation of the policies, tasks, and assets of the organization in the Caribbean, and in particular, its goals for the island of St. Maarten. After the presentation at the Government Building there was room for questions from the members of the Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister of St. Maarten, Silveria Jacobs and the Minister of Justice, Anna Richardson thanked the DCCG director, Frank Boots, and Mr. Jocelyn Roberto Levenstone, the Head of the DCCG support station on St. Maarten for their visit and wished them good luck with continued Coast Guard operations. During his business trip the DCCG director, Frank Boots also paid a visit to the Governor, Eugene Holiday, and the Point Blanche center and a one on one meeting with the Minister of Justice, Anna Richardson. Victor Lindelof welcomes Raphael Varane's arrival at Manchester United despite the added competition for his spot in the side. Varane joined the Red Devils from Real Madrid during the recent transfer window and made his debut for the club in the 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend. Lindelof's regular spot alongside Harry Maguire in the middle of the Man United defence is now under serious threat from Varane, who has seemingly been signed to play alongside the club captain. However, the Sweden international has insisted that it is important to have "a competitive situation" at "one of the world's biggest clubs". "It's great, I play in one of the world's biggest clubs and they have very good players. We will have a competitive situation and I only see it as positive that we have got a good player in the squad," Lindelof told FotbollDirekt. Lindelof has made 163 appearances for the 20-time English champions since arriving from Benfica in 2017. Occupied Aaiun, August 25, 2021 (SPS) - The Executive Bureau of the Saharawi Instance Against the Moroccan Occupation (ISACOM), a Sahrawi NGO in the occupied areas, asked the United Nations to take the necessary measures to put an end Moroccan aggressions against Sahrawi activists in the occupied areas of Western Sahara, particularly the activist Sultana Jaya and her family. In a statement made public Tuesday, the Sahrawi NGO highlights that the situation in the occupied areas of Western Sahara is really worrying and deserves the attention of the international community, due to the mistreatment and humiliation suffered by its inhabitants, particularly the activist Sultana Jaya and her family, who have been subjected to the most atrocious forms of abuse practiced by the most powerful dictatorships, for more than nine months and whose continuation could cause a humanitarian catastrophe . "We invite the United Nations and its human rights bodies, as well as the African Union and other relevant international organizations and agencies, to" take a firmer position against the practices of the Moroccan occupation, including appropriate measures to end these atrocious acts of retaliation, in order to protect the activist Sultana Jaya and her family from this continuous repression , concludes ISACOMs. SPS 125/090/TRA Im listening to state Rep. Caroline Simmons and thinking about Richard Nixon. The common political wisdom is that Nixon lost the first televised debate to John F. Kennedy in 1960 because the still primitive technology made Nixon appear unshaven, sweaty and shifty next to the handsome young senator. Radio listeners tuning in only to the words famously favored Nixon. Simmons reflexively smiles when trying to win support in her campaign to unseat fellow Democrat David Martin and become Stamfords first female mayor. Simmons smiles a lot, as she is more polite than Mister Rogers. The closest she comes to throwing shade is to reference this mayor instead of using Martins name. But as the Hearst Connecticut Media Editorial Board meets with her in advance of a Sept. 14 primary, we all wear masks as COVID numbers crawl back north. Simmons smile is cloaked, which puts even more focus on her words. The rap on Simmons during this dogfight of a mayoral race (which also includes unaffiliated candidate Bobby Valentine and Republican Joe Corsello) is that she is too young (35), and lacks the experience to navigate the machinations of the Stamford Government Center. Of course, Pete Buttigieg was 38 during his run as an upstart candidate in the 2020 presidential election, and had been mayor of South Bend, Ind., since he was 30. Age doesnt matter if the job candidate can do the work. The second knock is more complex. Stamford mayors reliably rise from power positions on volunteer boards rather than paid gigs at 888 Washington Blvd. (and never from the outside). Martin told us Simmons lacks the managerial experience to basically run this city. Think about a parallel challenge our last two governors faced. Dan Malloy knew every literal and figurative corner of Stamfords city hall from his 14 years as mayor, but never served in the General Assembly. His brusque personality often backfired under the gold dome, even within his own party. And Ned Lamonts rookie misfire from lacking legislative mileage can be summed up with one word: tolls. No cramming can completely prep Simmons for a treacherous learning curve. Thats not entirely her fault, as the most popular adjective for any city hall seems to be dysfunctional. I ask Simmons about this in the context of becoming mayor and immediately having to start forging a $600M-plus budget by March. She underscores what she brings to the table: An understanding of the importance of each corner of the triangle. State is covered by her seven years as a state rep, she says; and federal through her earlier career with Homeland Security collaborating with Americas cities. That leaves local. I have spent a lot of time over the past couple of months really taking the time to meet with city employees, meeting with department heads, people that used to work for our city and left for other towns, getting their perspectives, meeting with city employees that work in various departments, meeting with police officers, firefighters, Simmons says. I think the general consensus ... is they feel like morale is low, that theyre not respected or appreciated. After our meeting with Martin, I mocked his loquaciousness in a column (He chats in Encyclopedia Britannica entries, not haikus). Simmons is notably more terse in her responses, jesting once that Im blabbing (she was not). She checks countless boxes in the Democratic playbook, sometimes several in a single sentence (We have the potential to really pilot innovative initiatives at the local level to tackle housing insecurity, food insecurity, to make sure were reducing racial inequity, advancing educational equity, things like universal pre-K). So far, Simmons has offered more details about her vision than her rivals, probably because she has to. Martin will rise or fall on his record, and Valentine and Corsello would be wise to parse out details after the primary is over. So, in addition to hosting events to reveal different planks of her platform, Simmons pivots quickly during our interview. She takes to land, suggesting ways to make it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to traverse neighborhoods (Theres just kind of sidewalks to nowhere); to sea (As a coastal city, we need to be thinking about rising sea levels); and to air (enhancing wireless access). To make the administration friendlier to constituents, she pledges neighborhood walks, town halls and surveys. And she wants to return some constituent services to the underused Old Town Hall. Theres a toughness to some of Simmons plans. Conducting regular audits of all of our city departments is a bold promise that will be heard as a threat in some quarters. We happen to be talking days after the Stamford police union blasted Martins updated COVID policies. I do think its important to mandate vaccinations for employees, she says. No pause. How about masking students? Yes, I would. No pause. Perhaps shes learned not to hesitate on such polarizing issues because her father as well as her husband (former state Sen. Art Linares) are Republicans. We do have a lot of heated debates, Im not gonna lie, she says. I think she smiled. The answers come quickly, and with confidence, in our small group. With less than two weeks before the primary, Simmons and Martin each stumbled mildly during a Zoom forum Wednesday while pondering the possibility of defeat. I will reassess, Simmons said. She has the potential luxury of remaining on the ballot because she was also endorsed by the Independent Party of Connecticut. That doesnt mean she should. In this case Martin offered the more efficient response: Should I lose, I will in fact support the Democratic candidate. Its the only pragmatic answer for either of them. Two Democrats in the race means neither would be left smiling after Nov. 2. John Breunig is editorial page editor of the Stamford Advocate and Greenwich Time. jbreunig@scni.com; twitter.com/johnbreunig. STAMFORD Jules Naudet carries vivid memories of 9/11, and the images he captured on film on that morning two decades ago created its own visual memories and riveted the nation. He and his brother, Gedeon, documented the horrific and searing moments of Sept. 11, 2001, when a short film they were making about a probationary firefighter learning the trade in lower Manhattan turned into something far, far bigger. Jules Naudet, a longtime Stamford resident who has since completed a number of documentaries on terrorism and national security issues with his brother, captured the moment when the first plane hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center. At the time, the two filmmakers originally from France were following Tony Benetatos, The Kid as they referred to him in the documentary 9/11. His shift was about to end when his engine company was sent out on a report of a smell of gas in the neighborhood near the Twin Towers, which was a routine matter for the New York City Fire Department. Jules Naudets odyssey began with a routine fire call and ended up with the most compelling visual narrative of that terrible day, combining horror, death, heroism and seemingly inexplicable twists of fate that spared some lives and claimed others. He and his brother were nearly killed but survived. That day, seconds and inches were the difference between life and death, recalled Naudet, a native of France who has become a U.S. citizen. Naudet was shadowing Battalion Chief Joseph Pfeifer when they heard and saw a plane flying low in the clear blue sky, as they waited to resolve a minor gas leak in the neighborhood. At 8:46, as Im filming firefighters milling around a street corner, I see a loud plane, not that unusual, but this one felt a little off. I saw it passing between two buildings, an American Airlines jet, I can see it on the tail, the logo, Naudet recalled. Low to the ground, going fast, it disappears behind a building. And reflex, I dont know, I turn the camera to see where it was going to appear. Thats where I filmed the plane crashing into the North Tower, he said. Thats where I discovered that time can become very elastic. The moment lasted for about, oh, six seconds. But in my head, I have an interior monologue, that lasts minutes, Naudet said. He and the fire chief raced to the World Trade Center. As they entered the lobby of the North Tower, Naudet was confronted by the first of many grisly images. My first horrible visual of the day two people burning alive. Death happening in front of me. Not long after, the young French filmmaker, who came to New York City as a teenager, heard a terrible explosion, and word came in that the South Tower had been hit, too. This is no longer an accident, this is an attack. So, the stress starts going up, Naudet remembered. World War III, it was kind of pandemonium at that point. ... The stress reached a crescendo when we hear a series of explosions, almost. A firefighter said, weve got jumpers. Not realizing what he meant, I got closer to the window, Naudet said. Unfortunately, I realized its people jumping. Its incredibly difficult, intellectually, to realize, that sound is a persons life that has just ended. And this would be nonstop, it would be again and again and again. Naudet can still recall the looks on the faces of the FDNY personnel as they tried to make sense of the worst catastrophe of their working lives, which is captured in the documentary. I never saw fear on their faces, even though it would have been justified. It was more concern. Its that strange thing with them, firefighters they cannot stand not helping people, Naudet said. All they want is to go up, and the frustration is: They have no elevators, and they know people are dying because of the smoke and the fire. As the FDNY made plans to attack the fire and rescue civilians, Naudet heard another sound he will never forget, the collapse of the South Tower. We hear that horrible roar, that I can only describe as a freight train of death that comes to get us, he recalled, and his legs almost involuntarily started to run. As Im running, I can feel the ground shaking, day turns into night, for some reason, he said. Again, time become elastic, almost in slow motion. I remember sitting down, waiting for death. It was very Zen-like, I was very accepting. Thinking about all the people I love. We dont recognize the landscape, which has turned into a kind of post-apocalyptic winter. Jules Naudet survived the collapse, but the disasters around him continued to unfold, as the North Tower began its own descent into destruction a short time later. We hear that horrible sound again, I look up and I see the [North] tower is collapsing on top of us, mushrooming down toward us, he said. For protection, he lay down between two trucks, then felt another body lie down on top of him it was Chief Pfeifer. He jumped onto to protect me with his bunker gear, his helmet. He would get lightly hurt by debris, but saved me. I owe him a debt I can never pay back, Naudet said of the fire chief. By this point, Naudet assumed that his brother had also responded to the scene and been killed in the collapse of one of the towers and he was correct to believe Gedeon was in danger. Gedeon Naudet had made his way to the disaster scene to film, shortly before the second tower collapsed. He jumped into a firetruck, fortunately the front and not the back, because the back was crushed, Jules Naudet said of his brother. He survived. He was with an FBI agent, they survived. In the back, two firefighters were killed, because debris fell right there. Jules Naudet also worked on the recovery operations on the ruins of the World Trade Center, in what was known as The Pile. For me, the worst was probably in the days and weeks after. On Sept. 11, as youre running for life, every cell in your body tells you that youre alive, the filmmaker said. When youre on The Pile, and youre digging, you have time to think. The oncoming depression and trauma is a horrible spiral; its slowly trying to drag you down. So doing the documentary was kind of our way to transform what wed seen, the worst of humanity, terrorism, to concentrate and hold onto the best of human nature ... the firefighters, of course, but also the civilians, complete strangers, helping each other. That wave of solidarity and resilience, it kept the depression at bay. ... The best of human nature comes out of these moments. Naudet said the experiences from Sept. 11 and afterward have made him realize everything can change, at any moment, anything can end. So he and his fiancee, Jacqueline, decided not to put off their wedding any longer. They got married on June 1, 2002, and the FDNY was pleased to host the affair at the firehouse for Engine 7, Ladder 1. They built an altar, put out chairs, Naudet recalled. It was the most incredible moment, ever, for all of us. The couple has since raised two children in Stamford, where Jules Naudet has lived since 2004. The date of 9/11 also leaves him with a sense of awe, and even inspiration. Looking back on that day, the filmmaker said, For me its the definition of hero ordinary people who find themselves doing extraordinary things at extraordinary times. The documentary, with updated material, is set to air on CNN at 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 5, and again at 8 p.m. Sept. 11. rmarchant@greenwichtime.com PORT WASHINGTON, N.Y. (AP) More than 50 dogs and puppies are scheduled to arrive on Long Island after being transported from shelters in Louisiana. The North Shore Animal League America in Port Washington said Sunday its emergency rescue team will be arriving with the dogs on Monday. Working with Shreveport, Louisiana-based Paws4Life, the animals were removed from shelters in advance of Hurricane Ida to make room for animals displaced by the storm. POCATELLO, Idaho (AP) Bodies that were to be donated to Idaho State University for educational purposes have not been received by the school, officials said, as several agencies investigate the funeral home that was supposed to be facilitating the donations. Police searched Downard Funeral Home in Pocatello on Friday, two days after a state licensing inspector reported finding a decomposing body at the business, the Idaho State Journal reported. Lance Peck, who purchased the funeral home in 2007, surrendered his licenses to operate the business on Wednesday, Idaho's Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses said. Peck did not return several requests by the newspaper for comment about the investigation. A phone message left at the funeral home Sunday was not immediately returned. Peck has a history of licensing violations, including failing to donate the remains of a person who died in 2012 to Idaho State University, the licensing agency said. Police reported finding several unrefrigerated bodies and several fetuses in their search of the funeral home on Friday, but declined to say how many. The Ada County Coroners Office brought its mass casualty refrigeration trailer to Pocatello to store some of the remains while those that could be identified were transferred to other funeral homes, who would notify families, police said. We know there are a lot of unanswered questions about the case, Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei stated in a statement. Our department has those same questions." Idaho State University had received anatomical donations through Downard Funeral Home dating back to 1996 and received an average of eight donations each year, ISU spokesperson Stuart Summers said. Cadavers can be kept for up to four years before being returned to the funeral home, according to the university's anatomical donation program. However from 2008 to 2020, ISU received nine total donations despite an exclusive agreement with Downard to handle the donations. There were two three-year periods in which ISU did not receive any anatomical donations, Summers said. ISU entered into a relationship with the University of Utah to obtain anatomical body donations, Summers said, before setting up a donation agreement with another funeral home. When (ISU) began working with Wilks Funeral Home, the university notified individuals who had filed an intent-to-donate form of the change. In the process, the university learned some families believed the remains of their deceased loved ones had already been donated to Idaho State University through Downard Funeral Home, but the university had no records of these donations," Summers told the newspaper. ISU returned its final five anatomical donations to Downard Funeral Home in April 2017. About four years later, one of the families contacted the university to report they had not received their loved one's remains from the funeral home, Summers said. Idaho State University's audited its records and dealings with Downard Funeral Home last fall and found multiple causes of concern, Summers said. The university filed a formal complaint with the Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Pocatello Police and the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses this spring. That investigation continues, said Bannock County Prosecutor Steve Herzog. As of Friday, no charges had been filed and no one was in custody in connection to the investigation, authorities said. Peck has faced other licensing violations. In 2016, he was placed on probation for two years over allegedly performing 100 cremations without a license from November 2014 through June 2015. In 2018, he was placed on probation for two years after telling a family their loved one's remains would be donated to a forensic canine program that trains search dogs, but the program did not receive the remains. Peck eventually found the person's cremains in his crematory in November 2017, the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses reported. The death of state police Sgt. Brian Mohl weighs heavy on his family, but they made clear Sunday he died doing something he loved. Mohl, a 26-year veteran of the state police, died amid fast-rising water from Ida on Thursday in Woodbury. He was on the job as part of the midnight shift at Troop L. Brian loved being a state trooper. He proudly served with the Connecticut State Police for over 26 years and those that worked with him said he always had a way of making you feel as though you were part of the team and that he truly cared about them, Mohls family said in a statement released Sunday. A senior sergeant, Mohl was remembered for his dedication both to law enforcement and to his family. Sgt. Corey Craft, who serves in Troop H, came to know Mohl when the two were young troopers working the midnight shifts at Troop A in Southbury. And they two became fast friends. We were like the odd couple, totally different people and we just clicked for whatever reason. We had an amazing friendship, Craft said Sunday in an interview with Hearst Connecticut Media. Craft said Mohl was generous, smart, humble, but also witty and sarcastic. Though Craft came on as a trooper just before Mohl, the two took the sergeants exam at the same time. Mohl scored a few points higher and was promoted first. From there, Craft said Mohl joked for years that he was more senior. Even though the two troopers were among the most senior sergeants in the state police, they gravitated toward the often less popular midnight shift. Theres something to be said for people who will go out overnight in the worst conditions, Craft said. Mohl was working his typical midnight shift when he called in to Troop L around 3:30 a.m. Thursday, reporting he was in fast-rising water near Jacks Bridge Roaf in Woodbury. State police officials said they immediately deployed all assets that could and pinged the troopers phone, but they didnt find his police cruiser until daybreak when floodwaters started to recede. Even then, it was still mostly submerged, they said. Authorities were able to find Mohl in the river about an hour later, officials said. They quickly attempted life-saving measure before Mohl was flown by LifeStar helicopter to Yale-New Haven Hospital. Officials said he was pronounced dead when he arrived at the hospital. Hes out on the road at 3 oclock in the morning checking places, hes just a great guy. He loved the community of Woodbury, he loved the people of Woodbury, he loved his home in Woodbury, Craft said. Mohls death marked the 25th line of duty death of a state trooper since the force was created more than a century ago. Every line-of-duty death is heartbreaking and the loss of Sgt. Mohl is no different. He was outside, in the middle of the night, in horrendous conditions, patrolling the Troop L area. He was doing a job he loved and he was taken much too soon, state police Col. Stavros Mellekas said in announcing Mohls death last week. In a massive state police organization, with around 1,000 troopers, not many were as well known as Mohl, who worked in several troops during his long career. From the top brass down to troopers in training, all youve got to do is say the last name Mohl and someones going to say something positive about him, Craft said. Mohl was also known to throw a big barbecue every summer for family and friends, and hed invite everyone in the state police. He would do this every year. He just wanted people to bring their families, come have a great day and get home safe. Never asked for anything, Craft said. Though he was a hardworking trooper, his commitment to his family was unwavering. Even though Brian was committed to his work, he always found a way to put his family life first. He never lost sight of that. If he wasnt at work, he was spending time with us. Brians love for his family was larger than life. He had a special way about him with his kindness, humor and warmth, his family said in the statement. In a demanding profession, with tough shifts and long hours, Mohl made it work. He worked hard as a trooper, but was a dedicated to his wife, stepchildren and son, Craft said. This guy, he found a way to do it all right. Hes got a great family, hes got great balance, he works his butt off. Hes got a phenomenal relationship with his wife and kids. This guy had everything in line and squared away, and did it the right way, Craft said. Mohls death was met with grief from among the tight-knit law enforcement community. As Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner James Rovella, a longtime fixture in Connecticut law enforcement, made the announcement of Mohls death, departments across the state posted tributes for the fallen trooper. Across the region, law enforcement agencies shared the state police emblem with a black line across the center it read Mohls badge number in white letters. Mohls death came amid the worst of Ida, a powerful storm that first hit Louisana as a Category 4 hurricane. Heavy rains quickly flooded rivers and roads late Wednesday into early Thursday. I was telling everybody stay safe, stay home, lets ride out this storm. Thats not what you do as a trooper, Gov. Ned Lamont said. As a trooper, you go out and you look and you try to rescue others take care of them. A wake and funeral for Mohl has been planned this week at Xfinity Theatre in Hartford. It is expected to draw law enforcement from across New England, New York and elsewhere. Craft said Mohl has one brother who is a major and another that is a sergeant in the New York State Police. Seeing the outpouring of prayers and support from the Connecticut State Police, the New York State Police, the law enforcement community and the community as a whole has deeply touched our hearts. We cannot begin to express our gratitude for all of your compassion, Mohls family said. Mohl entered the state police training academy in 1994 and graduated the following year. He joined Troop A in Southbury. He served as a sergeant at Troop B in North Canaan, Troop G in Bridgeport and Troop H, before he was assigned to Troop L in 2008. Mohl and Craft, both long eligible to retire, had been talking about retirement for a long time. Craft said Mohl had been considering plans in the coming months. He said, Well, you know what, weve got to go pretty soon here, but I really love what I do. Its going to be so hard for me, Craft recalled. Mohls death came 11 years to the day after Trooper Kenneth Hall was killed when he was struck by a passing driver while conducting traffic enforcement on Interstate 91 in Enfield. [Mohl] was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and friend and to say he will be missed is just not enough, his family said. Hazleton, PA (18201) Today Mostly cloudy in the morning, then thunderstorms developing later in the day. A few storms may be severe. High 81F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Thunderstorms during the evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. 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"You can't use PSD to table a motion of censure only for you, behind closed doors, to negotiate what you want from the prime minister or resort to blackmail. PSD does not want to be part of the blackmail. I personally do not want to take my colleagues to the anti-corruption agency because they participate in blackmail; and then, when you sign a motion, you are presumed to go and vote (...) you do not use the signature of the largest party in Romania to negotiate within the ruling coalition or the government. If you want to own it, you come and sign it. What has saddened me the most was that neither Mr Barna, nor Mr Ciolos, nor Mr Simion George even sent us the text of the motion, which I did every time and I respected every colleague and every leader of a parliamentary and non-parliamentary party," Ciolacu said on Sunday. He pointed out that the Citu government has to go, mentioning that PSD will attend on Monday a joint sitting of Parliament's standing bureaus. "There is a motion submitted, it is with the joint bureaus. We are waiting for their decision, then we invite those from USR [Save Romania Union] and AUR [Alliance for the Union of Romanians], if the motion fails to sign the PSD motion," Ciolacu said. According to him, Parliament no longer represents the will of the Romanians in its current composition and early elections are needed. He pointed out that PSD is ready to return to power, agerpres.ro informs. "Moreover, we have 90% of the governing agenda and the necessary laws to get out of the crisis," the PSD leader said. Asked by journalists about the accusation that he would strike a backroom agreement with Prime Minister Florin Citu on public money, he replied that he had not had discussions with the prime minister in a very long time. "If you think that the development minister (...) will ever violate the law, you are sorely mistaken, and PSD has the most local administrations, it is impossible to exclude the PSD administrations from a possible PNDL3 [National Local Development Programme 3]," Ciolacu added. Another 80 Afghan nationals were successfully evacuated from Afghanistan on Sunday morning by land, safely to Pakistan, according to Romania's Foreign Ministry (MAE). The Afghan evacuees in this group - collaborators of the Romanian armed forces, students on scholarships in Romania, other categories of people at risk of Taliban's revenge - a human rights university professor, an Afghan police officer and their family members - were taken over by an official of the Romanian Embassy in Islamabad and driven to a place where they will remain until they are cleared to continue their move out to Romania. MAE says that according to the previous procedures, the Romanian Embassy in Islamabad issued visas and documents to the members of this group of Afghan evacuees securing their transit through Afghanistan and access to Pakistan. At the same time, all necessary diplomatic steps have been taken by Pakistan to evacuate Afghan nationals safely, Agerpres informs. As a result of the complex steps taken by the Interinstitutional Task Force coordinated by the Romanian foreign minister, 156 Afghan nationals have so far been evacuated from the aforementioned groups at risk of Taliban's revenge: collaborators of Romanian troops in the Afghan war zone, students on scholarships in Romania, journalists, human rights activists, magistrates and their family members. The 156 Afghan nationals evacuated so far add up to 49 Romanian nationals who wanted to be repatriated and seven nationals of other NATO member states. National leader of the National Liberal Party (PNL), major at rule, Ludovic Orban, claims that he has the best chances to remain the national leader of the party, as he is endorsed by the majority of the PNL members. Orban said on Sunday in Sibiu that he was "a certainty," while his opponent, Prime Minister Florin Citu, was "perhaps a wannabe at most." Asked if his chances of remaining at the helm of PNL have increased as a result of the government crisis, Orban replied: "Since the beginning of the campaign, I have had the first chance. I practically spent my whole mature life in PNL. I have been for over 30 years in the public service (...) I am convinced that most of the PNL members are supporting me and that the delegates who will be at the congress convention will do the same. I am a certainty, while my opponent is perhaps a wannabe at most., Agerpres informs. Orban unveiled his motion for reelection on Sunday in Sibiu in the presence of less than a hundred liberals. The meeting took place behind closed doors, as Chair of the PNL Sibiu County chapter Raluca Turcan told the journalists attending the event. Among the local PNL officials taking part in the presentation and debate of Orban's leadership motion hosted by the ASTRA Library in Sibiu were Turcan; leader of the PNL Sibiu City chapter Violeta Alexandru; Sibiu County Public Administrator Adrian Bibu; Senate Deputy Chair Nicolae Neagu, and Sibiu County Prefect Mircea Dorin Cretu. Turcan announced at the beginning of the meeting that Orban's challenger, Prime Minister Florin Citu, will unveil his motion for PNL national leadership also in Sibiu. Labour Minister Raluca Turcan of the National Liberal Party (PNL), major at rule, has criticised the decision of the Save Romania Union - Freedom, Unity and Solidarity Party (USR PLUS), PNL's junior coalition partners, to try and remove Prime Minister Florin Citu, saying in a Facebook post that "USR has been no Snow White in the government." "Let it be clear once again: USR has been noSnow White in the government, USR was part of and responsible for all the failures of the government. Like PNL and UDMR [Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania]," Turcan wrote on her social media page on Sunday. Turcan says USR PLUS will be accountable to its constituents for forging an alliance with the opposition Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) to topple the government, Agerpres informs. "The USR-PLUS forging an alliance with a party about which all USR leaders have always stated that it is extremist, just to overthrow the Citu government, is the mistake for which USR-PLUS is accountable to its own voters," Turcan wrote. She believes that the main priority should now be to ensure the country's governance. "The major problem is, however, ensuring the country's governance at a difficult time, marked by uncertainties related to the developments in the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of only a small percentage of Romanian having got vaccinated against COVID-19, and global economic bottlenecks, along with price increases, after the abrupt cessation of activities in 2020. Those are the problems, which are not easy; that is why they needed a solid government with a common and equal responsibility of the three parties of the coalition. It is with these problems and the effects of their instability and aggravation that USR threatens and blackmails us - either their way or the highway - if you don't replace the prime minister because that's what we want, we will pull out of the government and leave you - PNL - to drown in these problems," wrote Turcan. She added "PNL will not get drowned; PNL will defend its prime minister and PNL will continue to govern and will do absolutely everything necessary to stabilise the current situation and solve the difficult problems that afflict us all irrespective of our political leanings." If the motion of censure of the Save Romania Union - Alliance of the Unity of Romanian (USR-AUR) against incumbent Prime Minister Florin Citu reaches the vote stage in the plenary sitting of Parliament, the Social Democrats will vote for it, but only if there are prospects for early elections, national leader of the opposition Social Democratic Party (PSD) Marcel Ciolacu said on Sunday . Otherwise, added Ciolacu, at the end of the PSD National Political Bureau meeting, his party is considering a joint motion with USR PLUS and AUR. "If the motion of the USR-AUR alliance gets a vote in the plenary sitting, then PSD will vote for it, but not for Barna to return to the government and Ghinea to ruin the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR); but we will go all in to early elections. Therefore, the USR-AUR alliance must support this approach. If the USR-AUR alliance motion fails to get a vote in the plenary sitting, we are willing to talk to USR and AUR and agree on a text of the motion; they should sign the motion so that we will have the 234 votes needed, and in 10 minutes' time we will table the motion. The Citu government has to go," said the Social Democrat leader, Agerpres informs. Thirty years after Union Electric Co. built Bagnell Dam to create the Lake of the Ozarks from the Osage River in the wooded hills of central M Over the next month, nurses and other health care professionals who for one reason or another dont want to get vaccinated will be fired from their jobs at Mercy, BJC and other local hospitals. More than 20 national hospital chains have adopted a similar philosophy. South City, on the other hand, is following the lead of some rural hospitals in Missouri, in areas with low-vaccination rates, where they are actually using their lack of a mandate as a recruitment tool. The result is that the population South City Hospital serves generally high in poverty and in an area of the city where vaccination rates have been low, particularly among African Americans will be entering a hospital where the health care workers may or may not be vaccinated. At least some employees at South City Hospital, who spoke with me on condition of anonymity, are concerned about this policy. But not all of them. One woman who works there, who said she is vaccinated, said she agrees with the philosophy and hopes the hospital uses it to recruit employees. Its a personal choice, she says. I dont think were going to go back to the mail-in like we did during COVID, said Republican Rep. Dan Shaul of Imperial, chairman of the House Elections Committee. State election authorities rejected 5,437 mail ballots in November. That rejection rate of 0.6% was lower than the overall U.S. rate of 0.8%. Some election officials attempt to cure ballots. KOMU-TV reported in October that clerks in Boone and Cole counties attempted to help voters with ballot problems. If the voter forgets to sign it, why is it OK for an election authority to call them and say you didnt sign this, do you want to come and sign it? Vincent said. Do they get to get their ballot out of the tabulator and say, Oh, I didnt mean to vote that way, can I change it? But some lawmakers say the General Assembly should instead set rules allowing mistakes to be fixed. Why wouldnt the state establish a procedure for voters to cure their votes we say we want people to be able to vote and for their votes to matter and to be counted, said Rep. Joe Adams, a University City Democrat. For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, The Kansas City Star. American warships assigned to the West Pacific (7th Fleet) have been receiving more China-specific electronic sensors and jammers to deal with Chinese weapons that are not exported and expected to only reveal their abilities in an actual shooting war. Most U.S. surface warships have a basic version of the AN/SLQ-32 (or "Slick 32") that can monitor enemy electronic transmissions in real-time, identify them as much as it can and instantly share the information with nearby U.S. forces. During the Cold War Russia was the primary naval opponent equipped with advanced electronic sensors and weapons and Slick 32 capabilities were installed on American ships expected to encounter Russians. Since 2019 ships with SLQ-32 have been receiving a series of major upgrades called the SEWIP (Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program) The full name of the SEWIPed gear is AN/SLQ-32(V)7 and it was developed as three major components or Blocks. Block I improved the basic capabilities of SQL-32 and improved the displays and UI (User Interface). Block II improved detection and identification of electronic signals near the ship. Block III included some major capability upgrades. This meant determining how to respond to an attack by identifying which electronic or non-electronic (missile, autocannon) system on the ship was best suited for the task and rapidly using it, as well as additional defenses required. The complete SEWIP upgrade enables a ship to make the most of its defensive weapons and quickly incorporate data on new enemy electronic and non-electronic weapons. BLOCK I and II were available in 2019 but the more complex Block III is only arriving in 2021 and 2022. The Chinese have been introducing a lot of new radars and other sensors along with ECM (Electronic Countermeasures). Block III had to handle all these as well as new systems and do so fast enough to keep ships protected. To do this SEWIP is taking advantage of more powerful data processing systems to provide each SQL-32 system with rapid machine learning, also called AI (Artificial Intelligence) which quickly figures out what a new electronic signal or combination signals is and what it is capable of. This means which offensive electronic countermeasures; jamming or deceptive signals (spoofing) are best suited to protect a ship. SLQ-32/Slick 32 first appeared in the late 1970s and since then has quietly evolved to deal with new threats. That development continued after the Cold War ended in 1991 as the Russian threat largely evaporated, along with most of the huge Russian fleet. By the late 1990s, it became apparent that the Chinese were picking up where the former Soviet Union left off and since then AN/SLQ-32 has been evolving more rapidly to keep up with new Chinese capabilities. One of the other China-specific items added to the U.S. Pacific based warships is the AN/SLQ-59. This is a TEWM (Transportable Electronic Warfare Module) device only found on 7th Fleet ships. The hardware is a refrigerator-size metal device found mounted on the exterior of warships. The capabilities of the AN/SLQ-59 are one of those military secrets China is eager to obtain. There is little unclassified information about AN/SLQ-59, other than the official name and that it is part of TEWM and related to the larger AN/SLQ-32 family of sensors. When it comes to EW (Electronic Warfare) the Chinese Navy has one major disadvantage, its relatively small and constricted coastline compared to the United States. This limits the areas where new navy electronic systems can be tested over water without electronic surveillance by foreign nations. The American military has the largest and most experienced force of long-range electronic surveillance aircraft. What exactly these aircraft are looking for and, more importantly, what they discover, is kept secret. Sometimes the results of discoveries by these surveillance aircraft, and ships, does become public. Navies and air forces seek to detect new enemy electronics used in offensive weapons and defensive systems. This is where the U.S. Navy has long had an edge. Not only does the navy have several AGI (Auxiliary General Intelligence, or electronic reconnaissance) ships, but also specialized AGI aircraft. How important these aircraft are to the Chinese was made clear in the late 1990s when American electronic reconnaissance aircraft were increasingly harassed when found flying off the Chinese coast, outside of Chinese territorial waters (everything 22 kilometers from the coast) but close enough to detect the electronic emissions of Chinese electronic systems. The Chinese were trying to drive off these aircraft and that led to a collision between a U.S. Navy EP-3 electronic reconnaissance aircraft and a Chinese fighter in April 2001. Since the EP-3 incident, run-ins between Chinese and US aircraft have continued along the Chinese coast. There have been no more aircraft lost or forced to make an emergency landing. The Chinese have increased the number of AGI ships. It is feared that China might eventually be able to station EP-3 type aircraft in Cuba or Venezuela but that would still not enable them to monitor U.S. Navy tests of new equipment off the west coast of North America or Hawaii, except occasionally when one of their new aircraft carriers was in the area. At the time of the 2001 incident, China had begun developing a modern AGI ship. China now has nine Dongdiao class Type 815 AGI vessels. In a tradition stretching back to the Cold War (1948-1991), AGIs regularly show up uninvited at naval exercises held in international waters. There these ships loiter while collecting all the electronic and photographic data they can. What AGI ships cannot do is fly off the coast on short notice to monitor tests of new weapons and sensors. While the growing number of Chinese warships visiting foreign waters appears threatening, the AGIs are not warships but in many respects are more of a threat. In the last twenty years, China has become a major user of AGIs which, during the Cold War, were mainly used by the U.S. and Russia. The Americans still have a lot of them but Russian AGIs have largely disappeared, and are now replaced by even more capable Chinese models. The growing military use of electronic sensors and communications (ESM or Electronic Support Measures) has made forces more capable, but also more vulnerable, especially if enemy AGIs spend a lot of quality time monitoring your operations. As a counter to ESM scrutiny and vulnerability (to detection in combat) equipment can be disguised where possible. Signals can be varied in some circumstances. For equipment that is detected by shape and composition, like aircraft and ships, their shape and substance can be designed to minimize detection. This is the essence of the stealth technology that the United States is applying to a number of vehicles, especially aircraft. Small ships, aircraft, helicopters, and vehicles loaded with sensors do most of the collecting. Low flying satellites are useful for catching signals deep inside a nations territory. UAVs and unmanned surface and subsurface vessels are used also, plus robotic sensors that are left on the ground or sea bottom. The collection involves more than sensors. Recording devices, foreign language interpreters and signal processing equipment also come into play. Computers are increasingly crucial in sifting through the ocean of data swept up. Huge libraries of signals are collected, analyzed and boiled down to manageable amounts of data which friendly troops and weapons can use. ESM has been so successful that one entire class of sensors, active sensors, has become endangered. Active sensors detect things by broadcasting a signal. When this signal bounces off something, the sensor detects the bounce back and knows something is out there. This is the basis of radar, which broadcasts microwaves, and sonar, which broadcasts sound. Because of the signal being broadcast, a passive sensor can detect it. Passive sensors just listen. Because active sensor signals must reach an object with sufficient energy to bounce something back, a vehicle carrying a passive sensor will detect a vehicle carrying an active sensor first. This is what happens when you use a radar detector in your car to detect police speed trap radars. You usually have time to slow down before your illegal speed is detected by the police radar. As users of these devices well know, there is constant competition to come up with better radars and countermeasures. Passive sensors are the hot item in research and development these days and for obvious reasons. Passive sensors are nearly impossible to detect. Passive sensors can also pick a wide variety of signals. Infrared sensors can detect heat, including something as faint as body heat or the hot skin of an approaching jet aircraft. The leading tour operator in the Baltic States Novaturas has supplemented long-haul holiday destinations program with new exotic countries - Mauritius, Zanzibar, Mexico, and Cuba. "Holiday season in exotic countries usually includes the winter-spring months. Last year, due to pandemic restrictions, the choice of exotic holiday destinations was minimal. With most countries revoking and easing quarantine restrictions, additionally next to the usual exotic holiday destinations we have added such countries as Mexico, Cuba, Zanzibar, and Mauritius. We are also waiting for the popular Southeast Asian countries Thailand and Vietnam and the island of Bali to be fully open to travelers as well, says Audrone Keinyte, head of Novaturas group. During more than 20 years of operations, the company applies different ways of organizing trips, depending on the type of holidays offered. Trips are organized by both charter and regular airline flights. The company emphasizes that the most optimal option for exotic destinations are regular airline flights. "This is a long-established operation model that helps us manage potential risks and be flexible. Our aim is to ensure long-haul connecting flights with the lowest possible waiting time, and they are covered by guarantees of various risks, which is especially important at the moment. At the same time, such model also meets the expectations of our travelers - this way we can offer not only the largest supply of exotic destinations, various holiday durations, flights periods, combined leisure tours, but also can offer new destinations to our travelers every season, says A. Keinyte. The long-haul holiday season, depending on the market, starts in the last months of this year and will last until April 2022. Flights are planned to Thailand, Vietnam, Bali, Mexico, Cuba, Seychelles, Mauritius and Zanzibar. The nearest scheduled flights are to one of the most popular island states in the Caribbean - Cuba. Travelers also have the possibility to fly to Mauritius, Mexico and the Seychelles later this year. About Novaturas Group AB Novaturas Group is the largest tour operator in the Baltic States, offering summer and winter package holidays in more than 30 destinations worldwide and more than 100 sightseeing routes. In 2019, the group served more than 293 thousand customers. Washington, D.C,. Mayor Muriel Bowser, left, and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, D-D.C., in April 2021. Norton has been pushing for a measure allowing the city to control its own National Guard. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post) WASHINGTON Democratic Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton had been trying in Congress for 28 years to transfer control of the D.C. National Guard from the U.S. president to the D.C. mayor one of the city's most ardent pleas for local autonomy in the absence of outright statehood. Without approval from the Pentagon, the D.C. government can't deploy its own National Guard for any task, as a state can. Not during a catastrophic flood, or during a pandemic. Not for crowd control or traffic control during major events. Not on Jan. 6, when a mob of supporters of President Donald Trump overwhelmed D.C. and Capitol police at the U.S. Capitol and it took the Pentagon more than three hours to send the D.C. National Guard for backup. Now, nearly three decades after Norton began her efforts, that infamous day has provided the impetus to bring the District of Columbia closer than it has been before to obtaining control of its own National Guard. On Thursday, the House Armed Services Committee passed a measure giving D.C. control of the Guard as part of the National Defense Authorization Act the must-pass defense budget package. It marks the first time Norton's D.C. National Guard Home Rule Act has advanced through committee, in what she says represents the measure's best shot at becoming law. A Republican effort to strike it from the NDAA failed. Beverly Perry, a special adviser to Democratic Mayor Muriel Bowser, said that the proposal is another step toward the District gaining full independence on the path to statehood and that she is optimistic about its passage. The main hurdle, however, is that the Senate's version of the NDAA does not include the D.C. National Guard provision. And it remains to be seen whether an amendment to add it to the package could withstand Republican resistance and garner enough enthusiasm from moderate Democrats in the evenly divided chamber. Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., who along with Sen. Thomas Carper, D-Del., is leading the D.C. National Guard Home Rule Act in the Senate, said he planned to offer the provision as an amendment to the NDAA before it goes up for a vote. He said he would also be pressing for its inclusion when the House and Senate negotiate the final version of the bill. A spokesman for Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said he also supports the D.C. National Guard provision. Still, regardless of the hurdles, Norton called the progress a "milestone." "The reason it's so important is understood by Jan. 6," she said. "The insurrection would have ended hours before it did, saving lives, not to mention injuries, if the D.C. government could have called out its own National Guard." Both Jan. 6, 2021, and June 1, 2020 the day federal police, reinforced by the D.C. National Guard, violently cleared peaceful racial justice demonstrators from Lafayette Square have added unprecedented urgency to D.C.'s push for control of its National Guard. But D.C. officials said it's about much more than those two days. Chris Geldart, the District's deputy mayor for public safety and justice, said D.C.'s lack of control over its own National Guard has presented major obstacles for Bowser and other local leaders over the past year even hampering their ability to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. D.C. still relies on the National Guard to help staff coronavirus testing sites and mass vaccination clinics throughout the city, Geldart said. The D.C. guard, more than 2,700 strong, is composed of soldiers and airmen who live in D.C., Maryland and Virginia. But some members have been pulled by federal officials for missions that have nothing to do with D.C., Geldart said. "There were times during our COVID response where I literally had to ask our National Guard commanding general, 'Who are you taking orders from here?' " Geldart recalled. "And his answer was rightfully so, according to law the president of the United States, not the District." Geldart said the most glaring issue involves the multistep process Bowser and other leaders must go through whenever they request the city's National Guard, for matters ranging from local defense to preparing for inclement weather. The current chain of command requires several layers of approval from federal officials, including the secretary of the Army and the secretary of defense. "In some instances, in the past, that (approval) happened relatively quickly," Geldart said. "But in other instances, it's really up to the administration in power in how quickly that process moves. And that's a major issue." That's where Jan. 6 has been so telling, he said. On that day, as rioters descended on the Capitol building, Capitol Police urgently requested the support of D.C.'s National Guard. The D.C. National Guard had been restricted to basic traffic control duties but reassigning them to the Capitol took the Pentagon three hours to approve, "a delay it has never adequately explained," Van Hollen said. "If the mayor had control, she could have just done it," Geldart said. Despite D.C. officials' arguments that having control of the National Guard would have simplified the Guard's chain of command, Republicans on the House Armed Services Committee argued the opposite during a debate on Wednesday. Rep. Trent Kelly, R-Miss., who introduced an amendment to strike the D.C. National Guard provision from the NDAA, said he believed that the authority should remain with the president and that giving the mayor the ultimate say made things more complicated, not less. "I think all that will do is take away a capability and an opportunity for the D.C. Guard to respond quickly and without too many bosses, too many people who are in charge of one problem," Kelly said. "It will cause them to be unable to respond as quickly as they need to, as we witnessed on Jan. 6." Rep. Anthony Brown, D-Md., a co-sponsor of Norton's bill and a member of the House Armed Services Committee, acknowledged that the proposal would not eliminate every chain-of-command challenge in D.C., given that numerous federal and local agencies are typically responding to major events in the city all at once. But federal control of a local militia, he said, defies the principle that local government knows local needs best. "I am very much convinced that if Mayor Bowser had control of the D.C. Guard, we would not have seen the events that unfolded in Lafayette Square on June 1, 2020," Brown said in an interview. "You certainly would not have seen the National Guard there. ... And why? Because the mayor has a better sense of local conditions." Elizabeth Goitein, co-director of the Brennan Center for Justice's Liberty & National Security Program, said critics who believe that transferring control of the D.C. National Guard to the mayor would deprive the president of the ability to call on those troops during an emergency are mistaken. Just like in any other state, the president would still retain the authority to federalize the D.C. National Guard by invoking the Insurrection Act, a rarely used law that allows a president to send active-duty military to squash rebellions on American streets or, like occurred in the 1950s, to enforce civil rights laws. National Guard troops can also be mobilized for federally funded missions. Against the advice of military advisers, President Donald Trump briefly considered invoking the Insurrection Act to squash the Lafayette Square protest, which Goitein said would have been an abuse of the law. But ultimately Trump didn't have to invoke any law, since he already had control of the D.C. National Guard. Trump then asked governors to send in their own National Guard troops to augment the D.C. troops, which 11 governors, overwhelmingly from Republican states, did without Bowser's advance knowledge. An amendment to the NDAA by Rep. Mikie Sherrill, D-N.J., would prevent presidents from being able to send one state's National Guard troops into another jurisdiction unless the troops are federalized through the proper legal channels. The president, Goitein said, should not be able to have his own personal army to deploy for domestic law enforcement purposes at any time "exactly the military police force that our framers were so concerned about." "The president's command and control of the D.C. National Guard is a relic that is way outdated, that predates by almost 100 years the existence of D.C. local government," Goitein said. "There's no reason to continue it." Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, 20, of Norco, Calif., shown here in an undated photo shared to social media, was stationed at Camp Pendleton and often enjoyed visiting family for a home-cooked meal on weekends. (U.S. Marine Corps) NORCO, Calif. (Tribune News Service) As the sun dipped below the horizon behind equestrian arena grandstands, Norco grieved one of its own sons, Marine Lance Cpl. Kareem Mae'Lee Grant Nikoui, who was killed in an attack on Afghanistan's Kabul airport on Aug. 26. Nikoui, a 2019 Norco High graduate was described as a "strong person," who "held no grudges," and had "a love for kids," Pastor Phil Wozniak said. The fallen Marine's mother told Wozniak that he'd gone back to save a child when the bomb went off. The Saturday, Sept. 4, remembrance ceremony at George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center also honored the 12 other service members who died in that attack, including two other Marines from the Inland area, Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga and Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio. The family has had a strong presence in the city of Norco. It was Nikoui's cousin who built the city's Gold Star mothers memorial, Norco Mayor Kevin Bash told the gathered crowd, and Nikoui was sworn into the Marine Corps in this arena. We are here to support the family, he said, "we grieve with them." Wozniak, with Grace Fellowship Church, Bash and all the speakers, wanted to make sure the family felt the community's support. At one point Nikoui's parents, Shana Chappell and Steve Nikoui, who were seated in the front row, were asked to stand to see all who came in support of them. Nikoui, 20, served in the campus Air Force Jr. ROTC at Norco High. Former Norco High AFJROTC student Ashley Lopez played taps. Chaplin Ray Parker, American Legion Post 328, led those gathered in prayer, and Major Paul Lorkowski, Norco High AFJROTC shared a remembrance. Gold Star widow Kim Lovett sang the National Anthem, "Amazing Grace" and "The Prayer." The community came "to honor our veterans," Norco resident Joel Notick said. The large turnout, he said, shows "we're a strong community." The names of the 13 fallen service members were read and Larry Cusimano with the George A. Ingalls Veterans Memorial Plaza Committee performed a bell ringing ceremony. Norco resident Kim Raze, the mother of a veteran, brought her daughter's Rottweiler Axyle to the event. "He had no idea he wasn't coming home," she said of the fallen Marine. "He gave his life and it changed his family's life forever. He's our hometown hero." Though she doesn't know the family, Raze said being the mother of a veteran, "I know his mama. Our hearts break, we're so proud and we're so broken at the same time," she said, nearing tears. "We love him so very much." The event ended after the sun went down with a moment of silence in the soft light of glowsticks. The community has rallied around the family after news of the Afghanistan blast arrived. Last week, in the hills above the equestrian arena, hundreds hiked to local landmark Pumpkin Rock to honor Nikoui. Nikoui's mother drew national attention this week following her comments on social media about President Joe Biden, saying the president rolled his eyes when meeting with families of slain service members and that her son's blood is on his hands. Nikoui will be brought home on Friday, Sept. 17. The arrival at Ontario International Airport will be private for the family, however, Honoring Our Fallen encourages members of the community to line the procession route with flags to Pierce Brothers Crestlawn Mortuary in Riverside. From the airport around noon, the Fallen Hero Procession will go south on Vineyard Avenue, left onto the eastbound 60 Freeway, south on the 15 Freeway, left onto Sixth Street in Norco, left onto California Avenue, and right onto North Drive/Arlington Avenue. The mortuary is at 11500 Arlington Ave. Funeral services will be held at a later date. Other vigils and tributes for the fallen Marines are planned in the coming days. A classic car and truck cruise is planned for 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 5, at TGI Fridays, 2795 Cabot Drive in Corona. The 28-mile course through Corona, Riverside and Norco was organized by Performance Online, and participants are encouraged to display U.S. flags. Donations to support the family of Nikoui will be collected at the event. A memorial march is set for 3:45 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 5, in San Clemente to support Camp Pendleton Marines. The march will move from El Camino Real down Avenida Del Mar to Park Semper Fi near the Pier Bowl. Names of the fallen will be read. (c)2021 the Redlands Daily Facts (Redlands, Calif.) Visit the Redlands Daily Facts (Redlands, Calif.) at www.redlandsdailyfacts.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Smoke rises from burning tires which protesters set fire at one of the blockades near Cetinje, Montenegro, Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. (Risto Bozovic/AP) CETINJE, Montenegro Arriving in a military helicopter, the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro was inaugurated in the state's old capital on Sunday amid clashes between police and protesters who oppose continued Serb influence in the tiny Balkan nation. Hospital officials in the city of Cetinje said at least 60 people were injured, including 30 police officers, in clashes that saw police launch tear gas against the demonstrators, who hurled rocks and bottles at them and fired gunshots into the air. At least 15 people were arrested. Sunday's inauguration ceremony angered opponents of the Serbian church in Montenegro, which declared independence from neighboring Serbia in 2006. Since Montenegro split from Serbia, pro-independence Montenegrins have advocated for a recognized Orthodox Christian church that is separate from the Serbian one. Evading road blockades set up by the demonstrators, the new head of the Serbian church in Montenegro, Metropolitan Joanikije, arrived in Cetinje by a helicopter along with the Serbian Patriarch Porfirije. TV footage showed the priests being led into the Cetinje monastery by heavily armed riot police holding a bulletproof blanket to shield their bodies. Patriarch Porfirije later wrote on Instagram that he was happy that the inauguration was held, but added that he was "horrified by the fact" that someone near the monastery wanted to prevent the ceremony "with a sniper rifle." The claim could not be immediately independently verified. The demonstrators set up barriers with trash bins, tires and large rocks to try to prevent church and state dignitaries from coming to the inauguration. Chanting "This is Not Serbia!" and "This is Montenegro!," many of the protesters spent the night at the barriers amid reports that police were sending reinforcements to break through the blockade. Tires at one blockade were set on fire. Montenegrins remain deeply divided over their country's ties with neighboring Serbia and the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is the nation's dominant religious institution. Around 30% of Montenegro's 620,000 people consider themselves Serb. Metropolitan Joanikije said after the ceremony that "the divisions have been artificially created and we have done all in our power to help remove them, but that will take a lot of time." In a clear demonstration of the sharp political divide in Montenegro, President Milo Djukanovic, the architect of the state's independence from Serbia, visited Cetinje while the current pro-Serb Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic went to Podgorica to welcome the Serbian patriarch. While Krivokapic branded the protests as "an attempted terrorist act," Djukanovic said the protesters in Cetinje were guarding national interests against the alleged bid by the much larger Serbia to impose its influence in Montenegro through the church. Djukanovic accused the current Montenegrin government of "ruthlessly serving imperial interests of (Serbia) and the Serbian Orthodox Church, which is a striking fist of Serbian nationalism, all against Montenegro." Montenegro's previous authorities led the country to independence from Serbia and defied Russia to join NATO in 2017. Montenegro also is seeking to become a European Union member. In Serbia, President Aleksandar Vucic, who has been accused by the opposition in Montenegro of meddling in its internal affairs in conjunction with Russia, congratulated Joanikije on his inauguration and praised the government for going ahead with the ceremony despite the clashes. "Cetinje is a town where some 90% of the people are against the Serbian Orthodox Church, where there is hate towards everyone who is not Montenegrin," Vucic said in Belgrade. "This is not a real hate, its hate that is induced by certain politicians in Montenegro, so it was quite logical to expect what happened there." The U.S. government urged all sides "to urgently de-escalate the situation." "Religious freedom and the freedom of expression, including to peacefully assemble, must be respected," the U.S. Embassy said. Joanikije's predecessor as church leader in Montenegro, Amfilohije, died in October after contracting COVID-19. Dusan Stojanovic and Jovana Gec contributed from Belgrade, Serbia. U.S. Marines during an evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul. (Victor Mancill/U.S. Marine Corps) (Tribune News Service) About 100 Americans are still in Afghanistan, days after the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the war-torn country, the White House said Sunday. The U.S. is in touch with all of them who weve identified on a regular basis, White House chief of staff Ron Klain said on CNNs State of the Union, but he was vague about plans to get U.S. citizens out of the Taliban-controlled nation. The White House is hoping that in coming days, Qataris will resume air service out of Kabul, Klain said. If they do, were obviously going to look to see if Americans can be part of those flights, he said. Kabuls airport shut down with the exit of U.S. forces on Monday, although regional flights resumed on Saturday, according to Reuters. The U.S. also is in communication with Afghan recipients of special immigrant visas, Klain said. Last week, the State Department acknowledged that the majority of such visa holders Afghans who worked for the U.S. government remained stuck in their home country. They reportedly include an Afghan interpreter who helped rescue President Joe Biden during a snowstorm when he was visiting the country as a senator in 2008 and his helicopter was forced to land in a remote valley. We are going to try to get every person out, Klain said when asked to comment on the report. 2021 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Buy Photo U.S. Army 1st Lt. Daniel Duncan plays with an Afghan child waiting for a flight to the U.S. in a hangar at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. (J.P. Lawrence/Stars and Stripes) A 17-year-old boy reunited with his family at Ramstein Air Base on Friday after they were separated during the chaotic evacuation from Afghanistan, State Department officials said. The boy arrived by himself at Ramstein earlier last week, and was connected to the rest of his family a few hours after they flew in from Qatar on Friday, a State Department official familiar with the case said Saturday. Reunifications of families are happening every day, said John Stubbs, another State Department official and a spokesman at Ramstein. The State Department is fielding hundreds of inquiries and working hard to reunite everyone possible. Buy Photo An evacuee from Afghanistan, Worahmina, holds her 15-day-old son Mustafa, while waiting for a flight to the U.S. in a hangar at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. (J.P. Lawrence/Stars and Stripes) The U.S. military evacuation of more than 122,000 Afghans after the fall of the country to the Taliban in mid-August left an unknown number of families separated along their journey. The U.S. believes there are very few Afghan children arriving to the United States without an adult family member or friend, State Department spokesman Ned Price said Thursday. These unaccompanied minors are identified before they come to the U.S., Price said, with the help of non-governmental organizations such as UNICEF and International Organization for Migration. Buy Photo Hafizullah, a relative of U.S. Embassy staff in Kabul, Afghanistan, holds his 4-year-old son Mohammad Salah before taking a flight to the U.S. in a hangar at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. (J.P. Lawrence/Stars and Stripes) As soon as a minor child is identified as being without any trusted adult, we immediately begin working to reunite these identified minors with their families and with their loved ones, Price said. Most Afghans evacuated by the U.S. military transit through bases in Qatar and Germany before flying to bases in America for further processing. Buy Photo Afghan evacuees wait for flights to the U.S. in a hangar at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021. (J.P. Lawrence/Stars and Stripes) The task of reuniting families is expected to be easier once everyone is on bases in America, instead of in countries that can only host them for a certain number of days. Were basically in the middle of a hurricane, a State Department official said Sunday. We are working hard to reunite families when we can and some reunifications have already been facilitated, but others will begin once we get them safely back to the United States. At Ramstein, unaccompanied minors are placed in supervised youth pods where theyre given access to mental health services as well as clean clothing and blankets, a State Department official said. The base has hosted more than 25,000 Afghans and has become the largest reception point for evacuees among U.S. bases in Europe since Aug. 20, a statement from the 86th Airlift Wing said last week. J.P. Lawrence J.p. Lawrence reports on the U.S. military in Afghanistan and the Middle East. He served in the U.S. Army from 2008 to 2017. He graduated from Columbia Journalism School and Bard College and is a first-generation immigrant from the Philippines. Yemeni fighter Hassan Saleh backed by the Saudi-led coalition stands for a photograph after clashes with Houthi rebels on the Kassara front line near Marib, Yemen, Sunday, June 20, 2021. (Nariman El-Mofty/AP) DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Saudi Arabia intercepted a ballistic missile fired by Yemen's Houthi rebels and debris that fell on a neighborhood near Dammam wounded at least two children, the kingdom said Sunday. Images published by the state-run Saudi Press Agency showed glass and debris across a townhouse there, which is in the kingdom's eastern reaches and near the headquarters of the state-run oil giant Saudi Aramco. At least 14 homes in the area sustained damage, the agency reported. The Houthis launched three bomb-laden drones and three ballistic missiles in the attack, military spokesman Brig. Gen. Turki al-Malki said. Houthi military spokesman Yahia Sarei said the rebels launched a military operation deep in Saudi Arabia. He did not offer further details in a tweet, only saying a statement would follow shortly. The U.S. Consulate in nearby Dhahran sent an alert to American citizens warning them about the attack, which it described as targeting the area around Dhahran, Dammam and Khobar. "Stay alert in case of additional future attacks," the consulate said. Saudi Arabia is mired in a yearslong, deadlocked war backing Yemen's toppled government against the Iranian-backed Houthis. The Saudi-led war, which began in March 2015, has seen an uptick in recent months amid a Houthi effort to capture the city of Marib. That also has seen renewed, long-range attacks by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia. A bomb-laden drone on Tuesday crashed into the kingdom's Abha airport, wounding eight people and damaging a civilian plane. Airstrikes and ground fighting in Yemen have killed more than 130,000 people and spawned the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Pilots of Ariana Afghan Airlines walk on the tarmac after landing at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. Some domestic flights have resumed at Kabul's airport, with the state-run Ariana Afghan Airlines operating flights to three provinces. (AP Photo/Wali Sabawoon) (Wali Sabawoon) KABUL, Afghanistan At least four planes chartered to evacuate several hundred people seeking to escape the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan have been unable to leave the country for days, officials said Sunday, with conflicting accounts emerging about why the flights weren't able to take off as pressure ramps up on the United States to help those left behind to flee. An Afghan official at the airport in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif said that the would-be passengers were Afghans, many of whom did not have passports or visas, and thus were unable to leave the country. He said they had left the airport while the situation was sorted out. The top Republican on the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, however, said that the group included Americans and they were sitting on the planes, but the Taliban were not letting them take off, effectively "holding them hostage." He did not say where that information came from. It was not immediately possible to reconcile the accounts. The final days of America's 20-year war in Afghanistan were marked by a harrowing airlift at Kabul's airport to evacuate tens of thousands of people Americans and their allies who feared what the future would hold, given the Taliban's history of repression, particularly of women. When the last troops pulled out on Aug. 30, though, many were left behind. The U.S. promised to continue working with the new Taliban rulers to get those who want to leave out, and the militants pledged to allow anyone with the proper legal documents to leave. But Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas told "Fox News Sunday" that American citizens and Afghan interpreters were being kept on six planes. "The Taliban will not let them leave the airport," he said, adding that he's worried "they're going to demand more and more, whether it be cash or legitimacy as the government of Afghanistan." He did not offer more details. The Afghan official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject, said it was four planes, and their intended passengers were staying at hotels while authorities worked out whether they might be able to leave the country. The sticking point, he indicated, is that many did not have the right travel papers. Residents of Mazar-e-Sharif also said the passengers were no longer at the airport. At least 10 families were seen at a local hotel waiting, they said, for a decision on their fates. None of them had passports or visas but said they had worked for companies allied with the U.S. or German military. Others were seen at restaurants. The State Department has no reliable way to confirm information about such charter flights, including how many American citizens might be on them, since it no longer has people on the ground, according to a U.S. official. But the department will hold the Taliban to their pledges to let people travel freely, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter. The small airport at Mazar-e-Sharif only recently began to handle international flights and so far only to Turkey. The planes in question were bound for Doha, Qatar, the Afghan official said. It was not clear who chartered them or why they were waiting in the northern city. The massive airlift happened at Kabul's international airport, which initially closed after the U.S. withdrawal but where domestic flights have now resumed. Searing images of that chaotic evacuation including people clinging to an airplane as it took off came to define the final days of America's longest war, just weeks after Taliban fighters retook the country in a lightning offensive. Since their takeover, the Taliban have sought to recast themselves as different from their 1990s incarnation, when they last ruled the country and imposed repressive restrictions across society. Women and girls were denied work and education, men were forced to grow beards, and television and music were banned. Now, the world is waiting to see the face of the new government, and many Afghans remain skeptical. In the weeks since they took power, signals have been mixed: Government employees including women have been asked to return to work, but some women were later ordered home by lower-ranking Taliban. Universities and schools have been ordered open, but fear has kept both students and teachers away. Women have demonstrated peacefully, some even having conversations about their rights with Taliban leaders. But some have been dispersed by Taliban special forces firing in the air. Among the promises the Taliban have made is that once the country's airports are up and running, Afghans with passports and visas would be allowed to travel. More than 100 countries issued a statement saying they would be watching to see that the new rulers held to their commitment. Technical teams from Qatar and Turkey arrived in recent days and are working to get the civilian airport operational. On Saturday, state-run Ariana Airlines made its first domestic flights, which continued on Sunday. The airport is without radar facilities, so flights are restricted to daylight hours to allow for visual landing, said official Shershah Stor. Several countries have also been bringing in humanitarian supplies. The Gulf state of Qatar, where the Taliban maintained a political office since 2013, is making daily flights into Kabul, delivering humanitarian aid for the war-weary nation. Bahrain also announced humanitarian assistance deliveries. Meanwhile, the Taliban stepped up an assault on the last remaining pocket of resistance being led by fighters opposed to their rule. The anti-Taliban fighters in Panjshir province, north of the Afghan capital, are being led by former vice president Amrullah Saleh, who has appealed for humanitarian aid to help the thousands of people displaced by the fighting. A senior Taliban spokesman tweeted Sunday that Taliban troops had overrun Rokha district, one of largest of eight districts in Panjshir. Several Taliban delegations have attempted negotiations with the holdouts there, but talks have failed to gain traction. Fahim Dashti, the spokesman for the group that is fighting the Taliban, was killed in a battle on Sunday, according to the group's Twitter account. Dashti was the voice of the group and a prominent media personality during previous governments. He was also the nephew of Abdullah Abdullah, a senior official of the former government who is involved in negotiations with the Taliban on the future of Afghanistan. Saleh fled to Panjshir after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani quit Afghanistan as the Taliban marched on the capital. The fighters' lightning blitz across the country took less than a week to overrun some 300,000 government troops, most of whom surrendered or fled. Associated Press writers Rahim Faiez and Tameem Akhgar in Istanbul and Ellen Knickmeyer in Oklahoma City contributed to this report. U.S. service members assist evacuees from Afghanistan as they depart a U.S. Navy Boeing C-17A Clipper at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Aug. 28, 2021. (Kegan E. Kay/U.S. Navy) It was 2:30 a.m. when Mustafa, finally safe in the cargo bay of an American military plane after surviving the chaos and violence of the Kabul airport, glanced around at the other weary Afghans and was struck by what he saw. Many had minimal identification and did not appear to have worked closely with the United States as he had, serving as a translator and analyst. They were "just people," he said, who took advantage of a disorderly evacuation to flee their turbulent country. "Nobody knows who was the good guy and who was the bad guy getting into the plane," said Mustafa, who asked to be identified only by his first name to protect relatives still in Afghanistan. He added, "It's a risky thing that I believe happened." With tens of thousands of Afghans arriving at the end of America's longest war, such comments from witnesses and government officials have left a question looming over the coming weeks, one that is already dividing host communities from Missoula, Mont., to Jacksonville, Fla.: Who is coming to the United States? The emerging picture is more complicated than President Joe Biden's depiction of the airlift that whisked planeloads of Afghans to safety as a moral imperative to save people who helped Americans during a difficult conflict despite the risk. "We got thousands of Afghan translators and interpreters, and others who supported the United States, out," he said recently. A senior administration official said in an interview that the vast majority of Afghans who pass security screenings at transfer points abroad and want to enter the United States will be allowed to come. That includes a potentially sizable number who raise no red flags but who also cannot demonstrate close ties to the U.S. effort in Afghanistan, acknowledged the official, who was not authorized to speak on the record. Administration officials have yet to provide estimates of how many among the 50,000 or more evacuees expected to arrive in the United States will fall into this neutral category, compared with the number who clearly worked alongside Americans. Pressed for more clarity, the senior administration official said the situation is fluid, data is elusive and lines are blurry, likening various categories of evacuees to a "set of concentric circles" regarding the strength of their ties to the U.S. mission in Afghanistan. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in an interview that he also could not specify how many of the evacuees worked with the United States. "I can't really quantify it or measure it against expectations," said Mayorkas, whose agency is taking the lead on relocation. Representatives of the departments of Defense and State, which spearheaded the evacuations, also declined to provide a breakdown. Even as Afghan evacuees are undergoing background checks including fingerprints, photographs and, in some cases, deeper investigations by intelligence analysts or the FBI, some prominent Republicans are seizing on the fuzzy picture of who exactly left Kabul to stoke security concerns, or even reject the idea of resettling Afghans in the United States. "You can't tell me that there are not dangerous people coming into our country," said Rep. Matthew Rosendale, R-Mont., who is trying to convince his state's governor not to accept any Afghan evacuees because of what he argues is a slapdash and opaque vetting process. This kind of criticism puts pressure on Biden not only to ensure that the process is working as promised, but to convince the public that it is. White House officials say they will make the case forcefully in coming weeks that the screening is thorough and the relocation is safe. "We use multiple databases and a multilayered approach," said Mayorkas. "We have confidence in our security screening and vetting processes." Biden's aides see the resettlement process as the president's next big test in the wake of the troubled withdrawal from the two-decade war. The turbulent and deadly drawdown has battered Biden's approval rating and hurt his international image. The relocation also threatens to open a new front in the divisive national immigration debate. In his first eight months, Biden has been attacked by Republicans over the surge of migrants at the southern border and faced a backlash from Democrats after wavering on a vow to increase the nation's annual cap on refugees. Already, the Afghan resettlement effort is facing potential obstacles. The State Department said Friday that it was working to identify possible forced marriages among Afghans so it could protect any victims. And NBC News reported that officials planned to send two evacuees who arrived at a U.S. airport to Kosovo after issues arose during their security screenings. The State Department has said that evacuees who raise red flags will be sent to third countries for further review. For now, broad bipartisan majorities support taking in Afghans who have been screened, according to a recent Washington Post-ABC News poll. Yet some of the most influential voices on the right have reacted negatively; former president Donald Trump has suggested, with no evidence, that terrorists may have boarded some evacuation flights. Others dismiss the security arguments as fearmongering and coded xenophobia. "Under the auspices of safety and securing our nation, we have folks who are actually just racist talking about vetting," said John Engen, the Democratic mayor of Missoula. "They're saying, 'How do we know this isn't Osama's third cousin twice removed who's coming to kill our women?' But I was made comfortable a long time ago with the vetting system." Still, administration officials' description of the evacuees has shifted. For weeks, they largely characterized the Afghans they were helping leave their country as people whose history of working with Americans in Afghanistan would jeopardize their safety under the Taliban. More recently, they have acknowledged that the evacuees who fit that description make up only a subset of the nearly 125,000 who were airlifted from Kabul on U.S. military flights. Often, they define many of the evacuees in broad terms as at-risk Afghans. "We will admit vulnerable Afghan women and girls, journalists and other constituencies that need our relief, and we are very proud to deliver it," Mayorkas told reporters Friday. Overall, officials say they have made plans to bring more than 50,000 of the Afghan evacuees into the United States. The nonprofit refugee assistance organizations that help with such efforts are preparing for at least that many. After passing security checks at the intermediate stops in Asia and Europe, those wanting to come to the United States who are not American citizens or green-card holders are generally sent to one of eight military installations around the country to undergo medical checks, complete their paperwork, connect with resettlement groups and integrate into communities. According to recent estimates, more than 25,600 Afghan evacuees are now being housed at military installations, with another 30,000 at transit sites in the Middle East and Europe. Though many call them "refugees," the Afghan evacuees are not entering through the formal refugee program, nor do they have access to its substantial benefits. Instead, the State Department has established a 90-day emergency program, providing less than $2,500 for each evacuee. Biden officials have not said how many of the evacuees might qualify for a "special immigrant visa" based on their direct work with Americans in Afghanistan. The majority will arrive instead under what DHS calls "humanitarian parole," a catchall status that lets foreigners enter the United States under exceptional circumstances. The future for those in that category is far less settled than for visa holders such as Mustafa, who said he opted to move to the United States in 2017 for his own safety after working with the American government and organizations in Afghanistan. Mustafa went back to Afghanistan this summer to visit his wife and daughter, who had stayed in the country. But just after he arrived, Kabul fell to the Taliban, so Mustafa and his family rushed to the airport. After initially being crowded out in the dense throng, he parted ways with older relatives and pushed to the front of the line. After enduring hunger and sleepless nights at the airport, Mustafa, along with his wife and daughter, boarded a military aircraft to Qatar, where they found safety, but also a seven-hour wait in searing heat. Then it was on to Dulles International Airport, where his wife and daughter entered the United States under the parole designation. They will now work toward more permanent status. Across the country, religious and charitable organizations are helping resettle Afghans who have endured similarly harrowing journeys, going out of their way to assure neighbors that the newcomers pose no threat. "With this crisis, even more we're having to explain things," said Matt Schmitt, associate director of Catholic Charities Jacksonville, which has plans to resettle some 200 Afghans. "We're a blue city with a red governor in a red state, and I've got best friends on both sides of the political divide that have reached out to me and said, 'Man, what's really going on?'" Schmitt said he can generally set people's minds at ease by talking them through the process. Engen, the Missoula mayor, said his community is looking forward to welcoming Afghans, just as it took in Iranians, Syrians and Hmong people during previous crises. "There are lots of things to actually be afraid of. I think as a whole, this current resettlement ain't one of them," Engen said. That contrasts with Rosendale, the Montana congressman who joined other conservative lawmakers in writing Mayorkas that "the hurried evacuation raises serious concerns about the adequacy of the vetting." Engen said dryly, "I know that the mayor of Missoula ain't going to change Matt Rosendale's mind." Amid calls to ensure that the myriad groups and agencies involved in the resettlement are cooperating, Biden on Friday named former Delaware governor Jack Markell, a close friend, to work with Mayorkas and coordinate the relocation through year's end. Mayorkas held a 90-minute videoconference with leaders of the resettlement groups and others late last month to discuss the Afghan effort. Two participants praised Mayorkas's commitment and said working groups have been organized to dive deeper into some issues. "In order for this to be successful, it's really going to require a partnership," Mayorkas said. "The federal government cannot do it alone." Still, the relationship between the administration and resettlement groups is fragile, badly strained by Biden's initial hesitancy earlier this year to raise the nation's annual cap on refugees. Now, activists and liberal lawmakers are pressing Congress and the White House to free up more resources for the Afghan evacuees. They are also fighting the battle for public opinion, hoping to counter the warnings of those wary of bringing Afghans to the U.S. "Come to my district. We'll go out for Afghan food. I'm happy to introduce you to the community," said Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who represents the largest Afghan American community in the United States. "I think you'd come away thinking differently." Atif Ahmadzai stands with four of his five children and U.S. Marines after he gained entry to the international airport in Afghanistan that paved the way for their trip to the United States after the fall of Kabul. They are seeking to reach New Haven, Conn. (Hartford Courant/TNS) (Tribune News Service) Atif Ahmadzai was back home in Afghanistan with his wife and five children when the ground abruptly shifted. The former U.S. Army translator now living in New Haven had expected to stay two months, but he was stunned by the speed of the Talibans takeover of the country. A U.S. resident since 2019, hed been working to bring his family over but realized time was running out and he needed to get out quickly. As someone who played a key role in helping the Americans, Ahmadzai was at high risk. Overnight, he became one of the thousands of Afghanis desperately trying to flee. But Ahmadzai had help back in New Haven, Conn. Former U.S. Army Capt. Michael Kuszpa, who served in the trenches with Ahmadzai as they dodged explosives and ambushes, was working to get Ahmadzai and his family out. Their shared experiences during the war created a bond they both said was like being brothers. With most American soldiers unable to speak the language in Afghanistan, Ahmadzai paved the way multiple times in speaking with military members and local residents to diffuse misunderstandings and potentially deadly situations, Kuszpa said. He recalled one time that American special forces were cleaning a detention cell and unknowingly swept up a copy of the Quran, the most sacred book of Islam. Ahmadzai was able to explain to the Afghans that it was a misunderstanding as the soldiers had not realized that the book, written in Arabic and not in English, had been mistakenly included in the garbage. That could have been a huge, unintentional bloodbath if somebody had fired one single shot at the other, Kuszpa said. It would have been absolutely horrendous. Atif actually diffused a cultural, potential catastrophe that unfolded. He saved not only my life, but the lives of other Americans and Afghans by being able to relay pertinent, time-sensitive information and work through cultural misunderstandings not only between our military and the Afghan military, but also the military and the locals. So when Ahmadzai needed help getting out of Afghanistan, Kuszpa returned the favor trying to help his friend escape. He worked with a contact who had a colleague at the State Department to speed the paperwork that made the escape possible. In similar fashion, Kuszpa had helped Ahmadzai gain a special visa in 2019 so that he could come to New Haven for the first time. I was planning to spend two months in Kabul visiting my family and friends. I tried for four days to come [to the airport], Ahmadzai, 43, recalled. Mike gave me a number and said go to the back gate at the airport, and I did. Guards were firing to spread the crowd. My family was scared. On the way, though, they encountered a Taliban checkpoint. They had a checkpoint, and they asked me to unlock my phone, Ahmadzai said. That could have ended the trip right there. His phone contained important information about his planned escape, but what popped up on the phone was photographs of his children, ranging in age from 2 to 12. The family was allowed to proceed. After finally getting inside the heavily guarded airport, the ordeal was still not over. We stayed three days and two nights at the Kabul airport, Ahmadzai said. The water was warm, and my son got sick. Finally, they were cleared to board a military plane and left Afghanistan. We spent two nights and three days in Qatar, he said. Then we spent two days in Germany. Then we got to Dulles, Virginia, and spent another night there. The next step in the journey will be to leave an American military base in Virginia and, eventually, a return to New Haven. The familys expected arrival in New Haven will mark a major new step for them and a new position for Ahmadzai. After previously working at a commercial bakery and a medical instrument manufacturer, Ahmadzai now intends to work as a translator for New Haven-based Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services, a nonprofit agency that is known as IRIS. His friend, Kuszpa, is working as a middle school science teacher in New Haven and has been trying to help his colleague with the expense of relocating his entire family. Kuszpa has raised more than $2,700 toward a goal of $10,000 on a GoFundMe page that he established to help; Ahmadzai needs a two-bedroom or three-bedroom apartment for the family of seven. Ahmadzais long association with Kuszpa started in their days together in Afghanistan in 2004 and 2005. They got back in touch again through Facebook and talked about Ahmadzai coming to the United States. When he finally had his special visa approved in 2019, he reunited with his former colleague. I picked him up from LaGuardia, and we started getting him established in New Haven, Kuszpa said. Since he is now in the United States, Ahmadzai says he is not afraid of the Taliban and does not mind having his name published. But he is sorry for what has happened to his country. Im safe here, Ahmadzai said. My family feels safe here. We tried to bring peace, but it didnt happen. 2021 Hartford Courant. Visit courant.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. KALISPELL, Mont. (Tribune News Service) There are many reasons why people write to share their stories, to educate, to entertain. In Vietnam veteran Stan Bain's case, it's to unburden his spirit and let other veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder know they aren't alone. "If I can make a difference in and save one life, it's worth it," Bain said in a recent phone interview. A Kalispell native and Flathead High School graduate, Bain was drafted into the Army in 1966. He served during the Vietnam War, often in the most harrowing jobs nighttime ambushes against the Viet Cong and the North Vietnamese Army, convoys, guard duty. By the time he returned to the U.S. in July 1968 after 13 months of active duty, Bain was forever changed. It took nearly 45 years for him to be diagnosed with PTSD, but in that time he's suffered from nightmares, night sweats, hallucinations and debilitating pain. Bain was encouraged by one of his Veterans Affairs counselors in Kalispell to write a book about his experiences in Vietnam and, in his words, his battles with his demons. In 2018, he self-published his first book, "You Are Never Alone," in which he describes the three traumas during the war that have haunted him the rest of his life. First, Bain and his friend Stewart were struck by Viet Cong mortars while on nighttime guard duty and, in the aftermath of the attack, Bain held his friend as he died in his arms. Second, following a firefight while on ambush duty, he found the body of a North Vietnamese soldier he knew he had killed. In the soldier's pockets, he found a photograph of the man's wife and baby. In that moment, he realized he'd just taken the life of a husband and father. The most traumatic of all Bain's experiences happened in November 1967 at a children's orphanage in My Tho, a small village near Dong Tam Base where he was stationed. Bain and some buddies had befriended some of the children there who loved the attention the American soldiers gave them. Bain returned several times with candy and cookies from home to give them, and he grew particularly fond of two children around the ages of 5 or 6. He and some of the soldiers got word of a possible Viet Cong ambush planned at the orphanage and persuaded their commanding officer to let them investigate. When they arrived, they found a woman lying with a baby in her arms in a pool of blood, both dead. Then they heard two children whimpering and smelled diesel fuel. He immediately recognized they were "his two kids." The Viet Cong set them on fire to draw in and ambush the four American soldiers. Bain raised his M16 rifle and fired, sparing the children an agonizing death, and most likely saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. Because of that tragedy, Bain decided never to have children, a decision he later regretted. "At the time, I carried so much guilt. I felt I wasn't worthy of being a father," he said. Bain has carried the trauma of those events in his heart and head ever since. A half century later, he felt that if he could return to Vietnam, revisit the origins of his demons and find the orphanage again, he might be able to bring peace to his life. But he couldn't afford such a trip. Then, in 2019, his cousin Greg Bain, of Kalispell, and Greg's wife Clare LaMeres made it possible. After reading his cousin's first book and recalling how his own father never talked about his World War II memories, Greg Bain told Stan to set the wheels in motion for what became a two-week trip to Vietnam for the three of them. Out of that experience, in 2020, Stan published his second book, "Return To Vietnam." Their tour guide, whom they called Mr. Giang, accompanied them on their travels to many interesting places among them Ho Chi Minh City and My Tho, where the orphanage had been located during Bain's tour of duty. Though the orphanage was destroyed by the North Vietnamese Army in 1975, it was rebuilt into a well-equipped school, day care and orphanage in 1978. Fifty-two years later, much of Vietnam wasn't recognizable to Bain, yet he felt a pull and sensed something familiar about the school where children were playing. A priest they spoke with was unfamiliar with the old orphanage, but said someone at the convent across the street might know about it. Bain met Sister Renee, who had been there in 1967 and remembered the day of the Viet Cong's attack. She'd been the principal at a school across from the orphanage. The nun who had died in the courtyard during the attack had been a friend of hers. As they talked about the atrocities of that day, Bain grew emotional and tears ran down his cheeks. It was LaMeres who described what happened and Bain's role in saving the children from burning to death. "I had been living with that memory. It was as much a part of me as anything in my life's experience," Bain wrote in his book. "As horrible as it was, and as difficult as it was to live with, it was even harder to let it go." Sister Renee, fully understanding he had been put there in that moment for a specific purpose, then took his hand and prayed for him. "I felt it was the beginning of a healing process," Bain said. "I had put the blame on myself all those years." While revisiting Vietnam, Bain also met a former Viet Cong soldier at the Cu Chi tunnels, a network of underground tunnels built in the 1940s during the French occupation and later expanded by the Viet Cong to communicate between villages and evade U.S. Army sweeps. They learned they had fought in the same battle on opposite sides, and could even laugh at the coincidence, agreeing that at the time they'd both been soldiers just doing their jobs. During their trip, the three were fascinated to learn about their guide Giang's exodus at age 10 with his father from Vietnam to Cambodia, planning to get to America which Giang called "the land of milk and honey" and then send for their brother and mother. For years they lived in temporary refugee camps, often under deplorable conditions, and were forcibly moved between work and prison camps deep in the jungle before being classified as economic refugees and sent back to their Vietnam home 10 years later. After Bain retired from a 33-year career with the U.S. Forest Service, he worked for a number of years in the construction and home inspection trades, as well as a joy-filled 15-year role playing Santa Claus at the Kalispell Center Mall before moving to Florida. Now 76 and having recently bought a house, Bain, who has been married and divorced three times, has finally found some solace and been able to put most of his demons to rest. Though he no longer wakes from nightmares, he still has trouble sleeping. His body and joints are in constant pain, most likely from exposure to Agent Orange. However, he rarely visualizes the images that once traumatized him, and he no longer wakes to see his friend Stewart sitting on the edge of his bed. These days when he thinks of "his kids" from the orphanage, he pictures only their smiling faces. Bain carried a picture of those kids in his billfold for years. In 1991, while on a fishing trip in the Spotted Bear Wilderness, he took a break and, in a place and moment where he felt at peace, took out the children's photo. "I felt maybe it was time to put them to rest," Bain said. "I climbed up the riverbank, found a beautiful spot overlooking the river, viewing the mountains. I dug a small hole and buried the picture. Placed a few rocks around it. I felt it was time to move on and felt good about saying goodbye." All the years he's struggled with PTSD have taken their toll, but Bain has turned to his writing to raise his own awareness about the disorder to help himself heal and to reach out to other veterans. He remains forever indebted to Greg Bain and Clare LaMeres for giving him the opportunity of a lifetime to return to Vietnam. "I used to feel so ashamed and I wouldn't talk to anyone," Bain said. "It's been a hard trip." Book signings Stan Bain will sign his books from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sept. 10 at The Bookshelf, 101 S. Main St. in Kalispell. He'll also sign books in Dayton, where he once served on the board of the Chief Cliff Volunteer Fire Department, from noon to 4 p.m. on Sept. 11 at the history tent during the annual Dayton Daze celebration. All his books are available on his website, stanbainbooks.com. "Return to Vietnam" is also available on Amazon. His first book, "You Are Never Alone," is available at bluenotepublications.com. (c)2021 the Daily Inter Lake (Kalispell, Mont.) Visit the Daily Inter Lake (Kalispell, Mont.) at www.dailyinterlake.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The catalyst for Bay of Plenty director Micah Winiatas new film Taiao was finding himself stuck in an urban jungle in Chicago during last years pandemic. I was definitely craving to be back in nature, says Micah, who is releasing his non-verbal documentary during Maori Language Week. Its a very different place there compared to New Zealand. He was studying towards his second degree - a Bachelor in Fine Arts in Film Making, graduating in May soon after the pandemic started. I stayed in Chicago the whole time, returning to New Zealand as soon as the managed isolation facilities started popping up towards the end of October, he says. I spent that time in Christchurch. I could look outside and see all the greenery, but I could only experience it by watching nature documentaries and other non-verbal films. So that prompted the desire to go out into nature and capture what I thought was really special about Tauranga. His first degree was right out of Otumoetai College, at the NZ Broadcasting School in Christchurch. It was a two-year degree, and we learned all the practicalities of making film and television. At the end of that degree we get an internship to finish off our studies. He spent his internship on a television set in Auckland, graduating with a Bachelor in Broadcasting and Communications. I was on Shortland Street as a third AD during 2017 and 2018, gaining experience. Inspired by the global non-verbal films Baraka and Koyaanisqatsi, which allowed him to envision seeing New Zealand through a Maori lens, Micah says Taiao is a non-verbal documentary experience that explores how we, as a multicultural people, use New Zealands natural environment. The film compares the wonders of our taiao, our nature, and the advent of man, says Micah. Communicating the consequences of our industries and our reckoning with colonisation non-verbally allows us to glimpse a sustainable, equitable future, while acknowledging an unsustainable present. Underscoring the tone of Taiao is a whakatauki or proverb: Whatungarongaro te tangata, toitu te whenua as people disappear from sight, the land remains. When I was in managed isolation, I read one of my dads books - a little book of proverbs. A lot of those proverbs have this key sematic wisdom which relates to making films and making art. So I could really grab onto that idea when I was making the film. Taiao was selected and commissioned through the Someday Stories Series Five, a sustainability-focused web series by New Zealands emerging filmmakers. Micah had previously been a contestant in the junior Outlook for Someday film challenge. They knew me already, he says. I had been on their radar for the last few years. I decided to apply, and I was really appreciative of seeing their alumni or graduates from the challenge come through the emerging filmmaker series. He already has some serious film making behind him, directing and producing his first feature Faint of Heart in 2018. He was one of the Someday Challenge 2017 winners with his documentary Te Ara Whakamua at the age of 19. The documentary also won a NZ Film Commission Film-making Achievement Award. For this latest film, I reconnected with some of my film alumni who I was really good friends with, says Micah. I signed everyone on to work with them again and reconnect our friendship after four years of not seeing each other. Taiao will be released to the public online via Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Vimeo on Wednesday, September 15. Please follow @kapongapictures @outlookforsomeday on social media for release updates and anticipated Tauranga-based film screenings. There has been an increase in the number of Kiwis attempting to import ivermectin, a drug used to de-worm livestock being touted overseas as an alternative and unproven treatment for Covid-19. Ivermectin is a prescription medicine approved in New Zealand for a limited number of conditions, including an intestinal disease caused by roundworm (strongyloidiasis), certain parasites in blood or tissue, or for scabies after prior treatment has failed. It is not approved for use in New Zealand to treat Covid-19. There is no clear evidence that it is effective in treating the virus, and it may cause serious harm in some people, Medsafe New Zealand's medicines safety authority says. There is no clear evidence that ivermectin can treat Covid-19, New Zealands medicines safety authority says, but the number of people attempting to bring the drug into the country is growing. Photo: Stuff/File photo. Despite this, New Zealands supplier of Stromectol (ivermectin), Merck Sharp & Dohme, advised it has seen unusually high buying patterns of the drug here, as reports of its use overseas grow. MSD New Zealand managing director Paul Smith told Stuff that in response, it has restricted bulk-buying of the drug to ensure patients who really need it dont miss out. Smith said MSD established a scientific taskforce to evaluate the therapeutic potential of ivermectin to treat Covid-19. Following a detailed review and its own studies, it determined the concentration of ivermectin required to achieve a potential antiviral effect would considerably exceed the doses known to be generally safe and well tolerated. There is no scientific basis for ivermectin having a potential therapeutic effect against Covid-19 from pre-clinical studies, no meaningful evidence for clinical activity or clinical efficacy in patients with Covid-19, and a concerning lack of safety data in the majority of studies, he says. The NZ supplier has restricted bulk-buying of ivermectin, to ensure patients who are in real need of it are able to get it. Meanwhile, Medsafe has seen an increase in attempted importations of the drug, only one in ten of which have been approved. As a prescription medicine, if detected at the border by Customs and referred to Medsafe, ivermectin can only be released on the authority of an authorised prescriber usually a medical practitioner. This year, up to August 24, 114 consignments had been referred to Medsafe. If ivermectin is found at the border, it is referred to Medsafe. It can only be released if authorised. Photo: David White/Stuff. Twelve were released based on the authority of an authorised prescriber. Two were referred to the Ministry for Primary Industries, as they were required for animal treatment. The other 100 did not make it through. Between January and May, Customs was referring between one and four ivermectin consignments to Medsafe per month. Between August 1-24, 38 consignments were caught at the border. The Ministry of Health strongly recommends the public do not buy and treat themselves with ivermectin for Covid-19. When ingested in high doses, ivermectin can have a serious effect on humans, with symptoms including low blood pressure, worsening asthma, severe autoimmune disorders, seizures and liver damage, a spokesperson said. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has actively advised against using ivermectin to treat or prevent Covid-19, citing a lack of evidence. The World Health Organisation has also stated the drug should only be used to treat Covid-19 in clinical trials. Hannah Martin/Stuff Pet Refuge, New Zealands first shelter dedicated to pets affected by family violence, is urging victims of abuse to reach out for help despite the lockdown. The shelter, which opened its doors earlier last month, is still accepting animals from within Auckland under alert level 4. Staff are working with Police and family violence agencies to collect pets. Pet Refuge is currently caring for 13 pets from around New Zealand. Nationwide pickups will resume as alert levels allow. We know that family violence escalates under lockdown, and with it pet abuse, as pressures rise and perpetrators lash out. Closed doors with volatile abusers lead to particularly vulnerable victims and animals, says Pet Refuge founder Julie Chapman. "We are here to help. Were still taking animals from within Auckland under alert level 4, adhering to strict Covid-19 regulations. We know a lockdown can make victims feel trapped, but please reach out for help with your pets when you can do so safely. Those outside Auckland should contact Police or family violence agencies to connect with local rescues and shelters, who may be able to offer short-term help until Pet Refuge can resume nationwide pickups. Just before lockdown, the first animals cared for by Pet Refuge were reunited with their owners in safety. The shelter has been built to help victims who delayed leaving abuse by providing temporary accommodation for their pets, because they had nowhere to take them. Reuniting the first pets with their owners in safety is a significant and emotional milestone for Pet Refuge, says Julie. The two dogs were with us for a week while their owners escaped abuse. Its amazing to have played a part in getting two families to safety within our first few weeks of operation. They were incredibly grateful to be able to get to safety knowing their pets were so well cared for. Pet Refuge has had 15 animals through its doors so far, from Auckland, Waikato, Wellington and Christchurch. The animals are referred from Police and family violence agencies including Womens Refuge, Shine and Family Action Network. The shelter was built after research showed victims were staying in abusive situations because they had nowhere to take their pets. A Womens Refuge survey of victims who had experienced animal abuse found 53 per cent delayed leaving out of fear for their animals safety. 73 per cent would have found it easier to leave if there was a shelter offering temporary accommodation for their animals. The research detailed horrifying stories of pets being harmed or threatened as a way for perpetrators to control their victims. Pets can be the only solace a victim of domestic violence has, says Julie. Perpetrators often threaten or harm the animals, because they know how devastating that is for victims. Its another way to control them, and stop them from leaving. We aim to remove that barrier so victims and their pets can find the safety they deserve. The purpose-built shelter can house up to 75 animals - dogs, cats, birds, and other small pets - at any given time. Animals can stay for as long as is needed, cared for by a team of experts. Larger animals including horses, cows, sheep, goats will be cared for via a network of regional safe farms. Pet Refuge needs on-going support from the public to pay for operating costs. Kiwis can help by making a one-off donation, or sign up to the Safe Beds for Pets monthly giving programme. Funds help with bedding, heating, transport, medications, vet healthcare, enrichment toys, animal behavioural therapy, and the cost of expert animal carers, case workers and support staff. Donate at www.petrefuge.org.nz or call 09 975 0850. If you are in immediate danger, please call 111. If you do not speak, your call is directed to a recorded message. You will be asked to press 55 if you require emergency assistance. The Womens Refuge crisis line is 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843. For help with an animal call Pet Refuge 0800 PET REFUGE / 0800 738 733 843 or email help@petrefuge.org.nz Click the image above to watch the video It was smiles, balloons, bubbles and cars this morning as staff at Taurangas Ultimate Care Oakland found a safe way to connect their residents with family on Fathers Day during Alert Level 3. We got permission from Police, says Oaklands Diversion Therapist Shona Sharp. We notified them, and they were well-aware we were doing it. We also phoned Healthline who gave us permission and a permit. As long as we abided by their rules and followed their health guidelines, they were supportive. Shelly Clark, who works as an activities coordinator at the two-storey rest home and hospital facility, joined Shona along with many other staff members who came in on their day off to help celebrate Fathers Day and wheeling residents to the roadside. It was fantastic, says Shona. We all wore masks, abided by the rules and maintained two-metre distancing. Oaklands Ultimate Care is located between 13th and 14th Avenues in Tauranga, and provides palliative, geriatric, respite and aged care as well as providing rest home care and hospital care. We have 82 residents and about half of them came out today, says Shona. Shelly and Shona dont usually work weekends but following the joy and success of last years Mothers Day drive-by, also run during lockdown, they were keen to bring back the same smiles and delight to their residents. Last year when we did it for Mothers Day it was a hit, the residents loved it, so I asked my manager if we could do it again, says Shona. Some of the residents were taken out on to the 13th Ave roadside, and some out to 14th Ave. We had them in two blocks so they werent breaking their bubble, says Shelly. They have their own bubbles here as well, so we put half out on one side, and half out the other side, and they were lined up along the footpath, says Shona. We had about 24 residents on one side, and about 16 on the other. Shona, Shelly and staff provided balloons, bubbles and music as the residents family members drove past slowly in their cars, with the vehicle occupants waving and tooting. For those in the cars, if the windows were kept up, they didnt need to wear masks; if windows down then they wore masks for safetys sake, says Shona. Shona says members of the Oilers Hot Rod Club in Tauranga and the Bay Rodders Club also joined in. They made it possible for these residents to reminisce on Fathers Day, says Shona. They went from 14th Ave to 13th Ave around the block a lot of times. The residents wanted them to go all day, but we said they need to go back to their families now, says Shelly. They loved it, says Shona. They got out and got some much-needed fresh air. Shona says one resident who thanked her said it was the best Fathers Day theyd ever had, and one to remember. And another one first said to me why did you bring me out here its cold and then when she saw the cars, she said oh my gosh, says Shelly. It was one gentlemans birthday, so we sung happy birthday to him as well. He loved it. He was born in 1933, says Shona. Shona, who was wearing a handmade retro mask, says that next door to Ultimate Care Oakland is a village with residents also out on their balconies and in the driveway watching what was going on. One of their ladies is 98 and she just loved it. She said thank you so much, says Shona. There were tears of joy and lots of reminiscing as the vintage cars went past with some saying 'I used to have one of them'. Even though you couldnt see their smiles through their masks you could see it in their eyes. Shelly, who wore a medical clinical mask, agrees. Some had tears rolling down their cheeks, reminiscing and loving the atmosphere, says Shelly. It has given them a glimmer of hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel that there is some normality going on. There were about 25 cars involved in the drive by, with occupants waving at their older family member, and some of the hot rods were owned and driven by family members of some of the residents. One of the hot rods that came through was one of NZs top hot rods that won Beach Hop 2020, says Shona. The driver Lisa Sawyer is the niece of one of the residents and her husband is the nephew of one of the residents. He was driving a purple hot rod. It was amazing. Don Scott who lives at Ultimate Care Oakland used to be a mechanic. He was in love with one of the cars, says Shona. His favourite was a 57 Chev Bel Air. Everybody loved it. The pair are thrilled to see how happy the residents are. They are smiling and glowing. So happy, says Shelly. Even the staff loved it as well, the carers and nurses, says Shona. And even the clinical services manager came down too. They came down on their day off to give their time for our residents. About six or seven who were not rostered on to work came in and volunteered their time. This was to make sure the residents could get out there and be looked after. It was fantastic. As Fathers' Day draws to a close Police are urging New Zealanders to maintain their bubbles for the health and safety of all dads. "Today is a special opportunity to celebrate the dads and father figures in our lives, however, alert level restrictions must come first," says Police Commissioner Andrew Coster. "That means the best way to show love and appreciation is to maintain our bubbles. "The last thing anyone wants to do is compromise a parent or loved ones health by ignoring the restrictions." Police have been out and about in communities today to ensure motorists are travelling for permitted purposes only. Checkpoints update: As of 3.30pm yesterday, a total of 18,493 vehicles have now been stopped at the ten checkpoints on Aucklands northern and southern boundaries. Overall, between 11.59pm on August 31 and 3.30pm on September 4, 16,877 vehicles have been stopped at the five southern checkpoints. Of these, 607 were turned away for non-essential travel, including 62 yesterday. At the five northern checkpoints, which have been in place since Northland dropped to Alert Level 3 at 11:59pm on September 2, there has been relatively low traffic. Between 11.59pm on September 2 and 3:30pm on September 4, 1616 vehicles have been stopped at the northern checkpoints and of those, just 68 vehicles were turned away for non-essential travel. This remains around four per cent of all motorists. Twenty eight vehicles were turned around at the northern checkpoints yesterday. The Southbound checkpoint at State Highway 1/Mercer off-ramp continues to be the checkpoint with the most vehicles turned around. So far, 242 vehicles have been turned away at that checkpoint. At the Mangatawhiri Rd / Koheroa Rd / SH2 off-ramp checkpoint, 162 vehicles have been turned around. Compliance update: As of 5pm yesterday, 181 people have been charged with a total of 192 offences nationwide since Alert Level 4 began. Of the charges filed, 186 were for offences committed in Alert Level 4 and six were for offences committed in Alert Level 3. Of these, 131 are for Failing to Comply with Order (COVID-19), 38 for Failure to Comply with Direction/Prohibition/Restriction, 18 for Health Act Breaches, and five for Assaults/Threatens/Hinders/Obstructs Enforcement Officer. In the same time period, 473 people were warned for 476 offences. Of the formal warnings 202 were for Failing to Comply with Order (COVID-19), 153 for Failure to Comply with Direction/Prohibition/Restriction, 120 for Health Act Breaches, and one for Assaults/Threatens/Hinders/Obstructs Enforcement Officer. Since August 19 2021, Police have been issuing infringements for COVID-19 related breaches. As at 5pm yesterday, Police have issued 3379 infringements nationwide - 3192 of these were issued under the previous Health Order, primarily for Person failed to remain at current home/residence other than for essential personal movement. Since the new Health Order came into force on September 1, 473 infringements have been issued as follows: Left home / residence other than for essential personal movement (AL4) 260 Left home / residence other than for essential personal movement (AL3) 169 Other breaches under the new Health Order 44 Police have now received a total of 16,572 online breach notifications - 10,120 about a gathering, 4829 about a business, and 1623 about a person. In addition to the online breach notifications, a total of 10,591 COVID-19 related calls were made to the 105-phone line. The majority (7630) of calls were requests for information, and 2961 were to report perceived COVID-19 breaches. Bay of Plenty We are looking for a storeman with an OSH forklift license. You will need to be physically for as the job is about 70% forklift... View or Apply on GoodWork.co.nz UPDATE: State Highway 29 is open this morning. Waka Kotahi Transport Agency issued a statement on Sunday to advise motorists that the road over the Kaimai Range would be closed for maintenance works. The high priority road maintenance work was carried out from 8pm Sunday until 5am Monday, September 6. The roading agency reports the highway is now open. EARLIER: NZTA advise that State Highway 29 over the Kaimai Range will be fully closed tonight for road maintenance. Motorists are advised to take alternative routes during the closure. The high priority road maintenance work will be carried out from 8pm tonight, Sunday September 5, until 5am Monday September 6. SH29 will be closed during this time between Cambridge Rd, Tauriko and SH24 intersection in Te Poi. Motorists travelling north are advised to travel via SH2 to SH26 to SH24 to SH27 and vice versa. Motorists travelling south are advised to travel via SH2 to SH33 to SH5 to SH1 to SH29 and vice versa. NZTA advise motorists plan their journey in advance with long detours required. Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. Tahlequah, OK (74464) Today Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 90F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Some clouds early will give way to generally clear conditions overnight. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. Thank you for Reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and Purchase a Subscription to continue reading. man_of_steel Senior - BHPian Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: BLR/TVM Posts: 1,231 Thanked: 1,281 Times View My Garage 17" wheels conversion on my Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 I decided to spent some time and adjust the front and rear rider sag (suspension sag with the rider) in pursuit of a sporty and planted feel. I measured the Sag with the preload adjuster wound out all the way out (This should be pretty close to the OE measurement) and the bike was having a 39mm rider sag! That is a lot of sag even for a road setup. This along with soft springs and 2w fork oil explains why the stock bike handled like a pig. So I set out and dialed in the preload step by step and reduced it to around 28mm of rider sag. I went from 6 rings visible to only 1 ring visible during the journey from 39 to 28mm rider sag. The rear too was set up similarly below 30mm sag and I am now at the 4th step from the softest. This did make a huge impact on the handling of the bike. The bike was now stable in the corners, turned in much willingly into the corners and held the lean and line beautifully. This did make the bike stiff but is not bone jarring and everyday usability is not compromised. Infact a friend who was looking to buy an interceptor took my bike for a testride and found the front end a bit too stiff for his liking initially. He rode a stock INT650 the next day as a part of his bike hunt and just couldn't comprehend the overall feel of the stock bike in corners and then was all praises for the setup of my bike [/end of brag]. Even after all this the horrible death wobble above 80kmph persisted. Now to the next money-well-spent mod I have done so far.. I always liked my road bikes to have 17" rims just because of the pain involved to source the tyres of my liking for any other sizes. I did expect some handling advantages too due to the smaller rims and upsized and rounded tyres. My plan was to use 110/70-17 and 150/60-17 Apollo Alpha H1s on the 650. And I was particular that I didn't want to spend too much time to try and center another bike's alloys to the INT650's forks. And IMO, aligning the disc of another bike's alloy to the stock caliper of interceptor will not center the tyre to the fork. So the only option was to use the stock hub and go for a different 17" rim and spokes. Ultimately I want excel aluminum rims on the bike, but I decided to run a trial with locally available cheap rims. So I procured 2 17" Himalayan rims and made some custom spokes to match the stock hub and new rims. After a bit of struggling voila! 17" conversion was done. Bought a set of Alpha H1s and plonked it on the new rims and she was ready to go. Stock After Conversion The front end dips a bit because of the lower profile tyre so I slid down the fork by around 15mm to compensate for this a bit. The front mudguard was having a gap after the conversion. It looked okay but I removed the front fork brace and mudguard and bolted it from below the stock mount. Worked like a charm! I will note down my feedback in bullet points. - The dreaded death wobble is 100% cured. The bike is now rock solid(in CAPS AND BOLD) even at triple digit speeds - Stability at highway speeds has increased. Earlier the bike felt nervous at speeds above 80 - Flickability has increased many fold. Much eager to turn into corners now - Holds the line beautifully once leaned in - At slow speeds, earlier the bike had a tendency to not turn in and then suddenly used to fall into the corner. Now it handles slow speeds in a controlled and neutral manner - ABS is working perfectly - Ground Clearance is acceptable haven't grounded out even once in city speed bumps even with pillion In short. Feels like an entirely different and lighter bike! Cons - Acceleration has taken a hit. Expected due to the increased contact patch and probably higher weight of the steel Himalayan rims. The stock excel Aluminum rims of the 650 is just top class and weighs very less - Speedo error at almost 14% or so from the phone GPS reading - Need wider rim for rear. Atleast 4.00 or 4.25 inch wide, the 150 section Apollo is rounded off too much. Might go for excel aluminum rims Why I need wider rims Have been stealing some time in between my work for the Interceptor. As I mentioned before the bike seriously has some weight issues which is very much visible with the stock setup in handling and braking sides. My KTM MC upgrade was a huge success and took care of the braking side of things. Now the brake provides good initial bite and is progressive as well. So the weight is now felt way less while braking. Now, in my previous post, I have mentioned that I upgraded the fork oil and installed preload adjusters as well. I left it as it is and went looking for a solution for the death wobble. Mistake, as I didn't unlock the potential of the setup I now had.I decided to spent some time and adjust the front and rear rider sag (suspension sag with the rider) in pursuit of a sporty and planted feel. I measured the Sag with the preload adjuster wound out all the way out (This should be pretty close to the OE measurement) and the bike was having a 39mm rider sag! That is a lot of sag even for a road setup. This along with soft springs and 2w fork oil explains why the stock bike handled like a pig. So I set out and dialed in the preload step by step and reduced it to around 28mm of rider sag. I went from 6 rings visible to only 1 ring visible during the journey from 39 to 28mm rider sag. The rear too was set up similarly below 30mm sag and I am now at the 4th step from the softest. This did make a huge impact on the handling of the bike. The bike was now stable in the corners, turned in much willingly into the corners and held the lean and line beautifully. This did make the bike stiff but is not bone jarring and everyday usability is not compromised. Infact a friend who was looking to buy an interceptor took my bike for a testride and found the front end a bit too stiff for his liking initially. He rode a stock INT650 the next day as a part of his bike hunt and just couldn't comprehend the overall feel of the stock bike in corners and then was all praises for the setup of my bike [/end of brag]. Even after all this the horrible death wobble above 80kmph persisted.Now to the next money-well-spent mod I have done so far.. I always liked my road bikes to have 17" rims just because of the pain involved to source the tyres of my liking for any other sizes. I did expect some handling advantages too due to the smaller rims and upsized and rounded tyres. My plan was to use 110/70-17 and 150/60-17 Apollo Alpha H1s on the 650. And I was particular that I didn't want to spend too much time to try and center another bike's alloys to the INT650's forks. And IMO, aligning the disc of another bike's alloy to the stock caliper of interceptor will not center the tyre to the fork. So the only option was to use the stock hub and go for a different 17" rim and spokes. Ultimately I want excel aluminum rims on the bike, but I decided to run a trial with locally available cheap rims. So I procured 2 17" Himalayan rims and made some custom spokes to match the stock hub and new rims. After a bit of struggling voila! 17" conversion was done. Bought a set of Alpha H1s and plonked it on the new rims and she was ready to go.StockAfter ConversionThe front end dips a bit because of the lower profile tyre so I slid down the fork by around 15mm to compensate for this a bit.The front mudguard was having a gap after the conversion. It looked okay but I removed the front fork brace and mudguard and bolted it from below the stock mount. Worked like a charm!I will note down my feedback in bullet points.- The dreaded death wobble is. The bike is now rock solid(in CAPS AND BOLD) even at triple digit speeds- Stability at highway speeds has increased. Earlier the bike felt nervous at speeds above 80- Flickability has increased many fold. Much eager to turn into corners now- Holds the line beautifully once leaned in- At slow speeds, earlier the bike had a tendency to not turn in and then suddenly used to fall into the corner. Now it handles slow speeds in a controlled and neutral manner- ABS is working perfectly- Ground Clearance is acceptable haven't grounded out even once in city speed bumps even with pillionIn short. Feels like an entirely different and lighter bike!Cons- Acceleration has taken a hit. Expected due to the increased contact patch and probably higher weight of the steel Himalayan rims. The stock excel Aluminum rims of the 650 is just top class and weighs very less- Speedo error at almost 14% or so from the phone GPS reading- Need wider rim for rear. Atleast 4.00 or 4.25 inch wide, the 150 section Apollo is rounded off too much. Might go for excel aluminum rimsWhy I need wider rims Last edited by Aditya : 2nd September 2021 at 21:16 . Reason: As requested karan561 Distinguished - BHPian Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Mumbai Posts: 4,759 Thanked: 18,004 Times View My Garage My Skoda Kushaq: Delivery Experience ! https://youtu.be/NnG-m_Y4tjU ^ The Video captures all the excitement from the Delivery/Collection Day of my Skoda Kushaq. It also includes a quick Walkaround discussing the Exterior/Interior, Platform, Engine/Gearbox, Tyres etc. & also explains my buy decision. Buy Decision/Booking ; This car was booked without checking her out in the showroom & without a Test Drive. In fact the first time I saw/experienced a Kushaq was in my car on the day of the PDI. Special thanks & credit goes to TEAM-BHP Official Review which helped me go ahead with this choice without having the need to go check her out physically or requiring a Test Drive Dealership Experience ; I had 2 dealers (JMD & Mody) in mind & I had given both of them the opportunity. JMD was not really interested to sell & at the same time i had got to know what one of their dealerships in New Mumbai had recently shut down hence it was not really confidence inspiring for me to put my money at JMD hence naturally i picked Mody as it was a newer (Opened in early 2021) & more responsive dealership. The Corporate Manager at Mody Skoda was very professional and kept most communication via email & always available over phone too. Mody Skoda did not charge me any extra money for things like vehicle handling charges or compulsory accessory kits etc. Insurance too was very high at first as per Skoda Insurance but they matched my quote and also allowed self registration without unnecessary arguments but did verify data/facts to seek official permission. Extended Warranty Payment is still pending & as per Mody Skoda i will receive a link to pay the extended warranty amount online (Other Kushaq owners may want to confirm this). Overall my experience with Mody Skoda right from Booking to PDI to Delivery process was Very Satisfactory. Driving Experience ; Car Delivery/Collection days are always filled with excitement but for the Kushaq it was a bit more exhilarating as it was the 1st time i was driving the Kushaq & i am happy to report that just after a few kms of driving the Kushaq through multiple road/traffic conditions i felt reassured of my buy decision. The 1L TSI Engine with 115 HP & 178NM felt good enough for Mumbai traffic & local highways with enough overtaking power to maintain a healthy pace. Haven't really pushed the engine so far as obviously would like to adhere to the running in guidelines as much as possible. The Aisin (AQ250) Gearbox too was smooth enough for bumper to bumper traffic again reassuring my decision to not to go for a DSG (Dual Clutches dont like traffic scenarios) as this car will be used mostly in City/Traffic Conditions for short distance runs. I am aware about the unfortunate EPC issues faced by many Kushaq owners, hoping for a trouble free ownership for my car & also hoping Skoda India resolve this for everyone. Overall the place where the Kushaq really shines is the ride quality. The ride was really good for a newly delivered car, I not confirm if the PDI team had reduced tyre pressures to normal levels post transit, however wasn't sure how to check the TPMS (or may be its missing) hence cant confirm what the pressures were. Braking is adequate (Still running in) for the 1L TSI upfront. Will reserve my comments on the handling performance as yet to really experience good corners or mountain roads (plus the tyres are also very new). The new 2 spoke Steering Wheel is extremely well designed and finished, hope i could say this about the whole interior. Miscellaneous Observations ; - Love the way the Skoda Kushaq looks. Front is aggressive at the same time athletic looking. The Side profile is clean & sticking to the European roots of the brand which i love. Rear feels upright thanks to the positioning of the taillights & gets a sense of being wide with S K O D A lettering spaced out. - Infotainment is not the most friendly system I've used, but the touch sensitivity is good & lag free. - Digital Cluster would have been welcome, probably Skoda India has reserved that for the facelift. - 17" Atlas Rims look striking in person & were my main reason to pick the Style variant. - Being a new comer the Kushaq is attracting eyeballs & has a good street presence. - Missing out on the rear disc brakes in favour of the drums is visually disturbing. - The creep function in the D Mode is a bit too aggressive/eager for my linking. - Paddle Shifters have been given which is nice. (Miss them in my 1.4 Seltos) - Yet to use the My Skoda App, so will reserve my comments on that. - Camera Quality is Above Average & I Miss the 360 Deg. Camera. - Ambient lighting needed more colours (Gets only white) - Power window operation/sound is noisy & feels cheap. - Dont really miss the Driving Modes (Sport, Eco Etc.) - The Horn is Non German tone, a bad move/miss. - Music System (7 Speakers) does sound good. - The glovebox is large & very accommodative. - 6 Airbags for M/T & Only 2 for A/T, Why ? - Would have preferred 215mm wide tyres. - Rear Boot space is surprisingly good. - Rear Seat space is good, not great. - Powered Seats are missed. This is my preliminary review / report with a few days into ownership. I Shall surely start a new thread soon with a full blown ownership review once I have processed all my thoughts. Thank you all for reading My Skoda Kushaq, Delivery Experience Video;^ The Video captures all the excitement from the Delivery/Collection Day of my Skoda Kushaq. It also includes a quick Walkaround discussing the Exterior/Interior, Platform, Engine/Gearbox, Tyres etc. & also explains my buy decision.This car was booked without checking her out in the showroom & without a Test Drive. In fact the first time I saw/experienced a Kushaq was in my car on the day of the PDI. Special thanks & credit goes to TEAM-BHP Official Review which helped me go ahead with this choice without having the need to go check her out physically or requiring a Test DriveI had 2 dealers (JMD & Mody) in mind & I had given both of them the opportunity. JMD was not really interested to sell & at the same time i had got to know what one of their dealerships in New Mumbai had recently shut down hence it was not really confidence inspiring for me to put my money at JMD hence naturally i picked Mody as it was a newer (Opened in early 2021) & more responsive dealership.The Corporate Manager at Mody Skoda was very professional and kept most communication via email & always available over phone too. Mody Skoda did not charge me any extra money for things like vehicle handling charges or compulsory accessory kits etc. Insurance too was very high at first as per Skoda Insurance but they matched my quote and also allowed self registration without unnecessary arguments but did verify data/facts to seek official permission. Extended Warranty Payment is still pending & as per Mody Skoda i will receive a link to pay the extended warranty amount online (Other Kushaq owners may want to confirm this).Overall my experience with Mody Skoda right from Booking to PDI to Delivery process was Very Satisfactory.Car Delivery/Collection days are always filled with excitement but for the Kushaq it was a bit more exhilarating as it was the 1st time i was driving the Kushaq & i am happy to report that just after a few kms of driving the Kushaq through multiple road/traffic conditions i felt reassured of my buy decision.The 1L TSI Engine with 115 HP & 178NM felt good enough for Mumbai traffic & local highways with enough overtaking power to maintain a healthy pace. Haven't really pushed the engine so far as obviously would like to adhere to the running in guidelines as much as possible.The Aisin (AQ250) Gearbox too was smooth enough for bumper to bumper traffic again reassuring my decision to not to go for a DSG (Dual Clutches dont like traffic scenarios) as this car will be used mostly in City/Traffic Conditions for short distance runs. I am aware about the unfortunate EPC issues faced by many Kushaq owners, hoping for a trouble free ownership for my car & also hoping Skoda India resolve this for everyone.Overall the place where the Kushaq really shines is the ride quality. The ride was really good for a newly delivered car, I not confirm if the PDI team had reduced tyre pressures to normal levels post transit, however wasn't sure how to check the TPMS (or may be its missing) hence cant confirm what the pressures were.Braking is adequate (Still running in) for the 1L TSI upfront. Will reserve my comments on the handling performance as yet to really experience good corners or mountain roads (plus the tyres are also very new). The new 2 spoke Steering Wheel is extremely well designed and finished, hope i could say this about the whole interior.- Love the way the Skoda Kushaq looks. Front is aggressive at the same time athletic looking. The Side profile is clean & sticking to the European roots of the brand which i love. Rear feels upright thanks to the positioning of the taillights & gets a sense of being wide with S K O D A lettering spaced out.- Infotainment is not the most friendly system I've used, but the touch sensitivity is good & lag free.- Digital Cluster would have been welcome, probably Skoda India has reserved that for the facelift.- 17" Atlas Rims look striking in person & were my main reason to pick the Style variant.- Being a new comer the Kushaq is attracting eyeballs & has a good street presence.- Missing out on the rear disc brakes in favour of the drums is visually disturbing.- The creep function in the D Mode is a bit too aggressive/eager for my linking.- Paddle Shifters have been given which is nice. (Miss them in my 1.4 Seltos)- Yet to use the My Skoda App, so will reserve my comments on that.- Camera Quality is Above Average & I Miss the 360 Deg. Camera.- Ambient lighting needed more colours (Gets only white)- Power window operation/sound is noisy & feels cheap.- Dont really miss the Driving Modes (Sport, Eco Etc.)- The Horn is Non German tone, a bad move/miss.- Music System (7 Speakers) does sound good.- The glovebox is large & very accommodative.- 6 Airbags for M/T & Only 2 for A/T, Why ?- Would have preferred 215mm wide tyres.- Rear Boot space is surprisingly good.- Rear Seat space is good, not great.- Powered Seats are missed.This is my preliminary review / report with a few days into ownership. I Shall surely start a new thread soon with a full blown ownership review once I have processed all my thoughts. Thank you all for reading Last edited by karan561 : 13th September 2021 at 22:37 . NASA and SpaceX are currently the leading space agencies when it comes to making efforts for the upcoming Mars Missions. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration already visited Mars, while Elon Musk's upcoming mission to the Red Planet would be its first one. On the other hand, the popular billionaire CEO also claimed that he would start Mars colonization so that many people could ditch Earth. However, a new radiation study claims that astronauts should not stay on the neighboring planet for more than four years. "Our calculations demonstrate that the optimal time for a flight to Mars would be launching the mission at solar maximum and that the flight duration should not exceed approximately 4years," said the researchers. This new study about radiation shielding on the Red Planet involves various agencies from across the globe. Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and other space institutes to form an international team to work on the new research. NASA and SpaceX Astronauts Mars Missions Should Be Shorter? According to New Atlas' latest report, the new study titled "Beating 1 Sievert: Optimal Radiation Shielding of Astronauts on a mission to Mars," which was published in the Advanced Earth and Space Science Journal, warned that astronomers staying on Mars for more than four years would be endangered due to cosmic radiation exposure. Also Read: SpaceX's Inspiration4, Its First All-Civilian Launch, on Track for Sept. 15 Liftoff However, involved space experts explained that astronauts would still be safe with the right timing and shielding. They added that cosmic radiation on the Red Planet and other heavenly bodies within the solar system varies according to the Sun's activity. In other news, NASA Perseverance Mars Rover was able to collect rock samples from the Red Planet. On the other hand, China's Half-a-Mile-Long spacecraft could be in development. Radiation Study's Other Details Gizmodo explained that the involved space researchers were able to come up with their shorter Mars mission suggestion after using models of particles radiation within the solar system. They also relied on various radiation models to identify how these cosmic rays affect human health and the state of a spacecraft in the Red Planet. For more news updates about NASA, SpaceX, and other giant space agencies, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes. Related Article: SpaceX Inspiration4 Mission to Use iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch for Spaceflight Health Studies This article is owned by TechTimes Written by: Griffin Davis 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Best Buy fans have been disappointed with the retailer's PS5 restock over the past three weeks. The consoles have been absent in the store as other shops have already dropped stocks last month. To be exact, Best Buy's last PS5 restock happened in the last 23 days. This was the time when the retailer's PS5 Digital Edition and PS5 Disc were on sale for $399 and $499 respectively. There's a chance that Best Buy could release the next wave ahead of the upcoming Labor Day sales. However, if it is still a no-show in the following days, here are the possible retailers that could unveil PS5 stocks soon. Best Buy Left People Disappointed About PS5 Restock According to a report by Matt Swider, the popular console tracker on Twitter, the last time that Best Buy had a PS5 stock was on Aug.12 at 2:35 PM EDT. Some sources have predicted that Best Buy would drop the PS5 on Friday, Sept.3, but that did not happen. For many weeks, the fans have been asking when the exact restock date at Best Buy would be. It even got worse when many people kept on receiving wrong information about the retailer's PS5 restock. For the next potential restock at Best Buy, we are expecting it to happen by next week after the Labor Day weekend. Reminders For Best Buy Customers For those who want to buy a PS5 at Best Buy, there are important things that you should know. In choosing between PS5 Digital and PS5 Disc, select the latter. Through disc-based games, you can save more money, in addition to extra access to old PS4 games. Also, PS5 disc games are cheaper on the next sale. Another tip that you should do is to click the yellow add-to-cart button when purchasing the console. After it turns gray, just wait and do NOT refresh the page. A few moments later, it would revert to yellow and you can now add the PS5 to your cart. Best Buy is doing this to test if the person is a bot. One more reminder: you can try this in different browsers and devices but it's not recommended to do it by opening another tab in the same browser. Read Also: PS5 Restock Update: Tips to Get PlayStation 5 in Amazon, Walmart, and Other Stores Stores to Visit For PS5 Restock Techradar recently shared a list of the selected stores besides Best Buy that could release PS5 stocks in the next few days. GameStop Last month, we saw the major PS5 restock happen in GameStop on Aug. 17, 11: 00 AM EDT. On the other hand, it also held a small restock on Aug. 25. As of Sept.3, the restocks in this shop have shown a glimmer of hope to the fans. It is expected to drop the consoles on Tuesday, Sept.7 at 11 AM EDT. Target Aug. 27 is the last time that we have witnessed PS5 restocks in this shop. There are two methods that you should follow if you want to spot the next stock here. First, there is a pattern in Target. Usually, the restock dates occur on Friday. There's a three to a four-week gap between the dates (Aug. 27, July 9, and July 30). The restock time frequently happens from 7 AM to 8 AM EDT. The most recommended time to spot restocks is at 7:40 AM EDT. However, the last time, it happened at 8:15 AM EDT. The second method is to visit stores in Michigan or Nebraska in the morning. The downside is these stores could run out of stock quickly. Walmart In Walmart, you should only remember two restock times: 9 PM EDT and 12 PM EDT. It always offers consoles on Thursday. Amazon On Sept.1, Amazon unveiled stocks for PS5 Digital. For the restock times, it usually happens between 10 to 11 AM EDT. You can also check restocks after 3 AM EDT. You can also check other retailers such as Sony, Costco, Sam's Club, Antonline, and Newegg. Related Article: PS5 Restock: GameStop, Walmart, Amazon, and Other Retailers Update This Week This article is owned by Tech Times Written by Joseph Henry 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. NASA's Mars Helicopter Ingenuity continues to soar high in its mission in the Red Planet, even as it was designed to fly for five times only. As of writing, Space.com reported that the Mars helicopter has already finished its 12 flights on the Martian planet last Aug. 16, Monday, accompanying its sibling, the NASA Perseverance Mars rover. The last flight of the Mars Ingenuity on the Red Planet provided a vision for the Perseverance rover. NASA Mars Helicopter Ingenuity It is worth noting that the NASA Mars Helicopter made its first flight last April 19, which was already six months ago. Also, its launch was a highly anticipated milestone as it is the first aircraft that was able to fly on the Red Planet. It is to add that the team behind the special project of the United States space agency worked for it for six years. The ultra-lightweight robot, which is the first-ever controlled flight on the Martian planet, was given the moniker Ingenuity. The Mars Helicopter project did not only take years to develop, it was also a hefty endeavor to the tune of $85 million. NASA Mars Helicopter Ingenuity Dozen Flights The first flight of the Ingenuity on the Red Planet was merely to test the accuracy of the data the Mars helicopter is beaming to the Reconnaissance Orbiter on the planet. After its first flight, the pioneering helicopter on Mars went on to defy initial expectations and prevailed to another 11 more flights, and it's still not giving up. Although the Mars chopper has gone to a dozen flights, its sixth mission figured in a hiccup wherein it was knocked off after a malfunction. However, it still landed safe and the problem was fixed later on--surpassing its supposed number of flights. It is worth adding that the 12th flight of the Mars chopper was a risky mission for the spacecraft. Its latest mission was to explore the region called South Seitah, which even NASA's plan dubbed as something "ambitious," adding that it "carries substantial risk because of the varied terrain." Nevertheless, NASA scientists went on to face the risk as it would be significantly beneficial for the Perseverance Mars rover team, and they did not want to lose the opportunity. Read Also: Here's How NASA Engineers Communicate With the First Helicopter to Fly on Another Planet, the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter How NASA Mars Helicopter Ingenuity Surpassed Its Supposed Number of Flights As per France24, the head of the mechanical engineering team of Ingenuity, Josh Ravich, boasted that "everything is working so well." Ravich even further noted that the Mars chopper is exceeding initial expectations, adding that he personally doubted that it would work in the first place. The head mechanical engineer expounded that the air on Mars is one thing to consider due to its density, which is far off from our home planet. Nevertheless, Ravich noted that the Ingenuity stayed along with them due to the favorable environment on Mars, consisting of the wind, temperature, dust, and sun. That said, the Ingenuity is still staying strong and will continue with its mission on the Red Planet, alongside the NASA Mars rover. Related Article: NASA Announced Delay of Mars' Helicopter Flight, Ingenuity, After Test Was Deemed Unsuccessful This article is owned by Tech Times Written by Teejay Boris 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Xiaomi's MIUI Pure Mode will disable sideloading apps on Android to protect its users from the proliferation of malicious apps outside the Google Play Store, which, in some cases, steals information or plant malware on smartphone devices. As per GizChina, the Chinese smartphone maker, Xiaomi, is working on a major feature on its custom UI for Android called MIUI that is meant to further protect users of its devices. The China-based tech firm notably trampled two leading phone makers, Samsung and Apple, in smartphone sales last June, However, Xiaomi's impressive feat is likely to be temporary as the the South-Korean giant recently unveiled its flagship on August, and new iPhones will be launched this September. Xiaomi's MIUI on Android The Pure Mode comes as the Chinese titan recently launched new updates for its MIUI, such as the MIUI 12.5 and the MIUI 12.5 Enhanced Edition. Both updates started rolling to Chinese users last Aug. 13. Meanwhile, GSMArena further noted that the Pure Mode coincidentally came to news as the MIUI 13 is nearing its official release. On top of that, Xiaomi is also keeping a keen eye on its Android skin, the MIUI, by establishing a group called the Pioneer Team, which will not only collect MIUI concerns, but will also address the feedback of the users. Read Also: Xiaomi Mi Mix 4 Proves Affordable Phones Can Be Flagships, But Will It Come to the US? Xiaomi's MIUI Pure Mode: What to Expect And now, the beta channel of the Xiaomi software includes a newcomer that has been intriguing some bystanders--the MIUI Pure Mode. The additional feature of the MIUI is still in testing mode and is exclusively seen in the beta version of the custom Android skin. Pure Mode is specifically designed as a security facet that addresses the flooding existence of malicious apps on the mobile operating system or OS. Xiaomi's new feature will prevent these bad apps from making their way on its smartphone users by disabling the sideloading option of Android. If you are not aware, users of the Google mobile OS are allowed to install apps from any developer via an APK. That option is what the Chinese phone maker is trying to let go of. So, how did Xiaomi come up with the conclusion that sideloading leads to malicious apps installation? The Chinese maker cited its own figures, claiming that tons of apps installed on MIUI do not pass the security audit of the tech manufacturer. To be precise, a massive 40% of the apps failed the audit, whereas about 10% are software that is considered as potential risks. It is worth noting that Apple similarly disabled sideloading on iOS, and there's no simple way to turn off that security precaution. On the other hand, Xiaomi will still allow its users to disable Pure Mode if they want to install an app besides the Google Play Store. Related Article: Xiaomi MIUI 12.5 February Launch Confirmed: All Supported Device List, Features, and MORE This article is owned by Tech Times Written by Teejay Boris 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission The Louisiana death toll from Hurricane Ida rose to 13 when a 74-year-old New Orleans man perished, Gov. John Bel Edwards said Sunday. Edwards also said a potential tropical storm system that sparked concerns Saturday has diminished. "They don't see much chance for development as of today," the governor said, citing weather forecasters. "We are very thankful for that." Six days after major hurricane, Louisiana officials bracing for possible tropical disturbance As if Louisiana hasnt had enough of tropical weather this summer, Gov. John Bel Edwards was told Saturday that the states residents need to The disturbance is continuing to move north and east across the Gulf of Mexico with its eye on Louisiana. "It does have the potential to bring some rain to coastal Louisiana and southeast Louisiana by the way, which we don't want and don't need," Edwards said, adding that hurricane season continues and a significant storm could strike while the state is still recovering from Ida. The governor made his comments after viewing some of the damage in hard-hit St. James and Assumption parishes. Residents of St. James are expected to remain without power until Sept. 17 and Assumption until Sept. 22, according to Entergy officials. 74-year-old man dies of heat exhaustion in the wake of Hurricane Ida; death toll up to 13 A 74-year-old New Orleans man has died of heat exhaustion due to the lack of power after Hurricane Ida, according to the Louisiana Department Edwards was joined at the St. James Parish emergency operations center by 2nd District U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, D-New Orleans, state Sen. Ed Price, D-Gonzales and state Rep. Ken Brass, D-Vacherie. Edwards said the New Orleans man died of heat exhaustion and a lack of oxygen during the power outage. "Heat is a major factor right now," he said. "That is especially true in areas without power. Please take advantage of cooling shelters if you can. ... Your yard probably needs to be cleaned. It all doesnt have to be cleaned today." The governor urged caution with generators. "Run you generator if you have them but do so safely," he said. Edwards said four of the 13 deaths stemmed from carbon monoxide, and 82 people have been taken to emergency rooms because of the poisoning. Hurricane Ida struck on Aug. 29. 133,000 households qualify for $500 hurricane aid checks, officials say Federal officials have paid $66 million to Hurricane Ida survivors who sought $500 checks for food, water and other urgent needs, FEMA officia Edwards said 597,371 customers and far more people in those households remain without power after a high of 1.2 million outages at the peak of the blackout. "We know there are a lot of people out there hurting," he said. In other updates, 380,000 people have applied for assistance from FEMA the Federal Emergency Management Agency and federal officials have paid out about $165 million. Also, 36,000 state residents in parishes that qualified have applied for temporary roofs, known as blue roofs or blue tarps, that are assembled by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the direction of FEMA. There is no charge for the roofs and Assumption Parish was added to the list Sunday. Edwards said about 11,000 unemployment claims stemming from the storm have been filed and, starting Monday, applicants can do so by calling 1-866-783-5567. A total of 8,406 National Guard members are in the field, including the entire Louisiana National Guard. The State Fire Marshall has examined about 45,000 homes, so far, with about 7,000 suffering major damage and 1,900 destroyed. Louisiana's bayou region lost over 200 hospital beds in Ida, creating 'bottleneck' elsewhere With roofs torn off, windows busted and elevator shafts broken, hospitals in southeastern Louisiana lost 200 to 300 hospital beds in the after A total of 3,560 Hurricane Ida survivors are staying in 23 state and local shelters. Carter said officials know it is hot, and an especially trying time for those with disabilities. "We have to remain calm and know that help is on the way," he said. With roofs torn off, windows busted and elevator shafts broken, hospitals in southeastern Louisiana lost 200 to 300 hospital beds in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, even as they braced for a save of post-storm cleanup injuries and the state more broadly continued to struggle with the fourth wave of the pandemic. The lack of hospital care in swaths of the state hit hardest by Ida has prompted concern from hospital and political leaders alike. It has also led to bottlenecks of patients trying to find care elsewhere, as hospital capacity remains a statewide challenge in part because of COVID-19. On Wednesday morning, for example, Ochsner Medical Centers hospital in Kenner was holding 30 patients in the emergency department because officials didnt have enough open inpatient beds in the hospital to admit them. Thats not the norm. We are starting to feel that strain, said Michael Hulefeld, chief operating officer for Ochsner Health System. Health care leaders worry about lack of hospitals on Louisiana's coast after Hurricane Ida After Ochsner Health System evacuated hospitals in Raceland and Houma, and Terrebonne General Medical Center also sent their patients elsewher Other hospital systems are feeling it, too. Five of the bayou regions hospitals evacuated during or after the storm: Terrebonne General Medical Center in Houma, Ochsners Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center in Houma, Ochsners St. Anne Hospital in Raceland, St. Charles Parish Hospital in Luling and Lady of the Sea in Cut Off. Ochsner kept emergency rooms open at St. Anne and Chabert, but they cannot admit patients to the hospital or perform surgeries. Dr. Joe Kanter, the states chief health officer, estimated that the number of beds out of service was in the ballpark of 200. Ochsner CEO Warner Thomas estimated the region has lost between 250 to 300 inpatient beds, with another 100 or so beds out of commission at mental health facilities. Thats left the region with two hospitals still up and running: Thibodaux Regional Medical Center and the smaller, 15-bed Assumption Community Hospital in Napoleonville. Its affected a large swath of the population. People that remain in the River Parishes area should know for the time being that access to health care is severely limited, Kanter said. Its going to require the help of large medical centers outside of (the region), like in Baton Rouge and New Orleans to help absorb those patients. In usual times, hospitals might postpone certain surgeries or other medical procedures ahead of a hurricane to free up enough beds for storm evacuees, said Our Lady of the Lake Chief Medical Officer Dr. Catherine ONeal. But many hospitals including the Lake had already done that weeks ago to free up bed space for COVID-19 patients. There just wasnt a whole lot of room to stretch in terms of making capacity for storm-related illness, ONeal said. Now what were trying to do is figure out where those patients go because everybodys hospital is so full. The fourth surge of the pandemic has had hospitals across the state struggling for weeks to find enough beds for their own communities. Mercifully, though, there was a slight dip in COVID-19 patients at exactly the right time: when hospitals on the southeastern coast needed to transfer patients. 'A rough ride,' as 160-plus patients evacuate Louisiana's hospitals after Hurricane Ida Ochsner Health, Louisianas largest hospital system, worked to move 165 patients out of its hardest-hit hospitals Monday as the extent of Hurr Baton Rouge General, for instance, took in 11 intensive-care COVID-19 patients from Terrebonne General. Emergencies were also picking up: Baton Rouge General had 14 ambulances waiting to drop off patients at one point Wednesday at their Bluebonnet campus. Monica Nijoka, chief nursing officer and vice president of patient care, said Baton Rouge General had planned to take only 10 patients from Terrebonne General. But once the 11th arrived an elderly man she said she did not have the heart to turn him away, and she vowed to find him a bed. We had an opening window that we were able to take in those 11 patients, she said. We know they would do the same for us. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Our Lady of the Lake in Baton Rouge took nine patients from Terrebonne General, two from Thibodaux Regional Medical Center and transferred four from other hospitals in their system: Assumption Community Hospital and Our Lady of Angels in Bogalusa. Ochsner to evacuate 66 patients from two hospitals after Hurricane Ida damages roof, shatters windows Ochsner Health is making plans to evacuate all 66 patients from two hospitals after Hurricane Ida's winds shattered double-pane windows and bl ONeal said Assumption Community Hospital was quickly overwhelmed with patients after it was one of just two area hospitals still open. The equation was made all the more difficult by the number of post-storm emergencies: Paramedics were so overwhelmed picking up patients from their homes to bring them to the hospital that they struggled to transport patients from one hospital to another. Were reaching a bottleneck, ONeal said about the Baton Rouge region. Were also just having a huge influx in our emergency department of people traveling by car. Our Lady of the Lake Ascension has been particularly slammed, as its en route to the capital region for people driving in from the River Parishes. Theyre seeing the brunt of people shifting toward this region and well continue to see people trickle in our ERs, ONeal said. +5 Ahead of Hurricane Ida, coastal hospitals evacuate most critical patients amid COVID surge As Hurricane Ida strengthened Saturday, hospitals closest to the Louisiana coastline evacuated some of their most critical patients and prepar Hospitals farther to the west have also taken in patients from the southeast: Ochsners Lafayette General Hospital has admitted 30 patients who had to be evacuated after the storm. Hulefeld said Ochsner has also transferred patients to Monroe, Shreveport and even across state lines to Mississippi and Texas. State Rep. Jerome Zeringue, who represents the Houma region, said Thursday that getting Terrebonne General back online is a top priority one that he hopes could come to fruition within a week or two. I just worry that most deaths occur after the storm in a lot of cases, from the response, Zeringue said. Just accidents that happen. It concerns us that if you dont have places to provide assistance, it could be a serious problem. Ochsner executives say theres talk of whether its possible to stand up a field hospital for Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes. They do not have a time estimate yet for when St. Anne and hospitals may be able to reopen. +3 AG probes warehouse of Hurricane Ida nursing home evacuees; 5th resident reported dead A fifth nursing home resident who had been transferred to a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse ahead of Hurricane Ida has died. But Ochsners chief medical officer, Robert Hart, said its becoming especially critical to quickly reopen urgent care centers, because those can help ease some strains on ERs and hospitals. Transferring patients always comes with a risk, even in the best of times, Kanter said. And the storms projected track put most of southeastern Louisianas major medical facilities within the cone of uncertainty which made transferring patients ahead of the storm all the more unpalatable. If hospitals were to have been evacuated ahead of time, it would not have just been these five, Kanter said. Everything from New Orleans to Baton Rouge was squarely in the line of fire. Kanter said the states Health Department tries to learn from every storm. Among the lessons so far from Ida, he said, are the need to harden electrical transmission structures and communication systems. While most hospitals in the New Orleans metro area held up OK, a lot of smaller hospitals need to strengthen their infrastructure for future hurricanes, he said. Staff Writer Katie Gagliano contributed to this report. After weathering Hurricane Ida in a Hammond Red Cross shelter Sunday night, Dianna Shell had just one thing on her mind: going home to rescue her dog. The two were separated during the storm because Shell had no idea the hurricane was approaching her doorstep, she said. Living in the woods near Ponchatoula without cable television, she learned about Ida when she went to get gas Sunday afternoon and was stopped by police, who brought her to the shelter in Hammond. Four days later, Shell hitched a ride back home and swam through floodwater to reach the door, she said. The house was destroyed but the journey was worth it. Her best friend, a former stray named Brandywine, survived the storm. Shell threw the roughly 50-pound dog over her shoulders, waded down the driveway and started plotting their next move. For many in Hammond and surrounding communities, the road to recovery looks long and arduous after hurricane-force winds uprooted trees and left the electric grid in chaos, with downed power lines and broken utility poles tangled alongside rural roads and highways. Nearly all of Hammond's 21,000-plus residents remained without power Saturday, and Entergy officials said Tangipahoa Parish would likely have to endure some outages until Sept. 17. But the city planned to close its Red Cross shelter at Greenville Park Leadership Academy early Sunday morning, offering displaced residents a shuttle to the River Center in downtown Baton Rouge, according to Red Cross volunteers. For Shell and others, that was simply too far. Shell wants to stay close to Brandywine, who found temporary housing in the parish animal shelter. Another family said they had little gas and almost no money for the trip. They weighed their options, including a shelter in Kentwood that will remain open longer. Parish President Robby Miller said Saturday evening officials are closing some shelters that were without proper air conditioning, trying to get people into better accommodations. He said the shelter at Kentwood High School, which is air conditioned, will remain open as long as needed. He said displaced pets will also be kept safe. "These facilities were a last resort to get you through the first few days, but we need longer-term, better solutions to take care of our citizens," Miller said. "There's nothing ideal about being out of your house." The parish is also reeling after the emergency evacuation Thursday of about 800 nursing home residents, who had been relocated to an overcrowded Independence warehouse before Ida made landfall, then subjected to inhumane conditions after the air conditioning failed and other problems arose. Seven patients have died and various state agencies are investigating. Plans to evacuate nursing homes to warehouse, where 7 have since died, were OK'd by state When news broke that nearly 850 frail nursing-home patients were crammed into a warehouse in a remote corner of Louisiana during Hurricane Ida After taking care of her dog, Shell hoped her flooded car was drivable. Her first stop would be waiting in line for gas amid dire shortages still plaguing most of southeast Louisiana. Then she needed to replace her cell phone, which died when the car flooded, and call FEMA for housing assistance. But all she wanted to talk about was Brandywine, a pit bull and Catahoula hound mix who had been abandoned several months earlier, then adopted by Shell. "She cried like a baby when I got home, and so did I," Shell said, sitting on her cot inside the Red Cross shelter Saturday afternoon. She held up her yellow wristband bearing the name of the local pet evacuation shelter, pledging to find a new home soon for her and Brandywine. +19 Tangipahoa residents start daunting cleanup process, plead for help: 'We're being overlooked' When Linda Fabre and her mother saw Hurricane Ida taking aim at southern Tangipahoa Parish, they strategically chose a back bedroom on the sou While Shell was destitute because her house flooded, she was in the minority. Most Tangipahoa residents escaped rising waters but faced extended power outages during the sweltering summer heat. After days of being literally in the dark, some residents said a Saturday morning projection from Entergy indicating the Sept. 17 restoration date gave them some hope. "I'm just praying it won't take longer," said Teresa Ragusa, staring mournfully at a tangled mess of power lines outside her downtown Hammond house. "I keep trying to pretend we're camping." Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Ragusa had two granddaughters staying with her because their house had no running water. The girls, ages 9 and 11, had just gone back to school before the storm hit, and now even virtual classes are impossible for the foreseeable future, let alone extracurricular activities. They were bored. Bored with picking up fallen branches, washing laundry in the utility sink and eating canned food. At least they could shower. Their mom and stepdad, meanwhile, were lugging water from their pool to flush the toilet. Their house north of Hammond has well water, but the pump stopped working when the power went out. Tara Lightner described how she and her husband would pass buckets of pool water through the bathroom window. They have a small gas generator, which is powerful enough to run two fans and charge their phones but not enough to run the pump. Late Saturday morning, the fans were aimed at their 15-month-old son, Asher, who was rolling around in his playpen, sometimes screaming and intermittently throwing stuffed animals onto the floor. "Everyone is hot," Tara Lightner said. She had hardly slept the night before between the heat and a toothache, which recently started bothering her. Her husband, Howard Daniel Lightner, is a truckdriver a blessing because he can bring home gas from faraway places, but a curse because he has to leave his family for days on end under dire conditions. A few miles away at the Courtyard Apartments, Charles Rapp and Shirley Montgomery were keeping each other company Saturday afternoon, sitting in the sliver of shade produced by an overhang. "We're too old and too hot, just sitting out here looking at the birds and the mess," Rapp said with a resigned smile. Downed trees and power lines littered their complex, though the buildings received miraculously little damage. The two neighbors drank warm water and commiserated, hoping someone would come bring ice, which is almost as elusive as gas these days. Rapp said he feels resources are lacking for some residents, especially those without reliable transportation. He gets around on a bike, which makes things even more difficult because most shelters and food distribution locations are accessible only by car, Rapp said. Montgomery, who does drive, got into an accident Tuesday while trying to run errands after the storm. She swerved to avoid a fallen tree and wound up striking another, causing significant damage to the frontend of her car, she said. She was hoping for a rental, which would allow her to return to work as a home health aide. Miller, the parish president, said if people are desperate for supplies and lacking transportation, they can call the Tangipahoa Parish government for assistance at (985) 748-3211. Meanwhile in downtown Hammond, the owners and regulars at The Red, White & Brew a bar and liquor store on East Thomas Street were making the most of a sticky situation Saturday afternoon. Owner Todd Delaune said he reopened earlier in the week after customers donated a generator and some gas to keep the business up and running. That was enough to power some industrial fans and an ice machine. "You bring me gas, I give you booze," Delaune said, smiling widely. "We're kind of reverting to a barter system. Here in Hammond, people come together." The mood was jovial and Delaune was hopeful electricity would return to downtown soon. In the meantime, he said, everyone is welcome to come have a drink. Attorneys for an accused Baton Rouge cop-killer are objecting to the state's request to try him separately in the April 26, 2020, shooting deaths of his girlfriend's stepfather and police Lt. Glenn Dale Hutto Jr. East Baton Rouge Parish prosecutors had filed a motion in July stating that the woman and her mother won't cooperate with the state, so they want to try Ronnie Kato first in the slaying of Hutto. +3 In BRPD officer's killing, prosecutors want split trial, say other victim's family won't cooperate Prosecutors said Thursday they want to try a Baton Rouge man separately in the shooting deaths of his girlfriend's stepfather and a police off But Kato's lawyers say prosecutors are wrongly trying to relieve themselves of their burden of proof and shift that burden to Kato. His attorneys contend the killing of Curtis Richardson, his girlfriend's stepfather, is an integral part of the chain of events which led to Hutto's killing several hours later. Kato, 37, of Baton Rouge, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the killings of Richardson, 58, and Hutto, 45, and faces a possible death sentence if convicted of first-degree murder. +5 In Baton Rouge police officer's slaying, man indicted on first-degree murder counts The man accused of fatally shooting a Baton Rouge police officer and his girlfriend's stepfather a few hours apart last April was indicted Wed Authorities say Kato killed Richardson during a domestic dispute on North Pamela Drive. Hes believed to have fatally shot Hutto several hours later while police were searching for Kato at a home on Conrad Drive. Prosecutor Dana Cummings wrote in July that Richardson's wife, who is the mother of Kato's girlfriend, also was present at the Pamela Drive scene. She said both women are "necessary witnesses" to the prosecution in the Richardson slaying. Cummings, however, said both women "have exhibited hostility to members of the District Attorney's Office and have indicated that they will not cooperate with the prosecution in the cases." She said the state would be prejudiced at Kato's trial for the killing of Hutto if forced to prosecute the two murder counts together. Kato's lawyers with the Capital Defense Project of Southeast Louisiana essentially wrote on Aug. 27 that the state's predicament is not the defense's problem. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up "In order for the entire circumstances of April 26th to be fully and accurately presented to the jury, the relevant witnesses for the Richardson count need to be called along with the ones for Officer Hutto," attorneys Sean Collins and Kerry Cuccia wrote. +3 Prosecutors want to use 'Gavin Long' threat against accused Baton Rouge cop-killer More than two years before Ronnie Kato allegedly killed Baton Rouge Police Lt. Glenn Hutto Jr. and his girlfriend's stepfather in what began a "If the Court were to grant this severance, the State's burden would shift to the defense in that Mr. Kato would be compelled to call witnesses in order to fully explain the events of April 26th. This burden-shifting is incongruent with the fundamental understanding of the presumption of innocence and burden of proof," they added. The state's contention that Kato's girlfriend and her mother are hostile and uncooperative may mean that they will refuse to comply with any state subpoenas, or that they do not wish Kato to be executed, or that they will not provide provide information about Kato "which fits into the State's narrative about him," Collins and Cuccia wrote. "Failure of an essential witness to comply with a subpoena may constitute prejudice; not telling the State what it wants to hear does not," they stated. The lawyers have filed a motion seeking to view the evidence supporting the state's allegations of uncooperative witnesses. Kato also allegedly shot Cpl. Derrick Maglone in the police encounter. Maglone was critically injured but released from the hospital May 7, 2020. A detective previously testified that Kato ambushed the officers with an assault-style rifle as they searched for him in the backyard of a Conrad Drive home. The same rifle was used to kill Hutto and Richardson, the detective said. +7 BRPD officer radioed for help, tried to help wounded colleague before he was killed in April attack After Ronnie Kato seriously wounded Baton Rouge police officers Derrick Maglone and Glenn Hutto Jr. from inside a car with heavily tinted wind Hutto, a 21-year veteran of the police force and a sergeant at the time of his death, received the rank of lieutenant posthumously. Rupert Murdochs Fox News is demanding an external inquiry be conducted into two episodes of ABCs Four Corners that focused on the American cable TV networks coverage of former US president Donald Trump and its role in the 2020 general election. The 27-page formal complaint was sent to the ABCs chair Ita Buttrose and ABC managing director David Anderson on Friday, and claims the programs were an attack on Fox News and asks for a response and a correction to concerns about the two episodes within 14 days. The letter according to people familiar with its contents, alleges the ABC has breached its code of practice and the federal governments standards for the national broadcasters. Fox News has formalised a complaint with the ABC over a two-part series that looked at its role in the 2020 US election. Credit:AP An ABC spokesperson confirmed it received the letter and an investigation would take place in line with standard processes. The ACMA said it was aware of the complaint and that if Fox News is dissatisfied with the broadcasters response or doesnt receive a response within 60 days the watchdog will assess the two episodes. Fox News could not be reached for comment before deadline. Sources familiar with the letters contents said it raised similar issues to a legal threat sent to the ABC on August 22, before the first program went to air. It discusses concerns about anti-Fox News bias and the inability of the individuals interviewed except for one to have any insider knowledge about how the network covered the 2020 election. So, what does Indo-Pacific mean? Where does it begin and end? And who are Australias friends in this region today? In August, as Biden defended the US exit from Afghanistan, Vice President Kamala Harris was in south-east Asia affirming her nations proud part in the Indo-Pacific some of our closest allies and strongest partners are here. When the Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty recently marked its 70th anniversary , Morrison told Parliament, ANZUS is the foundation stone of Australias national security and a key pillar for peace and stability in our Indo-Pacific region. Indo-Pacific, a term once used mostly by marine biologists and bio-geographers, has become common parlance among diplomats, bureaucrats and politicians, finding particularly free and full expression at events such as G7 meetings. In Cornwall in June, talk of the Indo-Pacific was there at every turn. A free and open Indo-Pacific is essential to each of our futures, said US President Joe Biden. The Indo-Pacific is the epicentre of strategic competition, said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Nowhere, said Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, is change happening more rapidly than in our region, in the Indo-Pacific. Quaint it may seem but, in some respects at least, the map shows what we know today as the Indo-Pacific. A map of the Indo-Pacific in 1570 by Ortelius of Antwerp, combining Asia, North America and the edge of Australia (marked Beach) as one region. The map frames a section of the world: the Persian Gulf is at left, a sprawling India and China are in the centre and North America is at top right. Australia is a little mauve island at the bottom, labelled Beach. Mermaids and monsters ply the seas in a colourful map belonging to former diplomat Rory Medcalf. The map was created by Flemish cartographer Abraham Ortelius in 1571, just decades after the globe had been first circumnavigated, and yet it is strikingly modern, says Medcalf, monsters and mermaids aside. And other concerns are now part of the picture too, not least the ongoing threat of Islamic terrorism, the rising challenge of far-right extremism, and challenges posed by authoritarian countries such as Russia and North Korea. There is more talk of grey zone warfare , those aggressions such as cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns that fall between what we traditionally view as war with its open, kinetic aggression and peace. China, under President Xi Jinping, has become more assertive. There has been controversy over islands and reefs in the South China Sea being turned into military bases and airstrips. Beijing has moved to reassert control over Hong Kong decades ahead of an undertaking that the administrative region would remain under one-country, two-systems until 2049. And Xi has publicly said that it is time for Taiwan to also come back to the fold. At that time, our most powerful ally was the United States, and its supremacy was unchallenged in the region. But for about a decade, this has been changing. There was a time, not so long ago, when we said Australia was part of the Asia-Pacific. While there were never any hard and fast borders attached to the term, it implied a focus on nations in and around the Western Pacific Ocean: the Pacific islands, south-east Asia and up into Japan and China. In a bid to evolve Australia from its Anglo-American and European-facing world view, prime minister Paul Keating contended in 1993 that Australia needed to look to the Asia-Pacific because that is where our great opportunity is. It is where our future lies. Former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton used the term in 2010, but Australia was the first country to refer to it in official documents the 2013 Defence White Paper makes 58 mentions while the 2017 Foreign Policy White Paper defines it. By Australias reckoning, the Indo-Pacific ranges from the eastern Indian Ocean to the Pacific, connected by south-east Asia, home to nine of Australias top 10 trading partners. But the boundaries are not fixed. Seas around the world are becoming sites of geopolitical jockeying and the Indian Ocean is no exception. Off the west coast of Australia, significant changes are afoot. The ocean is home to major commercial shipping routes that connect the Middle East and East Asia via the Malacca Straits . Beijings navy has been growing its presence in this ocean, linked to factors such as its growing reliance on Middle East oil shipments and its objective to spread its influence to the east. It has launched infrastructure blitzes in Sri Lanka and throughout east Africa as part of Xis signature foreign policy Belt and Road Initiative, the Road referring to the Maritime Silk Road used to transport goods from Africa across the Indian Ocean and up into China via south-east Asia. The worlds second-most populous nation after China, India, has transformed from a South Asian power with a non-aligned foreign policy into a nation increasingly capable of influencing and shaping outcomes in the wider region. This is even while domestic issues, including widespread poverty, hold it back from being a peer competitor with China, which has become the worlds second-largest economy after the US, claiming to have eliminated absolute poverty in 2021, the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party. Amid all of this, the United States is declining relative to China, across several measures of economic and military power enough to shake decades-old assumptions about its domination in this region. If this all sounds a bit rhetorical, Medcalf points out that the Indo-Pacific is no less invented than the Asia-Pacific but the Asia-Pacific marginalised or excluded India and the Indian Ocean. It is a place, an idea and a wave sweeping global diplomacy, he says of the Indo-Pacific. It reframes an Asia-centric region to reflect growing connectivity and contest across two oceans. Rather than one superpower being in charge, or two butting heads, it involves an expansive array of new partnerships. Only Russia and China consistently reject the term, says Medcalf, with the two countries seeing the enlarged definition of the region as an attempt to bring in more countries to contain them. The margins will shift according to the issue at hand If were talking about China building military bases on the east coast of Africa, thats an Indo-Pacific issue. If were talking about the day-to-day diplomacy and politics of east African countries with one another, thats their issue, says Medcalf, now the head of the National Security College at the Australian National University. Medcalf , a national security analyst who wrote the book Contest for the Indo-Pacific: Why China Wont Map the Future (2020), says the Indo-Pacific does have a recognisable core in maritime south-east Asia the sea lanes, the archipelago of Indonesia, the South China Sea. Countries such as the US and India define the Indo-Pacific as the entire Indian Ocean region, extending to Africas east coast. The European Unions ambassador to Australia, Michael Pulch, says European nations define the region a bit larger. We define it from starting at the west coast of Africa, and ending in the South Pacific, he says. Despite, or perhaps because of its fluidity, the term has been adopted by India, Indonesia, Japan and the 10 countries that make up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Still, Richard Maude, a former Office of National Assessments boss who wrote the 2017 White Paper defining our version of the Indo-Pacific, says the importance of India to Australia is clear as an increasingly substantial bilateral relationship in its own right and as a partner in shared efforts to build a multi-polar region rather than one dominated solely by China. As for Australias relationship with India, the two nations signed a strategic partnership in 2009, which led to them sharing in joint military exercises and more regular dialogue between its political leaders. The relationship is still hampered by the lack of a free trade agreement, though, with Indias protectionist instinct making it difficult to contemplate a deal. Concern in India about Chinas regional ambitions have grown sharply in recent years and are now amplified again by the brutal border clashes of past months, says Medcalf. India sees itself as a civilisational peer of China, even if its economy is much smaller. India, meanwhile, has its own reasons for wanting to be on the Indo-Pacific map. An ancient civilisation, as is China, it lives in an uneasy symbiosis with its northern neighbour, dependent on China for goods such as machinery, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. The nations share a border that runs through the Himalayas, the exact boundaries of which are so contested that fatal hand-to-hand fighting has broken out between Indian and Chinese troops there recently . It also cuts through questions about Australias place in Asia. Here, at last, is a definition of our region in which Australia unequivocally belongs, transcending the old debate about whether or not Australia is an Asian country. India will engage with the region on its own terms, he says. [India] doesnt do alliances and values strategic autonomy. But competition with China is nonetheless driving stronger convergences between India and its fellow Quad members. Whats the Quad and where does it fit in? US leader Joe Biden, Japans Yoshihide Suga, Australias Scott Morrison and Indias Narendra Modi during a virtual Quad meeting hosted by Japan in March. Credit:Bloomberg Made up of Australia in the south, Japan in the north, India in the west and the US in the east, the Quad, or Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, encapsulates the Indo-Pacific world order. The Quad was conceived in the wake of the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004 when the four nations co-ordinated relief. Its members didnt meet until 2007, when they also conducted a large naval exercise with Singapore. An unimpressed Beijing saw the grouping as an Asian NATO designed to contain China. In any case, the Quad did not gain traction and the Rudd government announced its demise in 2008. Loading But the years that followed were dominated by Chinas shows of strength in the region such that officials from the four countries met five times between 2017 and 2020, with each nations leaders finally meeting in 2021, a get-together Maude describes as a dramatic leap forward for the Quad and one of the most significant developments in Indo-Pacific security architecture in recent years. The 2021 meeting did not mention China by name; rather, members committed to deliver equitable COVID-19 vaccines to the region and collaborate on tackling climate change and driving technological innovation. All the same, the Quad has a signalling function, says Maude. It demonstrates to China that its aggression and zero-sum diplomacy in the region are creating a balancing coalition against China: the very thing that China fears. It similarly demonstrates resolve to other countries in the region feeling the press of Chinas power, notably south-east Asia. Japan, the US and India invited Australia to join their Malabar naval exercises in 2020, bringing a military dimension to the group, even though the exercises are not done under the Quad banner. Loading While the Quads rebirth occurred under former US president Donald Trump, Maude says the Biden administrations early and obvious commitment to the forum has given it new energy and a practical agenda. It is helping move the Quad from something that simply signals to a group that can act, he says. Importantly, the key initiatives coming out of the recent summit were about supporting the region at a time of need, not overtly about pushing back against China. Medcalf says responding to the COVID-19 outbreak in India was an important test for the Quad. The US had been criticised for not releasing surplus COVID-19 vaccines to India. After some initial hesitation, they are all in, Medcalf says. I think the record will show that Australia played an important role in encouraging the US to assist its fellow Quad member in distress. The Australian Navy accepted Indias invitation to participate in the Malabar 2020 naval exercise in the South China Sea. Credit:Royal Australian Navy Asked whether the Quad will form into a hard-headed security alliance like NATO or a soft multilateral grouping like ASEAN (see below), Medcalf says for now it is something in between and its future depends on Chinas actions. The more China seeks to coerce individual countries in the region the stronger the Quad is likely to get and the more that the countries of the Quad will be willing to take the steps of strengthening ties. Of course, some of the Quad members already have longstanding ties. The US and Japan have had a security treaty since 1951. The 70th anniversary of the ANZUS treaty was celebrated on September 1. While the US, Australia and New Zealand have participated in wars in Korea, Vietnam and Iraq, the ANZUS alliance has been invoked once, when the Howard government used it as the basis for its participation in the invasion of Afghanistan after the September 11 terror attacks. The alliance with the US remains fundamental, says Medcalf, because of not only the relative convergence of values, especially in a post-Trump America, but because of the exceptional strategic power and weight the US brings to helping Australia protect itself. The simple fact is that Australia could contribute to its defence but does not have the capacity to defend itself in a major conflict, he says. Medcalf says there is no expectation among Quad members that they would go to war together in the case that, for example, hostilities escalated over a crisis in Taiwan. He says it would be more likely Australia, Japan and the US would work together in a military confrontation and India would be an optional in or out. If [Indias] relations of mistrust with China continue to worsen, we shouldnt be saying there is a strict limit to what the Quad can do together, he says. He points to the potential for a Quad-plus arrangement to deal with specific situations as they arise. Countries including New Zealand and Vietnam were added to phone hook-ups among Quad countries in March 2020, but the idea of a Quad-plus is still in its early days. What does ASEAN do? US national security adviser Robert OBrien addresses a virtual ASEAN summit in 2020. Credit:AP The 10 nations of south-east Asia have their own forum that works with other powers. ASEAN, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, is an economic union made up of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam that is also a key regional forum for dealing with geopolitical issues. Australia became the first of ASEANs 10 dialogue partners in 1974 and participates in most of its forums. ASEAN is regularly criticised for its lack of effective action in dealing with challenges in the region, most notably in its response to the recent military coup in Myanmar. ASEAN has released statements urging an immediate halt to the violence in Myanmar but has not moved to put direct pressure on the countrys military government through sanctions. Medcalf says ASEAN is significant mainly because of what it symbolises; a commitment among the 10 countries at the geographic core of the Indo-Pacific to preserve stability and coexistence among themselves and to act as a diplomatic convenor for the wider region to discourage major power rivalry. Loading But while it has the respect of other countries as a relatively neutral ground for diplomacy, it has its weaknesses, he says, providing restraints on Chinas power but not enough by itself. Medcalf says the limits of ASEAN is one of the reasons why minilateral forums such as the Quad are forming. Those minilateral forums are more effective at rapidly co-ordinating and you dont have to abide by the consensus rule of ASEAN. Medcalf warns ASEANs members could look elsewhere to get things done. The East Asia Summit consists of the ASEAN countries as well Australia, New Zealand, India, the US and Russia. When the EAS was established in 2005, China tried to block Australia and New Zealand from joining but the two countries got on board with support from Japan, Singapore, Indonesia and other south-east Asian countries. When the US joined in 2010, and Russia joined with the encouragement of China, the EAS encompassed all points of the Indo-Pacific. Does the Commonwealth still matter? The Commonwealth the 54 nations that once made up the British Empire is not entirely obsolete but it has been fading in significance over the past few decades. Back in the days of apartheid, the Commonwealth played a key role in imposing economic sanctions against South Africa, with its then-secretary general Sonny Ramphal an important voice in campaigning against racism and the denial of human rights in the country. It is difficult to see the institution being used today as the key vehicle to drive change on the international stage. Still, Medcalf says it is not worth jettisoning the Commonwealth as an institution because it has some latent value in standing up for democratic principles and the protection of democratic institutions. That is certainly part of the glue and heritage of most Commonwealth countries, he says. And many important Commonwealth countries are in the Indo-Pacific. Where does Europe factor in all this? US First Lady Jill Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron at the Olympics Opening Ceremony in Tokyo. Credit:Getty Images The heightened attention on the Indo-Pacific does not mean other allies in Europe are no longer important. Britains exit from the European Union means it is looking to forge closer economic relations with countries further afield, including Australia Canberra has secured a free trade agreement with Britain and negotiating one with the European Union. Loading The EU is also developing its own Indo-Pacific strategy. Pulch, its top diplomat in Canberra, says we dont see ourselves as coming back to the region because in many ways it never left. Many European countries have longstanding relationships with the region, and that includes also partly as colonial powers in the past but also as traders, as countries that have cultural links and so forth, he says. But the focus is sharper these days because we all recognise the importance of this region for the stability and prosperity of the entire world two-thirds of the global growth will come from the Indo-Pacific. So we think that we can bring a lot to the table here, for countries in the region in forms of investment, in forms of trade, development, aid but also as a provider of security and support of the multilateral-rules-based system, which was under strain, as we know. Medcalf says Europe has become increasingly relevant in the Indo-Pacific with Brussels now seeing China as a systemic rival, particularly in the battle for cutting-edge technologies such as 5G. There is the beginning of a global consciousness thats bringing European powers back to the Indo-Pacific, he says. Now, that doesnt mean their navies are going to come back in force, but it all makes a difference in standing up for the rules-based order in the region because most of the clashes and conflicts here are going to be grey-zone coercion short of war, rather than all-out war. The very fact that European technologies at the moment is the main alternative to 5G is one way that Europe can make a strategic difference in the region. Europe also retains high levels of trust in south-east Asia and can provide options other than Chinese investment and development assistance. Loading Closer to home, Medcalf says Australia needs to invest in institutions such as the Pacific Islands Forum and the Indian Ocean Rim Association. One strong argument is that Australia should consolidate and strengthen its position as the convenor of choice among many of these organisations because were in just about all of them and we still have capacity and credibility in most of them as well. Whether theyre in the region or not, everyone is now looking to the Indo-Pacific. It is more than a colourful map. Adelaide, Wednesday. A postcard of the Loch Vennachar. Credit:State Library of Victoria A correspondent at Hog Bay, Kangaroo Island, telegraphed news tonight which seems to indicate that a wreck has taken place close to Backstairs Passage, a few miles south-west of Cape Willoughby. The wreckage is presumed to belong to the missing ship Loch Vennachar, which is overdue from Glasgow. The correspondent states: I have just returned from my fathers farm at Cape Hart, Kangaroo Island, where I have been since Sunday afternoon. Late the same evening I noticed fresh wreckage washing up on the rocks. On Monday morning I set out to investigate, and walked along the coast about twelve miles to the westward, and the whole distance was littered with unmistakeable evidence of a fresh wreck having taken place. Broken whisky casks, marked Glasgow, and smelling strongly of spirits, were plentiful. A ships figure head, painted white, was also seen. Several tins of kippered herrings were picked up, and many broken cases were lying about, some being marked James M. Davidson, fish and meat preserver, Glasgow and Aberdeen. Most of the wreckage was smashed to small fragments, among which could be seen part of deck houses, deck planks, freshly painted. A roll of paper was seen marked, Portobello, superfine. On Tuesday I renewed the search, which led to similar results. No sign of human life was visible. The fact that the winds prevailing along the coast recently have been southerly leads me and others to surmise that a catastrophe has taken place on a reef which begins about ten miles south of Cape Hart, where heavy seas have been seen to break for several week past. Her decision to go public and become the first female firefighter to blow the whistle has also been backed by serving colleagues. Fire Rescue Victorias Commander Mark Carter, who has served for 31 years, describes Ms Wheatleys decision to take a stand as exceptionally hard and brave. The sexual harassment culture is so ingrained, Ive also been challenged because I am defending her and Ive faced innuendo and attacks. Some other firefighters will say, He must be f---ing her, Mr Carter said of his decision to join Ms Wheatley in calling out the culture among firefighters. In the past he described this as a blatant, in-your-face, footy-club, stripper-club culture, but had moderated in recent years to be more subtle and targeted. Im not proud of my role in it. When she came to me in the early days, I warned her against speaking out because I told her it wouldnt be pretty, he said. Another still-serving firefighter, senior station officer Mac Hanson, a 20-year veteran, said Ms Wheatley was calling out behaviour that female firefighters had faced over many years. I think there is massive denial about harassment and discrimination, Ms Hanson said. The fact that Donna has no choice but to bravely break her silence shows how broken our system is. There are so many examples of poor behaviour where all that happens is the perpetrator gets moved on and then promoted. While Commissioner Ken Block is not mentioned adversely in Ms Wheatleys allegations, some of the most senior Fire Rescue Victoria officers in the state are accused of unprofessional handling of workplace issues. Ms Wheatleys most serious accusations are levelled against a range of other senior firefighters. Peter Marshall, United Firefighters Union secretary Credit:Angela Wylie Ms Wheatley alleges the harassment began in 1998 when, on joining the MFB in an administrative role, she was told by a high-ranking officer that if she wanted to be a firefighter she would have to accept youll be sexually harassed, thats just how it will be. But the real trauma began when Ms Wheatley became a firefighter in 2003, just one of 15 or 16 women in 1700 firefighters. In her first week of recruitment training, Ms Wheatleys class was allegedly told by an instructor they would need a wank sock when working night shift. After graduating that same year, a senior officer forced Ms Wheatley to kiss him at a work function by aggressively thrusting his face on hers. The alleged act was met with shock by Ms Wheatley, yet others at her station erupted into laughter. In the following months, Ms Wheatley was a regular occupant of fire trucks with male colleagues who would routinely degrade passerby women as sexual objects. Collins Street was described as c--t canyon, she alleges. Fire Rescue Victoria declined to comment on Ms Wheatleys complaint. Credit:Paul Jeffers At a Christmas party in 2005, a senior station officer told Ms Wheatley in front of a group of firefighters they intended to take her home and have sex with her. At the next years Christmas party, Ms Wheatley alleges she was sexually assaulted, with a firefighter grabbing her breasts. At another Christmas event in 2011, she was sexually propositioned by a senior station officer who then, when Ms Wheatley sought to walk away, manhandled her. In 2014, at another work social event, a commander sexually harassed Ms Wheatley by grabbing her bottom. None of these incidents were ever acted upon despite complaints, she says, and firefighters who were known sexual harassers were protected. Ms Wheatley, who is on leave from her current role as Northern District operational commander, says one man who flashed his genitals during a shift and who routinely called women bitches was simply moved to another station rather than face any disciplinary behaviour. She said a high-ranking officer who labelled the decision by firefighters to bring a sex doll to a retirement party as a bit of fun was later promoted. Pornography was routinely on display in fire stations, she said. When Ms Wheatley sought to complain to more-senior officers she says she was warned that she would have her own behaviour criticised. In addition to sexual harassment, Ms Wheatley faced routine gender discrimination. As she advanced up the fire fighting ranks, she alleges she was belittled, called a bitch, or addressed as sir. This did not abate when Ms Wheatley became a senior officer. She was aggressively bullied by a superior officer into moving her belongings out of the officer locker room because she was a woman, Ms Wheatley alleges. When she called out the suspected misuse of station resources by firefighters over ordering supplies, she was again labelled a bitch by a senior firefighter accused of wrongdoing. Loading Mr Bornstein, who has represented women in some of Australias highest profile harassment cases, said the allegations of widespread sexual harassment and gender discrimination are deeply disturbing and revealed a culture at Fire Rescue Victoria is riddled with misogyny, sexism and abuse. I am amazed that Donna is still standing after the treatment that she has endured over many years. Just reading her account is both traumatic and exhausting, said Mr Bornstein. For years, Donna Wheatley has endured an unsafe workplace, trying all the while to make it safer. Eventually, she could not go on. The flip side of being so resilient in the face of abuses such as sexual harassment and workplace bullying is that eventually, even the toughest crumble. And because they have absorbed far more mistreatment, when they succumb to ill health, it can be very serious and long-lasting. Blogger Shane Dowling has declared himself a fugitive following an order by the NSW Supreme Court on Friday that he be arrested and jailed for 10 months for criminal contempt. This will be his third stint in jail for the intentional, willful and deliberate flouting of court orders, most of them relating to his continuing obsession with media mogul Kerry Stokes and the Seven Network. An arrest warrant has been issued for blogger Shane Dowling. Credit:YouTube In sentencing Dowling on Friday, Justice Kelly Rees said his latest contempt involved deliberately flouting court orders by setting up anonymous websites to publish material about Mr Stokes and his business despite previously having been ordered to remove the material. In 2017, the blogger was sentenced to four months in jail for continuing to make allegations on his website naming two Channel Seven personalities who had taken action against him for defamation. Former human rights commissioner Chris Sidoti has accused the Australian government of ignoring pleas from Afghanistans key human rights body to offer protection to some of its members, lashing Australias handling of the withdrawal from the country as disastrous mismanagement. The Australian government has so far granted 17 visas to members of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission (AIHRC), which assisted the Brereton war crimes inquiry and had been helping the Office of the Special Investigator in its investigations into Australian soldiers up until the Talibans takeover of Kabul. Australian officials work with members of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment ready combat team to process evacuees at Hamid Karzai International Airport. Credit:ADF But Mr Sidoti says the AIHRC chairperson sent the Australian government a list of 90 staff members considered to be at grave risk from the Taliban because of their work investigating atrocities, especially relating to women and children, before the fall of Kabul. She asked for asylum for people on the list and their families, as many as we could take. She got no response, he wrote in an opinion piece for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. Once we get to 70 and 80 [per cent of the general population fully vaccinated], the vaccination program continues, particularly for those areas where the vaccination coverage might be less, she said. Murdoch Childrens Research Institute immunisation expert Associate Professor Margie Danchin said those regions deserve a targeted vaccine push to protect everyone in the community and to give parents the confidence to send their children to school. The unvaccinated household members are the ones that are really at risk, its not the under-12s, she said. The risk of these primary school kids going to school is yeah, they might get infected, or they might get a mild cold, but they may go home, and then they can cause serious illness in their other household members. Parts of NSW among the worst hit in the current outbreak also have the highest proportion of under-12s. In western NSW, which is currently grappling with the spread of coronavirus, several communities have higher percentages of young children. In Bourke, 21 per cent of the local population is under the age of 12. Children also make up more than 18 per cent of the populations of Lachlan and Coonamble. Western and south-western Sydney regions also have high proportions of primary school-aged children. In Camden, there are almost 22,000 children under 12, making 20.4 per cent of the local population. There are 71,787 under-12s in Blackdown, while Campbelltown has 18 per cent under 12. In Victoria, 21.6 per cent of the Wyndham population in Melbournes outer south-west is made up of children aged under 12. It also has the highest number of children in that age group, with more than 61,000 zero to 11-year-olds. Nearly 20 per cent of the population in Melton, also in the outer south-west, is under 12s, while more than 18 per cent of the population in other outer Melbourne regions including Casey, Hume and Croydon are made up of that age group. The states Premier Daniel Andrews said many of the states 1714 active cases were in younger Victorians. There were 216 cases in children aged 0 to 9, and 232 in those aged 10 to 19, he said on Sunday. The age breakdown confirms that this is a pandemic of the unvaccinated, Mr Andrews said. Almost half of the local government areas that have the highest proportion of young children are in Queensland. Most of the regions with the highest percentage of under 12s are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities, including Cherbourg (31.3 per cent), Doomadgee (30.1 per cent) and the Northern Peninsula (29.6 per cent). There are now two vaccines approved for use in children aged over 12 in Australia after the medical regulator approved Modernas vaccine for 12 to 17-year-olds on Saturday. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation is expected to give advice to the federal government next on how that vaccine should be used in children. Pfizer has been approved by both the Therapeutic Goods Administration and ATAGI for 12 to 15-year-olds, and those children will be able to book vaccination appointments from mid-September. Health Minister Greg Hunt said Australia does not need separate paediatric vaccine agreements with either Pfizer or Moderna as the existing contracts for 2022 have more than enough to cover the entire population. Children are already covered by the existing contract, he told this masthead. The federal government has a contract with Pfizer for 60 million doses in 2022, and with Moderna for a further 15 million doses next year. Both pharmaceutical companies are running trials of their vaccines in children aged six months to 11. The trials will confirm both the efficacy and relevant dosage levels, Mr Hunt said. Deputy Labor Leader Richard Marles said parents with children under 12 were obviously anxious. The government needs to explain to people what steps it is taking in relation to that, and I think particularly in relation to the various paediatric vaccines, which are under trial ... around the world at the moment, he told Sky News on Sunday morning. Loading Professor Danchin said there is robust data from overseas and locally that shows Delta remains milder in children than adults. More than 50 per cent of cases in under 12s were asymptomatic or mild, she said, so even if younger children did catch COVID, those at greatest risk were any unvaccinated older family members. The soaring cost of living in capital cities, on top of the COVID-19 pandemic, has younger Australians prepared to move to the regions, with one of the nations biggest confectioners calling for more investment in critical infrastructure and skills training to help people make the switch. Mars Wrigley general manager Andrew Leakey said while the food manufacturing sector was growing, it faced a tough battle to get people to move to regional Australia, even though many were interested in the idea. Confectionery manufacturer Mars says people are interested in leaving major cities for sweet spots in regional Australia. The overall number of people working in manufacturing has barely changed over the past two years, but in food manufacturing it has climbed 6 per cent to more than 222,000. Many of those jobs are in regional areas. Mars, which has production sites in towns such as Wodonga and Ballarat in regional Victoria, has conducted survey work to find out if people particularly STEM-trained young Australians are prepared to move to the regions. However, COVID-19 response commander Jeroen Weimar said 54 construction sites, out of 600 that had been visited, were not compliant with coronavirus restrictions, including mask-wearing, cleaning regimes and site registrations. Loading Its in those sorts of gaps that we see cases, like at the Box Hill construction site, suddenly jump, Mr Weimar said. If you have the breaks in protocols, COVID will get in and spread rapidly across your workforce and across your site. We have issued enforcement notices to those not complying. But a big callout to those, for all the work you are doing to keep your places as safe as possible now we are dealing with the Delta variant. Cases linked to the Box Hill construction site have jumped to 63, and the public health team has identified 14 cases more than half the people who were on site linked to Classy Kitchens in Craigieburn. In a major policy shift last week, the Andrews government abandoned its COVID-zero strategy and focused its attention on vaccinating the state out of the latest Delta outbreak, which has reached 1414 active cases. Of those, 89 are in hospital, with 24 in intensive care and 13 on a ventilator. One of the people in intensive care is a man aged in his 20s. A security guard at a Melbourne detention centre has tested positive for COVID-19. Other restrictions to be eased once the state hits its single-dose vaccination target include expanding the travel bubble from five kilometres to 10 kilometres, lifting the outdoor exercise time limit from two hours to three, and allowing people to have personal training sessions with one other person. Mr Andrews urged Victorians not to wait to get vaccinated. Dont wait for next month, dont wait until some other time. Act on that now, he said. The more people who get vaccinated, the quicker we will get to the 70 per cent mark thats obviously a good thing. Secondly, the harder we all work to follow these rules and limit the cases, the more options we will have. Those two things work together very, very closely. Professor Nancy Baxter, clinical epidemiologist and head of the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, predicted any easing of restrictions would be contingent on case numbers continuing to stabilise. If theyve managed to keep things not growing too much, then we may well be able to open up some more restrictions, particularly with respect to outdoors, she said. The Premier didnt talk about picnics, but something like picnics would work. And perhaps less restriction on the amount of times outdoors. Theres going to be very little indoor activity for quite some time. Catherine Bennett, chair of epidemiology at Deakin University, implored the government to allow for outdoor gatherings with one other household, warning about the dangers of lockdown fatigue. She said it was essential for lockdown-weary Melburnians to be allowed to enjoy some outdoor freedoms that were still relatively safe. Professor Catherine Bennett says it is time to ease some restrictions to ensure wider compliance. Credit:Jason South Its about keeping people on the most essential bits of lockdown and not worrying about the peripheral constraints, Professor Bennett said. She said it was important to have fewer rules but stick to the fundamentals of not visiting households, and not opening indoor restaurants or indoor venues. We need to address some of these issues, and really paring back the rules to make it more likely for people to really follow them. Loading Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan on Sunday announced a $27 million funding boost for food, financial relief and family violence services, in recognition of the acute impact of the states sixth lockdown, and the slow rollout of the Commonwealths vaccination program. Family violence during this period of time, it has increased, there is no doubt about that, and this is very much about providing that support and recognising the continuing need to support people, he said. If you are in that situation, really, that is a simple reason to get out of your house. Singapore: Like the vast majority of people living in Singapore, Kirsten Moench and her husband Ingo havent left the south-east Asian city-state since COVID-19 brought international travel to its knees in March last year. But this weeks opening of a travel lane for vaccinated travellers between their home country, Germany, and Singapore the first such corridor between Asia and Europe since the pandemic began has suddenly changed the landscape for them. Ingo and Kirsten Moench have booked tickets on a Singapore-Frankfurt flight for vaccinated passengers. They were planning to fly back this month anyway to visit family in Aachen, near Germanys borders with the Netherlands and Belgium, but now will not need to quarantine when they return to Singapore. Im extremely excited about it ... I think its a great thing, said Moench, the head of external communications at the German European School Singapore. The Morrison governments disastrous mismanagement of the defeat in Afghanistan brings deep dishonour on us all. It will cost lives, perhaps thousands of lives. The government has caused grievous damage to people in Afghanistan, as well as to Australias reputation and its strategic interests in the region. And this is brought home by one particularly tragic story. For 20 years, Australia has supported the work of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission. We cheered its establishment in 2002. We encouraged its development. We enabled its work with grants of many millions of dollars. We sent people to Kabul to advise and strengthen it. We provided training programs for its commissioners and staff. I went over six times in 10 years to help. Chris Sidoti visits Kabul with the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission in November 2019. We also sought the commissions help when investigating allegations of war crimes against Australian soldiers in Afghanistan. The commission was the first to investigate these allegations, almost immediately after the events occurred, and reported them to Australian authorities. If the military had listened to the commission, perhaps we could have avoided further allegations. The commission assisted the Brereton Inquiry into the allegations and has been assisting the Australian governments Office of the Special Investigator. With the support of the Australian and other governments, the commission became one of the most trusted, most credible and most effective state institutions in Afghanistan. It is acclaimed internationally its chairperson has been asked to brief the United Nations Security Council three times in the past 14 months. Up for debate: Live legislation tracker Check out the latest developments on bills pending before state lawmakers in four key topics. Towanda, PA (18848) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 79F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Click the image to the left and log in to get your exclusive reader perks. David Carroll, a Chattanooga television news anchor, is the author of Volunteer Bama Dawg, available on his website, ChattanoogaRadioTV.com. You may contact him at radiotv2020@yahoo.com, or 900 Whitehall Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405. General view of Saudi Aramco's Ras Tanura oil refinery and oil terminal in Ras Tanura, Saudi Arabia, on May 21, 2018. (Ahmed Jadallah/Reuters) 2 Saudi Children Injured by Missile Intercepted Over Oil Region, Buildings Damaged DUBAITwo children were injured and buildings were damaged when a ballistic missile was intercepted over Saudi Arabias oil-rich eastern region on Saturday, the countrys ministry of defence said. The coalition blamed the attack on the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels. There was no immediate claim of responsibility in Houthi-run media. The missile was intercepted over a suburb of the city of Dammam, with scattered shrapnel injuring two Saudi children and causing light damage to 14 houses, the statement carried by state news agency SPA said. Photos on state media showed broken glass and damaged entrances of a few residential buildings. The coalition also said it intercepted and destroyed ballistic missiles heading towards Jazan and Najran in the southern part of the country. It earlier reported the interception of three explosive-laden drones headed towards the kingdom. Eastern Saudi Arabia is home to significant oil infrastructure that has previously been targeted by aerial attacks. An attack in September 2019 on two Aramco plants in the east temporarily knocked out half the countrys oil production. Yemens Iran-backed Houthis rebels, who regularly launch drones and missiles into the kingdom, have claimed responsibility for several attacks on Saudi oil installations in the past. The Ministry of Defence will take the necessary and deterrent measures to protect its lands and capabilities, and stop such hostile and cross-border attacks to protect civilians, in accordance with international humanitarian law, the ministry said. The Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, backing forces of the ousted government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi who was fighting the Houthis. The Epoch Times contributed to this report. A U.S. Air Force aircraft takes off from the airport in Kabul on Aug. 30, 2021. (Aamir Qureshi/AFP via Getty Images) Afghanistan: The Mistake Wasnt Going In, It Was How We Left Commentary My first encounter with Afghanistan was many years ago, through Eric Newbys A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush. The book is a hoot, partly because Newby made it quite clear that no walk in the Hindu Kush is short, but mostly because of its dramatization of the encounter between a modern Westerner and the harsh, primitive tribalism of a society caught in the past like a bug in amber. I think my next virtual trip to Afghanistan was through Peter Hopkirks riveting book The Great Game: The Struggle for Empire in Central Asia. Hopkirks account of Maj. Gen. William Elphinstones disastrous withdrawal from Kabul in 1842out of a party of 16,000 people, precisely one European, army surgeon William Brydon, made it out alivemade a deep impression on me. Wheres the army? Brydon was asked when, badly wounded, he wobbled into the British garrison in Jalalabad, some 90 miles east of Kabul. I am the army, he replied. Miraculously, Brydon lived for another 20 years. The pony that bore him into the fort wasnt so fortunate. He lay down directly and never rose. Theres a reason that Afghanistan is called the graveyard of empires. The Russians know a thing or two about that, although they at least managed their withdrawal in an orderly fashionunlike the United States, whose departure from Afghanistan, though not as sanguinary as Elphinstones, may well have larger global repercussions. I should say for the record that I strongly supported Americas entry into Afghanistan in the aftermath of 9/11. Indeed, it might be said that I supported it more strongly than our leaders, since I thought the rules of engagement we followed hampered the effective prosecution of the assault. Early on in the campaign, for example, we had a clear shot at Taliban bigwig Mullah Omar, but permission to take him out was denied for fear of collateral damage. I should also say that I supported former President Donald Trumps plan to extricate the United States from what had become Americas longest war. Was his deal with the Taliban, the so-called Doha agreement, a good one? Maybe not. Trump had promised to withdraw from Afghanistan by the end of May 2021, provided that the Taliban upheld their end of the bargain, which prominently included a promise that they would engage in intra-Afghan dialogue in order to achieve a permanent and comprehensive ceasefire that would yield a political roadmap for the countrys future. As a recent story in The Wall Street Journal notes, Trump administration officials emphasized the conditional nature of the U.S. commitment when the Doha agreement was signed. Trumps secretary of defense, Mark Esper, noted in March 2020 that Doha is a conditions-based agreement. If we assess that the Taliban is honoring the terms of the deal, he said, including progress on the political front between the Taliban and the current Afghan government, the United States will reduce our presence toward a goal of zero in 2021. If. Should progress toward that goal stall, then our drawdown likely will be suspended, as well, Esper said. I mention this minutia to answer critics of Trumps plan, in and out of the Biden administration. The administrations whining that the evacuation was Trumps plan, and, therefore, it was bad, but nonetheless that it was extraordinarily successful is especially risible or, to be more strictly accurate, is pathetic. The Taliban didnt abide by the agreement. They took the country by force, and they did it in such short order that Gen. Mark Milley didnt even have time to complain about all the white rage on view. That said, Bidens mistake wasnt in withdrawing U.S. forces from Afghanistan. His mistake was twofold: not holding the Taliban to their word and utterly bunglingbungling that rises to the level of criminal negligencethe evacuation. A memo to the experts in the State Department: The next time you have to withdraw from a hostile country, dont, I repeat, dont abandon your chief strategic airbase before evacuating U.S. citizens and our allies. Also, dont leave behind hundreds of millions of dollars of military hardware for the enemy to procure and use against its own population and, in due course, the West. Finally, dont listen to anything that Antony Blinken says. I stress again, however, that Bidens mistake wasnt in leaving Afghanistan. That was long overdue. His mistake was the way he left. Writing at The Spectator World, Daniel McCarthy got to the nub of the issue. Biden deserves censure for a thousand reasons, McCarthy wrote. But the public deserves an honest accounting of the war itself, which was never winnable in the way that those who sold the conflict to America at the outset had promised. Twenty years and $2 trillion later, we all know that (well, maybe not Bill Kristol or David French, but everyone who matters). McCarthy underscored the hard truth of the situation. Afghanistan is a disaster not primarily because of Biden but because our leadership class, in politics and the media alike, cannot confront uncomfortable truths. Above all, the uncomfortable truth is that Afghanistan was always an unlikely candidate for the institution of liberal democracy, and all the nonsense about diversity, gender equity, and the like that accompanies the American variety of liberalism like a limpet. No, we should have gone into Afghanistan after 9/11 and devastated al-Qaeda and anyone harboring them. Then, we should have left. We didnt, and the result is this sucking mess thats destroying the Biden administration and will likely have very serious implications for Americas status on the international stage. Again, McCarthy was absolutely correct: Afghanistan was lost the minute the mission became democracy-promotion and nation-building. A humiliating end was written in failures right at the start. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Afghan resistance movement and anti-Taliban uprising forces take part in a military training at Malimah area of Dara district in Panjshir province, Afghanistan, on Sept. 2, 2021. (Ahmad Sahel Arman/AFP via Getty Images) Afghan Resistance Forces Say Theyve Captured Hundreds of Taliban Amid Conflicting Reports The Taliban said Sunday it has entered the final holdout region amid reports of heavy fighting, although anti-Taliban resistance groups denied their claims and said that numerous Taliban terrorists were captured. Opposition groups in the Panjshir valley, led by the son of a former anti-Soviet fighter, have been holding out since the fall of Kabul about three weeks ago to the Taliban. Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi wrote on Twitter that the police headquarters and district center of Rukhah, adjacent to the provincial capital Bazarak, was captured. Opposition forces have suffered significant casualties and large numbers of prisoners, weapons, and ammunition were captured, he added. In a Twitter post on Saturday, Karimi posted a video that allegedly shows the Taliban entering Panjshir, claiming that the honorable and dignified people of Panjshir are completely free from the dirty grip of the warring and spy circle of foreigners. The Epoch Times was not able to verify the authenticity of the video. Fahim Dashti, a spokesman for the opposition group, the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan, told Reuters that the Taliban is spreading propaganda and trying to spread disinformation. The resistance forces are ready to continue their defense against any form of aggression, he said. Taliban terrorists are seen in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Aug. 29, 2021. (Aamir Qureshi/AFP via Getty Images) Another spokesperson for the resistance group told Al Jazeera on Sunday that they had captured hundreds of Taliban members, adding that their forces surrounded thousands of terrorists loyal to the Taliban in Khawak Pass and that the Taliban abandoned its vehicles and equipment. Also speaking to the Qatari-owned broadcaster, Dashti said that 1,000 Taliban members were killed, wounded, or captured in the clashes. Italian aid group Emergency said the Taliban, which is designated by several U.S. intelligence agencies as a terrorist organization, reached the trauma hospital it operates in Anabah in Panjshir valley. Last week, the Taliban claimed its forces took control of Panjshir but that assertion was disputed by resistance fighters. Meanwhile, there have been reports of heavy fighting continuing for days, with each side claiming it inflicted significant numbers of casualties. Bill Roggio, managing editor of the Long War Journal, which has chronicled the conflict in Afghanistan for decades, said that the resistance fighters had a steep uphill battle. The Taliban army has been hardened with 20 years of war and make no mistake, the Taliban trained an army, Roggio wrote on Twitter, adding the odds were long for the resistance to continue its holdout. The Taliban army was injected with a massive amount of weapons and munitions after the US withdrawal and collapse of the ANA [Afghan National Army], he added. But the top U.S. military official, Gen. Mark Milley, said in an interview over the weekend that the situation will likely devolve into a broader civil war. Meanwhile, the ensuing chaos caused by the war and rushed U.S. military evacuation could allow for terrorist groups like ISIS and al-Qaeda to establish a foothold. My military estimate is, is that the conditions are likely to develop a civil war. I dont know if the Taliban is going to be able to consolidate power and establish governance, Milley said. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (L) speaks as Secretary of State Antony Blinken looks on during their meeting with South Korean President Moon Jae-in at the Presidential Blue House in Seoul, South Korea on March 18, 2021. (Kim Hong-Ji/Pool Photo via AP) Blinken and Austin to Visit Gulf to Address Postwar Stresses WASHINGTONTop U.S. national security officials will see how the failed war in Afghanistan may be reshaping Americas relationships in the Middle East as they meet with key allies in the Persian Gulf and Europe this week. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin are traveling to the Gulf separately, leaving Sunday. They will talk with leaders who are central to U.S. efforts to prevent a resurgence of extremist threats in Afghanistan, some of whom were partners in the 20-year fight against the Taliban. Together, the Austin and Blinken trips are meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Bidens decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of U.S. partners in the Middle East. The U.S. military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navys 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but helike the Trump administration before himhas called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia. Theres nothing China or Russia would rather have, would want more, in this competition than the United States to be bogged down another decade in Afghanistan, Biden said in the hours after the last U.S. troops left. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin speaks during a briefing at the Pentagon in Washington about the end of the war in Afghanistan on Sept. 1, 2021. (Susan Walsh/AP Photo) In announcing his Gulf trip, Austin told a Pentagon news conference that staying focused on terrorist threats means relentless efforts against any threat to the American people from any place, even as the United States places a new focus on strategic challenges from China. Blinken travels to Qatar and will also stop in Germany to see Afghan evacuees at Ramstein airbase who are awaiting clearance to travel to the United States. While there he will join a virtual meeting with counterparts from 20 nations on the way ahead in Afghanistan. The secretary will convey the United States gratitude to the German government for being an invaluable partner in Afghanistan for the past 20 years and for German cooperation on transit operations moving people out of Afghanistan, spokesman Ned Price said Friday. Austin plans to start his trip by thanking the leaders of Qatar for their cooperation during the Kabul airlift that helped clear an initially clogged pipeline of desperate evacuees. In addition to permitting the use of al-Udeid airbase for U.S. processing of evacuees, Qatar agreed to host the American diplomatic mission that withdrew from Kabul at wars end. The Qataris also have offered a hand to help reopen the Kabul airport in cooperation with the Taliban. During a stop in Bahrain, Austin plans to speak with Marines who spent weeks at Kabul airport executing a frantic and dangerous evacuation of Afghans, Americans, and others. Eleven Marines were killed and 15 were wounded in a suicide bombing at the airport on Aug. 26. That attack killed a total of 13 U.S. service members and scores of Afghan civilians. The Pentagon chief also planned to visit Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and to meet with senior leaders in a region he knows well as a retired Army general and former head of U.S. Central Command with responsibility for all military operations there. Saudi Arabia was notably absent from the group of Gulf states who helped facilitate the U.S.-led evacuation from Kabul airport. Riyadhs relations with Washington are strained over Bidens efforts to revive a nuclear deal with Iran, among other issues. Just days before the U.S. left Afghanistan, the Saudis signed a military cooperation agreement with Russia. Biden said his decision to get out of Afghanistan after 20 years was part of a plan to turn the page on an approach to foreign policy since 2001 that he believes kept the U.S. military in Afghanistan far too long. Allies in the Gulf, where extremist threats are at the doorstep, want to know what the next U.S. policy page looks like. In Europe, too, allies are assessing what the lost war in Afghanistan and its immediate aftermath mean for their collective interests, including the years-old question of whether Europe should become less reliant on the United States. We need to increase our capacity to act autonomously when and where necessary, Josep Borrell Fontelles, the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy, wrote on Twitter on Thursday. In this handout provided by U.S. Central Command Public Affairs, passengers board a U.S. Air Force C-17 as part of the evacuation from Afghanistan, at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan on Aug. 24, 2021. (Master Sgt. Donald R. Allen/U.S. Air Forces Europe-Africa via Getty Images) Americas European allies in NATO had more troops in Afghanistan than did the United States when Biden announced in April that he would withdraw by September. The Europeans had almost no choice but to join the exit, given the limits of their combat power so far from home, and they were largely dependent on U.S. air transport to get out, although they did fly some of the evacuation sorties. Some NATO allies doubted the wisdom of Bidens withdrawal decision, but its uncertain that the Afghanistan crisis will weaken the ties that bind the United States and Europe. In an essay, two of the Center for Strategic and International Securitys Europe expertsRachel Ellehuus and Pierre Morcoswrote that the crisis does reveal inconvenient truths about the trans-Atlantic relationship. For Europeans, it has exposed both their inability to change the decision calculus of the United States and powerlessness to defend their own interests (for example, evacuate their own citizens and allies) without the support of Washington, they wrote. Germany, Spain, Italy, and other European nations are allowing the U.S. to use their military bases to temporarily house Afghans who were airlifted out of Kabul but have not been approved for resettlement in the United States or elsewhere. Bahrain and Qatar made similar accommodations. Together, these arrangements relieved strain on the evacuation operation from Kabul that initially was so acute that the airlift had to be suspended for several hours because there was no place to take the evacuees. By Robert Burns California Community Colleges Flag 65,000 Bot Students Applying for Financial Aid Californias community college system is investigating what appears to be a large-scale fraud scheme, which involves more than 65,000 fraudulent financial aid applications filed by students who were likely bots. Patrick Perry, director of policy, research, and data with the California Student Aid Commission, told the Los Angeles Times that he became suspicious during a routine check of federal financial aid records, when he noticed a dramatic increase of first-time applicants of a certain age range and income group within a short period. All were over 30 and earned less than $40,000 per year. We were kind of scratching our heads going, Did or didnt 60,000 extra older adult students really attempt to apply to community colleges here in the last few months?' said Perry. He told the paper the number of suspected false applications could be greater than 65,000. Officials at California Community Colleges (CCC) declined to say whether any money was paid to scammers, although Perry said he believes the issue was caught early enough that the aid was likely not distributed. The 116-college system also detected unusual admissions activity. Valerie Lundy-Wagner, the CCCs interim vice chancellor of digital innovation and infrastructure, on Monday said in a memo (pdf) that about 20 percent of recent traffic on its main online applications portal was malicious and bot-related. It is clear that nationally, bad actors are attempting to take advantage of any vulnerability across different sectors, Lundy-Wagner warned in the memo. The Chancellors Office now requires that any student account associated with fraudulent activity be suspended, and that all colleges must submit monthly reports detailing suspected and confirmed registration and financial aid fraud, including any money sent to scammers. Eloy Ortiz Oakley, the CCC chancellor who is currently on leave, told the LA Times that at least six colleges have reported a surge in enrollment applications by students that could be fake. Im certainly alarmed, Oakley said. Theres lots of unscrupulous players right now trying to access and exploit benefits, not unlike whats happened with unemployment insurance and any number of other benefits that have been made available recently because of the pandemic. The scammers could be targeting the federal relief money the colleges have been receiving during the COVID-19 pandemic, although the CCC didnt specify which financial aid awards were involved in this particular case. Community colleges across the Golden State are entitled to at least $4.3 billion in three rounds of federal higher education relief payment, including $1.75 billion designated to go directly to students to help them cover tuition, rent, and other living expenses. California Lawmakers Ask Governor to Fund More Water Storage Amid Drought Eight lawmakers from Californias Central Valley are urging Gov. Gavin Newsom to dedicate more resources toward improved water infrastructure during the states unprecedented drought. The lawmakers claim the state is suffering from the states lack of planning for long-term water storage. It has been over two months since the states budget was signed into law, and yet it still lacks any drought assistance. Our water storage and conveyance systems are crumbling. It was not designed to accommodate 39 million people and environmental needs. While snowpack and precipitation levels dwindle, we need to maximize our water capture and storage infrastructure, the Sept. 3 letter reads. A total of 50 out of Californias 58 counties are now under a drought state of emergency declared by the governor, and the lawmakers say the Central Valley counties have been hit the hardest, as they endure exceptional and record drought conditions, the letter states. Fields are left to fallow forcing families, businesses, and farmers to put their livelihoods at risk with incredible uncertainty as to the future of their water supply. Around 75 percent of Californias irrigated land is in the Central Valley, where a quarter of the countrys food and 40 percent of the countrys fruits, nuts, and other table foods are grown. The letter was signed by state Assemblyman Vince Fong (R-Kern County), Sens. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield), Melissa Hurtado (D-Sanger), Andreas Borgeas (R-Fresno), and Assemblymen Jim Patterson (R- Fresno), Devon Mathis (R-Porterville), Frank Bigelow (R-ONeals), and Heath Flora (R-Ripon). While your administration negotiates the final pieces of a water infrastructure budget package, we respectfully request careful and favorable consideration of increased funding for strong water infrastructure to create a reliable water supply for the Central Valley, the letter states. In response, a spokesperson for the governors office told The Epoch Times via email, The Administrations discussions with the Legislature on budget proposals to bolster water reliability and resilience are ongoing, [and] we dont have details to share at this time. Governor Newsom has proposed to advance $5.1 billion over four years to support immediate drought response and long-term water resilience, including $2.1 billion which was allocated this summer, to ensure that California has the water infrastructure it needs to grapple with more extreme seasons of wet and dry. Meanwhile, other groups are pushing back against emergency measures taken by the state to mitigate the drought. On Sept. 1, three California water districts sued (pdf) the State Water Resources Control Board for curtailing water use in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Watershed last month. The districts claim they have the appropriate water rights to divert water from the San Joaquin river for irrigation and that those rights cannot be taken away without due process of law. Curtailing water rights has an impact on livelihoods and economies, but it is painfully necessary as severe drought conditions this year and next could threaten health, safety and the environment, said Erik Ekdahl, Deputy Director of the Division of Water Rights in a statement (pdf). Security officers investigate the crash site in Ergene, Tekirdag Province, Turkey, on Sept. 4, 2021. (IHA via AP) Collision Between Train, Minibus Leaves 6 Dead in Turkey ISTANBULA collision between a freight train and a minibus in northwest Turkey killed six people and injured seven others Saturday, the Turkish news agency Demiroren reported. The crash at a railroad crossing in Ergene, Tekirdag Province, involved a minibus carrying textile factory workers returning from a night shift and a train headed to nearby Cerkezkoy at 8 a.m., the news agency said. The people who died were all in the minibus, which was dragged in front of the train after the impact. Images showed the crumpled vehicle lying on its roof alongside the train tracks. Footage from street cameras aired by TV news channels showed the minibus driver maneuvering around a lowered barrier to cross the tracks before the train struck the vehicle. In 2018, 25 people died when a passenger train derailed in nearby Corlu. That accident was blamed on heavy rain causing an embankment to collapse. Last year, Turkeys Chamber of Mechanical Engineers said railway accidents in the country were three times the global average, while labor unions warned that cost-cutting has led to safety issues. Sherman Crabal and Swati Hede enjoy Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Eisemann Center, Richardson City, in Texas, on Sept. 4, 2021. (Yawen Hung/The Epoch Times) RICHARDSON CITY, TexasShen Yun Performing Arts arrived in Richardson City, Texas, to the delight of Swati Hede, a practitioner of traditional Indian dance and vice president of commercial and contract management at Capgemini North America, Inc. Ive been waiting for this for years, she said. When I came here to the U.S. last time [in] 2018 I just missed it. I had to go back [to India]. Hede finally saw Shen Yun at the Eisemann Center with her partner, Sherman Crabal, on Sept. 4. Shen Yuns mission is to present China before communism. The Chinese believe that their traditional music and dance, which have a history of over 5,000 years but were virtually swept away when the Chinese Communist Party came to power some 70 years ago, were bequeathed to the Middle Kingdom by divine beings. I like the fact that they were talking about divinity and spiritualism. It was a lovely performance. More than that, it was sharing a message and I really loved it, Hede said. The performance presents classical and ethnic dances, and music from Chinas diverse culture. It also imparts stories with moral and spiritual teachings deriving from Chinas Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian heritage. Crabal said that he felt that Shen Yun presents life as it should be: Compassion and how you bring God into your life divinity. I know we are free to talk about these things these days. It was just wonderfulthe theme, the music, everything. Shen Yun performs worldwide except in China, where expressions about ones spiritual beliefs still result in extreme human rights abuses by the communist regime. The dancers are very, very graceful; the costumes are great. But in all of that, there is a story, so I really love the expressions, Hede said. One particular message that resonated with Crabal was one of the vignettes that expressed how everybody is connected and that, despite the passing of hundreds of years, soul mates will always find each other. Its like thats our story too, Hede added. Dance connects everybody together and the passion these performers had was really wonderful. Sherman Crabal Dance connects everybody together and the passion these performers had was really wonderful, Crabal said. The couple said that they really value Shen Yuns mission to revive Chinas ancient traditions. Maybe we are old school, but you have to revive everything traditional. Theres a meaning, theres a reason behind how things used to be, Crabal said. Dance is like poetry in motion and that is a tradition that should be preserved, Hede said. Im very happy that 5,000-year-old traditions are still preserved. Shen Yun left Hede feeling very motivated. I really loved the movementIm [going] home [to] practice the turns! she said. Reporting by Yawen Hung and Diane Cordemans. The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time. We have proudly covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006. Faith Drives Dancer to Show World the Truth About China China is more than what we see today, said Aaron Huynh, a classical Chinese dancer who went from barely understanding the culture to becoming a member of the world-renowned Shen Yun Performing Arts. On Sept. 4, he took to the stage on his own at the NTD International Classical Chinese Dance Competition, and secured a place in the finals. I started from scratch, said Huynh, who grew up in Australia and spoke English at home. I didnt have influence or exposure to Chinese culture. Its been a process of learningto learn my own culture is worth learning even though I didnt get to start off with it, he said. It was worth it. Classical Chinese dance is famously expressive, as a core principle of the art is having the inner feelings drive the body into motion. In dance, you cant just rely on your body, especially classical Chinese dance, he said. Many dances portray people and times of the past, and you have to know how they spent their lives in that period. Huynhs understanding wasnt always so well-rounded; he started off thinking if he got the movements right, and the general emotion down, he could dance. But I slowly realized, it takes a lot of effort to show that depth. To be able to perform those characters, to act them, you have to understand them deeply, he said. Otherwise, when you show angeritll just be anger, it wont be anger and sorrow mixed in because you understand that from the past, something happened to that person before, so itll be one-dimensional and not multi-dimensional. Between the physically demanding routine of a dancer and the newfound cultural barrier, there were many times Huynh thought of quitting his study of classical Chinese dance. Its about how you can better help show the world what Chinese culture is. Aaron Huynh The people around me helped me, especially my teacher and my friends, he said. It took courage and hard work. And humility, he added, and the breakthrough came when he realized it wasnt just about himhis art was part of something greater. Its about how you can better help show the world what Chinese culture is. Its worth putting in all the effort, for the sake of showing them that China is a place more than what we see today, he said. China in fact has 5,000 years of civilization, and its people believed it to be divinely inspired. And classical Chinese dance gives one the ability to speak clearly and deliver a message, even without saying a word, Huynh said. What we do at Shen Yun is not just about your individual self, its about showing people in the world that China is not only politics and cheap products, theres so much more than what we know of China now, he said. Huynh explained that his faith, an ancient Chinese cultivation practice that teaches truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance, gave him conviction. Through studying Falun Dafa, which is the cultivation practice I believe in, I learned that its not only about you. We live in a world with everyone around us, and to do anything great we have to do it together, he said. One person will not be able to do that. And I feel that through Shen Yun, and Falun Dafa, its not only taught me dance, its showed me how to be a better person. Life itself is not important without meaning, and the profound belief that you can do something better than what you can do for yourselfyou can do something for the sake of others. Huynh hopes one day to perform in China. Thats their culture, and I hope they one day will be able to experience it, he said. Reviving Classical Chinese Dance In its efforts to recover and revive classical Chinese dance in its authentic form, Shen Yun has also pioneered the use of the ancient method shen dai shou, a way of movement that has the body leading the arms into motion. The expressive dance form has many continuous arm movements, and using this method transforms the stage effect of the dance, but also has many other benefits for the dancer, Huynh explained. Its helped me a lot, not just because it makes my arms and legs longer, but because of that its not as hard to do movements. Its easier, smoother. Once you use your body you dont get stuck in weird spots, or use the wrong muscles, he said. The connectivity feels very different. Huynh performed in the NTD finals on Sept. 5. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, is seen during a press conference at the White House in Washington on Jan. 21, 2021. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images) Fauci: COVID-19 Boosters Likely Will Start With Pfizer Shot Only White House chief medical adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci on Sept. 5 said the Pfizer-BioNTech shot will likely be the only approved COVID-19 booster by Sept. 20, the date set by federal health officials to deploy booster shots for people who received the Pfizer and Moderna shots. Late last month, the heads of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other federal health agencies targeted Sept. 20 for the rollout of booster shots for the two-dose Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Fauci appeared to demur when asked during a CBS News segment whether health officials plan to administer the boosters by that date. We were hoping that we would get the, both the candidates, both products, Moderna and Pfizer, rolled out by the week of the 20th. It is conceivable that we will only have one of them out, but the other would likely follow soon thereafter, Fauci said. Fauci added that the reason for that is that we, as weve said right from the very beginning, were not going to do anything unless it gets the appropriate FDA regulatory approval and then the recommendation from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. And, he added, it looks like Pfizer has their data in and likely would meet the deadline of Sept. 20. So the bottom line is very likely at least part of the plan will be implemented but ultimately the entire plan will be, said Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Federal health officials last week issued a joint statement saying that individuals who received two doses of either the Moderna or Pfizer mRNA vaccine should get booster shots eight months later. Their statement didnt include details about when those who received the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which uses an adenovirus, should receive a booster shot, if any. The introduction of booster shots in the United States and European nations drew condemnation from the World Health Organization (WHO), which called for a moratorium on their development. WHO officials said wealthier nations should first donate vaccines to poorer countries rather than develop boosters, a claim that was disputed by the Biden administration as a false choice. In the United Kingdom, meanwhile, a member of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation watchdog agency expressed skepticism about providing booster doses for everyone. We do need more evidence before we can make a firm decision on a much broader booster program, professor Adam Finn said in a BBC interview last month. And, he added, the UK needs to focus on individuals who are more likely, if you like, to get sick again if theyve not got a booster. Christie's previews Leonardo da Vinci's "Salvator Mundi" at Christie's on Oct. 24, 2017, in London before it is auctioned in New York on Nov. 15. (Carl Court/Getty Images) Film Review: The Lost Leonardo, A Divine Painting Lost to an Opaque Art World PG-13 | 1h 40min | Documentary | 20 August 2021 The great design of art is to restore the decays that happened to human nature by the Fall, by restoring order, English critic John Dennis wrote in 1704. Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi painting, by its very titleLatin for Savior of the Worldfulfills Denniss description of great art. In the painting, Christ is giving a blessing with his right hand, while holding in his left hand a nonreflective sphere that represents the universe. Its a painting that has been copied widely, but the original was thought to have been long lost. Interestingly, according to preeminent art restorer Dianne Dwyer Modestini, no known records from Leonardos lifetime mention the painting, although he did render two studies of Christ as the Salvator Mundi. Dianne Dwyer Modestini and Ashok Roy inspecting the Naples copy of Salvator Mundi in 2019. (Adam Jandrup/Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics/The Lost Leonardo) Sony Pictures Classics recently released documentary The Lost Leonardo charts the rediscovery of the celebrated painting from when the artwork was discovered to its restoration and attribution, the different expert opinions, and its subsequent sales. The Lost Leonardo is one well-made, fascinating documentary that I never want to see again. If you love learning about the politics and business behind great art, this film is for you. But if you appreciate Leonardo and sacred art in and of itself, the film may disappoint: It exposes the murky world of art. The poster for The Lost Leonardo, directed by Andreas Koefoed. (Sony Pictures Classics) Dark Art Led by Danish director Andreas Koefoed, the documentary team spent three years compiling intriguing expert interviews, which are deftly tied together to create a peek into the opaque art world. Early on in the film, I realized that even though the focus of the documentary is the painting, the fervor around it isnt so much about art but about human nature itself. And some of the human behavior around the rediscovery, marketing, and sale transactions of Leonardo da Vincis purported painting beautifully demonstrates how far humankind has fallen. Oftentimes, it isnt the pretty side of human nature that is on display. It is instead the decays, the greed for fame and money, and the underhanded dealings, depending on how you view business etiquette. The film also highlights important issues in the art world. It demonstrates how the opinions of renowned art experts, auction houses, art galleries, and museums can be incredibly influential. It also hints at the agendas that may influence their decision making. The Discovery In the opening scenes of the film, art expert Alexander Parish is in what appears to be a storeroom full of artworks of all manner of sizes and shapes stacked against the walls. Parish is a sleeper hunter, an art detective if you like, who fastidiously studies artworks that are about to go under the hammer. Ultimately, hes hoping to find a work by a more prominent artist than it is attributed to in the auction catalog. Sleeper hunter Alexander Parish. (Adam Jandrup/Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics) It was Parish and art dealer Robert Simon who discovered the Salvator Mundi, the so-called lost Leonardo, in a New Orleans auction house in 2005. The pair bought the painting for just $1,175. The face of Christ had been overpainted and restored. But both experts were interested in the parts of the painting that were untouched. Could those untouched parts of the painting be by Leonardo himself? Its almost unprecedented that an old masters painting would surface in such a manner. There are fewer than 20 paintings attributed to Leonardo. Its the kind of claim that puts professional reputations on the line. The pair employed world-renowned art restorer Dianne Dwyer Modestini, and she confirmed their suspicions. World-renowned art restorer Dianne Dwyer Modestini. (Adam Jandrup/Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics/The Lost Leonardo) Restoring the crack of the cleaned Salvator Mundi in 2006. (Robert Simon/Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics) If youre a regular follower of art or current affairs, you may recall that in 2017, the same painting, albeit in a vastly restored state, was sold at Christies New Yorkas Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundifor a world record breaking $450.3 million. The rediscovery of Leonardos Salvator Mundi was, and continues to be, marred in controversy. Many experts still question whether the piece was painted by Leonardo or whether he was involved in its painting at all. The Lost Leonardo aims to show both sides of the story. The Players The films a whodunit of sorts, involving more twists and turns than a Dan Brown novel. Youll question whether Leonardo painted it at all. Those embroiled in the sale of the painting could be characters in Browns books too. Theres a Saudi prince, a Russian billionaire, a Swiss businessman, and even a former professional poker player. (Poker players close great business deals.) Alongside the art experts, members of the intelligence community and investigative journalists all follow the sale of the painting with vigor. The main institutions involved with the paintingthe Louvre; Christies; Sothebys; The National Gallery, London; and Saudi Arabias Ministry of Cultureall declined invitations to comment in the documentary. A Can of Art World Worms Attributing the painting to Leonardo opened the proverbial can of worms. Whenever theres a lot of money involved, the world becomes like a bunch of worms intertwined, [like] when you pick up a rock, art critic and writer Kenny Schachter says in the film. Expert opinions were (and are) divided about the attribution. Expectations are dangerous; you end up seeing what you want to see, Leonardo da Vinci expert Martin Kemp from Oxford University says in the film. He says he made sure he kept an open mind when seeing the painting for the first time in 2008. Kemp was among five experts invited by curator Luke Syson to informally view the Salvator Mundi. Syson worked for The National Gallery in London. Controversially, Syson unveiled the painting in the 2011 exhibition as an autographed Leonardo. Youll have to watch the film to understand why the decision was controversial. In the film, we hear how Parish and Simon failed to sell the painting to world-renowned art institutions. The Dallas Museum of Art tried to raise the asking price. Another institution that Parish and Simon approached was the Gemaldegalerie in Berlin. Its former director Bernd Lindemann said in the film, Its not the role of museums to present a painting that is so heavily discussed. Eventually, Swiss businessman Yves Bouvier bought the painting on behalf of Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev. Unbeknownst to Rybolovlev, Bouvier made a tidy $44 million out of the sale. The plucky Bouvier is featured in the documentary and recounts how hes now paying the price for being found out. Court cases are still active. In 2017, Christies set about selling the painting that it marketed like a celebrity, with viewings in London, Hong Kong, San Francisco, and New York, much to Modestinis opposition. Christies previews Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi at Christies on Oct. 24, 2017, in London before it is auctioned in New York on Nov. 15. (Carl Court/Getty Images) The result of the sale we know. Yet there are still many mysteries to the Salvator Mundi besides its attribution. Its speculated that the Saudi kingdom bought the painting to increase tourism to the country. Another twist features the Saudi prince, the French president, and the Louvre. Its unknown where the painting is currently held. Some say its in one of the worlds free ports, a series of art storage vaults at airports where the wealthy store art in transit, tax free. The Lost Leonardo may just be a prophetic title for traditional art in our modern world. Great art does indeed, as Dennis says, guide us to human nature. Judging by the moneymaking surrounding Leonardos Salvator Mundi, we may have physically lost the painting (if its stuck in storage). But even more importantly, many of those in the film seem to have lost an understanding of the paintings subject matter and why Leonardo would have painted it: to connect us to the divine and for us to become better people. Id rather connect to this divine painting than see this well-made documentary about the murky art world again. The Lost Leonardo Documentary Director: Andreas Koefoed Running Time: One hour, 40 minutes MPAA Rating: PG-13 Release Date: Aug. 13, 2021 Rating: 3.5 out of 5 A bicyclist walks by Langdell Hall, the Harvard Law Library, on the campus of the Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Mass., in a file photo. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) Harvard Law School Cancels Coat-of-Arms Over Slavery Commentary Harvard Law School (HLS) has changed its law school heraldry. Members of the HLS Community were recently informed of the adoption of a new shield by John Manning, who is the Morgan and Helen Chu Dean and Professor of Law at Harvard. He stated that, the simple, elegant, and beautiful design of the new shield captures the complexity, the diversity, the limitlessness, the transformative power, the strength, and the energy that the HLS community sees in Harvard Law School. The school had appointed a working group, the members of which were tasked to determine the suitability of its shield, and possibly to recommend a new design to the Harvard authorities. In their report, the working group indicated that the shield originally created for HLS was based on the family crest of Isaac Royall, Jr., whose 1779 bequest to Harvard College would eventually endow the first professorship of law at Harvard. But, as explained in the report, historical research undertaken in 2016 had revealed that Royall earned his wealth through the labor of enslaved people. The entrance to Harvard Law School campus is seen in this file photo. (Darren McCollester/Getty Images) This revelation, which sparked much discussion and spawned a Royall Must Fall Movement, precipitated the efforts of the working group. The working group interviewed staff members, students, and alumni of the HLS Community and organised focus groups. Some interviewees argued that the original blue shield, adorned with three sheaves of wheat, should be retained because it served as an important reminder of the pervasiveness of the legacy of slavery and its continuing impact on the world. However, this view never really stood a chance of winning the argument. Indeed, the school, in light of the immoral origins of the Royall familys philanthropy, decided to retire the shield and replace it with a new design. It was inevitable that the original shield would be targeted once the Black Lives Matter movement (BLM) found traction in the United States (and, indeed, throughout the world). Many members of HLS saw the shield as a distasteful symbol of the past rather than as an opportunity to learn from that past. The BLM movement came into existence in July 2013 following George Zimmermans acquittal in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, an African American teenager in February 2012. Although the movement was responsible for many street demonstrations in the United States, it gained international exposure predominantly in the aftermath of the killing of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, in Minneapolis. It is a political and social movement that seeks to expose police brutality, advocate for criminal justice reform, and end racial discrimination. Black Lives Matter protestors in Skid Row, Los Angeles, Calif., on Dec. 30, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times) Although many Americans (and Australians) agree with the anti-discrimination message, BLM cannot hide the fact that, in its operations and ideology, it relies on race much the same way Marxists rely on class to divide society. This sordid episode in the life of HLS, however, exposes an embarrassing surmise. If the compromised shield had been removed because of its profoundly immoral origins, the law school should then return the bequest it received from Royalls estate, and not use it to support its present activities. Merely replacing the shield with a new design, whilst keeping Royalls financial largesse, which made the founding of HLS in 1817 possible, is simple hypocrisy. Students pass in front of Harvards Widener Library in Cambridge, Mass., on Oct. 10, 2003. (William B. Plowman/Getty Images) Observers may find the reason for replacing the original shield confronting, especially because it may well set the law school on a slippery slope. One of the great contributions of HLS to the teaching of law is its elaboration on the Socratic teaching method. This method involves the teaching of law by asking questions of students about the studied materials, jurisprudential developments, and hypothetical scenarios. It makes students think about the role of law in society and it sharpens their ability to reason. This teaching method was first introduced by Professor Christopher Columbus Langdell who served as Dean of HLS from 1870 to 1895. If one assumes Langdells name was inspired by famous discoverer of the Americas, Christopher Columbus, we can anticipate that the anti-Columbus movement now sweeping the United States will not spare the illustrious Dean. Indeed, using the same logic that saw the original HLS shield replaced, one could argue that the Socratic teaching method has also been irretrievably tainted by racism because of Columbus brutal journey to the Americas, which involved what many would deem human rights abuses by todays standards. Perhaps, it would be safer just to remove the Socratic method altogether and relegate students to simply listening and absorbing one lecture after another to no end? Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. A customers COVID-19 QR code is scanned at a restaurant in Montreal on Sept. 1, 2021, as the Quebec governments COVID-19 vaccine passport comes into effect. (The Canadian Press/Graham Hughes) Mandatory Vaccination Policies Disregard Canadians Constitutional Rights Commentary Provinces across Canada have now announced that only the vaccinated can participate in basic aspects of society, like dining at a restaurant, going to a gym, playing a team sport, or attending a wedding. Governments in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia have set aside decades of legal protections for personal and bodily autonomy and are now imposing discriminatory, scientifically dubious, and morally problematic mandates. Mandatory vaccination policies are abrupt departures from recent promises to protect Charter rights and freedoms. We were assured by B.C. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry in May that it would not be my advice that we have any sort of vaccine passport within British Columbia. Just three months later, Dr. Henry ordered vaccine passports for basic activities, and is also not permitting any exemptions. This is contrary to B.C. human rights laws that individuals with medical conditions and religious beliefs be accommodated. It was only in July that Ontario Premier Doug Ford acknowledged the discriminatory effects a vaccine passport would have on society, promising: Were not going to do it. Were not going to have a split society. Ford had also stated he would not make vaccinations mandatory for heath-care workers and that such a mandate would be a violation of the Constitution. Most opposition politicians are no different when it comes to standing up for basic constitutional rights. Regarding mandatory vaccination, Ontarios NDP opposition leader Andrea Horwath stated on Aug. 4 that she didnt take lightly peoples Charter rights, but completely backtracked the very next day. B.C. Premier John Horgan can add his name to the long list of politicians who disregard human rights and constitutional freedoms in order to pander to the perceived majority view. When asked about legal challenges to his governments vaccination requirement, Horgans response was that British Columbians in the majority are very much supportive of this. The same could have been said in 1942 about the forcible eviction of Japanese Canadians from the B.C. coast to live in internment camps in the B.C. Interior for the duration of the war. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects Canadians personal autonomy and bodily integrity under the Section 7 rights to life, liberty, and security of the person. In Canadas free and democratic society, its up to the government to justify any infringement of your right to control to your own body, and the government must provide compelling evidence in court. To justify B.C.s mandatory vaccine requirement, Horgan broadly claims that [v]accines are our ticket to putting this pandemic behind us. Likewise, Ford claims: Based on the latest evidence and best advice, COVID-19 vaccine certificates give us the best chance to slow the spread of this virus while helping us to avoid further lockdowns. These simplistic statements ignore the realities of COVID as documented in recent studies. For example, Israel is one of the most vaccinated countries on earth, yet it currently has more COVID cases now than ever, in spite of 80 percent of the countrys adults being vaccinated. Further, half of the serious COVID cases in hospital are among vaccinated people. Israel is imposing lockdown restrictions again, along with providing a third dose of the vaccine. A recent study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on an outbreak in Provincetown, Massachusetts, where 95 percent of the residents had been fully vaccinated, is illuminating. Of the more than 900 COVID cases, three-quarters were among fully vaccinated people. Four of the five people hospitalized were fully vaccinated. Perhaps most significantly, as reported by The Associated Press, vaccinated people who got so-called breakthrough infections carried about the same amount of the coronavirus as those who did not get the shots, indicating that vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals are equally likely to transmit COVID to others. Despite this, B,C.s Dr. Henry attempts to justify vaccination requirement by claiming a higher risk of transmission from unvaccinated individuals. But the COVID vaccines themselves do not purport to prevent transmission, but rather to reduce the incidence of severe illness. It appears that Henrys statements are based on speculation and the hope that experimental mRNA vaccines will prevent transmission. Presently the U.S. Food and Drug Administration admits that the scientific community does not yet know if the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine will reduce such transmission. Governments are also overlooking the superior protection enjoyed by individuals who previously had COVID. Again, Israeli data shows that previously infected unvaccinated individuals have 6 to 13 times more protection, with less risk of hospitalization, than those fully vaccinated who had not been previously infected. Since it is indisputable that mandatory vaccination requirements infringe on Canadians constitutional rights, our Charter will only permit it to be upheld if it is demonstrably justified by the evidence. Neither the broad and simplistic claims of government or the media-fuelled fear of a majority are evidence. Current scientific data undermines, rather than justifies, the imposition of mandatory vaccination. Requiring COVID vaccination as a condition for participating in basic aspects of society is a profound violation of Canadians human dignity and personal autonomy protected by our Charter. This is not the free and democratic society that the Charter envisions for Canada. In a free society, individuals can choose whether to receive a particular medical intervention or not. As Canadians, we will need to fight to get our free society back. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan talks to reporters during a news briefing about the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic in front of the Maryland State House in Annapolis, Maryland on April 17, 2020. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Maryland Governor: Mixed Messages From Biden Admin Undermines Credibility of Vaccine Boosters Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan says that a lack of clear guidance from the Biden administration could undermine its effort to have Americans receive COVID-19 vaccine booster shots. During a Sept. 5 interview on NBCs Meet the Press, Hogan was asked to give some advice to President Joe Bidens pandemic response team on the issue of extra doses of vaccine against the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. Specifically, he was asked about how the team should talk to Trump folks, or supporters of former President Donald Trump, many of whom are skeptical about the vaccine and unlikely to receive the booster shot. I dont think its just about the Trump folks, Hogan said, noting that hes being as critical toward the Biden administration over the handling of the pandemic as he has been toward the Trump administration. I mean, were getting some mixed messaging out of the administration, out of the CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention], the FDA [Food and Drug Administration], and the White House. And, you know, we need clear guidance on these booster shots because it undermines the credibility of it. Hogan noted that there are people who are confused about who should get which COVID-19 booster shot due to mixed messages from health officials and the White House. The Biden administration had initially said that those who had received both doses of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine could receive their third dose as early as the week of Sept. 20. Last week, however, heads of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration reportedly told the White House that they may be able to only recommend boosters for some of the recipients of the Pfizer vaccine. I guess they slipped and pre-leaked an announcement about booster shots with all three vaccines and then had to backtrack it and say you can only use Pfizer, Hogan said. What about the people that took J&J [the Johnson & Johnson vaccine]? What about the people that took Moderna? They havent messaged properly about how to take care of these breakthrough infections. Hogans comments come after Trump said he will probably not get a COVID-19 booster shot. Trump contracted the CCP virus in October 2020 and briefly left the White House for Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he quickly recovered from mild COVID-19 symptoms. I feel like Im in good shape from that standpointI probably wont, Trump, who received a vaccination before leaving the White House this year, said in an interview with The Wall Street Journal. Ill look at stuff later on. Im not against it, but its probably not for me. An agent of the National Migration Institute (INM) and National Guard members try to detain an illegal alien during an operation to dissolve a caravan from Central America and the Caribbean as it tries to make its way to the U.S., in Huixtla, Chiapas, Mexico, on Sep. 5, 2021. (Jacob Garcia/Reuters) Mexican Officials Cut Off New Caravan of Illegal Aliens, Breaking up Main Group HUIXTLA, MexicoMexican security and migration officials early on Sunday blocked the passage of a new caravan of illegal aliens, detaining several people, as the government moved to break up the group just a day after it set off from southern Mexico for the United States. At around 5 a.m. local time, members of Mexicos National Guard and the National Institute of Migration (INM) began surrounding the illegal immigrants on the edge of the southern town of Huixtla, prompting some of them to flee, a Reuters witness said. The officials sought to intercept the ones who ran for the banks of the River Huixtla. The caravan was made up largely of Central Americans, Haitians, and some Venezuelans. The operation to stop the caravan of around 400 people comes a few days after officials dispersed another large group and followed comments by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador that he wanted illegal immigrants to stay in southern Mexico. Lopez Obrador also urged the U.S. government to help the illegal aliens find work, speaking ahead of a high-level meeting of U.S. and Mexican officials on Thursday that is due to address economic matters and also expected to encompass migration. As had occurred with the previous caravan, some illegal aliens accused Mexican security forces of using excessive force during their intervention, and Maria Martha Ramos, a Honduran woman, said some of the officials threw stones to detain people. Ramos said she would see if the main body of the illegal aliens regrouped so she could continue her journey north. The Mexican government recently condemned officials committing acts of violence that were captured on video against the previous group of illegal border-crossers. Epoch Times staff contributed to this report. Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, on Capitol Hill in Washington on June 23, 2021. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images) Milley: US Withdrawal From Afghanistan Will Lead to Civil War, Terrorism The U.S. military pullout from Afghanistan will likely lead to civil war and the resurgence of terrorist groups like al-Qaeda, said Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley in an interview. My military estimate is that the conditions are likely to develop of a civil war, Milley told Fox News during an interview at Ramstein airbase in Germany. I dont know if the Taliban is going to [be] able to consolidate power and establish governance. After the Taliban took over the country last month amid the U.S. withdrawal and the resulting chaos, terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda or ISIS could establish a foothold, the general said. I think theres at least a very good probability of a broader civil war and that will then, in turn, lead to conditions that could, in fact, lead to a reconstitution of al-Qaeda or a growth of ISIS or other myriad of terrorist groups, Milley told the network. In late August, Milley, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and President Joe Biden received flack for not anticipating the Talibanitself a designated terrorist group by several federal agenciestaking over the country in just 11 days. They later defended the pullout, saying that the rushed and chaotic evacuation of thousands of Americans and tens of thousands of Afghans was built into their contingency planning. When the Taliban captured areas in Afghanistan, the group also opened prisons while Pentagon officials later confirmed that thousands of ISIS-K terrorists may have been released from those facilities, including one at Bagram airbase. During the final phase of the evacuation in the Kabul airport, ISIS claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing attack that left 13 U.S. service members dead. Taliban members stand guard outside the Hamid Karzai International Airport after the U.S. militarys withdrawal, in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Aug. 31, 2021. (Khwaja Tawfiq Sediqi/AP Photo) You could see a resurgence of terrorism coming out of that general region within 12, 24, 36 months. And were going to monitor that, Milley added in the interview, published Saturday. As a result, he said, the United States will have to re-establish some human intelligence networks and will have to conduct strike operations if theres a threat to the United States. The Taliban, meanwhile, has engaged in heavy fighting with a resistance group in the Panjshir valley, located about 100 miles northeast of Kabul. On Saturday night, the terrorist group posted a video online claiming to have entered the valley, according to the Wall Street Journal, which reported that a resistance fighter confirmed the Taliban entered. Emergency, an Italy-based nongovernmental organization, told the paper the Taliban made its way to the Panjshir village of Anabah. Men prepare for defense against the Taliban in Panjshir, Afghanistan, on Aug. 22, 2021. (Aamaj News Agency via Reuters) The police headquarters and district center of Rukhah, adjacent to the provincial capital Bazarak, had fallen, and opposition forces had suffered numerous casualties, with large numbers of prisoners and captured vehicles, weapons, and ammunition, Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi also said on Twitter. But resistance fighters, including a spokesman, denied the Talibans claims. Fahim Dashti, spokesman for the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRFA), a group of anti-Taliban forces, told Reuters that the Taliban propaganda machine was trying to spread distracting messages. The resistance forces are ready to continue their defense against any form of aggression, he said. Reuters contributed to this report. A view of a damaged silo at the Saudi Aramco oil facility in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea city of Jeddah, on Nov. 24, 2020. (Fayez Nureldine/AFP via Getty Images) Missile Attack on Saudi Oil Region Foiled: Saudi-Led Coalition DUBAIA ballistic missile attack aimed at Saudi Arabias oil-rich eastern region was intercepted on Saturday, the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthi group in Yemen said in a statement carried by Saudi state media. The missile was intercepted over the city of Dammam, according to a source familiar with the matter who declined to be named and social media reports. The coalition blamed the attack on the Iran-aligned Houthi forces. There was no immediate claim of responsibility in Houthi-run media. The coalition also said it intercepted and destroyed ballistic missiles heading toward Jazan and Najran, both in the southern part of the country. The coalition earlier also reported the interception of three explosive-laden drones headed toward the country. Eastern Saudi is home to significant oil infrastructure, which has previously been targeted and hit by aerial attacks. An attack in September 2019 on two Aramco plants in the east temporarily knocked out half the countrys oil production. Yemens Houthis, who regularly launch drones and missiles into Saudi Arabia, have claimed responsibility for several attacks on Saudi oil installations in the past. A source familiar with the matter said there was no impact on facilities belonging to state-controlled oil giant Saudi Aramco and that the attack happened outside of Aramco facilities. The Saudi-led military coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015, backing forces of the ousted government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi fighting the Houthis. By Maher Chmaytelli and Saeed Azhar NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian will this week release COVID-19 modelling on the looming peak in case numbers and hospitalisations as the state reported more than 1,400 local cases in a Sunday update. All the modelling indicates to us that the peak is likely to be here in the next week or two, the premier said of the states Delta outbreak. The peak in hospitalisation and intensive care is likely to be with us in October. She also said that her government, in line with the national guidelines for reopening, plans to lift restrictions for NSWs vaccinated population once adult vaccination rates reach 70 percent fully vaccinated. Berejiklian said she would this week release the modelling on case and hospitalisation predictions, all of which informs health rules. It is important to be as open and transparent as possible but we also want to be clear about the modelling changes every single day, she said. NSW reported 1,485 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 and three deaths on Sunday as authorities and residents battle to contain the spread of the virulent delta strain through the locked down state. The three deaths in the 24 hours to 8 p.m. on Saturday were a woman in her 50s who had one vaccine dose, who died at Blacktown Hospital, a woman in her 70s who died at Campbelltown Hospital, and a man in his 70s who died at Liverpool Hospital, both of whom were unvaccinated. The death toll for the current NSW outbreak is now 126. There are 1,030 COVID-19 patients in NSW in hospital, with 175 in intensive care and 72 who require ventilation. The premier said 40 percent of the states population was now fully vaccinated. That is an incredible milestone to have reached given where we were a few months ago, she said. Berejiklian also flagged that home quarantine would eventually be an option for fully vaccinated citizens returning home to Australia. NSW Healths Dr Jeremy McAnulty asked people in the states regions to come forward and get tested for even the mildest of symptoms. The government will make a decision as to whether restrictions can ease in regional NSW after Sept. 10. Police, fire, and emergency services staff in Sydneys coronavirus hotspots were encouraged to be vaccinated on Sunday at special vaccination centres. After announcing a record day of 1,533 positive cases on Saturday, Mr Hazzard said the government wanted to make sure all frontline workers are vaccinated, describing Sunday as a golden opportunity for any hold-outs. At least 73 per cent of NSW residents aged 16 and over have been vaccinated at least once, with more than 7.3 million jabs administered in the state. A survey of more than 6,500 hotel staff across NSW has found the majority of employees support the premiers calls for double vaccination and more than half will be fully vaccinated by the end of October. The Australian Hotels Association NSW Chief Executive Officer John Whelan said it was encouraging that 63.5 per cent of employees surveyed believed it should be a requirement for all hotel employees to be fully vaccinated. If you want to get down to the pub when we re-open, get vaccinated now, Mr Whelan said. Youll need two jabs and you dont want to be left out when things finally open up. A smaller number (6.6 per cent) of staff said they did not intend to be vaccinated while 9.5 per cent were undecided. Meanwhile, Victoria recorded a further 183 new virus cases on Sunday, 101 of which are linked to known cases and outbreaks. Queensland has reported one new case, and the ACT recorded 15 new cases. The Epoch Times contributed to this report. A demonstrator is covered in tear gas during a protest against the enthronement of Bishop Joanikije in Cetinje, Montenegro, on Sept. 5, 2021. (Stevo Vasiljevic/Reuters) Montenegro Police Fire Teargas at Protesters Incensed Over Clerics Enthronement PODGORICA, MontenegroMontenegro police used teargas to disperse hundreds of people protesting against the enthronement of a Serbian Orthodox Church cleric as the nations religious leader on Sunday, a ceremony that has exposed deep divisions over ties with Serbia. The demonstrators in the town of Cetinje had thrown rocks, bottles, and firecrackers at police as church figures were flown into the town by helicopter, news site Vijesti reported, but there were no reports of injuries on either side. The enthronement of Joanikije II as the churchs top cleric in the country, known as the Metropolitan of Montenegro and Archbishop of Cetinje, was being held under heavy security in a monastery in the town. The protests reflect tensions in the Balkan country between those who advocate closer ties with Belgrade and others opposing any pro-Serb alliance. Montenegro left its union with Serbia in 2006 but its church did not become autonomous and remained under the Serbian Orthodox Churchin the eyes of some, making it a symbol of Serbian influence. A barricade is set on fire during a protest against the enthronement of Bishop Joanikije in Cetinje, Montenegro, on Sept. 5, 2021. (Stevo Vasiljevic/Reuters) Prime Minister Zdravko Krivokapic described attacks on police in Cetinje as an act of terrorism. He blamed President Milo Djukanovics Democratic Party of Socialists of the President Milo Djukanovic, which ruled the country for three decades before losing elections last year, for organising the protests. Djukanovic opposes the enthronement, but has not commented on Krivokapics allegations of organising the demonstrations. Djukanovics adviser Veselin Veljovic was arrested for participating in an attack against police on Sunday, state TV reported. The EU special envoy for Montenegro, Tonino Picula, said that the rising tensions were worrying. The freedom to expression, but also to protest is inviolable, Picula told state TV. By Stevo Vasiljevic and Ivana Sekularac New York Times reporter Nikole Hannah-Jones speaks during the 13th International Congress of Investigative Journalism in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on June 29, 2018. (Alice Vergueiro/Abraji via Wikimedia Commons) Nikole Hannah-Jones Says Her Privately Funded School Program Wont Teach Critical Race Theory The New York Times 1619 Project creator Nikole Hannah-Jones said her free after-school literacy program in her hometown of Waterloo, Iowa, will teach black history, not critical race theory (CRT), the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier reported. The privately funded 1619 Freedom School headed by Hannah-Jones will be for students in the Waterloo Community School District in Iowa. The programs goal is to improve literacy skills and develop a love for reading through liberating instruction centered on Black American history, according to the 1619 Freedom School website. Were not teaching critical race theory, Hannah-Jones told the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier, saying shes completely unconcerned about what critics might say about the program. CRT holds that America is fundamentally racist, yet it teaches people to view every social interaction and person in terms of race. Its adherents pursue antiracism through the end of merit and objective truth, and the adoption of race-based policies. In June, Iowas Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds signed a bill into law that prohibits teaching divisive concepts such as that an individual, by virtue of the individuals race or sex, is inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously, but it doesnt specifically mention CRT. Parents will opt into the program if they believe in what were doing, Hannah-Jones told the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier. And if they dont, they wont. I dont understand how one can criticize an effort to help children to become more literate and excel academically. Hannah-Jones told the Courier that the program has nothing to do with the 1619 Project at all. The 1619 Project was created by Hannah-Jones and promotes the idea that Americas true founding occurred in 1619, when slaves arrived in the colonies, and frames the history of the country around race and slavery. Our curriculum, custom-designed by educators from Georgetown and the University of Missouri will be made available as free and open source for anyone who wants to teach it beginning in 2022. Ida Bae Wells (@nhannahjones) August 31, 2021 Freedom schools were originally started during the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s to educate black youth about black history and how to fight for equality, the Des Moines Register reported. Were intentional with everything that were doing with this to teach children to fight for their own liberation and to show them that they have a deep, storied past that they can be proud of, Hannah-Jones told the Register. The literature on this is very clear that when Black students are exposed to Black history, they excelthey do better, academically. By Kendall Tietz 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. A staff member of the Franklin County Board of Elections sorts through, and de-stubs both mail in ballots and provisional ballots in Columbus, Ohio, on April 28, 2020. (Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images) Ohio Starts Purging Voter Rolls of Dead or Moved Residents Ohios county election boards started the process of removing inactive voters and those who have moved out of the state from voter rolls this week, Secretary of State Frank LaRose confirmed. The four-year process for purging inactive voters targets those who have not voted for two years, or whose addresses may have changed, and whose voter registration must be updated to reflect the move, according to Wednesdays directive by LaRose, a Republican. Inactive voters can keep themselves on the rolls by voting in any election in the next four years, submitting an absentee ballot application, registering to vote, or taking other election-related steps, he said in a Sept. 1 news release. But, according to the release, if a registration in confirmation status doesnt engage in any such voter activity, the registration will be at risk of cancellation beginning in 2026. And, the secretary of states office added, it is also important to note that any registration that engaged in any of the voter-initiated activity over the past two years will not receive a confirmation notice. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose in Columbus, Ohio, on Nov. 6, 2018. (Justin Merriman/Getty Images) The move is necessary because inactive or abandoned voter registrations clog up the election systems in Ohio, make it more difficult for workers to perform their jobs, and put Ohios election integrity at risk, LaRose said in the news release. Weve made some big moves to improve the process to keep our voter rolls accurate, encourage participation, and fixing errors before they cause issues, La Rose added. While weve made great strides in carrying out the process required under Ohio law, we can do so much better if we modernize our voter list-maintenance and registration procedures. There is legislation already introduced in the General Assembly that gets that done and Im hopeful we can make this vital modernization a reality. Also in the news release, LaRose called for the passage of the GOP-backed voting bill introduced in the state Legislature during the spring to modernize the states election systems. The bill prohibits the placement of ballot drop boxes anywhere but at local election offices, eliminates a day of early voting, shortens the window for requesting mail-in ballots, and tightens voter identification requirements. The bill also would add provisions such as an online absentee ballot request system long sought by voting rights advocates as well as automated voter registration through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Democrats have largely criticized the Republican voting measure, known as House Bill 294, and claim it would suppress the votes of some groups. The Ohio General Assembly will return to session next week. The Associated Press contributed to this report. PART 2: Dr. Robert Malone on Ivermectin, Escape Mutants, and the Faulty Logic of Vaccine Mandates In part one of this American Thought Leaders episode, mRNA vaccine inventor Dr. Robert Malone explained the latest research on COVID-19 vaccines, booster shots, and natural immunity. Now in part two, we take a closer look at repurposed drugs like ivermectin and how a universal vaccination policy could actually backfireand bring about the emergence of vaccine-resistant escape mutants. At their core, vaccine mandates are not just unethical and divisive, but also impractical and unnecessary, says Dr. Malone. You can watch the first part of this episode here. Jan Jekielek: This is American Thought Leaders, and Im Jan Jekielek. Dr. Robert Malone: Were now in this odd position, where there are groups of physicians that believe that they have protocols that are quite effective in preventing death and disease and hospitalization. When deployed early, their ability to employ these methods and these agents is being actively resisted by the government and by various large national organizations. With physicians not being allowed to prescribe, pharmacies not filling physicians prescriptions, physicians being prohibited from practicing what they believe to be good medicine in hospital environments, and overlaying this is the sense that those who discuss these matters are subject to censor or censure, in the form of risking losing their medical license. That is something that has been threatened by the national medical board and has been implemented in some other countries like the UK and Canada. And thats also, I think, created an even more sense of unease and consternation. Why would the government be denigrating these agents that are known to be safehave been used for decades. Mr. Jekielek: With people, not just horses, for the use of ivermectin. I mean, this has been one of the most I just have to comment. One of the most bizarre memes or disparaging comments that Ive seen is people dismissing this drug, which is, could I say used by millions of people daily probably in the world, for parasites and so forth. It is just a horse drug, right? How could people take this? This is the meme. I mean. Dr. Malone: This was triggered by an FDA Twitter account that this is what initially led this. was an FDA Twitter account that used the term yall to express that Didnt people understand that ivermectin was a horse drug? And this was picked up by the media and it fueled kind of a self-reinforcing thing that was then further fed in by certain government officials. We ended up with this amazing kind of explosion over the span of about three days immediately preceding the licensure of denigration of ivermectin as a horse drug. And I was asked, why are people? As you know, I have horses. I have ivermectin for horses. And I happened to also have ivermectin for myself, for my long COVID. Im very familiar that there are different form factors and I would never takeI would absolutely never take the liquid ivermectin that is for sale in many feed stores. This is formulated for cattle. I wouldnt give that to my horses, let alone take it myself. And the horse stuff is formulated as a paste for the horses to adjust for bots and other intestinal worms. And the truth is that the dose thats used for horses by body weight, is the same dose thats recommended for humans, but its formulated and manufactured to a quality standard thats very different from whats used by humans. So theres this meme that erupts about ivermectin being a horse drug. And why would people be taking this in lieu of a vaccine? That was how that was pressed. These crazy people, theyre vaccine hesitant, but theyre very glad to take horse paste. My point of view on that, is that what it showed was that the focus was all on the prophylaxis, in the sense that these drugs are being used in lieu of vaccines. My sense is that people are seeking and have been seeking out ivermectin to treat themselves early in the course of infection, because there are no other alternatives. The standard policy in hospital management of COVID and medical management of COVID in the United States remains. If you go to the doc, you go to the ER, you say, I am having respiratory distress. They check your blood oxygen levels, and they see that youre at 92 or 93, as opposed to say 98 or 99 on room air. And they say, Go home and come back when your lips are blue, is the metaphor, which means that your oxygen saturation will be about 88 or so. So folks are being sent out knowing that theyre at risk of being hospitalized, and no therapies are offered. And theyre a little desperate. Mr. Jekielek: Ive said one kind. So isnt there this monoclonal antibody treatment that Ron DeSantis? Dr. Malone: Yes, very expensive and he set up infusion centers. I think thats a great credit. So that is an option. But that means if youre in the field, youve gotta drive out to one of these centers, get all the approvals and everything else. A lot of folks hear that ivermectin, by the rumor mill, is effective. And in my opinion, the truth be told, there are a lot of studies that are not definitive. Theyre underpowered in many cases, not often done in emerging markets of ivermectin. There is one meta analysis of all those studies done by Cochrane Reports that say that the data is still inconclusive, and there are two other meta-analyses that have come out that say, Its pretty clear this works. Tess Lawrie is one of those advocates. And to say that theres no evidence in favor of using ivermectin, when you have governments all over the world using it, deploying it. In Mexico, its over the counter for this very reason. And India, its now being used widely [with] some attributed to the sudden decline in Delta, mortality and morbidity in India since they have started deploying it. Mr. Jekielek: Hopefully, theres some robust study being done currently, right? Dr. Malone: Thats the thing. Thats another one of these mysteries. Were now a year and a half into this. This agent has been known for quite a while, to appear to have activity sufficient that there have been many of these small underpowered studies done in emerging markets that are encouraging. But the capital to do a large well-powered study, like say was done with dexamethasone, involving thousands and thousands of patients that would give a definitive answer to this. Why hasnt that been done? This feeds into what we talked about conspiracy LEGOs, where there are folks that see these paradoxes in how the response has been managed. And they have a tendency to take these fragments of information that are kind of non sequiturs. They dont add upthey dont seem to be good public policy. Why is it happening? Why did you have Merck come out and say that ivermectin is toxic?. And make a clear statement that ivermectin is toxic. When in fact its been It is a WHO essential medicine as hydroxychloroquine is, and has been widely used throughout the world for 30 plus years, and is generally known as one of the safest drugs in the pharmacopeia. What would motivate Merck, which held the original patent and has been giving ivermectin free for river blindness to Africa for years and years and years. What would motivate them to suddenly come out with a clear unambiguous statement that ivermectin is toxic? It doesnt make sense. And sitting on the active committee of NIH, I saw the same logic being promoted when the NIH made an executive decision to perform an outpatient study of ivermectin, called ACTIV-6. And there were strong objections by pharmaceutical representatives that were sitting on the active committee that the NIH would even consider doing this. Now the point is raised that these companies have a financial conflict of interest. Merck is actively developing its own antiviral. Pfizer is actively developing its own antiviral now. And Pfizer has come out and said explicitly that we cannot control this outbreak; this virus, with vaccines alone. Were gonna have to have drugs. Anthony Fauci has come out and said, We need to have drugs that theyre focused on the new drugs. The antibodies have generally proven useful, in some cases, theyre very expensive. Theyre- Mr. Jekielek: The monoclonal antibodies. Dr. Malone: Yeah, the monoclonals. Mr. Jekielek: Yeah. Dr. Malone: Very expensive. Theyve gotta be administered in infusion centers. So you cant just go take a pill and get it from your local Walgreens. There is this kind of cascade of this that doesnt make sense around the use of repurpose drugs in early intervention. That also, I think, has got a lot of people on edge a little bit and questioning public policy. And it goes back to the position of my Latin American colleagues that I was telling you about earlier, that I was on the phone with, they were saying, Were using ivermectin all the time. It helps, in our opinion. And were using hydroxychloroquine. Mr. Jekielek: Just one quick comment; something that is just occurring to me. If youre a doctor in your community, youre directly accountable to your patients. I mean, i.e., if youre saying something works and it doesnt work, people will notice very quickly and you wont have any patients very quickly. This is just whats- Dr. Malone: Contrapositive is true also. So you end up with some physicians that are being absolutely overloaded with patient demands. Pierre Kory is an example of that, the poor man just cant get a break. Hes been at the forefront of the FLCCC coalition, and developing a lot of these protocols that are being deployed widely through the United States, by select physicians, early adopters. I experienced this to some extent. He is absolutely flooded with patient calls and physician calls about his protocols and how they can be used. And hes just one guy. Peter McCullough is another example at Baylor, that has been a firm advocate. He actually has four peer-reviewed papers on these early treatment protocols. Hes been sued by Baylor. Hes been disparaged right down to the Wikipedia editing that has happenedin my case also. Theres kind of coordinated strategies that are used for any of us that are dissenters in terms of the policy that there shall be no early intervention. These docs that have been at the forefront of developing these early intervention protocols have been subjected to a lot of derision and attacks and character assassination. What Im experiencing personally, because Im part of that cohort now is were coming together. Were being brought into contact with investors, donors that are not comfortable with the current public policy and are very interested in enabling these alternative strategies and their availability. Were being brought into contact with political decision makers, elected leaders that are very interested in seeing whether these types of strategies can impact on the health and wellbeing of their populations. They find it attractive that these are agents that are quite inexpensive. Because a lot of these intervention strategies, where we allow the patients to get really sick and then go to the hospital, thats a burden on state budgets, and not to mention political liability when youre seeing major outbreaks in places like Louisiana and Florida. I mean, Ron DeSantis, his fortunes are less solid than they mightve been a little while ago before he had this outbreak. One of the things I find fascinating about that is that the press is very glad to make a point that right now were having more of a red state outbreak and associating that with a vaccine uptake, or vaccine hesitancy. When you look at the data, there isnt that much of a disparity in vaccine uptake. For instance, in Florida, the vaccine uptake is really fairly high, particularly among the elderly. So how do you describe this? And you dig into the data, how do you make sense of it? I think theres a possibility that there is a seasonal component going on here, and were seeing some of that wave of infection starting to move north. The other thing thats been a confounding variable in all this, is a respiratory syncytial virus [RSV]. I think we touched on this. There was a lot of press about the pediatric ICU filling up, et cetera. And the assumption was that they were COVID cases. They werent. For the most part, they were respiratory syncytial virus cases, which is fairly different in presentation from COVID and also affects elderly, by the way. We become politicized and polarized, and we want to see these outbreaks and these events and these waves of infection as reinforcing some stereotypes that we have about this states behaviorthat states politics. And I think that over the next few months, we may find that we have to If were willing to look the data in the face, we may have to re-examine some of those assumptions that this may not have been as much a function of vaccine compliance or uptake, or a lot of euphemisms we could put around that, but rather some fundamentals of the underlying viral epidemiology in spread that are not really well understood right now. We certainly know that most respiratory viruses move in these kinds of waves through populations. It may be that we find that this wave of infection thats currently infesting the south isnt gonna be restricted just to the south over the next couple of months. Time will tell. Mr. Jekielek: You were saying theres some real potential issues with the idea of pursuing a kind of policy of universal vaccination. Escape mutants, that might not be something all our viewers are familiar with. Dr. Malone: So this gets to fundamentals of basically Darwinian evolution to really understand this. What the term escape mutants refers to is a virus isolates that are no longer as susceptible to the control of infection and spread provided by the vaccine, by the immune response generated from the vaccine. So they are escaping immune surveillance provided by the vaccine. Thats the nature of the term escape meansmutants in that, the viruses Theres another paper out recently that shows that the mutation rate of this coronavirus is much higher than we had previously estimated. So the way it works with virology, is that its as if youre breeding a dog. And you have a litter of dogs, and youll know that if you have six dogs, one or two of those, are gonna be pretty good keepers. You might wanna sell the other ones off. For instance, if youre breeding for the ability to hunt. In the case of a virus, its like the parent virus has millions to billions of children. And many of those have genetic modifications, mutations, that make them genetically different from the source virus. And this works for viruses because they only have a small number of particles. Infecting a third person, another person, is sufficient to rekindle the whole infection cycle. I was talking to a friend of mine, Chad Roy, whos a primatologist, thats working with the SARS coronavirus down at the Tulane Regional Primate Research Center. He has some interesting data thats gonna come out soon where theyre tracking the evolution of the virus during the course of infection in a given primate. In his case, he was fascinated that he was seeing evolution of virus strains to become more able to infect the gut, and were actually hiding in the gut. So this process of evolution, which also occurs with AIDS, with the AIDS virus. you can track the genetic changes in the AIDS virus during the course of an infection. Its amazing to watch. So anytime a virus is infecting a host like us, its generating these mutations all the time, and those mutations are constantly being selected for fitness as the technical term, right? The Darwinian term. Theyre being selected for fitness to reproduce. And what that means is that the environment of the host, has things which restrict our immune system, is the notable one restrict the ability of the virus to replicate and spread. And the viruses in the host are in a constant battle where our immune systems are adapting to try to control that virus, and the virus is constantly escaping those adaptations. Mr. Jekielek: And those are the ones that survive, right? Dr. Malone: Those are the ones that survive and get transmitted. They either replicate in the host or they get transmitted to third parties. Im gonna cite another paper. Theres some really good veterinary work in whats called Mareks diseasewhich is a viral infection of chickens. This is what has many virologists concerned as a model system. In the case of Mareks disease, if you have an active outbreak of Mareks disease in chickens, and you start vaccinating against Mareks disease during the outbreak, what you will do is drive the development of viruses that are able to escape the vaccine. In the case of Mareks disease, they actually become more severe in terms of the disease that they cause. So thats another one of those worst case scenarios like I talked abouthigh zone tolerance. And I previously talked about antibody dependent enhancement, or a vaccine enhanced infection or disease. There are these situations in normal viral biology and vaccinology that give experienced immunologists and vaccinologists a certain amount of concern and pause. Based on Mareks disease and other examples, there are many virologists, and Im one of them, that are concerned that the policy of universal vaccination at the time when we are having a very active outbreak thats global, creates the risk that we will drive the immune response of the entire population towards a single endpointtowards a common outcome in terms of antibody responses. And theres another very nice paper, just out recently from Michael Diamonds laboratory, at Washington University, that shows that in fact, we are getting remarkably consistent B-cell responses to the vaccination. Theres an appearance that in the effective antibodies, theres a small number of epitopes that are protective in spike. And by only using spike as an antigen, were driving all of our immune responses towards some common endpoints of immune response against certain domains in spike. It can be shown that viruses are evolving during the course of this infection and the use of vaccines in this way to start to escape those selective pressures from antibodies against those certain domains. Spike is an interesting protein. It has a lot of sugars all over it and other things that are used to evade immune response already. The concern is that by deploying vaccines broadly, the same basic vaccine, all these genetic vaccines, all employ spike as an antigen, for driving the whole human race towards a common endpoint. And were driving the virus, thats infesting us to evolve to escape that common endpoint. And there is a risk that at some point in time, we may have basically a superbug evolve, which will now evade that immune response. Now, an example that your listenership may understand better is the idea of antibiotic resistance. When we deploy antibiotics unnecessarily and very widely, we know that we develop antibiotic resistant bacteria. The same concept applies in vaccinology with viruses. So what would happen? Should we have an emergent super virus that is able to evade the spike vaccines, it is likely that it would cause disease in those that have only received the vaccine as opposed to those that have had natural infection and have much broader immune responses. And it would place those that have primarily relied on the vaccine for protection that are at high risk of disease and deathin other words, the susceptible and elderly. Suddenly their first line of defense falls away because the vaccines are no longer effective. And so the risk is, with this universal vaccination strategy, by driving the development of viruses that are able to evade the immune responses elicited by the vaccines that we risk creation of virus strains that are able to evade that. And paradoxically, the people that it will put at risk are the very people that need the vaccine the most, which is our elders and those that have pre-existing medical conditions and morbid obesity. So the logic is, vaccinate those. Reserve the vaccine for just them and dont vaccinate the general population that are at extremely low riskfraction of a fraction of a percent. Mr. Jekielek: And some more studies that came out recently that basically verify that, I suppose, yeah. Dr. Malone: There have been. Theres been about three of them that have come out sequentially that are all consistent with this hypothesis. So thats the other leg of the stool. Thats kind of caused some growing concern about our current public policy and vaccination, is that we are seeing signs of the emergence of these vaccine escapians. Now theres a new strain popping up, I think in South Africa, that seems to be more resistant and there are further evolution of the Delta strains that seem to be more resistant. So like with all science, we cant prove that this is gonna happen. This is a forward-looking risk assessment. Were not there yet. I would prefer that we dont get there. I think probably we can all agree on that. Im not saying that were absolutely going to get there, but Im saying that myself and many others believe that our current policy places us at increased risk to having this kind of unpleasant outcome and losing the benefits of the vaccines, which as Ive mentioned, I believe in. I believe weve saved a lot of lives. I believe those benefits are best administered to the people that are most susceptible to death and disease, and to reserve the vaccines for those people. Mr. Jekielek: As we finish up, I just wanna get a few thoughts from you about vaccine mandates and vaccine passports, because this is the big question right now. Theres a number of cities, New York City, San Francisco, that have imposed pretty significant vaccine mandates mandate passport, it kind of becomes a bit of a Dr. Malone: Mandate, passport, quarantine. Theres a whole cluster of these kinds of more controlling, lets say gently, some might say authoritarian measures that are being advocated, in some cases. Quite forcefully down to the recent Toronto Star headline, basically saying we shouldnt even really provide medical care for those that have not taken the vaccine, that get infected, seemed to have crossed some cultural lines here about our attitudes, about the rights of the individual versus the rights of the collective. And these mandates have really brought those discussions and issues to forth. But I still believe that in medical care, I believe in the rights of the individual patient to elect, to accept, or reject care. And clearly the argument is made that the population in general has a right to insist that the individual comport with activities, which will reduce risk to the population. Their behaviors, that we all agree as a culture, were not going to accept because they create risk for all of us. And we generally try to draw the line that you have the freedom to do what you wanna do so long as it doesnt harm me. And this issue of vaccine mandate falls right into that junction of, is it ethically acceptable to mandate that my brother accept a medical intervention that my brother doesnt wish to take, in order to protect me from risk? Now, in my mind, the answer to that ethical conundrum is really straightforward. If Im at risk, I have the option to accept a vaccine. Were now in a position where we have vaccines. Its not like it was a year ago. If Im a person at high risk and I feel the need to have protection, that protection to the best as available is, I can avail myself of that. Now the argument is made that this falls down because vaccines really work through herd immunity. And by my not accepting a vaccine, or youre not accepting a vaccine, youre putting the population, the herd, at greater risk by being an individual susceptible to infection spread. Now that logic is harder to sustain with leaky vaccines. With vaccines that are something in the range of, we could argue 40 to 60 percent protective against infection, replication, and spread is still looking like theyre 80 to 90 percent protective against disease and death. But in terms of herd immunity, that CDC Slide Deck that I referenced earlier, doesnt get us there. We cant get there with these vaccines. Theyre not potent enough to have sufficient activity in blocking infection spread. So the logic of mandates is that the vaccinated contribute to herd immunity that will make it, so the whole population is able to economically recover, go about their business, live a normal life, et cetera. Thats no longer really consistent with the data that we have about the effectiveness of these vaccines. In fact, if from first principles, if you were to say, Hmm, what is the best way to get herd immunity? Now, what we know about natural infection and natural immunity, we would say, it would be to allow the people that are at low risk for death and disease to become infected, because thatll give them the broadest and most robust protection. Now that translates into They used to have chickenpox parties, and that translates into the logic of COVID parties. Im not advocating that, by the way. Mr. Jekielek: Im just thinking of the Science article. I think the drop head was, No infection parties, please. Right? Dr. Malone: Precisely. Because why were they saying that? Why that caveat was necessary, is because its actually a logical corollary of the data to say, there is merit to the idea of getting natural infection. A case could be made because there is data suggesting that Delta may be actually more pathogenic. A case could be made that those that were on the front edge of the infection wave like myself, undoubtedly got infected with an alpha strain, which was potentially less pathogenic. Were better off than those that are now gonna get infected by Delta. Now, Im not advocating that. But if were gonna be strictly rigorous in our thinking about the underlying logic here, the logic that supports mandatory vaccination to protect the population, to mitigate the risk of infection and economic disruption in the workplace or elsewhere, thats no longer tenable. Let me give you another example. Ive had a series of conversations with a high-profile actor, working for a very high-profile studio, both of which Im not gonna name. The studios position was you have to take the vaccine because we have risk. We have financial risk. We have financial risk if the production goes down. We have financial risk of being sued by the gaffers and the other personnel involved in the film production, if they get infected, potentially is a consequence of this high-profile person, and we have to mitigate that risk. We have no choice were a big company, okay? And that logic, which was built over the last few months, if you dissect it, its now no longer tenable, because the vaccinated, as well as the unvaccinated, create risk of infection and spread. I think that mandates are tenuous in a fundamental bioethical way. They violate the concept of the integrity of self and the rights of the individual to accept or reject medical treatment based on informed consent; which we do every time you go and have a surgical procedure. When I had my colonoscopy, I had to give informed consent and they had to explain the risks, right? And weve said that, well, in the special case of vaccines, because of herd immunity, were gonna let that ride. But then the underlying thesis that this is gonna get us to an endpointwere gonna compromise our ethical principles because its gonna yield a favorable result that gets back to my point about the social contract. Were gonna insist and reinforce that you take this product to provide a benefit that actually isnt there. Its not gonna get us to the point where weve mitigated the risk to your fellow man. So for me, I find the mandate logic to be divisive, authoritarian, impractical, and unnecessary. It creates a situation in which we are forcing the fundamental ethical conundrum of the rights of the collective versus the rights of the individual into an already inflamed political situation. I dont see how it gets us where we wanna go, which is returned to normalcy economically and in every other way. It doesnt provide the protection, that is the underlying logic. It divides us at a time when we test currently needs less division, please. So now we have this situation, where its an amazingly inflammatory logic, as exemplified in the Toronto Star front page, where we have groups of populations turning against each other. And people often cite the language. And the example, again, of how the Jews were characterized as a special population to be discriminated against because of intangible illogical arguments that werent grounded in reality. And many note that there is similar language and objectification and depersonalization associated with a lot of these statements that are driven just as they were then by fear, getting back to our starting point. This is not about me. Its not about whether my feelings are hurt by the Atlantic monthly or some junior journalist or somebody thats fact checking meIm a big boy, I can withstand that. What bothers me is not those kinds of things, its these underlying logic flaws that are tearing at the heart of the integrity of our public health system and trust and our body politic. And I think that its high time for everybody to take a deep breath and look at the logic of what were confronting. What are the data? And the criticism that Im trying to tear down vaccines or tear down this vaccine or that vaccine, please, Im trying to help people to grapple with the data, the true information, the underlying truth. I believe theres a valid counter narrative to the very simplified narrative that is being so avidly reinforced and enforced through censorship, social media, and information management at so many levels. Its like that whole system, that juggernaut, has gotten so wrapped up around a consensus set of truths that are failing now. So I think we all take a deep breath, come to terms of the data, and many publications that youre gonna share as footnotes in this. And I hope that our discussion today can help folks think for themselves. I dont have the answer. I know that for a fact. I have a lot of questions. Im a scientist. Im trying to raise valid concerns and spark thought, so that we can avoid bad consequences by just going along to get along, and assuming that the dominant narrative is the only option. Mr. Jekielek: Its such a pleasure to have you on. Dr. Malone: Thank you. Its always a pleasure. And I welcome the next time you give me a ring or send me a text and ask me another penetrating question that will spark more thought. This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. Below is a list of references mentioned or related to the discussion in this episode: Ivermectin for preventing and treating COVID-19 The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews Use of Ivermectin Is Associated With Lower Mortality in Hospitalized Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019 Chest Journal Review of the Emerging Evidence Demonstrating the Efficacy of Ivermectin in the Prophylaxis and Treatment of COVID-19 American Journal of Therapeutics Effects of Ivermectin in Patients With COVID-19: A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial Clinical Therapeutics Dexamethasone in Hospitalized Patients with Covid-19 The New England Journal of Medicine ACTIV-6: COVID-19 Study of Repurposed Medications NIH Convergent antibody responses to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in convalescent and vaccinated individuals Cell Reports Reduced sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 variant Delta to antibody neutralization Nature The SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant is poised to acquire complete resistance to wild-type spike vaccines (Note: This is a preprint) Mutation rate of COVID-19 virus is at least 50 percent higher than previously thought Phys.org Infection and Vaccine-Induced Neutralizing-Antibody Responses to the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617 Variants The New England Journal of Medicine Why is the ongoing mass vaccination experiment driving a rapid evolutionary response of SARS-CoV-2? Trial Site News The emergence and ongoing convergent evolution of the N501Y lineages coincides with a major global shift in the SARS-CoV-2 selective landscape (Note: This is a preprint) The Lambda variant of SARS-CoV-2 has a better chance than the Delta variant to escape vaccines (Note: This is a preprint) Imperfect Vaccination Can Enhance the Transmission of Highly Virulent Pathogens PLOS Biology Vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals have similar viral loads in communities with a high prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant (Note: This is a preprint). Fauci: Amount of virus in breakthrough delta cases almost identical to unvaccinated The Hill CDC: Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 Infections, Including COVID-19 Vaccine Breakthrough Infections, Associated with Large Public Gatherings Barnstable County, Massachusetts, July 2021 Predominance of antibody-resistant SARS-CoV-2 variants in vaccine breakthrough cases from the San Francisco Bay Area, California (Note: This is a preprint) New delta variant studies show the pandemic is far from over ScienceNews Read: Internal CDC document on breakthrough infections The Washington Post New UCSF study: Vaccine-resistant viruses are driving breakthrough COVID infections The Mercury News Comparing SARS-CoV-2 natural immunity to vaccine-induced immunity: reinfections versus breakthrough infections (Note: This is a preprint) Having SARS-CoV-2 once confers much greater immunity than a vaccinebut vaccination remains vital Science Differential effects of the second SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine dose on T cell immunity in naive and COVID-19 recovered individuals (Note: This is a preprint) SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and variants under investigation in England Public Health England Safety of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 Vaccine in a Nationwide Setting The New England Journal of Medicine Real-World Study Captures Risk of Myocarditis With Pfizer Vax MedPage Today CDC: Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Frontline Workers Before and During B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant Predominance Eight U.S. Locations, December 2020August 2021 CDC: Covid-19 Vaccine Effectiveness Fell From 91% To 66% With Delta Variant Forbes SARS-CoV-2 infection induces long-lived bone marrow plasma cells in humans Nature Causes and consequences of purifying selection on SARS-CoV-2 Genome Biology and Evolution The reproductive number of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 is far higher compared to the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 virus Journal of Travel Medicine Subscribe to the American Thought Leaders newsletter so you never miss an episode. You can also follow American Thought Leaders on Parler, Facebook, or YouTube. If youd like to donate to support our work, you can do so here. Follow Epoch TV on Facebook and Twitter. Reviving Chinas Lost Heritage: Dance Competition Raises the Bar In the past dozen years classical Chinese dance has burst onto the world stage and drawn intrigue and appreciation from global audiences. The revival of this traditional art form is a departure from the modern China under communist rule that most people know, and the truth about Chinas heritage continues to move audiences and motivate these dancers who pursue the art. The NTD International Classical Chinese Dance, now in its ninth year, took place Sept. 25 in New York, and this years requirements have raised the bar on the ancient art form. Competition judges Minghui and Gu Yun explained the meaning of shen dai shou, a method of movement where the body leads the arms, and why it has become the new standard for classical Chinese dance. Body Language Actually in martial arts, in opera, in other art forms that developed alongside Chinese dance, they all mention shen dai shou,' said judge Gu Yun, who is an alumni of the Beijing Dance Academy and whose credits include choreographer at the world renowned Shen Yun Performing Arts. Schools all over China talk about this method too, he said, but thus far, no one knows how to teach it. This is because the method is an ancient one, and Chinese dance was passed down in a master-to-apprentice format throughout the thousands of years of Chinese civilization, Gu Yun explained. Little was written down, much gets lost through word of mouth, and an apprentice watching and trying to imitate their master may not understand all the internal intricacies of which muscles to use. The death blow, of course, came when communists took power in China, and destroyed the Chinese peoples connection to their cultural heritage. Shen dai shou is a big part of the score this time, its become the standard, said Minghui. When a dancer really uses their body to dance, the exertion of force begins from the center of their body, that place below the collarbones, right over the heart. It draws attention to the mind-body-spirit connection so prevalent in traditional Chinese culture, and pairs nicely with another saying commonly used in classical Chinese dance: Dance from the heart. If you really use the body to dance, from the heart, here, to move your body and four limbs, then you characters are more vivid, judge Minghui said. We say dance is a body language; we use our bodies to tell stories, to depict characters. So just to understand it simply, if youre not using your body when you dance, youre not speaking this language fully and clearly. This is a fundamental thing. She elaborated on the importance of the heart: When you dance, you need a lot of artistry, not just dance technique, in order to dance. And there are many things that go into the development of ones artistry, from musicality to the development of your aesthetic sense, culture, your understanding of what it means to be a human. So, when you dance, it is an expression of all of these things, as you bring a character to life. Dance also begins from your mind, and from your heart, not just your arms and legs and movement, she said. Theres a lot of intangible and invisible aspects at play here tooenergy, spirit, and all of these things that some people can find hard to explain. If dance is body language, Gu Yun elaborated on how the shen dai shou method changes the way a dancer speaks. The use of this gives you a fuller language, more nuance, and, of course, a better stage effect for the viewer, Gu Yun said. There is a stark difference between watching a dancer who uses this method and one who isnt, and one does not need to be an expert in dance to feel the difference. Despite both dancers using the same movements, the way the movements look and the way the dancer connects the movements becomes completely different when their philosophy of movement has changed, the judge explained. The dancers who have pioneered this method are those from Shen Yun Performing Arts and its dance academy, Fei Tian, as Shen Yun Artistic Director D.F. is the one who has selected and organized the method into their training systemand the way they communicate is very different from dancers of other schools. A Pure Heart Gu Yun, who grew up in China, an atheist nation under communist rule, firmly believes spirituality is a defining factor in art. He spoke about why shen dai shou is a method only utilized by Shen Yun and Fei Tian dancers: First, only their artistic director has taught it so comprehensively. But secondly, and crucially, an atheist culture is materialistic, said Gu Yun, and unable to achieve a profound effect. For instance, Beijing Dance Academy has its pick of the best dancers from an entire nation, from thousands of well-trained applicants, but their dance groups havent made a fraction of the impact Shen Yun has on the art world. Modern China is atheistic, so youre immersed in this culture from childhood, and maybe you cant tell the impact of it at first, but your entire outlook on life is about the material, your goals are material, a good job, house, living conditions. With faith, everything becomes pure, and life can be purpose-filled, Gu Yun said. And only then does life have meaning. Were dancers here, but it doesnt matter if youre a dancer or an accountant or what your profession is, you want to have reason and meaning for doing what you do. The pursuit of an artist must be pure, Gu Yun said, and Shen Yun and Fei Tians culture allows for that. To learn shen dai shou requires a pure heart too. First, your motive for pursuing art needs to be pure, because only then are you open to inspiration, and intuition, Gu Yun said. You have to remember, its not a science, its a combination and layering of feelings and the intangible and unmeasurable. There isnt a cut and dry beginner-level shen dai shou, intermediate, advanced level. The Next Generation The judges spoke well of this years contestants, remarking especially at the improvement of the junior division dancers. You can see their heard work and determination. Theres more depth in their stories this year, and the effect is better and there are some moments youre really impressed with the artistry, Gu Yun said. Those in the junior division are sometimes dancers of 16 or 17 years of age, but many chose hefty characters from the canon of Chinese literature and history, characters one might not expect students so young to be able to fully grasp. Sometimes I think it might be that they have a gift, Gu Yun mused. Or perhaps an affinity for a certain character that they have a cultural memory of. Maybe its reincarnation. Minghui encouraged the dancers to keep working hard. We saw a lot of good potential, and I heard some of them are even very new dancers, and theyve grasped so much in just a short time, she said. This is a rare opportunity to see traditional Chinese culture, and this art is a special part of our culture. With reporting by NTDTV. A health worker shows a box containing a bottle of Ivermectin, a medicine authorized by the National Institute for Food and Drug Surveillance to treat patients with mild, asymptomatic or suspicious COVID-19, as part of a study of the Center for Paediatric Infectious Diseases Studies, in Cali, Colombia, on July 21, 2020. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP) (Photo by LUIS ROBAYO/AFP via Getty Images) Rolling Stone Issues Update After COVID Ivermectin Article Disputed by Oklahoma Hospital A hospital system in Oklahoma responded to a Rolling Stone article that claimed hospital emergency rooms in Oklahoma were turning away gunshot victims due to ivermectin overdose patients, saying that it has not treated patients due to complications from taking the drug. Rolling Stone on Sunday issued an update to its article, which included the statement from a local hospital denying the claims. The report sourced a local KFOR article that itself cited Oklahoma ER doctor Dr. Jason McElyea who claimed that people overdosing on farm-grade ivermectin are causing emergency rooms to be so backed up that gunshot victims were having hard times getting inside emergency rooms. The reports did not mention where McElyea had worked, but later, HS Sequoyah, located in Sallisaw, issued a statement that McElyea had worked there and refuted his claims. Although Dr. Jason McElyea is not an employee of NHS Sequoyah, he is affiliated with a medical staffing group that provides coverage for our emergency room, the statement, on NHS Sequoyahs website as of Sunday afternoon, reads. With that said, Dr. McElyea has not worked at our Sallisaw location in over 2 months. NHS Sequoyah has not treated any patients due to complications related to taking ivermectin. This includes not treating any patients for ivermectin overdose. It continued: All patients who have visited our emergency room have received medical attention as appropriate. Our hospital has not had to turn away any patients seeking emergency care. We want to reassure our community that our staff is working hard to provide quality healthcare to all patients. We appreciate the opportunity to clarify this issue and as always, we value our communitys support. In comments to KFOR last week, McElyea alleged that patients are packing Oklahoma hospitals after taking ivermectin doses meant for full-sized horses to treat COVID-19. Scott Schaeffer, managing director of the Oklahoma Center for Poison and Drug Information, told the Daily News that since the beginning of May, weve received reports of 11 people being exposed to ivermectin, suggesting that there is no influx of ivermectin overdoses in state hospitals. Schaeffer noted that most had relatively minor symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness, although he cautioned that there are more serious side effects associated with the drug. The Food and Drug Administration has long approved the use of the ivermectin in people for parasites and skin conditions, although it has recently issued warnings against people taking animal versions of the drug. Ivermectin has not been approved by the FDA to treat COVID-19, a disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. Controversy erupted around its usage for COVID-19 after podcaster Joe Rogan said he took ivermectin along with a cocktail of other drugs after he was diagnosed with the disease last week. In a social media post on Sept. 3, Rogan said he tested negative for the virus after testing positive four days prior. The Epoch Times has contacted NHS Sequoyah for additional comment. Short Stay in Bellingham Yields Big Fun As our group wandered through downtown Bellingham, Washington, my college friends teenage daughter gently tugged on my sleeve. She had spotted a small ice cream shop and wanted to conspire for a taste, so we nipped in. From an assortment of creative and exotic ice cream flavors, we selected honey lavender and then rejoined the others, who were settled outside a nearby creperie waiting for their treat. Such meandering is how most people pass a typical Saturday in this bayside town. We had come for a reunion of college friends to celebrate a milestone birthday and found an interesting complement of four villages that came together in 1903 to create the northernmost city in Washington. Situated right between Vancouver and Seattle, its a place for shopping, learning, outdoor recreation, and gastronomic delights. We were only there for a weekend but decided to dip our toes into each. In addition to our snacking in Bellingham shops, we visited the farmers market, where local cheese, produce, cider, mushroom logs, and soap were brightened by booths of flowers and shimmering jewelry. We also stopped into a sock store that sold hundreds of funny, artistic, political, and kitschy designsmany made by a local company. In a four-block area we were thoroughly entertained, but we were also quite parched. Fortunately, Bellingham is known for its local craft brews. With 17 breweries currently in the county, we had to give a few a try. Because we had teens in our crew, we used a local guide to decide where to go and wound up getting some savory sweet potato fries at one and delicious nachos and an assortment of yard games at another. The flights of beer tasters were a treat for me, and I learned that hazy IPAs are my new favorite. A tap trail map available at the breweries guided us from one to another and encouraged us to gather stamps at each as a way to earn swag. With only two days to visit, however, we had to pass. Our team split up with some staying in to rest, but I joined the cohort headed down curvy, wooded Chuckanut Drive, the original road between Seattle and Canada. Our target was a family-owned shellfish farm on Samish Bay. Down a rutted gravel road along a railroad track, we found a rustic shack beside stacks of baskets and crates. Signs near the shack told of the familys 130-year shellfishing history and explained their sustainable tide to table practices. Inside, a young man told us what had come in just today and offered us a bottle of sauvignon blanc to enjoy with the fresh oysters he was happy to shuck. We had to take ours on ice to gothis time. Our second morning started with a hike on the North Chuckanut Mountain Trail. Well-marked paths climbed up among thick-trunked Douglas firs and maidenhair ferns. The primordial forest surrounded us, making us feel as if we had stepped back in time. Waterfalls trickled and splashed to cool pools, and a banana slug the size of my hand made its way up a lush mossy tree. It was idyllic. A hike through the forest in Bellingham, Wash., reveals slugs that grow as big as bananas and waterfalls that trickle into clear pools beneath moss-covered pines. (Lesley Sauls Frederikson) Back in town, we explored galleries and shops in Fairhaven, another of the four villages that make up the city of Bellingham. Established in 1883 by Dirty Dan Harris, the town has a history of honoring the founder every April. Evidently, the colorful character was known for his uncleanliness. Even his hotel was known for its dirty beds until a new wife came onto the scene. He also had a temper and a taste for booze that led him to roll his hotels piano straight into the bay after the hotel sold and the new owner refused to pay more for the upright. The debacle inspires piano races annually during Dirty Dan Days, when four teams roll pianos up the very hill he rolled his piano down. A statue of Dan lolls on a park bench and invites selfies that we couldnt resist. A statue of infamous Dirty Dan Harris lounges on a park bench in historic Fairhaven, one of four villages that combined in 1903 to become Bellingham. (Lesley Sauls Frederikson) Finally, it was time to grab our oysters and prosecco and go out to celebrate our birthday girl. We had arranged a crab boat to take us onto the bay for the afternoon. A misty morning had opened to a sunny afternoon, and the bay was calm. As we motored out to our crab pots, we shucked oysters and passed the bottle of bubbles. That must have brought us luck; each of us had a chance to lean over the edge of the boat and hook a pot of skittering critters. We learned how to identify gender and measure our catch, and we took lots of silly pictures before it was time to head back to the marina. One by one we wandered up to sit atop the boats wheelhouse and soak up the view of the San Juan islands around us. A light breeze was in our hair and the sun set as we planned our tide to table dinner and passed another bottle of bubbles. There is something to be said about a place whose moniker is the City of Subdued Excitement. This is a place to relax with friends, hike the forests, drift on the water, and savor fresh local cuisine, and Im in. When You Go Bellingham Information: Bellingham.org Mallard ice cream: MallardIceCream.com Brewery Passport: TapTrail.com/bttpassport Local breweries: Bellingham.org/rounding-up-bellinghams-craft-beer-scene-17-must-see-breweries Taylor Shellfish Farms: TaylorShellfishFarms.com/location/samish-oyster-bar-and-shellfish-market Local hiking trails: AllTrails.com Lesley Sauls Frederikson is a freelance writer. To read features by other Creators writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators website at Creators.com. Copyright 2021 Creators.com Chinese Americans line up outside of the Sing Tao News offices to donate money for the victims of the earthquake in China in the Chinatown neighborhood of San Francisco, Calif., on May 14, 2008. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) California Politicians Sent Anniversary Greetings to Pro-Beijing Newspaper Now Registered as Foreign Agent Sing Tao US, the U.S. branch of Sing Tao Daily, was required to register as a foreign agent operating in the United States in late August. Recent reports show several prominent elected officials in California sent Sing Tao US video greetings during its 83rd anniversary gala in early August. During the banquet, multiple prominent politicians and elected officials, along with the Consul General of the San Francisco Chinese Consulate and the California governor, praised the company and staff. Sing Tao also invited a choir to sing red songs, which promote the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Sing Tao is a Hong Kong-based media company founded in 1938. It began providing the United States with its overseas editions in 1963. Nathan Su, senior reporter and China expert at The Epoch Times, told NTD News in an interview, Keep in mind, 30 to 40 years ago, Sing Tao newspaper was a completely different newspaper than what Sing Tao is today. During the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre, Sing Tao was very much pro-democracy, supporting the student movement on Tiananmen Square, and criticizing the bloody massacre done by the Chinese communist regime in Beijing. Documents from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) indicate that Sing Tao US CEO Robert Mui registered the company on Aug. 20, per the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). The DOJ officially added it to the list of active foreign agent registrants on Aug. 23. In the documents, the Justice Department indicated that Sing Tao is owned by a foreign government, referring to the CCP. Sing Tao disputed the DOJs conclusion, stating that its U.S. entities are privately-owned and are similarly situated to other for-profit media companies operating in the United States, according to the FARA filing. Although the newspaper is not formally associated with the CCP, Sing Tao is currently owned by pro-Beijing businessman Charles Ho Tsu-kwok. Su said that Sing Tao changed from pro-democracy to pro-Beijing when Ho became chairman of the media company. Todays Sing Tao is totally different. They are absolutely not supporting the Hong Kong peoples fight for freedom in the last few years. And they are actually siding with the Chinese Communist Party, their way to rule Hong Kong, said Su. He continued, And, the reason was really clear. For some financial reasons in the 90s, Sing Taos ownership was switched. The current owner of Sing Tao newspaper is a member of CPPCC. Thats Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, in China. Thats the highest-level ally thats assisting the Chinese Communist Party to rule China. I mean, assisting, not just supporting. Su explained that the CPPCC aids the CCP on all issues, including in the Uyghur genocide in Xinjiang. Sing Tao now also assists the CCP in spreading its propaganda on issues including Falun Gong, Hong Kongs democracy movements, and on COVID-19 (the disease caused by the CCP virus). Sing Tao published San Francisco Consul General Wang Donghuas signed article on virus tracing on Aug. 25. Wangs article claims the United States politicized the virus and is not focused on finding the true source of the virus. Yet, nearly all countries in the international sphere have been researching and investing resources on studying the viruss origin. However, Su believes that many of the politicians who sent praise and greeting videos to Sing Tao during its annual gala are likely unaware of the newspapers recent status change, especially since the gala was held weeks before Sing Tao registered as a foreign agent. He urges politicians and the public to be more aware of Sing Taos activities and affiliation with the CCP. Sing Tao is now the fourth Chinese state-run media organization to register as a foreign agent, following Xinhua, the largest CCP-founded new agency; CGTN, the international branch of Chinese state broadcaster China Central Television; and China Daily, an English-language newspaper owned by the CCP. Taliban fighters stand guard along a road near the site of an Ashura procession which is held to mark the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad, along a road in Herat on Aug. 19, 2021, amid the Taliban's military takeover of Afghanistan. (Aref Karimi/AFP via Getty Images) Taliban Holding Americans Hostage at Afghanistan Airport: Top Republican Lawmaker The top-ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says the Taliban terrorist group wont allow Americans to leave from an airport in the northern part of Afghanistan, while the White House chief of staff estimates that about 100 Americans still remain in the country. Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) said that six airplanes carrying Americans and Afghans are sitting at the Mazar-i-Sharif airport in Afghanistan but cant depart because the Taliban is holding them hostage for demands. In fact, we have six airplanes at Mazar-i-Sharif airportsix airplaneswith American citizens on them, as I speak, also with these interpreters, and the Taliban is holding them hostage for demands right now, McCaul told Fox News on Sept. 5. The State Department has cleared these flights, and the Taliban will not let them leave the airport. The GOP lawmaker didnt elaborate the specific demands the Taliban have made to the United States, but he said its turning into a hostage situation and the Taliban is not going to allow American citizens to leave until they get full recognition from the United States of America. Well, they are not clearing airplanes to depart. Theyve sat at the airport for the last couple days, these planes, and theyre not allowed to leave, McCaul said. We know the reason why is because the Taliban want something in exchange. Rep. Michael McCaul speaks as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken testifies before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on the Biden Administrations priorities for U.S. foreign policy in Washington on March 10, 2021. (Ken Cedeno-Pool/Getty Images) Officials at the State Department didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment. Late last month, the U.S. military completed its final evacuation mission at the Kabul airport while Biden administration officials declared an end to the 20-year-long military conflict in Afghanistan. However, possibly hundreds of American citizens still remain inside the country. President Joe Biden has received unprecedented bipartisan criticism of how his administration handled the pullout and chaotic evacuation. During remarks to the press and in speeches, Biden repeatedly defended the pullout and blamed the Afghan army for not being willing to fight the Taliban, although neither he nor top generals could explain why the Afghanistan government collapsed in just 11 days and acknowledged their intelligence didnt predict such a scenario unfolding. White House chief of staff Ron Klain told CNNs State of the Union on Sept. 5 that about 100 Americans remain in the country. Obviously, were hopeful that, in the coming days, the Qataris will be able to resume air service out of Kabul. And, if they do, were obviously going to look to see if Americans can be part of those flights. We are going to find ways to get them the ones that want to leave, to get them out of Afghanistan, he said. This Is Bad: Russian Cosmonauts Find Tiny Cracks in International Space Station NASA spokesperson denies the claims, saying that 'no new potential leak sites have been identified' Russian cosmonauts have found small cracks on the International Space Station (ISS), prompting fears from officials that the fissures could widen. Superficial fissures have been found in some places on the Zarya module, Vladimir Solovyov, the chief engineer of rocket and space corporation Energia, told the state-run RIA news agency. This is bad and suggests that the fissures will begin to spread over time. Its not clear if the cracks caused any air to leak into space from the ISS. A spokesperson for NASA denied the claims to the Daily Mail, saying, there are currently no issues impacting crew or normal International Space Station operations, and no new potential leak sites have been identified. The Epoch Times has contacted the agency for comment. Last year, NASA and the Russian space agency Roscosmos searched for a small air leak in the space station hovering above Earth when air pressure dropped. And Russian officials last month said a software glitch, and a possible lapse in human attention, were to blame for throwing the ISS out of control. Jet thrusters on the Russian research module Nauka inadvertently reignited a few hours after it had docked, causing the entire orbital outpost to pitch out of its normal flight position with seven crew members aboard. Feeling good: Tim Peake aboard the ISS. (ESA/NASA, CC BY 4.0) Roscosmos last month reported a drop in pressure in the Zvezda service module, which provides living quarters for crew members on the ISS that was caused by an air leak. Russia and the United States jointly launched the ISS in 1998, which at the time was hailed as a significant effort to reconstruct tensions between the former Cold War opponents. Earlier this year, Russian officials said that it will withdraw from the ISS by 2025 and is now working on its own space station. We cant risk the lives [of our cosmonauts]. The situation that today is connected to the structure and the metal getting old, it can lead to irreversible consequences to catastrophe. We mustnt let that happen, Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov told state television in April 2021. Those comments were made a few days after President Joe Biden unleashed a wide array of sanctions on Russia, including to its sovereign debt market over alleged cyberattacks, election interference, and military incursions near Ukraine. The Treasury at the time blacklisted 32 Russian entities and individuals that it claimed had carried out Russian government-directed attempts to influence the election as well as other alleged acts of disinformation and interference. Reuters contributed to this report. UK May Give Healthy 12- to 15-Year-Olds COVID-19 Vaccine Despite Scientific Advice The UK government is yet to decide whether to offer the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to all 12- to 15-year-olds, vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said on Sunday. It comes after the governments independent advisory body on vaccination and immunisation advised against offering the vaccine to healthy children in this age group. We have not made any decisions, Zahawi told Sky Newss Trevor Phillips on Sunday programme. But the minister promised that parents consent will be sought if the government pressed on with its vaccination plan. I can give that assurance, absolutely, he said when asked if the parents will be asked. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine was approved in June for use on children over 12 years old by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The Moderna vaccine was approved for children over 12 years old last month by the MHRA, but it has not yet been given to children in the UKs vaccination programmes. The Department of Health and Social Care on Aug. 28 preemptively told Englands health service to get ready to vaccinate all 12- to 15-year-olds in anticipation of a recommendation in favour of mass vaccination for the age group. But the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) on Friday said it was taking a precautionary approach and not advising universal vaccination for 12- to 15-year-olds because children in this age group have a very low risk of becoming severely ill from the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) viruswith just two children in a million admitted to intensive care, according to the latest analysis. JCVI Deputy Chair Professor Anthony Harnden told The Guardian on Saturday that the health benefits from vaccinating well 12- to 15-year-olds are marginally greater than the risks. Harnden said that he believes its entirely reasonable to give the vaccine to healthy teenagers with their parents consent if the educational benefits of vaccinating make that benefit/risk balance tip towards a greater benefit/risk ratio. The JCVIs statement on Friday said that any indirect benefit that healthy children can gain from vaccination is highly uncertain, and that there is increasingly robust evidence of an association between vaccination with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and myocarditis. It added that while adverse events are still very rare and mostly short, the clinical picture is atypical and the medium to long-term (months to years) prognosis, including the possibility of persistence of tissue damage resulting from inflammation, is currently uncertain as sufficient follow-up time has not yet occurred. Health ministers of the UKs four nations have written to their chief medical officers, asking them to take forward work (drawing on experts as you see fit) to consider the matter from a broader perspective, as suggested by the JCVI. The ministers said they will make their decision based on the advice from both the JCVI and the chief medical officers. Schools in the UK were closed for months during lockdowns since March 2020. In July this year, more than a million pupils were absent from school in one week, mostly due to being in contact with someone who tested positive for the CCP virus. But MPs were told in August that the absence of children at schools was largely driven by the testing policies. If you test a lot of children and show that theres [sic] some cases, and you end up sending home their contacts or classes or even year groups, that has a huge impact, Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, told the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Coronavirus. Pollard said that theres no need to test children en-mass because they generally dont get severe symptoms from the CCP virus, and those who are most susceptible to severe disease would be offered vaccination. The JCVI has recommended giving the vaccine to 12- to 15-year-olds with conditions including severe neuro disabilities, Downs syndrome, immunosuppression, multiple or severe learning disabilities, hematological malignancy, sickle cell disease, type 1 diabetes, and congenital heart disease. Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the number of COVID-19 vaccines approved for children over 12 years old. The Epoch Times regrets the error. A Chinese navy formation, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning (C), during military drills in the South China Sea, on Jan. 2, 2017. (STR/AFP via Getty Images) US Coast Guard Pacific Chief Says Chinas New Maritime Rule Very Concerning Vice Adm. Michael McAllister, the U.S. Coast Guards top commander in the Pacific, recently said Chinas new maritime reporting requirement was very concerning and violated international agreements and norms. In fact, McAllister added, if China chose to enforce the requirement, it would begin to build foundations for instability and potential conflicts. He expressed his concerns during a press briefing on Sept. 3. Foreign vessels entering what Beijing considers its territorial waters would be required to report their detailed informationincluding ship name, call sign, last and next port call, and current positionto Chinas Maritime Safety Administration, according to the agencys notice issued on Aug. 27. The reporting requirement went into effect on Sept. 1. The requirement would apply to four different types of foreign vesselssubmersibles, nuclear vessels, ships carrying radioactive materials, and ships carrying bulk oil, chemicals, liquefied gas, and other toxic and harmful substances. Other foreign ships that may endanger Chinas maritime traffic safety would also be subject to the same requirement. The reporting requirement was a part of Chinas new Maritime Traffic Safety Law, which also went into effect on Sept. 1. The law was amended in April by the Standing Committee of Chinas rubber-stamp legislature, the National Peoples Congress. Under the new law, Beijing could also force foreign vessels that threaten the safety of the Peoples Republic of Chinas internal or territorial waters to leave. A map designed by China includes an insert with nine dash lines showing the Chinese regimes claimed territory in the South China Sea in Beijing on June 15, 2016. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images) In response to Chinas new maritime requirement, McAllister said the U.S. Coast Guard would continue to work with partners in the region. Were in the region really in part to support key partners that are growing increasingly concerned over Chinas aggressive and sometimes coercive actions, and our partners concerns with their lack of capability or capacity to adequately respond to those actions, McAllister said. Chinas new maritime rules are expected to raise regional tensions. Conflicts could flare up in the disputed South China Sea, the East China Sea, and the Taiwan Strait, the three bodies of water that are frequently visited by foreign commercial and military vessels. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as a part of its territory, considers the whole Taiwan Strait as its internal sea, and often accuses foreign countries that sail through the strait of violating international law. Meanwhile, the Chinese regime has adopted aggressive tactics in an effort to stake its claims in the South China Sea, even though The Hagues Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in 2016 that Beijings territorial claims were inconsistent with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Vietnam, one of the governments that faces a territorial dispute with Beijing in the South China Sea, called on China to respect UNCLOS, in a statement in response to Chinas new maritime law. The Pentagon and the U.S. State Department have both voiced their criticism; the former said that Chinas new law would pose a serious threat to the freedoms of the seas. The United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows, the Pentagons Lt. Col. Martin Meiners told the Stars and Stripes, when asked about the potential impact of Chinas new maritime law on U.S. Navy operations in the region. The U.S. 7th Fleet regularly conducts freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Recently, guided-missile destroyer USS Kidd and a U.S. Coast Guard national security cutter transited through the Taiwan Strait on Aug. 27. The U.S. Navy stated the routine transit was a sign of U.S. commitment to a free and open IndoPacific. China is once again testing the international community to gauge how it will react to the enactment of yet another maritime law that exceeds the permissible jurisdictional limits of international law, as reflected in UNCLOS, stated Raul A.F. Pedrozo, professor of international law in the Stockton Center for International Law at U.S. Naval War College, in his analysis. He predicted that Beijing would use the new maritime law to engage in grey zone operations below the threshold of armed conflict to intimidate its neighbors and further erode the rule of law at sea in the IndoPacific region. U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Gerald Donohue looks on during a media briefing at Al Udeid airbase in Doha, Qatar, on Sept. 4, 2021. (Hamad I Mohammed/Reuters) US General Says Most of Those Evacuated From Afghanistan to Qatar Are Now in Europe, US DOHAThe United States has moved most of the more than 57,000 people it evacuated from Afghanistan to Qatar out of the Gulf state, with some now in the United States while others are being processed in Europe, a U.S. general said on Saturday. Roughly 124,000 people were evacuated last month from Kabul in a massive U.S.-led airlift of U.S. and other foreign citizens as well as vulnerable Afghans as the Taliban took control there. Many of those, including some with no documentation or pending U.S. visa applications, were evacuated through military bases in the Middle East, including Al Udeid in Doha, Qatar. There were now fewer than 1,400 evacuees on the base, with many scheduled to be flown out on Saturday while a small group needing medical care would remain until they can travel, Brigadier General Gerald Donohue told reporters. It was not immediately clear how many exactly were now in the United States or Europe, and an unspecified number were also at a nearby base in Qatar. At one point there were over 17,500 evacuees at Al Udeid, Donohue said, adding that nine babies were born to evacuees. Following the scramble to evacuate vulnerable Afghans, thousands of people, some with no documentation or pending U.S. visa applications and others in families with mixed immigration statuses, are now waiting in transit hubs in third countries. Afghans must overcome immigration hurdles to eventually enter the United States. What Entrepreneurs Can Do to Overcome the Impact of Natural Disasters Although natural calamities are unpredictable, one can sketch a plan that may be useful in managing businesses when they strike Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Natural calamities such as floods, fires, hurricanes, and earthquakes are major concerns for businesses across the globe. At any time, an environmental or atmospheric disaster can strike down companies and cause significant damages. They can also lead to severe and widespread economic recession, which could take years to recover from. For instance, a report titled Weather, Climate & Catastrophe Insight revealed that the global economy suffered $268 billion in losses due to natural disasters and the pandemic in 2020. Although these incidents are unpredictable in their totality, one can sketch a plan that may be useful in managing businesses when they strike. Here are some quick points. Related: I Lost Almost Everything in a Natural Disaster. Here Is How I Recovered. Free and Fair Communication When a company is facing a severe economic jolt caused by a natural disaster, it becomes crucial to communicate with employees, stakeholders, and clients. This could garner sympathy and support from all corners and also boost trust. Regular updates about the steps the company intends to take to tackle the fallout would be ideal. Apart from building trust, transparent communication can also indicate to employees and other associates their value in the company, which will eventually increase the companys goodwill. Get in Touch With the Insurance Company This is the most important thing that you need to do when facing a natural disaster. Anything can happen during a crisis like this, including damage to office property, vandalism, and losing a life. So, in order to ensure the safety and security of office properties and their employees, it is advisable to contact your insurance agent as early as you can for the claim. Also, it has to be noted that companies should regularly be in touch with insurance agents in order to understand the intricacies well in advance, in terms of money or claims, before any natural calamity hits them hard. Make Your Online Presence Felt During natural calamities, a company can come forward and help customers or other needy individuals who need their services or products the most. If you can, have essentials in stock that can be given charitably to customers. This not only increases your goodwill and reputation, but also increases your sales in the long run. However, to achieve this, a company needs to always remain active on key social media platforms. This exercise will also help in spreading awareness about the companys recovery. Related: Where to Turn When a Natural Disaster Upends Your Finances Set Up an Emergency Operations Plan When your business is struck down due to a natural calamity, instead of pressing the panic button, design a roadmap for immediate action. Assign and decide the responsibilities of your workforce and make full use of your key employees. You may want to allow remote work for the time being. In a nutshell, a company can redesign its work policies in a crisis, even if temporary. Assess Your Business Model Once the impact of the natural disaster slows down, you can evaluate your business model, including budgeting and spending capacity. You may have incurred loss in the form of property damage or data theft, so think about expansion or cost-cutting once things get better. Any decision taken in haste, especially about business operations, can prove detrimental. Therefore, consider all parameters before making any announcement or executing any plan. Back Up Key Data Usually, companies store all key and important information in an official database, but there is a great possibility that it can get damaged or someone can steal the data during such a crisis. Therefore, the first and foremost step for companies is to safeguard their data. It can be done through encryption with double or triple security layers or by saving data in a cloud-based document system. Also, a USB drive with an encrypted code or any other software such as a chip could be a safe bet. Regrouping and Reorganizing Companies that have been hit hard can collectively join hands together and approach the government and other government-backed institutions for financing. This would help them raise funds and repair any serious damage. In addition, this could pave the way for better relationships with other firms and government agencies as you eye business expansion down the road. Bottom line? Disasters will happen, but there are steps you can take in anticipation ofand subsequent toany calamity to come out capable of conducting business as usual. Sweet, slightly charred roasted corn is rubbed with Parmesan-garlic butter and showered with more Parmesan and fresh basil. (Joe Lingeman/TNS) You Need This Cheesy Garlic Butter Corn Before Summer Ends If you, like me, like to squeeze every last bit out of summer before declaring it officially fall, I implore you to make this extra-cheesy, extra-garlicky corn on the cob before youre out of time. Roast your last ears of corn in the oven until they lightly blister and char, rub them with Parmesan-garlic butter, then shower them with more Parmesan and plenty of fresh basil for the ultimate end-of-season celebration. If youre familiar with elote, the Mexican street corn that features a glorious mess of cotija cheese, you know how magical the combination of salty cheese and sweet corn is. Here, its a bit Italian-leaning. Youll make a quick compound butter by mixing softened butter with grated Parmesan cheese and garlic while the corn cobs roast in the oven. Once theyre tender, youll immediately slather the aromatic butter over every kernel, then shower more cheese, fresh basil, and cracked black pepper over top. Fair warning: Each bite is so rich and interesting, your main dish probably wont be the star of your dinner the night you serve this corn. Oh, and while roasting brings out a wonderful, caramelized sweetness in the corn, you can also apply this garlicky, cheesy technique to grilled, boiled, or even microwaved corn. Oven-Roasted Parmesan Corn on the Cob Serves 6 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature 6 ears fresh corn 1 ounce Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1/2 firmly packed cup grated on a Microplane or 1/3 cup store-bought), divided 2 cloves garlic 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for serving 4 large fresh basil leaves Place the unsalted butter in a small bowl and let come to room temperature. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 400 degrees F. Remove the husk and silk from the corn. Place the corn directly on the oven rack and roast for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, use a Microplane to finely grate the Parmesan cheese. Add half the Parmesan to the bowl with the butter. Grate or mince the garlic cloves and add to the bowl. Add the kosher salt and black pepper, and use a fork to mash and combine. Coarsely chop the basil. Transfer the corn to a baking sheet. Use a butter knife or pastry brush to immediately slather it all over with the Parmesan-garlic butter. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and the basil. Generously grind some black pepper over the top and serve immediately. Recipe Note: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container up to three days. FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) Tucked into the pandemic-heavy agenda for a special legislative session is a request to strengthen Kentucky's negotiating hand in trying to reel in mega-sized economic development projects. Gov. Andy Beshear said Saturday that he will ask the GOP-led legislature to give the state's recruiting team more flexibility in offering incentives for investment projects topping $2 billion. As we sit here today, we have at least five potential projects that would be that size," Beshear told reporters. In other words, the largest in our commonwealths history. The Democratic governor announced Saturday that he's calling lawmakers back to the statehouse for a special session that begins Tuesday. The session will be dominated by coronavirus-related issues. After winning a legal battle against Beshear, lawmakers will take the lead in crafting policies to respond to a recent surge of COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations, fueled by the delta variant. But Beshear is hoping the work on economic development policy helps put the state at the front of the pack in trying to land $2 billion-plus projects. Such a massive development would be certain to create loads of new jobs, with plenty of spin-off opportunities for even more job growth. As is customary when states pursue industrial projects, the governor didn't offer specifics about which types of companies are being pursued by Kentucky's economic development officials. And he didn't offer details about the legislation that lawmakers will be asked to consider. But the governor said it would strengthen the Bluegrass State's negotiating position. Other states have tools in their toolbox to make offers for those projects that we dont have, Beshear said at a news conference. "And so this asks the General Assembly to help us be competitive, but to keep the same spirit we have in our current incentive package. The proposal also would enhance Kentuckys position in promoting a site at Glendale just off Interstate 65, the governor said. That site about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Louisville was offered two decades ago when Kentucky was trying to land a new Hyundai auto manufacturing plant. Hyundai ultimately selected Alabama for the project. Beshear has touted Kentucky's economic resurgence even as the delta variant has sparked record numbers of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions in Kentucky. So far this year, Kentucky has landed more than $2.8 billion in new investments from companies locating operations in the state or expanding existing sites, Beshear said recently. That total exceeds business investments made in all of 2020 in the state, he said. Beshear projected that this year's total could end up at least doubling total investments from the pandemic-stricken 2020. The governor routinely promotes the latest economic development projects at his pandemic-dominated news conferences. We see more potential right now, Beshear said recently. We see investment sizes that we could have only dreamed of. The future is right here in front of us. This opportunity is ours to grab to never be a fly-over state again, and to be a leader and never again a follower. The Japanese Folk Dance Institute of New York (JFDINY) will present an all day festival celebrating Japan in Corlears Hook Park on Sunday, Sept. 12, from 12pm 4pm. The event will feature traditional performing arts and cultural activities for the whole family, including performances by JFDINYs own Minbuza (Japanese Folk Dance), Samurai Sword Soul (Traditional Sword Fighting), and Taiko Masala (Taiko Drumming). Kids will have an opportunity to participate in Japanese arts and crafts such as origami, calligraphy, kendama, and kimono dressing. The event promises a big finale: Bon Odori, a traditional Japanese Summer event where everyone joins in and dances together. Learn more and see the full schedule here. Photo: A quiet holiday afternoon at the mouth of the Manhattan Bridge. Here are some the stories that caught our eye in the past week: A 97-year-old woman who lived in the Baruch Houses was found dead in her apartment, while her niece was taken to Bellevue Hospital for psychiatric evaluation after allegedly screaming, I did it. [New York Daily News] A male victim was rushed to the hospital at about 1 a.m. Friday after a driver crashed into the victim while he was waiting for a bus at Grand and Lewis streets. [Channel 7] A look back at how 9/11 changed Chinatown forever, hobbling its economy and plunging the neighborhood into even greater isolation. [The Guardian] A night market pops up at Forsyth Plaza. [Next City] Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer is withholding support for Sohos rezoning plan until a range of thorny issues are addressed. [City Limits] Tables for Two: Tzarevna, a modern, elegantly minimalist Russian restaurant opens on the Lower East Side. [The New Yorker] Pete Wells reviews Nakaji, the high end sushi bar in Chinatown, where an omakase meal will set you back $225. [The New York Times] A profile of Nimbus Kitchen on Stanton Street, the ghost kitchen used by a number of noteworthy NYC restaurants, including a couple of the citys most revered pizza makers, Robertas and Di Fara. [New York Post] The restaurant at the Metrograph is preparing to reopen. [WWD] Immigration releases Phuket Sandbox stats PHUKET: The Immigration department has confirmed the latest Phuket Sandbox figures as part of a report issued today (Sept 5). CoronavirusCOVID-19tourism By The Phuket News Sunday 5 September 2021, 04:00PM Photo: PR Dept The report stated that there have been 28,197 arrivals so far under the sandbox scheme since its launch on July 1. It added that of that total, 4,963 are still in Phuket, 10,492 have returned to their home countries and 12,742 have ventured to other provinces in Thailand. Of the foreign arrivals, 3,721 were from the USA, 3,470 from the UK, 3,153 from Israel, 2,262 from France and 2,247 from Germany. A total 3,794 arrivals were Thai. Elsewhere, the Phuket Information Center reported on its Facebook page yesterday that B1.6 billion has been generated through the Phuket Sandbox scheme so far. It detailed that of that figure, B565mn has been spent on accommodation, B376mn on tourism products and services, and B350mn on food and beverage purchases, including official service fees. A total of B229mn was spent on doctors and health services and B114mn on other miscellaneous expenses. Jab critics hurting ties, Chinese embassy says BANGKOK: The Chinese embassy in Thailand says critics of the Chinese-made Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine are undermining Beijings good intentions of helping Thailand fight the outbreak. ChineseCoronavirusCOVID-19Vaccine By Bangkok Post Sunday 5 September 2021, 10:21AM Photo: AFP Writing on its Facebook account, the embassy said every dose of the COVID-19 vaccine which China has supplied to Thailand represents the friendship and sincerity which the Chinese government extends to the government and Thais in general. The vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization for emergency use and approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in Thailand, based on the results of the vaccines clinical trials, it said. The developer of the Sinovac vaccine is studying new variants of the coronavirus and testing the vaccine on these mutated strains. It found the vaccine is effective in protecting against these strains as well, the embassy said. It has also cited results of studies by the public health ministry of Chile and the Indonesian government in August which showed that Sinovac was 86% and 95% effective in those countries respectively in fighting mutated variants of the virus. This shows the Sinovac vaccine isnt of low quality as claimed by some parties. The Chinese embassy urges them to stop this serious wrongdoing (devaluing the Sinovac vaccine and misguiding the public about it), the embassy said. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai had expressed concerns over false information cited by the opposition in the no-confidence debate to misguide the public about the Sinovac vaccine. He was worried it would shatter Thai-Chinese relations, said Tanee Sangrat, spokesman for the ministry. The minister said the vaccine was being administered in 39 countries around the world. Those attempts to devalue the vaccine for personal gains have dealt a blow to Thailands good relations with a good friend, said Mr Don. Some of the information presented by the opposition about the quality of the Sinovac vaccine contained errors, he added. The quality of the Sinovac vaccine was criticised when the opposition accused Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and Deputy Prime Minister and Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of mismanaging vaccine procurements. Jetstar launches weekly Singapore to Phuket flight PHUKET: Jetstar has relaunched its service between Singapore and Phuket with a once-weekly flight now confirmed. tourismCoronavirusCOVID-19 By The Phuket News Sunday 5 September 2021, 03:00PM The inaugural Jetstar Asia Airways Flight 3K537 departed Singapores Changi Airport at 7:44pm on Friday (Sept 3) and arrived at Phuket International Airport at 8:24pm. On disembarking the plane, passengers were greeted at 8:40pm by Mr Manat Sotharat, Deputy Director of Phuket Airport Operations and Maintenance, and fellow airport staff. It was not confirmed how many passengers were onboard the flight. Jetstar confirmed that the flight will operate at the same time each Friday once weekly, arriving at boarding gate 11 at Phuket International Airport. AOT Phuket also confirmed that eight flights arrived on the island yesterday (Sept 4) bringing 588 passengers. There were two Thai Airways flights, two from Singapore Airlines, one each from Emirates and Qatar Airways and two private jets. On Campus: The Absence of NO is not a YES Ten years ago, when Wipaphan Nana Wongsawang was 19 years old, she was sexually assaulted. She kept it to herself for two years, until one day her friend had a similar experience and confided in her about it. Together, they reported the friends assault to the police, but were met with indifference. By Milla Budiarto Sunday 5 September 2021, 02:00PM While researching online trying to help her friends case, Nana stumbled upon the term consent and learned that the word consent doesnt really exist in the Thai language. Inspired by this new-found insight, she saw an opportunity to break the silence through education about consent. She was motivated to challenge gender power imbalance and determined to dismantle the systemic rape culture in Thai society. Through an acquaintance, I was lucky enough to meet with this courageous young woman virtually and talk with her about her journey. In 2015, Nana created ThaiConsent (Website: www.thaiconsent.in.th; Facebook: Thaiconsent), a platform for Thai people to anonymously share their personal stories surrounding sexual consent to raise public awareness. Some of the stories published are accompanied with illustrations created by Nana herself or other volunteer artists to capture and engage the audience visually. First and foremost, sexual consent means actively and enthusiastically agreeing to participate in any sexual activities with someone. Consent involves a clear, honest and open communication between the partners talking about their wants, needs and expectations. Consent is about setting your personal boundaries and respecting each others limits. Consent cannot be given by someone who is underage, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, unconscious or asleep. Silence is not consent. Any sexual activity without consent is sexual assault or rape. Although sex education is taught in Thai schools, Nana feels that the curriculum is outdated and severely inadequate. Students are taught merely about reproductive body parts, sexually-transmitted diseases and pregnancy prevention. The curriculum portrays sex the same way as drugs: to stay away from it as far as possible. The idea of sexual consent is rarely discussed. Consequently, boys and girls did not learn that in order to have a healthy, romantic relationship they must always ask for consent before engaging in any sexual activities. Even importantly, they are not taught that they can always say no to sex. Nana says that in Thai society, the deeply ingrained gender stereotypes and imbalance of power often unfairly put the blame on the victims, who are disproportionately women, when they are sexually assaulted. This distorted perception of gender roles leads to the perpetual victim-blaming of women, while excusing the perpetrators. Men and gender nonconforming people also experience sexual assaults and can be subjected to unfair victim-blaming. Victim-blaming is destructive, it is frequently used to scrutinize, minimize, control and silence the victim. Normalizing sexual assaults and rape is known as rape culture. In the context of sexual relationships, Nana explains that the prescribed gender roles in the society and the manifestation of power imbalance often prevent women from expressing their needs and feelings. When the woman declines to engage in a sexual activity, the man sometimes thinks that he can talk the woman into it by relentlessly pursuing and pressuring her. Nana points out that in Thai language a term for this is (dteu), which means to keep insisting until the other person reluctantly succumbs to the pressure. Since launching ThaiConsent, Nana says that the feedback she received has been overwhelmingly positive. Up to now, ThaiConsent has racked up almost 56,000 followers on its Facebook page and 21,500 followers on Twitter. This opens up the way for Thai people to talk about sex in a non-pornographic way. So, its quite new. Now survivors can feel more empowered through this, whether they get legal justice or not, she says. ThaiConsent is run by a group of volunteers based in Bangkok. Despite having very little funding, Nana and the team remain focused and undeterred. ThaiConsent is currently developing a comprehensive web platform where people can ask questions, share stories, and connect with others in the community in a safe and supportive environment. The journey to achieve gender equality and to eliminate rape culture may seem like a daunting task to undertake, but it is not impossible. It requires tremendous hard work, dedication, perseverance and unwavering conviction, because change doesnt happen overnight. Nana concludes, If someone starts somewhere, things are bound to change. During the past five years, I have seen the change with my own eyes. Even though my background is in graphic design, this does not stop me from doing what I do with ThaiConsent. If I can change one persons life, for me, that is progress. Understanding about consent is ultimately sexual assault prevention. Any form of sexual assault is a severe violation of human rights. We must challenge gender stereotypes and stand up against rape culture. Lets start or join the conversation. The interview was transcribed by Sarah Avedikian NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of PSU Phuket and its employees or official policies of PSU Phuket. Milla Budiarto is an international affairs officer at the International Affairs Centre, Prince of Songkla University (PSU) Phuket Campus. This article was featured in The Phuket Collegiate Magazine, the university magazine published by Milla at PSU Phuket. For more information, visit: https://www.phuket.psu.ac.th/en/magazine or to share ideas with Milla email: magazine@phuket.psu.ac.th Phuket Opinion: Biting the bullet PHUKET: The allowing of domestic tourists to return to Phuket starting this Wednesday (Sept 8) may well be looked back on as a turning point in the islands policy in coping with COVID-19 infections across the island. opinionCOVID-19healtheconomicstourism By The Phuket News Sunday 5 September 2021, 09:00AM A row of sun loungers sits empty on Patong Beach. Photo: Patong Municipality From Wednesday, domestic travellers will be allowed into Phuket, as long as they have been vaccinated and have tested negative for the virus within 72 hours before arriving. They must also show proof of hotel or accommodation reservation paid in advance and they must be tested for COVID-19 on Day 5 of their stay if they are staying more than seven days. Also of note, and often forgotten in the excitement of such announcements, is that all visitors entering Phuket must register their travel details through the gophuget.com website and must present the QR code issued to them to the Communicable Disease Control Officer at the checkpoint before entering Phuket. The policy shift comes, probably as no surprise, as pressure in Bangkok has mounted in past weeks, and came at the same time that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha finally publicly admitted that we need to learn to live safely with COVID-19. They have been bleating that for the past year, repeating that everyone must learn to live with the New Normal, yet so far have not been able to practice that themselves. At every turn, a rise in local infections has been met with a knee-jerk reaction. The New Normal so far has been to tell people to not panic, then panic and shut down everything. That might all be about to change. Officials know there will be more infections on the island after Wednesday regardless of the conditions for being allowed to enter province. The infections we have now are from the current, tighter, restrictions in place. The Delta virus was brought to the island by the same groups of people allowed now, before the easing comes into effect on Wednesday. The whole point of COVID-prevention measures rolled out anywhere in the world was to prevent the health care system from being overwhelmed, leading to unnecessary deaths. That still makes sense. However, the policies we have seen enforced has shifted the focus to a vain attempt to prevent any infections. That is impossible. Much of this has come from orders from Bangkok, where officials have to contend with large populations living in relatively smaller areas. The alcohol ban in restaurants is from Bangkok, and the COVID Care Centers in Phuket were launched as Bangkok officials discovered their Community Isolation policy. Not that Phuket officials will openly point the finger at their Bangkok bosses for such policies. In Thailand, holding superiors responsible for their decisions is not appropriate behaviour. What Phuket officials are not doing that would make great strides in achieving their goal in building confidence among tourists and the public is clear reporting of the figures people need to know to understand the true risk of infection on the island. Since Aug 1, Phuket officials have reported more than 4,200 new confirmed cases of infection of COVID-19 on the island. Yet throughout the past month the total number of Red cases (people suffering severe signs of infection) has never climbed above 34. Of course those 34 need the best medical care we can provide, but that number is no cause for the island to be on high alert. Likewise, for the past week the number of Yellow cases has not budged from 316, after falling from a peak of 327 on Aug 28. Again, these patients need medical treatment and supervision in case their health deteriorates, but they are not critical. Pre-COVID-19 these patients would have been normal patients suffering heavy chest infections. Not good, but not unusual. Not helping in understanding how well positioned Phuket is to cope with any rise in serious infections is the confusing number of hospital beds being reported. A jump of more than 400 hospital beds akin to an entire new hospital popping up overnight being added to the total number of beds available for COVID patients without any explanation does nothing to inspire any confidence. Adding to the confusion is Community Isolation being roped in to the hospital beds occupied totals without reporting how many of those staying at the COVID Care Centres have not even been confirmed as positive for COVID-19. Worse, Phuket so far has had 20 deaths officially attributed to COVID-19 since Apr 3. Eight of those deaths have been in the past month. The current policy of not disclosing the circumstances of those deaths does nothing to inspire any confidence, as people as individuals have no idea if they are at the same risk. People tend to fear what they do not know. This Wednesday may well mark the beginning of a true New Normal for Phuket, yet one thing that cannot be ignored is that officials now seem to be admitting that their hand is being forced by the financial hardship brought on the COVID-19 prevention policies, that the policies are now doing more harm than good. The irony is that the easing of the restrictions to enter Phuket may well be the result of the pressure being felt in Bangkok. Go figure. Put Your Helping Hands Together With more work to do now than ever before, 5 Star Marine together with their partners are still working around the clock to offer a vitally needed helping hand. Behind the scenes there are many others who contribute and support the core team working quietly in the background. Today we wanted to say Thank You to those who continue to help despite the constant challenges and seemingly endless needs of the community. CommunitycharityCOVID-19 By Advertorial Sunday 5 September 2021, 11:00AM A heartfelt Thank You from 5 Star Marine to all the people who have helped and are still helping to bring much needed supplies to communities across Phuket and the surrounding islands. August 2021 was the biggest month so far for Life Bag donations; despite the restrictions facing volunteers, lack of domestic travel and the relatively small trickle of Sandbox guests. Efforts to support vulnerable families and communities have been taking place for over 1.5 years (a massive 80 weeks), with multiple donations each week focussed on specific in-need and at-risk communities. The situation on the ground unfortunately remains critical with many people still requiring direct food relief, so 5 Star Marine continue to deliver week in week out, and for this they are thankful for the help they receive. Amy and Nando at Sutai Muay Thai have committed to every packing and donation effort from the very beginning; donating their time, energy and providing this continuous effort from their base at Sutai Muay Thai gym in Surin. The gym has been turned into a makeshift base for the packing and distribution of Life Bags across the island and beyond. Additionally, these delivery efforts use Sutai Muay Thai trucks and staff as well as 5 Star Marines speedboats to access some of the most at-risk areas, allowing this charity effort to go further afield reaching impoverished smaller villages and islands communities. Amy and Nando, thank you for always volunteering, never tiring, and bringing such positivity to our volunteering efforts. UWC Thailand International School, coordinated by Kru Heidi and Kru Remke, have provided very welcome assistance as part of their community and Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs). Whilst right now no large-scale volunteer packing is allowed at Sutai Muay Thai, both students and teachers of the school continue to help on and off campus, packing thousands of Life Bags, helping us collectively match the ever-growing demand. A final heartfelt thank you goes to Phuket Has Been Good To Us, and Tina Hall and Graham Haslam in particular. Never ones to let challenges get in the way of collaborating to effectively support the most vulnerable communities; these teachers and volunteers not only make a difference in the lives of underprivileged Thai children via their educational and extra-curricular activities, but they are also a core team behind the 5 Star Marine Life Bag operations. Whether packing, co-ordinating or providing transportation support nothing is too much for them and they are always there and ready to help out, no matter how short the notice is! The reality today is that the need remains in the community and 5 Star Marine will continue to do what they can to get us through this stage of the pandemic. They are immensely thankful to all the unsung heroes across the island and beyond, without whom we could not keep these efforts going week after week. To Amy, Nando, Kru Heidi, Kru Remke, Tina and Graham; and everyone who has lent a hand or donated, thank you. There are thousands of people in our communities whose lives have benefited from your generosity and commitment. Stay safe and be kind, from the 5 Star Marine team. Sandbox tourists shunted as Phuket officials delist guesthouses from SHA+ PHUKET: Officials have yet to explain why guesthouses already inspected and approved as SHA+ accommodation venues are having their SHA+ licences revoked because they are fully legally operating as guesthouses, but not as hotels a fact known at the time when they were approved. tourismCOVID-19health By The Phuket News Sunday 5 September 2021, 10:00AM Image: TAT The operator of one guesthouse in Patong told The Phuket News yesterday (Sept 4) that he first learned of the problem on last Wednesday night (Sept 1), when he went to register guest details through the Thailand SHA web portal as required by law. Unable to log in, the guesthouse owner at first presumed it was a password or website problem, but was told by the Thailand SHA web administrators that his guesthouse was no longer registered as a SHA+ venue. Asked why the SHA status was revoked, the owner was told to contact administrators of the SandboxPhuket project through their Facebook page. After days of receiving no reply, the owner was finally informed last night that, We just get the report that you have no hotel license The owner was told to have his Sandbox tourists moved to another SHA+ venue. He was also informed that accepting any new Sandbox guests would be illegal. If you continue to accept customer, you will act against the law, said one message. Pls ask your customer to move to other hotel, the next message read. The guesthouse in Patong is currently enjoying 100% occupancy. Most of the guests are Sandbox tourists, the owner said. The guesthouse was approved for SHA in April-June, and for and SHA+ at the end of June, he added. The guesthouse was even issued a SHABA ID code in order to log in to the Thailand SHA platform to register guest details. No longer registered as a SHA+ venue, the guesthouse can on longer issue confirmation of prepaid bookings at an SHA+ venue needed by tourists applying for Certificates of Entry in order to travel to Phuket, the owner explained. The guesthouse also can no longer issue any release documents needed by Sandbox guests to confirm where they stayed as SHA+ guests in completing their 14-day stay on the island. The same release document is needed for Sandbox tourists to be able to leave the island to travel to any other parts of Thailand. They have shut us down completely without warning. We have a guesthouse license for 1-25 rooms. Everything is in order and we renewed the license in June. We follow the rules to the letter. Our hygiene routines are probably better than anywhere else in Phuket, the owner explained. His guesthouse is not the only one to have had its SHA+ status revoked, he added. The owner added that he had no idea what to tell his staff, who were recently brought back on in order to cope with the full bookings. We have full strength of staff (cleaning, hotel manager and kitchen for breakfast), the guesthouse owner said. RIDGEFIELD Lily Zezula will have the chance to test her athletic prowess before a national audience when she appears on the upcoming third season of American Ninja Warrior Junior. The show is the pint-sized iteration of the popular game show that hosts elite athletes on the worlds most difficult obstacle courses. The junior version recruits kids between the ages of 9 and 14. A friend first introduced Zezula, 11, to American Ninja Warrior when she was 6 years old. She was immediately inspired to refine her own ninja skills after watching female athletes crushing the course, she said. Zezula started training at Ninja Mania in Danbury, the same gym fellow Ridgefielder Zac Palazzo trained at before appearing on the show earlier this year. Five years later, her hard work paid off. After applying to compete and sharing videos with showrunners, Zezula was asked to join Season 3. She is only the second junior ninja from Ninja Mania to compete on the show. Her best friend Skylar Awalt, of Brookfield, was featured on Season 2. My parents surprised me (with) this poster board, and they turned it around and it said, Congrats, Tiger Lily, youve made it on (the show), Zezula recalled. I was in shock. Upon graduating from Farmingville Elementary School, Zezula flew out to Los Angeles in June for the week-long shoot. The obstacles are much bigger and harder in real life ... (but) my nerves were definitely my biggest obstacle, she said. Although Zezula couldnt disclose if she advanced in the competition, she said she was honored to represent Ridgefield and serve as an inspiration to others. This (is an) experience that Ive always wanted since I was little, she said. Youre never too young to ... reach your dreams because if you put your mind to it and you put all this hard work into it, then anything can happen. The third season of American Ninja Warrior Junior streams on Peacock Sept. 9. Ninja Mania is planning to host a watch party for Zezula when her episode airs, though that date hasnt been announced yet. alyssa.seidman@hearstmediact.com Today Intervals of clouds and sunshine. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Tonight Partly cloudy. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Tomorrow Sunshine along with some cloudy intervals. High 87F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Westerly, RI (02891) Today Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High near 75F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Cloudy skies early with showers later at night. Low 66F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Instant unlimited access to all of our content on tillamookheadlightherald.com. The Headlight Herald E-Edition Newsletter emailed to you each week, the night before the paper hits the street! This subscription is for NEW or RENEWING online subscribers. (The charge will appear as "Country Media Inc." on your credit card statement) The end of the Purdue Pharma bankruptcy case has left a bitter taste for those who wanted to see more accountability for members of the Sackler family. The Sacklers will give up ownership of the company, go out of the international opioid business and pay $4.5 billion in cash and charitable assets under the settlement. But they also will escape any future liability over the nations addiction and overdose crisis as part of the deal that was given preliminary approval this week by a federal bankruptcy judge. Some state attorneys general and one federal government office are planning appeals. The question at the heart of their arguments: Is it appropriate for members of a wealthy family that did not file for bankruptcy themselves to get such a broad protection? Attorneys and victim advocates involved in a case that included lawsuits from some 3,000 governments and other entities said the members of the Sackler family who have owned Purdue played instrumental roles in overseeing the company and marketing OxyContin. Critics say the company's best-selling prescription painkiller helped fuel the opioid crisis in the U.S. They get to retain literally billions of dollars they took out of Purdue Pharma while it was causing addiction and death all across our country and all across the world, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh told The Associated Press in an interview. Frosh said he was considering an appeal. Lawyers for Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Washington state and the U.S. Bankruptcy Trustee, an arm of the federal Department of Justice tasked with protecting the bankruptcy process, have said they intend to appeal. Under the settlement, Sackler family members are getting what's known in the bankruptcy world as a third-party release. It's one of the most contentious issues in bankruptcy law. The releases have been used in complicated bankruptcy cases involving multiple parties to encourage settlements that might be difficult or impossible to reach otherwise. Dow Chemical, an owner of Dow Corning, was released from lawsuits in the 1990s over dangers of the latter company's silicone breast implants. Owners of companies that produced asbestos were protected from lawsuits over cancer risks associated with their products that began in the 1980s. Some federal appeals courts have rejected the releases, but the majority have accepted them. That includes the 2nd Circuit, which could handle appeals of decisions from U.S Bankruptcy Judge Robert Drain, who ruled in the Purdue case from his courthouse in White Plains, New York. Longshot legislation pending in Congress, titled "The SACKLER Act," would ban third-party releases. Even if it were adopted, it would be too late to affect its namesake case. In his preliminary ruling from the bench earlier this week, Drain discussed at length the reasons he was allowing the protection for family members as part of the settlement. I wish the plan had provided for more" from Sackler family members, he said, but I will not jeopardize what the plan does provide by denying confirmation. The settlement forces the Sacklers to give up ownership of Purdue and turns it into a new company with a board of directors appointed by government officials. Money from the family, company accounts and future profits are to be used to pay some individual victims of the opioid crisis and to fund treatment, education programs and other efforts to combat the epidemic. The crisis has been linked to more than 500,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. since 2000 involving either prescription painkillers or illicit ones such as heroin or illegally made fentanyl. Purdue Pharma, based in Stamford, Connecticut, has estimated that the settlement could be worth $10 billion, including the value of overdose antidote and addiction treatment drugs it's been developing. Sackler family members, whose combined wealth has been estimated at over $10 billion, have been clear that without protection from lawsuits, they would not contribute to the settlement. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. During a hearing on the reorganization plan last month, experts said it could be impossible to force payments without a settlement because much of the family's fortune is overseas. The bankruptcy judge said some family members are foreign citizens, potentially putting their assets further out of reach. A further complication: Purdue pleaded guilty last year to federal criminal offenses, agreeing to a $2 billion forfeiture. Under their plea deal, the company has to pay only $225 million of that to the federal government as long as it settles its other opioid lawsuits and uses proceeds to fight the crisis. If the bankruptcy settlement is upended, Purdue would have to pay the federal government another $1.7 billion and that would leave far less money to divide between the states, local governments and opioid victims. If they continue to appeal, if they win, what do they get?" said Lindsey Simon, an assistant law professor at the University of Georgia School of Law who teaches bankruptcy law. "The answer is, probably complete chaos and less money. That's a view that many state government lawyers have adopted. About half the nation's state attorneys general, including nearly every Democrat to hold the office, initially opposed the settlement. In an interview with the AP last June, Massachusetts Attorney Genera Maura Healey heavily criticized the protections for Sackler family members: They want to continue to be rich and they will likely be richer after paying the settlement than they are today. That doesnt sit right with me, and it shouldnt sit right with anyone, she said. But in July, Healey and the majority of other attorneys general came to accept the plan after Sackler family members agreed to pay more money and dole it out faster. Purdue also agreed to make public millions of company documents, including some that would normally be protected by attorney-client privilege. Those still pushing against the deal include Connecticut Attorney General William Tong. This is some of the worst corporate misconduct we have ever seen," he told the AP. "It's not just about taking the deal or getting as much money as you can and getting out of Dodge. It's about doing justice, holding them accountable. Anthony Casey, a professor at the University of Chicago Law School, said those upset at the judge for the third-party releases might not be steeped in bankruptcy law: The criticisms of him are a little outrageous in the fact that hes doing what bankruptcy judges do." One year after Sept. 11, 2001, the New York State Museum put up an exhibit honoring those who had died in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in New York City, both victims as well as those who died trying to rescue them. The exhibit was updated every year and according to Aaron Noble, the museums senior historian and curator of the World Trade Center collections, every year is equally special. With our permanent exhibit, we treat every anniversary as significant, said Noble. So, the 20th (year) we will commemorate just as we have commemorated the 19th or the 13th. We take efforts each year to honor the event. The museum adds something new to its exhibit to mark each anniversary. They try to incorporate new elements based on updated information about the attacks and new aspects to the stories. They also take into account the maintenance and preservation that some of the exhibits require. Many exhibits are loaned or borrowed from museums across the country, including a few local museums like the FASNY Museum of Firefighting in Hudson, the New York State Military Museum in Saratoga Springs and the 9/11 Museum in New York City. This year includes a new addition to the exhibit, photographs by photographer Kristen Artz who was shooting for a community newspaper in the days before the attack. Today, these photographs provide a very powerful glimpse into life at the World Trade Center, the vibrancy prior to the attacks, said Noble. And so were going to be featuring several photography artifacts from the museum collection about commuting life that were recovered. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. These include the No. 6, an FDNY truck that was one of the first responders at the scene. It was designed to pump water up 110 stories, Noble said. Truck No.6 tragically lost four of its members that day. The exhibit also includes items of the World Trade Center complex ranging from pieces of floor tile and glass and bolts to two portions of the steel column on the exterior of the towers. Fragments of the airliners are also on display. Apart from Artzs photographs, the museum has also reorganized the 9/11 exhibit. Hameedi, an American ally trapped in Afghanistan, has just one message for the United States, dont leave us behind any further. Hameedi and several of his sons, including Raziq Farhat, a U.S. citizen who lives in Albany, worked for years helping the U.S. efforts in Afghanistan. Despite his unwavering commitment to the U.S., he and his family were not evacuated from the country after President Joe Biden initiated and completed a total U.S. withdrawal from the country that spurred a devastating collapse of the Afghan government in August. The Times Union is not using Hameedi's full name to protect his identity. Hameedi and his family, like so many other U.S. allies stuck in Afghanistan, are hiding in a small apartment, struggling to survive as the Taliban scours the country hunting them down. They are running out of cash as banks are closed and the borders are closed off. After leaving their home, they learned that Taliban members went looking for one of Hameedis sons. Theyve endured multiple Taliban beatings, near-death experiences with explosions and endless U.S. rejection as they've attempted to exit Kabul through the Hamid Karzai International Airports Abbey Gate. What we feel right now is sad, frustrated and hopeless, Hameedi said in a telephone interview with the Times Union on Thursday. The U.S. pulled American troops out of Afghanistan this week, ending a 20-year war that cost taxpayers upwards of $2 trillion. The departure has left families like Hameedis feeling as if there is no one to turn to for help. Hameedi said he wants Americans to know he is still there, although he feels his family is in imminent danger. If something happens to him or his family, he wants people to know that he will blame the people who created such a messed up evacuation process and refused to look at his familys documents at the airport gate. Hameedi thought the U.S. would take care of him and his family. But now, he sees how very wrong he was to have thought so. He believes any chance his family had of getting to safety may have vanished with the final U.S. plane that flew away. We want to get out, and we will get out at any cost, he repeatedly said. If discovered, he believes he and his family four sons, a daughter, wife and several grandchildren will be persecuted at the hands of the Taliban. Even after being left behind, Hameedi is still holding out hope that the U.S. will rescue them. The Pentagon said it evacuated 124,334 civilians and approximately 6,000 Americans before retreating. Yet, it is estimated that close to 118,000 potential special immigrant visa (SIV) recipients have been left stranded, Adam Malaty-Uhr, a board member with the Association of Wartime Allies, said in a statement. The SIV program is for Afghans and Iraqis who worked with the U.S. military. One of Farhats brothers, who the Times Union is not naming due to imminent threats to his life, applied for an SIV back in 2016 and his case is still pending, Farhat confirmed. His father applied for an SIV only recently. A broken system that failed U.S. allies While Hameedi and his family were risking their safety trying to flee Afghanistan, Farhat was up all day and night skipping meals and refusing sleep to try and get his family out. He reached out to Sens. Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy and multiple organizations for assistance. He filled out forms giving each of his family members information to the Department of State multiple times but never received good news. Farhat became a U.S. citizen in 2020 after he was granted an SIV in 2014 for his work as an interpreter to the U.S. government. One of his brothers and his father worked in support of U.S. government efforts for years, he said. Another of Farhats brothers was recently awarded an internship with the U.S. embassy in Afghanistan. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. All of these ties may not help them reach the U.S. now and may endanger their survival in a Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. When Hameedi and his family went to the airport's Abbey Gate they carried documents with them to prove their allyship, including a verification letter from Hameedis U.S. projects supervisor, employment verification from the non-governmental organization for which he worked and his one son's offer letter from the embassy. When they tried to show their documents, Hameedi said no one looked at them. Gillibrands office called the allegation troubling, adding that they remain focused on assisting those trying to leave Afghanistan. Hameedi recalled his frustration as he saw people who he thought were not eligible get through the gate while other eligible people like him were turned away by the U.S. forces. At one point his son was even propositioned. A person from inside the airport offered to get him on a plane if he paid $5,000, Farhat explained. They didnt have the money to afford it but figured since they had proper documents, they didnt need to do that. The representative for Gillibrand also said her office is aware of similar reports in the region. Theyre eligible for so many reasons, Farhat stressed. The system was broken in so many ways. Karen Andolina Scott, executive director of the Buffalo-based Journey's End Refugee Services, Inc. (JERS), said shes heard of people being turned away for not having proof of U.S. citizenship or an application in process. She didnt think work documents alone would have sufficed to get a family past the airport checkpoint unless perhaps they had a U.S. contact helping them through the Pentagon. I think it literally depended upon the situation at the airport at the time, she said. I imagine it was very chaotic and what worked for some individuals may not have worked for others. Some people were successful and others were not. In Albany, Farhat is still grappling with why his family was left behind. I dont know whats wrong, what I could have done differently to help them," he said. "I dont know why my family wasnt able to come out. NEW YORK CITY On Sunday, Governor Kathy Hochul signed an expedited request for a major disaster declaration, applying for federal money to help with the recovery effort from Hurricane Ida that decimated parts of New York this past week. Hochul made the announcement from New York City, where she has spent time this weekend with families harmed by the hurricanes impact after it drenched the city's boroughs and much of the Hudson Valley Wednesday with more than 3 inches of water per hour. The storm, which first arrived on land in Louisiana, had downgraded to a tropical depression by the time it hit New York. But that did not make it any less destructive. The request for major disaster declaration needs to be approved by President Joe Biden, who Hochul said is due to be in New York on Tuesday. In order to qualify for such a declaration, the state needed to pass a threshold of $30 million in damage related costs. Hochul said that after an official assessment, it was confirmed that the hurricane had caused a minimum of $50 million in damages. She said she anticipates that those numbers will go up. If approved, the declaration will allow the state to allocate money to federal assistance programs for families and individuals who have been affected by the storm. The funds will go to temporary housing assistance, crisis counseling, legal services, home repairs and unemployment assistance. It will also provide money for emergency and permanent infrastructure work. The federal government would reimburse the state for the money that is spent under the declaration. The governor also launched a new online resource hub where New Yorkers can seek more information on accessing shelters and food services, in addition to other programs. Earlier this week, Biden approved an emergency disaster declaration for New York, awarding the state $5 million that will be given to 14 harmed counties. The included counties are: Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. Between 8:51 p.m. and 9:51 p.m. in particular Wednesday, the water inudated the city. Images of flooded subway stations and buses went viral on the internet. The governor declared a state of emergency later that night. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Hochul said as far as increasing federal funds she is operating on the assumption that this could happen in another 10 days. Additionally, the governor announced that she has identified $378 million that will be dedicated to the states fight against extreme weather. By Sunday, the death toll had risen to at least 50 people in the Northeast. Four people had died in Westchester County and 13 individuals had perished in New York City. Many of the casualties were people who had drowned in basement apartments, unaware of the torrential rain that the hurricane would bring. The New York Times reported that some of those basement apartments were illegal and not allowed under city codes. An estimated 1,200 homes have been devastated from the storm. Patrick Murphy, the states commissioner of homeland security and emergency services, said all roads are essentially back open. He added that at the peak of the storm there were over 52,000 individuals without power, but that that number has dropped to less than 500. Although Hochul hopes the money will provide financial aid to economically devastated families, she noted that the emotional toll runs deep, too. The baby pictures I saw in the mud and the wedding pictures that people were on their knees trying to salvage... we cant replace them, the governor said. There are a lot of things that we lost that are irreplaceable. JERUSALEM (AP) Israel's president met with the Jordanian king this past week, in a new sign of improved relations between the two countries, the president's office said Saturday. At the king's invitation, new President Isaac Herzog met King Abdullah II at his palace in the Jordanian capital, Amman, Herzog's office said in a statement. The two discussed a series of political and economic issues including energy and sustainability. FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear announced Saturday that he's calling Kentucky's Republican-led legislature into a special session to shape pandemic policies as the state struggles with a record surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The return of lawmakers to the state Capitol starts Tuesday and marks a dramatic power shift in coronavirus-related policymaking in the Bluegrass State following a landmark court ruling. Since the pandemic hit Kentucky, the governor mostly acted unilaterally in setting statewide virus policies, but the state Supreme Court shifted those decisions to the legislature. Now, that burden will fall in large part on the General Assembly," Beshear said Saturday. "It will have to carry much of that weight to confront unpopular choices and to make decisions that balance many things, including the lives and the possible deaths of our citizens. Beshear had sole authority to call a special session and set the agenda. At a news conference Saturday, he outlined pandemic issues he wants lawmakers to consider, including policies on mask-wearing and school schedules amid growing school closures due to virus outbreaks. But GOP House and Senate supermajorities will decide what measures ultimately pass. Beshear told reporters Saturday he's had good conversations with top GOP lawmakers and that draft legislation was exchanged. Republican House Speaker David Osborne said the proposals offered by lawmakers were the culmination of 18 months of research, discussion and input from groups and individuals directly engaged in responding to this pandemic. While we are not yet in agreement regarding the specific language of the legislation we will consider, we are continuing discussions and have agreed it is in the best interests of our commonwealth to move forward with the call, Osborne said in a statement. Lawmakers will be asked to extend the pandemic-related state of emergency until mid-January, when the legislature would be back in regular session, Beshear said. They will be asked to review his virus-related executive orders and other actions by his administration, the governor said. On the issue of masks, the governor said his call will ask them to determine my ability to require masking in certain situations, depending on where the pandemic goes and how bad any area is. Beshear ordered statewide mask mandates to confront previous virus surges and said Saturday he sees that authority as absolutely necessary to tackle the delta variant. Acknowledging the issue will be contentious, he suggested a more targeted approach. If they wont consider providing that authority in general, my hope is that they will consider a threshold to where they will provide me that authority," the governor said. Beshear also asked lawmakers to provide more school scheduling flexibility as many districts have had to pause in-person learning because of virus outbreaks. Several ideas are being considered, he said, including allowing local school leaders to use a more tailored approach when shifting to remote learning, allowing them to apply it to a single school or even a classroom rather than the entire district. That idea was discussed at a recent legislative committee hearing. Key GOP lawmakers have signaled their preference for policies favoring local decision-making over statewide mandates to combat COVID-19. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Lawmakers also will be asked to appropriate leftover federal pandemic aid to further the fight against the coronavirus, the governor said. The funding would support pandemic mitigation and prevention efforts, including testing and vaccine distribution. More than 7,840 Kentuckians have died from COVID-19, include 69 deaths announced on Thursday and Friday. The delta variant has put record numbers of virus patients in Kentucky hospitals, including in intensive care units and on ventilators. The state reported Friday that nearly 90% of ICU beds statewide were occupied. The delta variant is spreading at a rate never seen before, impacting businesses, shuttering schools and worse causing severe illness and death, Beshear said Saturday. We need as many tools as possible to fight this deadly surge in order to save lives, keep our children in school and keep our economy churning, he added. Various emergency measures issued by Beshear are set to expire as a result of the court decision issued two weeks ago. Lawmakers will decide whether to extend, alter or discontinue each emergency order, while putting their own stamp on the state's response to COVID-19. Throughout the pandemic, Republican lawmakers watched from the sidelines as Beshear waged an aggressive response that included statewide mask mandates and strict limits on gatherings. Republicans criticized the governor for what they viewed as overly broad and stringent restrictions, most of which were lifted in June. The state Supreme Court recently shifted those virus-related decisions to the legislature. The court cleared the way for new laws to limit the governors emergency powers, which he used to impose virus restrictions. The justices said a lower court wrongly blocked the GOP-backed measures. HAHNVILLE, La. (AP) A mandatory evacuation order has been lifted for St. Charles Parish, located about 20 miles upriver from New Orleans. Parish President Matthew Jewell lifted the order, saying residents should still be cautious because of debris and power lines on the shoulders of many roads. Jewell said that the parish is facing double the amount of debris left from Hurricane Katrina. Will Waldron/Times Union file CHESTERTOWN Authorities have identified the two people killed in a head-on collision on the Northway Friday night in Warren County that left a third occupant critically injured. The victims have been identified as Matthew G. Huff, 27, of Westfield, New Jersey and Kerry OReilly, 30, of Dorchester, Massachusetts, State Police said on Sunday. Sept. 10, 2001, 12 students from the Albany, Rensselaer and Bethlehem middle schools boarded the replica ship Half Moon in Atlantic Highlands, N.J., to re-create the 1609 voyage of Henry Hudson up the river that carries his name, anchoring where Hudson anchored, and comparing what Hudson saw to what we see today. A high pressure system brought beautiful weather, boding well for the days ahead. In short order and high spirits, we completed crew training, loaded gear and cast off, bound for New York Harbor, where Hudson had anchored in 1609. Rounding the Battery we captured a great beauty shot of the World Trade Center, with the Half Moon under full sail the foreground. We crossed to the Bay Ridge Flats, affording a secure anchorage with a spectacular view of New York Harbor and the World Trade Center. After a great dinner, the crew had some time to write in their journals and relax. Wake-up call the morning of Sept. 11 roused the crew at 6. Much work around the ship needed to be completed before weighing anchor and continuing our voyage north. After a hearty breakfast, we all turned to the work to prepare for a full day ahead. Some mechanical problems required my attention in the engine room, but I was called up on deck about 8:50, as smoke was reported coming from the World Trade Center. My focus on the smoke was interrupted by the sound of a northbound passenger jet flying low overhead. It was so low faces could be seen in the windows. My mind tried to rationalize a reason for it passing this way but in horror I watched as it crashed into the Trade Center. By instinct I called the Coast Guard by marine radio to report the impact, and that we were weighing anchor and moving north out of the harbor. My concern was the possibility of toxins being released from what was clearly a terrorist attack. Before I could sign off, all marine radio communications were overwhelmed and I could make no further calls. Two quick calls came in by mobile phone, one from a parent of a student aboard, the other from my wife. I asked each to inform the three schools that we were safe and weighing anchor to head north, away from possible exposure to the plume of smoke. And then all communications with the outside world ended. I mustered the crew, and outlined the objective for the day: weigh anchor, move north to our home port at King Marine 35 miles up the river, and get all students back to their families that day. Facing a north wind and an ebbing current opposing us, I explained to all that we would face a very slow 10- to 12-hour run up the river, and everyone needed to keep alert to their duties. We needed to stay shipshape and functioning, especially the crew. The students responded maturely, calmly and competently, understanding well that we all needed to focus on safe ship operations to get home. We were heading north by 9:30 a.m. I stressed the importance of adhering to standard watch rotations to ensure everyone got rest breaks. Given what we had just seen there was no way to predict what we would encounter ahead, and when we would next be able to moor safely. A small AM radio provided our only outside link, but the news reports of attack on the Pentagon, threats on the White House, a plane going down in Pennsylvania and the closing of all air traffic only reinforced a dire picture of what was happening. Military aircraft flew overhead and we watched the Twin Towers become engulfed with flames. It was impossible to avert our eyes as we watched the South Tower collapse, generating a massive cloud of smoke and debris that swept out over the harbor, enveloping the citizens massed along the waterfront and the first responders who we knew were on-scene. A small Coast Guard vessel intercepted us and I was ordered at gunpoint to take the Half Moon to shore. Fortunately, at my refusal a second Coast Guardsman intervened and they left. But I faced great uncertainty did they know something I did not? Could I be leading us into an even more dire situation? By this time military aircraft were flying overhead in force, and for all appearances, we could have been witnessing the first attack of a world war. With no outside communication, all we knew was what was before our eyes, and what we saw was an apocalyptic vision. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and some area history with our afternoon newsletter. Then the North Tower collapsed, just as the South Tower did, pancaking down into its own footprint, and creating an even greater cloud that obscured lower Manhattan and rolled out over the harbor. I altered course to avoid the debris cloud, worried that the planes might have carried biological or chemical agents. Once north of lower Manhattan, we could see up the West Side Highway. It was a solid line of emergency vehicles with flashing lights as most people were trying to flee the area, first responders were heading into the belly of the beast. This we could discuss with our student crew, drawing a parallel between the heroic actions of emergency personnel responding on shore, and our student crews own actions to operate the ship competently so as to get us all back home. The demands of operating the ship kept the students well occupied. Standard watches had to be maintained, chores had to be done, gear had to be tended, safety routines had to be completed, food had to be prepared. We all had to be ready face any unexpected occurrence. The hard work of simply operating the ship was a blessing. At the same time, our adult crew brought many talents to bear, engaging with the students one-to-one to keep them occupied with hand crafts, in addition to the demands of watch standing. Preparation of food and distribution of water remained essential, as did staying in touch with the emotional state of all our crew. The student crew stood their watches maturely and competently, and were an inspiration to me, reinforcing a sense of optimism for the future in contrast with the dire circumstances around us. About 1:30 p.m., well north of Manhattan, I gained a cell phone signal. My first call was to Randy King, owner of King Marine in Verplanck, for assistance with a planned arrival about 5:30 p.m. My second call was to Karen Urbanski, principal of Rensselaer Middle School, and the person I could rely on to help with what we needed a school bus with counselors to meet us at King Marine and transport students back to their families that night. The students from three different schools, with varying ethnicities and interests all proved remarkable, rising to meet an unprecedented challenge, and doing so with aplomb. A year later, we gathered the students to discuss their recollections and found they had poignant insights about the experience, and a positive outlook for the future. From what I can see on social media today, and sporadic interactions with the students since, all seem to be living normal lives with a range of interests and occupations. I remain optimistic about the abilities of young people to rise to the challenge, whatever it may be, when given the opportunity to succeed. William T. Chip Reynolds of Selkirk is a former captain of the Half Moon, a replica of the Dutch ship Henry Hudson sailed to North America in 1609. Farmington, WV (26555) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 78F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening with fog developing overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. The top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says some Americans who have been trying to get out of Afghanistan since the U.S. military left are sitting in airplanes at an airport ready to leave but the Taliban are not letting them take off With less than two weeks to go before Bostons preliminary mayoral election, Boston acting Mayor Kim Janey is leading the fundraising race For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, The Palm Beach (Fla.) Post. The Johnson County Library offers a family friendly event that hopes to encourage youngsters to share their dreams with a groundbreaking local politico. Check the description . . . "Kansas 3rd district congresswoman Sharice Davids loves encouraging kids to use their voice and lift up their communities. Join us for a reading and discussion with Rep. Davids, co-author Nancy Mays, and illustrator Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley as they talk about the art and story in Sharice's Big Voice. Their book tells the triumphant story of Davids, one of the first two Native American women ever elected to Congress and the first openly LGBTQ+ congressperson to represent Kansas in Washington." Even better, there's an opportunity for audience participation so that local youngster can follow in the footsteps of the LGBT pioneer . . . In connection with our author event with Congresswoman Sharice Davids and her debut childrens book, Sharices Big Voice, kids are invited to join our youth writing and art contest, Reaching for Your Dreams. In Sharices Big Voice, Sharice dreamed of making a difference in this world by pursuing politics and now represents Kansas as a Congresswoman. What are your dreams? How will you accomplish them? What stands in your way? How will you stay motivated and what happens if you fail? Any or all of these questions and more can be explored in your submission. Short stories, essays, poems and art can be submitted Sept. 1-14.. Winners will received a copy of Sharices Big Voice signed by the authors and illustrator. Open to ages 10 and under. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com news link . . . A quick reminder that "journalism" has the power to direct that public's attention in a way that's much less effective than rigged social media algorithms . . . Agenda-setting theory describes the "ability (of the news media) to influence the importance placed on the topics of the public agenda". The study of agenda-setting describes the way media attempts to influence viewers, and establish a hierarchy of news prevalence. Accordingly . . . We notice a great deal of interest in advocating for a local triple murder convict via newsfeed . . . BUT NOWHERE ELSE. If TKC is ever locked up for stealing a loaf of bread or spitting on the sidewalk . . . It's doubtful there would be equal consideration . . . And the reality is that exoneration isn't really a priority for most voters. Still, the push for Kevin Strickland's exoneration has dominated progressive Kansas City media outlets for most of this week without gaining much traction on more popular TV news outlets. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com news link . . . Johnstown, PA (15901) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 78F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Rain showers early with overcast skies late. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Stay up to date on COVID-19 Get Breaking News Sign up now to get our FREE breaking news coverage delivered right to your inbox. Sponsored By: Dorsett Automotive Hi Sherie I did my own booking directly from Australia before we left for Hawaii. There wasn't any drama and they were very helpful. They picked us up and dropped us back to our cruise ship Below is a link to their web site so you can see the packages they have. We did the landing at the falls package. Looking at the cost now it looks like USD324 per person. I think its worth the extra to land at the falls. you can get more detail from their web site. Google islandhelicopters. Tripadvisor won't allow me to give you their web site link If you have have more questions don't hesitate to ask. If you do the flight try to get up front with the pilot, although the rest of the seats are fine. Enjoy My wife and I are Americans and have booked a trip to Iceland in July 2022. My wife and I have both been fully vaccinated and have our CDC issued "COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card". However, I have researched on the official Iceland website and the only accepted vaccine cards are the European digital COVID certificate (EU DCC) and the International Certificate of Vaccination (WHO Yellow Card). The website does not say anything about the CDC card. I sent an email to the Iceland Consulate in Houston, TX and they did not have an immediate answer but are looking into it. Obviously, Americans have been traveling to Iceland and probably only have their CDC card. Any experience with this issue by Americans entering Iceland please? We're planning a 16-day trip next Spring from Las Vegas --- visiting the Mighty 5 in Utah --- and our most Eastern stop will be Durango and Mesa Verde. For background, I spent 2 days in the MV area when I was a college student. I hiked and climbed everywhere they would allow us to do that. That was 1966 and I was 18. Much older now. I've been to 21 National Parks in the West but am planning this road trip for a birthday gift for my husband. He's short of National Parks. I know (and he knows) that we won't be doing the rigorous hiking that I did in 1966. But, I don't want to give up on Mesa Verde. It made a big impact on me then. We know we can't do the hiking and climbing I did so many years ago. Suggestions on how to enjoy the park years later? We can walk OK --- we just can't hike or climb. We love Visitor's Centers in the NP's. If we drive through and spend time in the Visitor Center and have a few short walks, would that work? What are others' favorite short walks and "things to see" (and places to see them) for people way older than 18? Thanks in advance Good for: Bar Scene, Groups, Romantic, Business meetings, Special Occasion Dining Dining options: After-hours, Dinner, Reservations Neighbourhood: Central Area/City Area Description: CUT at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore is the third location for master chef and restaurateur Wolfgang Puck's critically acclaimed steakhouse concept. Providing the finest range in beef selections, grilled over hard wood and charcoal, CUT is home to the true steak connoisseur. Choices from around the globe include USDA Prime, Australian Angus, and Wagyu selections from United States, Australia and Japan, and currently offering the uniquely marbled Snow Beef from Uenae Lake Farms, Hokkaido Japan. Our sophisticated menu is complemented by a range of produce and ingredients sourced directly from the Santa Monica's Farmer's Market in Southern California giving guests in Singapore an unparalleled experience of fine food, all while served in a hip, contemporary atmosphere. CUT also features a bar & lounge providing a menu spanning over 50 original, handcrafted cocktails and our "Rough CUTs" lounge menu of delectable bar snacks: open daily from 5:30 P.M. Onward. Neighbourhood: Marina Centre Description: Located on level three of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, the name Colony alludes to the seafarious voyage that the British took to travel to the East Indies for trade and commerce in the late eighteenth century. Vintage maps and postcards which adorn the walls and decorative ornate leafing evoke the nostalgia of a bygone era, while eight different open concept kitchens, coupled with 'live' culinary showmanship, will bring diners on a multi-sensory journey through Singapore's heritage cuisines including Malaysian, Indonesian, Indian, Chinese and Western, with dishes that reflect the flavours of the nation's rich colonial past. Colony can seat a maximum of 260 persons and boasts a dynamic space that can be configured to accommodate groups of various sizes. The restaurant will offer breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner daily, and vintage Champagne brunch on Sundays. If you're travelling between Great Britain and Northern Ireland which are both part of the UK, a driving licence should be fine. Aer Lingus, being the flag carrier of the Republic, will be quoting the Republic 's rules, but, if they're being silly, then cancel and use BA - it may be that the flight is a code share operated by BA anyway! Hi all, We will be visiting Matera as the last stop in Italy before flying home to the USA (from the Bari airport). Therefore, we will want to get a COVID test while in Matera. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find information online as to where tests are available to foreigners there. Does anyone know about or have experience with getting tested in Matera? Thanks! Instant unlimited access to all of our content on triplicate.com. The Triplicate's E-Edition Newsletter emailed to you each week, the night before the paper hits the street! This subscription is for NEW or RENEWING online subscribers. (The charge will appear as "Country Media Inc." on your credit card statement) After Idas torrents this week and with Hurricane Larry lurking in the tropics Connecticut homeowners are getting a fresh reminder about flood insurance to protect their biggest investment, but with cost a major deterrent despite the threat of absorbing a massive financial hit in any inundation. In Connecticut, about 32,400 flood policies were in effect as of July under the National Flood Insurance Program, with coverage underwritten by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and sold through some 60 insurance carriers. Last year, the nonprofit First Street Foundation estimated that more than triple that number of Connecticut properties were at risk of a major flood based on updated data analysis. FEMA offers up to $250,000 in coverage for damage to houses and major systems like furnaces, with businesses able to get $500,000 in coverage. The Connecticut Insurance Department posts information and links on flood insurance options at portal.ct.gov/cid. NFIP premiums average $1,500 a year in Connecticut, about on par with the average homeowners insurance policy as calculated by the Insurance Information Institute. NFIP rates are scheduled to go up in October on a majority of policies, as Congress deliberates on a reauthorization of the program. Flood insurance is getting more and more expensive its driving up certainly in places like Florida, said Gov. Ned Lamont, during a Friday inspection of an embankment for Metro-North tracks in Redding that was partially washed away during Ida. These [storms] are hitting us several times a year now. As the case with the 2012 storm Sandy, New Jersey absorbed a more punishing blow than Connecticut, with drone footage showing neighborhoods, homes and vehicles flooded. Sandy trailed only Hurricane Katrina in 2005 for claims to the National Flood Insurance Program, with NFIP paying out $8.8 billion to more than 132,000 policyholders in 16 states. But in many years, claims are few. NFIP has paid out more than $500,000 since last October to just over 30 Connecticut policyholders, with about 130 more claims still under review and about 30 getting denials of coverage. With reports of flooded basements, claims are expected to spike across the Northeast. Overall insurance losses from Hurricane Ida could exceed $18 billion in the United States, according to catastrophe modeling firm Karen Clark & Co. which did not break out flood claims from other property and casualty insurance policies. While a small number of insurers have experimented with underwriting their own insurance pools for flood coverage, the private market peaked in 2018 at $541 million in premiums written, receding 47 percent the following year. The insurance industry is already bracing for billions of dollars in claims from property owners in the path of wildfires in western states, and any storms to come in the 2021 hurricane season which runs through November. On Friday in Redding, Lamonts environmental commissioner said that Connecticuts infrastructure is not built to absorb the punishment of storms like Ida, Sandy and Tropical Storm Isaias in 2020 and that homeowners need to be prepared for the next one. Hurricane Henri gave Connecticut a scare last month as it roared north toward Long Island, with wind and water damage far less than feared upon landfall. These kinds of events are now happening with regular frequency, said Katie Dykes, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. We think about climate change and often people think about sea level rise, but the impacts of climate change [include] ... not just coastal flooding from hurricanes and tropical storms, but also seeing a deluge like what we experienced with the remnants of Ida. Alex.Soule@scni.com; 203-842-2545; @casoulman You will receive full, ad-free access to TullahomaNews.com.com as well as full access to the Electronic Edition of the newspaper. ONLY $3.99 per month for the first 3 months! Only $5.99 per month after promotional period. Or ONLY $39.99 per year for the 1st year Only $44.99 per year after promotional period. As America prepares for Afghan refugees, how Washington once led the way Defendant David Bogdanov is escorted into the courtroom for the verdict in his trial at the Clark County Courthouse in Vancouver, Wash., on Friday, Aug. 27, 2021. Bogdanov was found guilty of second-degree murder and malicious harassment in the death of transgender teen, Nikki Kuhnhausen. A large sign asking the community to support Richlands electrical line workers was prominently displayed along George Washington Way in Richland. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Azad Jammu Kashmir Cabinet, in its special meeting on Saturday paid homage to distinguished elderly Kashmir freedom struggle leader and former Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference Syed Ali Gillani MIRPUR (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Sep, 2021 ) : Azad Jammu Kashmir Cabinet, in its special meeting on Saturday paid homage to distinguished elderly Kashmir freedom struggle leader and former Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference Syed Ali Gillani. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir cabinet met in AJK state metropolis with AJK Prime Minister Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi in the chair. The cabinet Strongly condemned the brutal act of snatching and dishonoring his dead body by the Indian forces and restrictions imposed on his burial in a tight military siege and imposition of curfew to stop the people to attend his funeral. The cabinet highly appreciated the efforts of the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan for effectively projecting the Kashmir issue in its true perspective at international level. Addressing the cabinet The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi paid glowing tributes to Syed Ali Gillani and said that late leader had devoted his whole life for the liberation of occupied Kashmir from Indian clutches and protected of the rights of the Kashmiri people and added that his death is an irreparable loss to the Kashmiri people. The Prime Minister said he was the true voice of the Kashmiri people and iconic leader of the liberation movement .He said the late Syed Ali Gillani had suffered incarceration and tortured by the Indian occupation forces and remained committed to the cause of the Kashmir liberation movement. The Prime Minister said that India has intensified the reign of terror in occupied Kashmir to suppress the indigenous freedom movement launched by the people of occupied Kashmir for attaining their fundamental right to self determination. He said India despite using all means of repressions has failed to break the will of the Kashmiri people. The Prime Minister appealed to the international community to take notice of the Indian atrocities and massive human rights violations by the Indian forces in occupied Kashmir. The resolution also condemned the killings of 11 Kashmiri by the Indian forces in a fake encounter and reiterated government resolve to channelize all resources for the liberation of occupied Kashmir and turn the state in to a real base camp of the freedom movement. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly in its special session paid tributes to the veteran Hurriyat leader, Syed Ali Geelani and condemned the Indian troops restrictions to hold funeral rites and beating of deceased family MUZAFFARABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Sep, 2021 ) :The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly in its special session paid tributes to the veteran Hurriyat leader, Syed Ali Geelani and condemned the Indian troops restrictions to hold funeral rites and beating of deceased family. The special session was held under the chair of Speaker AJK Legislative Assembly Chuadhry Anwarul Haque here on Saturday. Addressing the House, the AJK Prime Minister Sardar Abdul Qayyum Niazi paid tributes to Syed Ali Geelani and said that he had devoted his whole life for the supreme cause of Kashmir liberation. He said the veteran Kashmiri leader suffered incarceration by the Indian occupation forces and was put behind the bar for a long time but he remained committed to the cause of Kashmir liberation movement. The AJK PM thanked the government of Pakistan and the Prime Minister Imran Khan for observing one day mourning in Pakistan on the sad demise of a great freedom leader Syed Ali Geelani. He said the late Geelani was an icon of the Kashmir liberation movement and his valiant struggle for the freedom of Kashmir was torch bearer for new Kashmiri generation. His sacrifices would be remembered for a long time and his assiduous freedom struggle would be written in golden words in the history of Kashmir. Abdul Qayyum Niazi said his government and people would continue to provide political and moral support to the Kashmiri people in their struggle for self-determination. He said that the government and opposition will collectively move forward to expose the atrocities of Indian forces' at international level. He said the Imran Khan has effectively projected the Kashmir issue at international level which was a great source of strength for the Kashmiris struggling for their right to self determination. The leader of the opposition Ch.Latif Akbar,Senior Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas,Former Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider Khan, Information Minister Sardar Fahim Akhtar Rubbani, Minister for local bodies Kh.Farooq Ahmed ,Minister for Finance Abdul Majid Khan,education Minister Dewan Ali Khan Chughtai, Minister for Planning and Development Ch.Muhammad Rashid and other members of the Assembly paid tributes to Syed Ali Geelani and called upon the International community to take serious note towards the ongoing gruesome human rights violations committing by the Indian forces in IIOJ&K. They paid tributes to the unprecedented services and sacrifices rendered by the late Syed Ali Geelani for the cause of Kashmir liberation movement. Later the House offered 'fateha' and prayed that may Almighty Allah rest the departed soul in eternal peace. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Sep, 2021 ) :United Nations' (UN) International Day of Charity marked on September 5 (Sunday) across the globe including Pakistan to promote charitable efforts made to alleviate poverty worldwide. On December 17, 2012, the UN designated September 5 as the International Day of Charity, which was first celebrated in 2013. Educational events and fund raising activities will be arrange worldwide to commemorate the International Day of Charity. Talking to APP a senior official of Sylani Trust Welfare said,"Number of people come and gave charity to orphans which were living here for last many years. "He said that our main motto is to provide standard three times meal to these needy poor people those can't afford to atleast satisfy their needs. He said every person has his or her own demand to gave charity money to be used including providing shelter,clothes,meals,and anything which would benefit to these orphans children's specially. (@ChaudhryMAli88) Johannesburg, Sept 5 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Sep, 2021 ) :South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma, jailed for 15 months in July for contempt of court after snubbing graft investigators, was on Sunday granted medical parole, prison authorities announced. Zuma has been hospitalised since August 6 at a health facility outside the prison where he had been incarcerated for ignoring a court order to testify before a judicial panel probing corruption during his nine-year tenure which lasted until 2018. The Department of Correctional Services said in a statement on Sunday that "Mr Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma has been placed on medical parole". The parole took effect on Sunday and he will serve out the rest of the 15-month prison sentence outside jail. "Medical parole placement for Mr Zuma means that he will complete the remainder of the sentence in the system of community corrections, whereby he must comply with a specific set of conditions and will be subjected to supervision until his sentence expires," it said. The decision to grant parole was motivated "by a medical report" the department received, it said. The 79-year-old was admitted to hospital for observation on August 6 for an undisclosed condition, and underwent a surgical procedure on August 14. He remains hospitalised. - 'Dignity' - Prison authorities appealed to South Africans to "afford Mr Zuma dignity as he continues to receive medical treatment". He started serving his sentence on July 8 at the Estcourt prison, around 180 kilometres (110 miles) northwest of Durban. Two weeks later, he was allowed to leave prison to attend his brother's funeral at his Nkandla rural home. His jailing sparked a spree of unprecedented violence and looting of businesses and shops in post-apartheid South Africa, resulting in millions of Dollars worth of damage and losses. His successor Cyril Ramaphosa described the unrest as an orchestrated attempt to destabilise the country and vowed to crack down on alleged instigators. Earlier on Sunday a handful of members of a group of veterans of the ruling ANC's armed struggle wing Umkhonto we Sizwe, who have staunchly stood behind Zuma in recent years, disrupted a eulogy by the party chairman Gwede Mantashe, at a funeral of one of group's leaders, chanting for Zuma to be freed from jail. Meantime, Zuma's long-running corruption trial over an arms deal dating back more than two decades was last month postponed to September 9, pending a medical report on his fitness to stand trial. Proceedings have repeatedly been postponed for more than a decade as Zuma fought to have the charges dropped. Zuma faces 16 counts of fraud, graft and racketeering related to the 1999 purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and equipment from five European arms firms when he was deputy president. He is accused of taking bribes from one of the firms, French defence giant Thales, which has been charged with corruption and money laundering. LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Sep, 2021 ) :Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Chaudhary Fawad Hussain has said that rights of journalists are being ensured in Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA). He said this while talking to a delegation of journalists which met him here on Sunday. The delegation was led by Lahore Press Club President Arshad Ansari. The minister said that journalists andmedia workers would be included in Prime Minister Imran Khan's 'Naya Pakistan Housing Project' and they would be provided five and ten marlas apartments. Chaudhary Fawad Hussain said a commission was being formed to oversee PMDA, adding that representatives of journalist organizations and prominent personalities would be part of the commission. Journalist organizations should play their role for stoppage of incorrect news and dissemination of right information, he added. Furthermore, the Minster added that Lahore Press Club should come forward with their proposals for the proposed legislation on media. He opined that existing laws were updated in 2002 and were unable to meet the needs of media especially in the digital arena and PMDA would settle this issue. The minister said that the federal government had given 14 points framework for the legislation and the media representative bodies were encouraged to give their input as the government believed in the democracy and free media was indispensable for the growth of a society. ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Sep, 2021 ) :Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday condemned snatching of the body of late veteran Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Geelani and then registering cases against his family as "just another shameful example of India's descent into fascism" under the Nazi-inspired RSS-BJP government. "Snatching the body of the 92 year old Syed Ali Geelani, one of the most respected & principled Kashmiri ldrs, & then registering cases against his family is just another shameful example of India's descent into fascism under the Nazi-inspired RSS-BJP govt", Imran Khan said on twitter while referring to a report published in the Times of India. The prime minister in his tweet also posted the newspaper's report, according to which the Jammu and Kashmi Police on Saturday lodged an FIR against the family members of deceased Syed Ali Shah Geelani and others for raising anti-India slogans and putting Pakistani flag on his body. The Times of India quoted a police officer as saying: "The FIR was registered at Budgam police station against the family members of Geelani along with other elements for raising anti-national slogans and putting Pakistani flag on the separatist's body at his home after his death on Wednesday." (@FahadShabbir) MINSK (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th September, 2021) A plane carrying 1.5 million doses of China's Sinopharm coronavirus vaccine has arrived in Minsk, the Belarusian Ministry of Health said on Sunday. "A plane with 1.5 million doses of the coronavirus vaccine has arrived from Beijing to Belarus. The cargo included 500,000 doses that the Chinese side provided Belarus in friendly humanitarian aid, as well as 1 million doses as part of the purchase," the ministry said in a statement on Telegram. Apart from the Sinopharm vaccine, Belarus is currently immunizing its citizens with Russia's Sputnik V vaccine. Earlier this week, Minsk received a batch of the Sputnik Light vaccine. MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 01st September, 2021) French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in the southern city of Marseille on Wednesday for a three-day visit and was met by a group of demonstrators shouting "Macron, resign!" the BFMTV broadcaster said. The incident occurred upon the president's arrival at the city hall, where he was greeted by Marseille Mayor Benoit Payan, according to the report. Macron's agenda for the trip to the city includes meetings with local officials and a visit to the northern districts to address security issues in the area. HELSINKI (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th September, 2021) Commander of the Estonian Defense Forces Martin Herem and Polish Chief of the General Staff Rajmund Andrzejczak discussed on Saturday in Tallinn the prospects for developing regional defense cooperation between the two countries, the Estonian Defense Forces said. The officials discussed regional security, as well as monitoring of the upcoming Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2021 military drills, which will be held from September 10 to 16. "Poland and Estonia have the same views on the threat to the security of our countries and the entire region. That is why we are looking for solutions together," Herem said in a statement that was issued by the defense forces, adding that the military commanders are meeting several times a year and the countries' general staffs are in constant contact. Herem also thanked Andrzejczak for Poland's contribution to the airspace security of the Baltic region and for sending its troops to the annual Spring Storm exercise in Estonia. TOKYO (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th September, 2021) A G7 foreign ministers' meeting is planned for next week with Russia's and China's participation and will focus on Afghanistan, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on NHK television on Sunday. "Next week, a meeting at the level of the foreign ministers of the G7 countries is expected, to discuss the situation in Afghanistan; the presence of the ministers from Russia, China and other countries is also expected," Toshimitsu Motegi said, adding that "this could happen already on September 8." Roughly 600 militants from the Taliban (terrorist movement, outlawed in Russia) were eliminated in Afghanistan's northeastern province of Panjshir on Saturday, the Afghan resistance forces said KABUL (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 04th September, 2021) Roughly 600 militants from the Taliban (terrorist movement, outlawed in Russia) were eliminated in Afghanistan's northeastern province of Panjshir on Saturday, the Afghan resistance forces said. "About 600 Taliban terrorists have been liquidated in various districts of Panjshir since morning. More than 1,000 Taliban militants have been captured or surrendered themselves," the resistance forces' spokesman Fahim Dashti tweeted. The spokesman added that the Taliban had problems with getting supplies from other Afghan provinces. Panjshir is the stronghold of the National Resistance Front, led by Ahmad Massoud, the son of late ex-Afghan guerrilla commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, and ex-Vice President Amrullah Saleh, who declared himself caretaker president. TASHKENT (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 05th September, 2021) Uzbekistan received another 1.5 million doses of the Chinese Anhui Zhifei Longcom Biopharmaceutical COVID-19 vaccine (ZF-UZ-VAC 2001), a recombinant subunit protein vaccine, on Sunday, the Uzbek Ministry of Health reported. "Today, the 12th batch of the ZF-UZ-VAC 2001 vaccine in the amount of 1.5 million doses was delivered from China to Uzbekistan," the ministry said on Telegram. During the spring and summer seasons the country received a total of 13.5 million vaccine doses from China. On August 12, China and Uzbekistan signed a cooperation agreement that would allow Uzbekistan to manufacture the Chinese vaccine locally and on August 21 Uzbekistan authorized the domestic production in the Tashkent region with an initial capacity of up to 10 million vaccine doses per month. Uzbekistan launched its vaccination campaign on April 1. Apart from the Chinese vaccine, Russian Sputnik V, British-Swedish AstraZeneca and US Moderna vaccines are also authorized for use. Only 1.23 million people, or 3.7%, have been fully vaccinated so far. Since July 19, immunization is mandatory for people over 18, working in retail, food service, education and security services. Pope Francis looks ahead to his upcoming visit to Budapest for the conclusion of the International Eucharistic Congress and to a 3-day pilgrimage to Slovakia. By Linda Bordoni Pope Francis told those present in St. Peters Square for the Sunday Angelus that he is preparing to go to Budapest next Sunday for the wrap-up of the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress where he will celebrate the final Mass. After Mass, he continued, my pilgrimage will continue for a few days in Slovakia and will conclude the following Wednesday with the great popular celebration of Our Lady of Sorrows, Patron saint of that country. Adoration and prayer in the heart of Europe The Pope said, these will be days marked by adoration and prayer in the heart of Europe. He extended his greetings and thanks to those who have prepared the journey scheduled to take place from 12 to 15 September, as well as to those who await him and whom he says he wholeheartedly wishes to meet. Some of the highlights of the apostolic visit that begins with the conclusion of the International Eucharistic Congress in Budapest include a divine liturgy in memory of Greek Catholic martyrs and a meeting with Roma community leaders. 34th Apostolic Visit abroad The theme of the Popes 34th apostolic visit abroad is With Mary and Joseph on the way to Jesus. During his stay in Slovakia where he will be based in the capital Bratislava, he will travel to Kosice, Slovakias second-largest city, on the eastern border, near Poland, Ukraine, and Hungary, and he will go to Presov, the countrys third-largest city. On his last day in the country, Pope Francis will be in Sastin, Trnava region, where a moment of prayer will be held with the bishops at the National Shrine, dedicated 250 years ago to Our Lady, known as "Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows". I ask everyone to accompany me in prayer, and I entrust my visits to the intercession of so many heroic confessors of the faith, who in those places bore witness to the Gospel amid hostility and persecution. May they help Europe to bear witness today too, not so much in words but above all in deeds, with works of mercy and hospitality, to the good news of the Lord who loves us and saves us, the Pope said. Negotiators from the Venezuelan Government and Opposition are holding talks in Mexico City trying to find a way out of a crisis which is crippling their country. By James Blears The main aim of the Venezuelan Government is for many countries, especially the United States, to lift economic sanctions which are accelerating the nation`s economic meltdown. Back in Caracas, President Nicolas Maduro says that this would go a long way towards generating economic recovery and is the top priority of his negotiating team. The Opposition coalition is insisting on impartial November Regional and Municipal Elections, leading on to a Presidential Election, in which the Venezuelan voters enjoy the freedom to choose who will govern them. International support for Opposition leader Juan Guido has shrunk, weakening his position. Originally more than fifty Governments recognized him as the legitimate leader of Venezuela. That`s now shrunk to less than ten. Nevertheless, Guido says: "We must take action to save Venezuela." The negotiations which are complex and far-reaching, are likely to last until year-end, with the hope that they won`t break down, as they previously did. They`re being overseen by Norwegian Diplomats. The real question is whether Washington will recognize developments, and accordingly relax the stranglehold sanctions, which are preventing any meaningful economic recovery, leading to revitalization. Much depends on what develops in Mexico City in the coming weeks. (File photo) Large pans with propane were used with the "practice jet." Alex Fire Chief Jeff Karrow conducted an exercise with the jet during the state fire fighters convention and worked to bring it to Alexandria for local departments to use. The Area Emergency Management leadership was able to implement it into their drill Monday night. Gov. Mark Dayton invites all Minnesotans to join him on Friday, Oct. 12 for the 8th Annual Minnesota Governors Pheasant Hunting Opener Community Banquet in Luverne. Social hour begins at 5:00 p.m., followed by the community banquet at 6:00 p.m. Celebrating the pheasant opener is a long-standing Minnesota tradition, and one that Dayton has highlighted by hosting Governors Pheasant Opener events in each of his eight years as governor. Dayton created the Governors Pheasant Opener in 2011, when Montevideo hosted the inaugural event. Im proud of the Minnesota hunting tradition, and have enjoyed pheasant hunting in Minnesota for over 60 years, Dayton said. I thank our hosts in the Luverne area for all of their hard work to make this a terrific event, and invite everyone to join us for this special Minnesota fall tradition. Tickets to the banquet are $40 each and can be purchased at the Luverne Area Chamber & CVB, or by calling 507-283-4061. The banquet will feature a social hour, dinner, and program which will include Dayton, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Tom Landwehr, Explore Minnesota Director John Edman, and local presenters. Tickets are available until sold out. The Governors Pheasant Opener banquet is part of a weekend of festivities in Luverne that showcase the many hunting, recreational, and travel opportunities the area has to offer visitors. Luverne has a population of 4,658 and is the county seat of Minnesotas southwestern-most county, Rock County. The city is located at the junction of Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 75. Explore Minnesota and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources are assisting the Luverne Area Chamber & CVB in planning the event. WHAT: Minnesota Governors Pheasant Hunting Opener Community Banquet WHERE: Grand Prairie Events, 105 S Estey St, Luverne, MN 56156 WHEN: Friday, October 12, 2018 5 p.m. Social Hour; 6 p.m. Community Banquet TICKETS: $40 per person. In person: Luverne Area Chamber & CVB (213 East Luverne Street, Rock County Courthouse Square, Luverne, MN 56156) By phone: 507-283-4061 More information and updates on the Governors Pheasant Hunting Opener can be found at exploreminnesota.com/mngpho. User reports estimate the perceived ground shaking intensity according to the MMI (Modified Mercalli Intensity) scale Contribute: Leave a comment if you find a particular report interesting or want to add to it. Flag as inappropriate. Mark as helpful or interesting. Send your own user report! Translate Bijapur (2.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : All windows and doors shaking , with grinding sounds. 2 bursts of about 3-5 seconds each | 56 users found this interesting. 1st was littel slow and for few sec we couldn't realize that it was actually a earthquake but the 2nd was so dangerous with vibrations and and shaking we jut got off our house Yes I felt this Yes its true Window door rapid shaking for the first one.. second time loud noise from ground 2 times earth quake 1st windows sounds then cleary my bed shaked / Light shaking (MMI IV) Vijayapura (6.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : 2 waves of tremors, first one being 2-5 sec and 2nd being 5-10 sec each! Crazy feeling as it was my first time! | 33 users found this interesting. Indi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (41.1 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s : At 2349HRS I was watching mobile then I felt vibration at my back like mattress is pushing me.I m in Bidar City. | 18 users found this interesting. Vijayapur , Srinagar colony / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s : There was a very weird noise coming from the ground like drilling and we couldn't figure it out what it was | 18 users found this interesting. VIJAYAPURA / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : There were 2 shakings.. frst one was very short and un-noticable but the second shock was rattling and had a impact | 15 users found this interesting. Vijayapura / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : 2 times of trembling | 13 users found this interesting. near Bijapur, Karnataka (19.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : We all suddenly run outside when herring this sound & all of a sudden the house shaking itself with strange sound we all threatened but after that it's stoped. Ohh God it's a horrible experience I ever seen. | 7 users found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (5.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Felt 2 tremors ,first one was short for 1-2 seconds, second one after a minute lasted for 5-10 seconds . | 6 users found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (2.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : I was watching YouTube and suddenly felt the tremors. We ran down to the ground floor. And while running, we felt the second tremor which was stronger than the first one! | 6 users found this interesting. I also felt it 2 times / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : It was vibrating like a thunder storm | 7 users found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (3.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / very short : All the neighbor's had fleet it. They were out of the home. And got the messages and phone calls from the friends and relatives. Let pray for almighty allah too be safe everyone | 5 users found this interesting. Bijapur Karnataka (6.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : It was around 11-50pm today in darga road b Behind argya dhama hospital we experienced earthquake | 7 users found this interesting. Bijapur (6.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Vibration and a little movement of bed shaking was observed. | 6 users found this interesting. Vijayapur (5.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : Sudden shaking 1st time felt like somebody running on the terrace. But the second time felt like heavy vehicle running on bridge | 5 users found this interesting. Vijayapura, Ganesh nagar, Ibrahimpur (1.4 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 10-15 s : Felt earthquake like experience two times.. Firstly around 11.40 small vibrations like earthmovers passing by and second one after 3-4minutes little higher shaking effect like vertical vibrations and rolling under the earth feeling. Heard grill vibrations as well. | 5 users found this interesting. Hubli, Dharwad district, Karnataka (175.7 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s : I was just sitting on the floor and it suddenly vibrated for like 10 continues seconds and things in my room fell. | 2 users found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : There are 2 shots of earthquake after 1st shot of earthquake land was shaking for some seconds and after some seconds later there was 2nd short | 2 users found this interesting. Bijapur (3.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s : Allah ham sab ki hifajat farmaye .... aameen | 3 users found this interesting. Vijayapur (18.5 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : I was watching tv and sitting on the tiles in ground floor and i felt something like the train passing in underground.. | One user found this interesting. Vijayapura (3.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Felt vibration on the cot on which I was sleeping for 2-3 seconds... Second vibration occurred just after 20-30 seconds of first occurance | One user found this interesting. Vijayapura (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / very short : First their was light vibration after very few seconds got second hit. I can hear clear sound of vibration and shake ness | 3 users found this interesting. Jalanagar vijayapur / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : It was a shocking experience at midnight | 3 users found this interesting. Vijayapura (194.5 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : There were 2 episodes ..frst for 2 to 5 sec ..secnd more than 5 secs | 2 users found this interesting. Vibrating dangerous I'm shocked my hol life this situation is not realizing / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur (6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Very high hammering sound with continuous vibration upto 5 to 10 secs | 2 users found this interesting. Vijayapura Karnataka (5.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Could feel beds, windows, chairs, doors shake for about 8-10 seconds. | 2 users found this interesting. At post :andihal pu basavan bagewadi taluk, bijapu / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short : I was watching tv and i felt like sond like astorm. then feel sound cames from earth and hit earth and get vibrated slightly | One user found this interesting. Bijapur / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex motion difficult to describe / 2-5 s : Earthquake occurred 2 times, over a minute, first time it was high intensity so building was shaking for 2 sec, on 2nd time it was for 4 sec high vibration with noo shaking of building | One user found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : It vibrated as if like a heavy 16wheeler when crosses the speed breakers, how the feel will be. Train vibration feel. Bijapur, Karnataka (4.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 5-10 s Single large bump vertical hitting from bottom of house. Direction coming from east (little north) of the city. After 5 min similar but of larger intensity and longer duration than first. Our house Windows panel Glass vibrated as well as road opposite house glass panels also vibrated. After second vibration all people came out of their house and asked each other whether they also felt. Sellars thing felt few days back in Bagewadi 40 km from Bijapur. (reported through (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 5-10 s Babaleshwar (22.4 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vibration and rolling : September 4 2021 around 11.48 pm to 11.50pm I had experienced like vibrating and huge amount of sound and some shaking in home so quickly I came out of my home and I look around my home there also I felt like same so I stopped my thinking and after seeing news I confirmed here we get earthquake. Please visit to our area and confirm us why earthquake happens here this is my first earthquake experience with lot of fear my contact number 8618427760 contact me for more information Hubballi (175.6 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 10-15 s : I was sitting on the floor and I swing vibrated for like 10 seconds it was horrible .Things in my room fell down , like my bottle and other things on shelves. Bijapur, Karnataka (7.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : It was twice 1 one was weak than 2nd we came out of our home and started asking neighbours wheather they felt same Bijapur, Karnataka (8.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / very short : I heard a trembling sound.so i came outside my room.but outside almost every wingmates was there and we ran outside the building.... Again we heard that sound and we felt a small vibration.... Vijayapura (0.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Happened in 2 episodes First one was about 5 seconds Second one was 5 to 10 seconds The doors were shaking , walls started vibrating, objects were vibrating entire buliding felt including myself sensed the vibration passing from one corner of room to another . Vijayapur (3.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) 2 times shakes 1st time felt like someone running on the terrace. 2nd time felt like a heavily loaded vehicle running on the bridge (reported through (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) Vijayapura (4.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : I could feel the vibration , things in the house were shakey like the door was vibrating and the refrigerator too Ramadev Nagar, Vijayapura (7.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : I was studying around 11:30pm... I heard some light sound... I thought it is thundering because of rain... But it is different kind of vibration... And i understood it is earthquake.. and again in few minutes another vibration happen.. Vijayapura (3.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 15-20 s : It was around 11:50pm we felt the tremors twice first one lasted about 8-10 seconds and was light one compared to the second one which lasted for about 15-20 seconds and felt indoors even on top floors the tremors were felt Vijayapura (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : 2 shakes of which 1st one was light , while 2nd one was strong but it lasted only for some seconds.Happened around 11:47-11:54pm BIJAPUR (218.9 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : First time I felt it a slight shake and heavy sound, at 11.47pm. Second time it was very intense it shook very hard Lingasugur. Dt:Raichur (110.6 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 1-2 s : Vibration similar to passing by truks | 2 users found this interesting. South allso have Yes I know i have feels / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 1-2 s Vijayapur (40.2 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : I feel very dengar | 2 users found this interesting. / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s : Very bad fell | One user found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (5.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 15-20 s : Animals not alarmed. But quake is feel like light to moderately vibrated.. | One user found this interesting. VIJAYAPURA (5.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : It was first time I felt this horrific earthquake and I thought it as a paranormal activity | One user found this interesting. Bijapur, Karnataka (1.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s | One user found this interesting. Bijapur (5.6 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : Heavy Vibrations | One user found this interesting. Vijayapura (2.3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s One user found this interesting. (reported through (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s BIJAPUR KARNATAKA / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : this is the first time in my life that I felt earth quake it's dangerous shake and it was happened properly at 11.47 pm on 4th September 2021 BIJAPUR KARNATAKA INDIA / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 1-2 s : WE HEARD FIRST MODERATE ROARING SOUND BENEATH THE GROUND THEN WITHIN A FRACTION OF NEXT SECOND HEARD STRONG RUNNING ROARING SOUNDS.FOR FRACTION OF SECONDS WE FELT SHAKING. SOON ALL PEOPLES OF STREET COMES OUT OF THEIR HOUSES. IT OCCURRED AT 11-48 PM LOCAL TIME. LATER WE CAME TO KNOW THE ENTIRE CITY PEOPLES FELT THIS AND LOCAL TV CONFIRMED IT AFTER ONE HOUR. Vasco goa biana South goa / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s : My mother and me was sitting on my room and I felt that the Building it shaking. Similar of what i felt in Andaman back in 2004 in my Childhood. Then my mother says it's an earthquake. Then after few seconds it stops. Bijapur / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapur , near water tank agasar galli / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating : Vibrating and shaking of rooms n earth, n literally everybody came out n all are feared,to go inside, even now we can't able to sleep peacefully !!!! Bijapur / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : There was very weak shaking with strong vibrations and sounds were as if a big truck went by or drilling sounds..very horryfying VIJAYPURA KARNATAKA / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : I WAS STUDYING AND SUDDENLY THE FLOOR VIBRATED FOR 2-5 SECS....EVEN MY STUDY TABLE AND CHAIR VIBRATED LIKE SOMEONE IS SHAKING ME Bijapur Karnataka / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s : The floor shakes 2 times...first I thought nothing is like that but 2 time it felt more vibration....PLZZ everyone be safe Basavan Bagewadi / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : Yes I felt the earthquake the very first in my lifetime,it was very horror..when I realized that this is the earthquake the in my imagination the Japan country came,which the place regularly earthquake occurred. Hat's off to those country citizens. Please god save us Vijayapura / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : I felt a small quake when I was on my bed and I was literally very scared bcz this was my first experience Vijayapura Karnataka / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / very short : I was as asleep , 8 felt that some has shaken my bet ,It also sounded like crumbling of stones and whole foundation of the hose shaken very strongly . I am from Vijayapura Karnataka. Appu Mantur Babaleshwar / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : I was walking on terrus on that time ( 11:56PM ) suddenly came earth blasting type sound 1 sec our entire building shakes after that I feel 10 sec light vibration, then I came out of my building , it's happening in Babaleshwar Karnataka dist bijapur 586113 time 11:56PM Bijapur, Karnataka India / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : @ Bijapur Karnataka state India around 11.45pm I was studying a sound i felt and vibration for 2 sec.. I felt some where with out notice Borewell machine is digging.. My wife was in kitchen drinking water she rushed in hall bit feared. She felt shaking in her feet.. Vijayapura / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s : Felt mild tremors twice in a gap of 4 seconds. Each tremor lasted 5 secononds.it felt like a rolling vibration. Vijayapur / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : I was watching YouTube and felt vibration on my bed. I watched out of window and felt vibration on the window bars and even on walls.. It was just about 5 seconds approximately. Vijayapur / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Felt like a gas blasted near by or a heavy metal truck or bulldozer hit a building and vibrations kept coming twice with a 5 minute difference Huvin hipparagi ,basavan bagewadi taluk, vijayapur / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : Actually, it is 2nd time i feel it 3rd September night also approximately same time .. but today its intensity more than previous one. It takes 6second Vijayapur / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Staying in first floor. Experienced a horizontal swinging motion with some sound like the weak thunder. Almost every People around us rushed out of houses with screaming .people stayed on upper floors felt more severe vibration . Vijayapura / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : I was on the floor sleeping supine....a sudden vibration felt in the whole house I felt like a roller vibration, I ran out doubtfully, after two minutes or so a second vibration felt and all the society men and women came out on streets...from then till now no vibrations felt. Vijayapur / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Whole building was shaking,there was a first 3 sec vibration followed by a 10 sec vibration and everyone was out I was sleeping in home.. and suddenly it shakes 2 / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s : We felt so unsecure in home and we ran from home to the road with family..it was 2 Times very strong..we fear still tonight..we can't sleep..so please save from this situation..jai hind Adarsh nagar, ashram road / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 15-20 s : It was raining, With cool breeze. being civil engineer I m also surprised how breeze and earthquake occurs simultaneously Vijaypura / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : For 3 seconds I think I felt earthquake in vijaypura district karnataka state it's like a train pass near me and ground is shaking. Vijayapura / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Twice it came, first one at 12.05 am, 5/09/2021 for 3-5 seconds with sound, mild Vibrating. Then second time 12.06am again came for 5-10 second with sound and more vibration. Vijayapur Karnataka / Moderate shaking (MMI V) : I was on my bed and I felt the my bed shaking very hard I also heard a storm coming but there was none. I ran out of my house and I saw all my neighbours standing out of their houses Vijayapura / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : there were tow jolts felt between 11:50PM and a minute or two later that. First one was just a vibration but second one was bit of swinging horizontally Vijayapura ,karnataka / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Vibration twice , first @ around 11:56 second 10-15 seconds later | One user found this interesting. Bijapur / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Felt the ground moving and sound rattling. First floor cot was shaking and doors and windows rattling. | One user found this interesting. Vijayapura, Residence (4.1 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : There was ground vibration with sound,at first time, suddenly came out from home to check, whether is there any heavy vehicle moved or what, then there was second vibration with same sound which was bit stronger than earlier one, and neighbors are started come out from their homes. | One user found this interesting. Bijapur / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating : It was 2 times and was moderately strong | One user found this interesting. Vijayapura Karnataka / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Felt like vibrating | One user found this interesting. bijapur / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating : The sound was strong | One user found this interesting. Kalaburagi, Karnataka (133.2 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s near Sedam, Kalaburagi, Karnataka (163.1 km E of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / complex motion difficult to describe / 1-2 s near Jamkhandi, Bagalkot, Karnataka (54.9 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Bijapur, Karnataka (0.9 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 5-10 s : Felt earthquake 2 times within 10sec Bijapur, Karnataka (0.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.7 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe Bijapur, Karnataka (5.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (8.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : Mild shake for 2-3 seconds,,,, 2 times Bijapur, Karnataka (9.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Chikodi, Belgaum district, Karnataka (128.4 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) 29 km of Sindgi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (62.2 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.1 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 10-15 s : First was very light shaking then second one very dangerous to feel Guledagudda, Bagalkot, Karnataka (83.5 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / very short Bijapur, Karnataka (6.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Solapur, Maharashtra (94.2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / complex motion difficult to describe / 10-15 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Felt the tremmel while I was laying on the couch. Channagiri, Davangere, Karnataka (303.6 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex motion difficult to describe Bijapur, Karnataka (4.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : First time here laterally moving Bagalkot, Karnataka (71.9 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Jamkhandi, Bagalkot, Karnataka (59.8 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Beltangadi, Shivamogga, Karnataka (325.8 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Indi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (46.6 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Bijapur, Karnataka (6.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s : A big sound and movement Bagalkot, Karnataka (69.3 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s 27 km of Navalgund, Dharwad district, Karnataka (117.5 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : weak shake Bijapur, Karnataka (3.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.7 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / very short : Just now 7 mnts back long shake . Bijapur, Karnataka (2.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Vijapura (5.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex rolling (tilting in multiple directions) Bijapur, Karnataka (5.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s Vijayapur (2.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s Bangalore, Karnataka (465.1 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt bijapur (12.3 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bangalore, Karnataka (474.1 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) SINDGI (53.2 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s Bijapur (83.8 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / very short Vijayapura Karnataka (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur karnataka @11:50pm (4.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s : Sound like lightening Bijapur, Karnataka (7.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur (5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Guledagudda, Bagalkot, Karnataka (86.3 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / very short Madabhavi (10 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 2-5 s BIJAPUR KAR (31.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Bijapur, Karnataka (3.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Guntakal, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh (255 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : . vijayapura (6.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur (kar) (4.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s Lingasgur (470.2 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.1 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s Auj mandrup (64.9 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Vijayapura (5.8 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur (18.4 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Very strange Vijapura (2.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur (4.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s : The horror since Babaleshwar (22.9 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single lateral shake VIJAYAPURA (1.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : New to experience this ,first time Felt for 2-5 sec and second with in 10 sec for 5-8 sec. near Bijapur, Karnataka (18 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) Bijapur (3.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Muddebihal (65.5 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Basavan bagewadi, Bisanal (27.8 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s : At that time there is few seconds of, shocking strong vibration Bagalkot (69.4 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt near Bijapur, Karnataka (14.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) BIJAPUR (4.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short : Yes quake don't know At home (97.2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s : I was watching move lying on sofa and i felt aprox 2-3 little horizontal swings on my sofa. Bijapur (2.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (8.3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapur (1.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Fully vibrating Bijapur (32.7 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : Very little vibration Bijapur, Karnataka (5.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Vijayapura, Karnataka (2.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 15-20 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.1 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s Bijapur (kar) (4.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s Tikota (22.4 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s Jamkhandi Karnataka (57.8 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : I feel vibration something voice is coming at that time India Bijapur (5.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijaypur (35.3 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : Kadalewad pch Bijapur, Karnataka (2.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Felt earthquake at 11.48 pm Bijapur, Karnataka (2.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 15-20 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / very short Bijapur (1.4 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling : Very bad vibration and shaking of the building Bijapur, Karnataka (2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Sarwa siddh (3.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s vijaypur asar galli (3.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Vijayapura (2.5 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s Vijayapura (4.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s : Bijapur Vijayapura Karnataka (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur (5.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Jamkhandi (58.5 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapura (4.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Bijapur, Karnataka (6.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Al ameen me (8.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapur (2.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : 1st time hitted slowly but 2nd hitted more dangerous that people feel that vibration Bijapur (6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s VIJAYAPURA Karnataka (6.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s Almel (59.8 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Vijayapura (3 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bilagi Dist Bagalkot (52.2 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.7 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s Bij (6.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short near Indi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (33.8 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s : L LAAG GAAYE BHANCHO... Hebballi, dharwad (161.1 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapu (2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Bijapur (2.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : Felt 2 tremors of earthquake bijapur, Karnataka India (2.3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : 2 times minor earthquake occurred Bijapur, Karnataka (6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) Bijapur, Karnataka (2.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex motion difficult to describe / 15-20 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s Bijapur (4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Muddebihal (65.9 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Like a vibration and shaking the bed Vijayapura (2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapur karnataka (5.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : I feel 2 times inbetween @ 11-48 to 11-51 Vijayapur (6.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / complex motion difficult to describe / 10-15 s : Felt twice. First time it was Glasses shaking. Second time felt building shaking Bijapur, Karnataka (0.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating near Hangal, Haveri, Karnataka (244.3 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur (7.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s B (5.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur (2.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Hebballi Dharwad, Karnataka (160.3 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.8 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / very short Vijyapura (5.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Bijapur (7.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short : Felt very low shaking Bijapur, Karnataka (3.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt : I'm sleeping in this time and I don't know what is happening I'm very shocked to night Shankaling temple bijapur (5.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s : At 11:48 small vibration like, the roller vehicle moving, and at 11:49 we left Light shake. Vijayapura, Karnataka (2.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Solapur ( home ) (100.5 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Jamkhandi (57.6 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Vijayapura (10.9 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s VIJAYAPUR (3.5 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur (54 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapur (256.8 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s BIJAPUR (6.1 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 10-15 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.4 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Bijapur (4.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 15-20 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short : I was on the upper floor. Heard rumbling sound and felt vibration twice. Bijapur, Karnataka (4.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.8 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Solapur (106.5 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : All the beds doors and windows were shaking Bijapur, Karnataka (6.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : First time here laterally moving S G Kulkarni (5.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s : When I m on bed I felt Shake Bijapur (7.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapur (11.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) : Bo hitnalli, bijapur (6.2 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapura (2.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 20-30 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating Solapur, Maharashtra (97.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Vijayapur (5.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s near Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (30.3 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : Strong shaking Bijapur Babaleshawar naka (4.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : My Bed vibrates 2 times by shaking land total Bijapur vibrated with 2 times Bijapur, Karnataka (2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur (2.3 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 2-5 s : Yes I feel more horrible vibration of earth Vijayapur (313 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s near Guledagudda, Bagalkot, Karnataka (92.8 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 20-30 s Vijayapura (1.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Basawana Bagewadi (34.5 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / very short Vijayapura (4.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 2-5 s Bijapur (3.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : There a was vibration in the earth far about 10 seconds and I felt it,,for 2 times Vijayapur (1.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapura city (5.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s Vijaypur Karnataka (19.4 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s : Jus Bijapur, Karnataka (2.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur, Karnataka (4.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Bijapur (7.3 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Full gada gada Bijapur, Karnataka (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s Vijaypur (5.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 5-10 s Bangalore, Karnataka (463.5 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Bijapur (5.2 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Bijapur(KAR) (2.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 10-15 s : Shake like Nokia mobiles vibration. near Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (18 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) (reported through our app / Moderate shaking (MMI V) Vaijaypur, Karnataka (2.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Felt like there were vibrations for a seconds. Bijapur (2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s Solapur, Maharashtra (102.2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) Vijayapur (4.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s : It felt like ripple of water for about 2 waves VIJAYAPURA (1.6 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s Bijapur (4.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s : Horrible Solapur (100.2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : Horizontal shake Bijapur (5.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.7 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 1-2 s Vijayapur (19.1 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short Hitnalli farm,agriculture college Vijayapur (3.9 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur, Karnataka (5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s : At 11.45 on 4 th SEP we felt shaking just we were about to sleep Vijayapur (1183.4 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : I felt unbalanced and shocked during earth it was horrible Bijapur, Karnataka (5.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / very short Bijapur, Karnataka (1.3 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Big sound entire house vibrates Bijapur, Karnataka (5.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.8 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short Bijapur near St Joseph's school (1.9 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s : It's 1st time in life feel earth quake Bijapur, Karnataka (2.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s Bagalkot (75.2 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Vijayapura, Karnataka (2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapur (6.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapura (6.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Felt vibration BIJAPUR-586101, karnataka (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s near Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (18.4 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Vibration 2 times second is harder then forest one I shared. And wake up suddenly Bijapur, Karnataka (4.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Huvin Hipparagi (44.6 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : Some few seconds near Maddagiri, Tumakuru, Karnataka (396.9 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Indi, Near Adarsh school (19.1 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : My sofa was slightly vibrated and moved........ Bijapur Karnataka (3.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 5-10 s Bijapur (164.8 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : 2 times North Goa (240.9 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.5 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : Shaking Like we are in train journey. Solapur (97.7 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s near Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (18.4 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 15-20 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapura (2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapur, Karnataka (6.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s : 2 time fell shake Shikarkhane (3.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Golasangi (22.3 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Jalnagar Vijayapura (2.2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur, Karnataka (2.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : I felt earthquake Vijaypur, Karnataka, India (6.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : Heard blating like sound and vibration Vijaypura (2.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s 28 km of Koppal, Karnataka (148.5 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s : Sheking Vijayapura (2.2 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 5-10 s : Felt like a moving train under bed Bijapur, Karnataka (1.7 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (7.1 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Scarey Bijapur, Karnataka (6.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 1-2 s Solapur (98.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s Vijapur (5.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 5-10 s near Bijapur, Karnataka (18.6 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur (2.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 1-2 s Vijayapura (2.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Vijayapura (5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s Vijayapura (6.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / 2-5 s Bijapur (3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : We felt earthquake at 11:55pm on Saturday 04/09/2021 night Bijapur, Karnataka (2.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Vijaypur (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapur karnataka (5.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / very short Bijapur, Karnataka (7.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very strong shaking (MMI VII) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (0.9 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 5-10 s : Felt earthquake 2 times within 10sec Bijapur, Karnataka (5.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 2-5 s Vijayapura (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (7.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / complex motion difficult to describe / 2-5 s : House is shaking Vijayapur (5.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapura (6.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 30-60 s Solapur (101 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) Vijayapura (3.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) Hubli, Dharwad district, Karnataka (170.6 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Bijapur, Karnataka (5.3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) : Felt like a heavy earthmover is passing by with light shake of earth. Bijapur, Karnataka (3.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (3.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s : First experiance and it was shocking Belagavi, Karnataka (169.2 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / simple rolling (tilting sideways along one direction) / very short Bijapur, Karnataka (6.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : by 11:52 pm on 4-9-21. twice, lasted for a few seconds. cots vibrated. deep sound like thunder. Bijapur city (2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Solapur, Maharashtra (99.9 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s 26 km of Indi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (33.3 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Yes Bijapur (34.5 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s : Yes Bijapur (2.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s Bijapur (5.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 1-2 s Vijayapur (6.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) Bagalkot (50.5 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt : But my parents staying at VIJAYAPURA felt some movement of earth twice around 11:45pm IST Bijapur (1.1 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapura (5.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : First time very weak and after 2seconds vibrating Vijayapura (41.3 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / very short Bijapur (6.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : 2 times Bijapur, Karnataka (5.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Bijapur, Karnataka (3.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / complex motion difficult to describe / 15-20 s Bijapur (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) Vijayapura (2.2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 10-15 s Vijapur (12.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) Solapur (103.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Navarasapura,Near al ameen medical college,vijayap (8.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 15-20 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s near Bijapur, Karnataka (15.6 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) / complex rolling (tilting in multiple directions) / 5-10 s Bijapur (5.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s : Shaking was there I felt it too Vijaypur (3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Vijayapura (112.1 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very strong shaking (MMI VII) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s : So hilarious Bijapur (1.8 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s : Reported by Structural Engineer Vijaypur (4.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (8.3 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur, Karnataka (2.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s : Vertical moderate earthquake at 11:48 pm on 04/09/2021 At home, Vivek nagar East, Bijapur city (1.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s Vijayapura (3.7 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 10-15 s : The quake was felt thrice across bijapur from one end to another bijapur (2.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / very short Vijayapur (3.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Thumping sound and vibrations Bijapur, Karnataka (3.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Bijapur, Karnataka (5.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 20-30 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur, Karnataka (2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s Indi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (47.7 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s Bangalore (476.3 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Vijayapura (6.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.5 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s Vijayapura (8.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 5-10 s Vijayapur (5.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 1-2 s : 2 times I felt like something hit on ground .. 2 seconds vibration. Bijapur, Karnataka (6.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : two times by 11:50 pm. cot vibrated, low frequency sound like you get from clouds. Bijapur, karnataka (2.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : 2 times I felt, between 2-3 mins. near Bijapur, Karnataka (11.4 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s BIJAPUR KAR (6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 15-20 s : It's shaking in bijapur karnataka yes it's earthquake and everyone came outside of the house Vijaypura (6.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) : My windows were shaking VIJAYAPURA (5.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short Vijayapur Karnataka (7.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : I felt the windows , doors shaking like light virbration Raibag (109.2 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Vibration and rattling sound of windows VIJAYAPUR (7.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Totally 2 times felt Bijapur, Karnataka (6.1 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapur (6.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Vijayapura (5.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 2-5 s near Jamkhandi, Bagalkot, Karnataka (44.8 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Kalaburagi Karnataka (128.7 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.5 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 5-10 s Vijayapura (5.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 10-15 s : Two times first minor 2nd was little massive Bijapur, Karnataka (4.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s : Yes i feeled it Bijapur, Karnataka (6.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Sindgi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (53.5 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Ibrahimpur (1.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Mushrif Nagar Bijapur (2.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Slightly vibration. First one was light and second one was bit longer (2 to 3 seconds) Bijapur Jamiya masjif (2.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (0.8 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Bijapur (4.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating Bijapur (6.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Strong vibration and shaking kanakadas bandavne (1.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 2-5 s Bijapur (4.4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 10-15 s Vijayapura (2.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (11.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Bijapur, Karnataka (1.8 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vertical swinging (up and down) / very short Bijapur, Karnataka (7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / several minutes : Vibration was there for 7 min Bijapur (3.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Strong shaking (MMI VI) Indi (47.7 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / 5-10 s Bijapur (23.7 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s : Earth shake to times in 2mim. Bijapur, Karnataka (2.1 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vertical swinging (up and down) / very short Vijayapura (3.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s near Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (19.2 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 2-5 s Ranibennur, Haveri, Karnataka (243.7 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 2-5 s Vijayapur (2.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s 27 km of Sindgi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (57.8 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) Vijayapura (7.3 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / 1-2 s Bijapur (43.6 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Vijayapura (6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapura (7.4 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Home, Vijayapura (238.3 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (4.9 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s Takke road (3.8 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Hubli (177 km SSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s : Very mild jolt with rattling windows and water in the bottle vibrating Bijapur, Karnataka (2.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / single lateral shake / 2-5 s Bijapur (2.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / very short Bijapur, Karnataka (2.1 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (7.1 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s : flet 2 times Bijapur, Karnataka (2.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s Vijaypur Court Hudko (2.6 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur (8.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.4 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / both vertical and horizontal swinging / 20-30 s Vijayapur (7.7 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s : Little bit shaky movement Bijapur (1.8 km NE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 15-20 s Gulbarga (123.5 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Bijapur, Karnataka (3.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 30-60 s : Just we feel but not sure this is quake or something other Vijayapura (3.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s Vijayapur Karnataka (5.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Sangareddypeta, Telangana (265.4 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s 218/3 Sakhar peth Kanna Chowk Solapur (99.4 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapura (6.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Vijayapura (2.2 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 5-10 s Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (39.2 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / 5-10 s Home (2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt / rattling, vibrating / very short : A very short time shaking of ground Bijapur, Karnataka (5.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 15-20 s Bijapur (218.2 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / vibration and rolling / 1-2 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.2 km W of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very strong shaking (MMI VII) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (5.2 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single vertical bump / 1-2 s Vijayapura (2.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) Vijayapur (3.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) Bijapur, Karnataka (6.3 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s Bijapur, Karnataka (2.8 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating near Basavana Bagevadi, Vijayapura, Karnataka (48.2 km SSE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / 2-5 s Vijayapura (3.2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / single vertical bump / 2-5 s Bijapur, Karnataka (6.4 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Kottayam (792.4 km S of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Bijapur, Karnataka (4.1 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / horizontal (sideways) swinging / 5-10 s Yogapur (3.4 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Viayapura (1.4 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapur (1.8 km WSW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s Belagavi, Karnataka (166.4 km SW of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt Shri B M patil medical (4.9 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 20-30 s : Shaking, two episodes 1 minute apart lasted for around 30secs each Bijapur, Karnataka (3.2 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) / rattling, vibrating / 2-5 s : Felt like train coming near followed by blast like sound Solapur (99.2 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / single lateral shake / 1-2 s Vijayapura (6.5 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Powerful sound below the ground felt on the bed (reported through (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Vijayapur (5.9 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s Vijayapura, 586103 (6.7 km WNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) / rattling, vibrating / 1-2 s : 2 timesbi felt vibrations Bijapur, india (5.5 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / vibration and rolling / 5-10 s Bijapur, Karnataka (1.6 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) Stowe, VT (05672) Today Thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. High around 75F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%.. Tonight Rain showers early with overcast skies late. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Evil B Is for Brain Season 2 Episode 8 Editors Rating 5 stars * * * * * Previous Next Photo: ELIZABETH FISHER/CBS B Is for Brain is such a genuinely unhinged episode of Evil (although Im 100 percent sure this show can get wilder); where does one even begin? The animal-mask sex? That bag of dicks of a dude getting slammed in the head with a bag of frozen fries by a forensic psychologist at the grocery store? That image of Leland eating Davids severed arm? Its almost too much to handle, but also the perfect amount. How about we just start at the beginning? David, Kristen, and Ben have been sent to Cornell University to look into a new piece of brain-mapping tech theyre developing nicknamed the God Helmet. It stimulates parts of the brain and has been causing spiritual visions in a large number of its participants and 10 percent have since converted to Christianity. The Vatican wants to know if this is legit, and they should be looking into it more or if its a hoax. As Kristen terrifyingly notes, why would the Vatican be interested in this at all unless perhaps to use it as a conversion tool? David brushes that theory off, but I would totally pay money to continue that episode of Father vs. Doctor hosted by Ben Shakir. When the team meets with the participants whove had these spiritual visions, their stories are really compelling. One woman even ran into the Whos Keith Moon, who told her that he did not run over his chauffeur, so thats fun. Its all much more than they expected to hear. And speaking of expectations, Bishop Marx conveniently forgot to inform them that theyd all be testing the God Helmet for themselves. You know, for research purposes. Ben has no problem volunteering to go first. So much of Bens arc this season has been him confronting his atheism, mostly in regards to how it affected his relationship with his family especially his late mother. So, it makes sense that once he straps the helmet on and we watch as he begins sobbing, its because in his mind, hes talking to his mom. She takes him on a walk through his childhood home in India, and they bicker about his choice to be a scientist and how he rejected Allah, all in a way that seems very familiar. This is how they interacted while she was alive. That perfectly timed tsk from both of them is such a nice detail. And then a ghost comes after Ben, he screams, and they let him out of the chair. I couldnt get away, he says over and over. And this is the moment when the Cornell scientist informs them that while some people have moving, spiritual experiences, others have experienced counter-positive reactions. Thats a really nice way of saying that theyre experiencing nightmarish things like being dragged by an animal in the dark and covered in tar and seeing a winged beast covered in humans who are stuck to it and screaming. Or, as David puts it, they see hell. Just, like, wouldve been cool to know that was a possibility before these people put on the helmet. And yet, that doesnt deter Kristen from trying it out next. Its not surprising, really, since (1) Kristen doesnt believe in hell anyway, and (2) lately shes seemed up for anything. Like, really up for anything. And in case youve forgotten about Kristens increasingly alarming behavior the trolling for dummies at the bar, the murdering, etc. B Is for Brain reminds you in some big ways. Guess what? Andys home! Andy almost immediately notices that his wife is acting differently. What gives it away? Well, maybe the fact that when he asks if they can have sex, she immediately pulls out gags and animal masks. Or later, when theyre at the grocery store and a real asshole cuts in front of them and gives her lip about it, she promptly walks over to the frozen food section, grabs a bag of fries, and assaults the guy. Also, there are those murder maps shes making of peoples homes when they piss her off. And who can forget her new little habit of burning herself with the crucifix on her rosary because she loves the pain? Andy seems to think that she just needs to quit her job, and theyll sell the business so he can get a nine-to-five, and thatll fix whatever shes going through. We know better. Something is building within Kristen, and when it boils over, its going to be bad. One thing that seems poised to push her over the edge is, of course, the guilt she keeps denying she feels for killing Orson. We saw her breakdown when Mira wouldnt let her confess to the murder, and here, when she puts the God Helmet on, her vision is overwhelmed by this guilt. Kristens vision is of David having a vision yup, its a vision within a vision of her murdering Orson LeRoux. This is the first time weve seen this whole murder play out, and it is brutal. Once Vision David pulls off the helmet, the story continues to play out: Kristen is distressed by how detailed it is, so she runs off for an emergency session with Boggs, who tells her that maybe she should confess to David, someone she sees as a moral authority, and it will help her move past all of her psychosomatic symptoms shes been dealing with. And then she runs off to see David only to find Leland in Davids room where he is snacking on the delicious treat that is David Acostas arm, as David screams out in pain. Its all so fucked, guys. When Kristen comes out of this vision, she then goes to see Boggs for a real therapy session because, again, and Im not mincing words, that was so, so fucked. Boggs finds it interesting that her entire vision would be about David when her husband just came home, and honestly, there is so much happening in this episode that were going to have to tuck that nugget of a therapy session away for later, whenever Kristen decides whether or not shes going to attempt to stop this priest-in-training to drop the in-training part. Lets talk about David. When he finally puts the helmet on, he sees nothing. The one guy we know is a true believer and actually has had visions in the past, sees darkness. And not the hellish kind of darkness, just regular darkness. Unfortunately for David, putting on that helmet was a terrible idea all around. Later, he confesses to Sister Andrea that since putting the helmet on, he hasnt been able to have any kind of vision despite trying over and over. Sister Andrea is concerned but not surprised: The tech most likely rewired his brain, and everything he built up regarding his conversations with God has been lost. He needs to start his practice and training over again. She issues a grave warning: Mr. Townsend is coming after us, and we need your abilities to protect ourselves. Why is Sister Andrea so concerned with Leland all of a sudden? Well, Leland figured out her little ammonia-as-holy-water trick from his last exorcism and arrives at the rectory looking to pay back the favor. What ensues is one of the best scenes of the entire series. From Leland bringing in dirt to dump on the floor Sister Andrea is cleaning to the surprised-and-impressed look on Lelands face when he tells Sister Andrea to hold out her hand and she pulls out a knife; this back-and-forth is such a gift. Leland is so impressed with Sister Andrea that now he wants to try and bring her over to his side. Your ass is mine, he tells her when she refuses. You know where to find me, she responds unflinchingly. Dont you want to be Sister Andrea when you grow up? Regardless of how well she stands her ground in front of Leland, she is legitimately worried about what he can do. So yes, David needs to prepare. And fast. Church Bulletin Every time Peter Scolari speaks in an Italian accent, an angel gets its wings. Or, like, their beady red eyes get brighter. This is Evil, after all. Theres a lot of weird shit happening in and around Lynns house, but will that child ever truly recover from seeing her mom in a slinky robe and tiger mask late at night? Obviously, Kristen is displaying a whole host of fairly disturbing behaviors, but the one moment I really cant shake is her having to rehearse greeting her husband with a smile in the mirror. Thoroughly confused and just a teensy bit scared, Andy goes to Sheryl in an attempt to figure out whats going on with Kristen. While their back-and-forth is as delightfully contentious as always, what we really need to focus on is the fact that Sheryl is still super into her Eddie doll. During her argument with Andy, in which she squarely blames him for Kristen being overwhelmed, she stops and says to Eddie, No, its not right. I both need to know and never want to find out what is up with Eddie. I think the church is too hard on its nuns. I think theyre sexy. Northeast Alabama Community College (NACC) will host a COVID-19 vaccine clinic on campus, Thursday, September 9. The shots will be administered by Northeast Alabama Health Services Inc. from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. The agency's mobile vaccination unit will be in the health education parking lot adjacent to Highway 35 in the southeast corner of campus. NACC faculty, staff, students and the public are welcomed. You are asked to bring your driver's license and insurance card. The shot is free. NEAHSI will be administering the Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines. Second doses will be administered October 7 on campus. A Jackson County community, no longer on edge, after an almost week-long manhunt is now over. Jimmy Early and Adam Ruiz were both wanted out of Walker County, Alabama. The two led several law enforcement agencies on a dangerous car chase Sunday afternoon. This is just a part of it that, a viewer sent us. Sheriff deputies say they were driving faster than 100 miles per hour. WAAY-31 spoke with the Stevenson police officer who caught them Friday. At the Jackson County Boat Dock, in the brush is where Ruiz and Early were hiding out for almost a week. Jackson County Sheriffs Deputies and Stevenson Police told us if it weren't for the help of the community giving tips and sightings, they wouldn't have found them so quickly. "Without the public, it makes our jobs a lot harder. The public is what caught him," said Sergeant James "Luke" Ballard. On Friday, Sergeant Luke Ballard with Stevenson police captured Adam Ruiz and James Early in the river. But the search began Sunday, with a high-speed multi-county chase. Early and Ruiz were driving faster than 100 miles per hour, even running drivers off the road. They drove all the way to Stevenson, where they ditched the truck and ran into the woods near a boat dock. Early and Ruiz would stay in those woods for nearly a week. "We kept the ground so hot and after nighttime hit, if it moved, we wanted to know why it was moving," said Sgt. Ballard. Jackson County Sheriff's deputies and Stevenson police used helicopters, search beagles and even asked the public for help. Every day they would get phone calls of possible sightings, all within a two mile radius. Then, Friday, everyone was checking out a sighting near the highway again, and Ballard saw them. "I seen a log floating, that had hands on it and I'm like, that's some weird looking turtles," he said. It was indeed them. Now, Ruiz and Early are off the streets and the town of Stevenson can have their peace of mind. "I just got a sigh of relief because now, the elderly, the young, you can go to the store now and not have to worry about being robbed," said Sgt. Ballard. Ballard says none of this would have been possible without every agency involved, but really, he believes it was the residents who came to save the day. "This day and age, with all the bad, there is still good to come out of it and this is a prime example of the good that can come of teamwork between community and teamwork between agencies," he said. Both Ruiz and Early are in the Jackson County Jail, behind bars and both awaiting extradition to Walker county. Stevenson Police told us Early is going to be facing several more charges out of Stevenson due to his activity while in the area. In Jackson County, both Ruiz and Early are facing burglary charges with their bonds set at $100,000 each. In Walker County, Ruiz is facing domestic violence in the first degree, attempted murder and kidnapping. Decatur, IL (62521) Today Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 82F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Clear skies. Low 56F. Winds light and variable. What does the presumption mean in practice? In Scott Turows 1987 novel Presumed Innocent, the presiding judge in a murder trial asks a prospective juror whether or not the defendant committed the crime that he is charged with. The man shrugs and replies as I suspect most of us would I wouldnt know. The judge excludes him from the jury, then turns to the remaining potential jurors and explains: Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you again what you are to presume. ... Presume he is innocent. I want you to look over and say to yourself, There sits an innocent man. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), who along with Sen. Thomas R. Carper (D-Del.) is leading the D.C. National Guard Home Rule Act in the Senate, said he planned to offer the provision as an amendment to the NDAA before it goes up for a vote. He said he would also be pressing for its inclusion when the House and Senate negotiate the final version of the bill. A spokesman for Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said he also supports the D.C. National Guard provision. Baltimore school officials first thought something was amiss in summer 2019, when the central office in charge of certifying graduation for students began to spot problems. At the same time, Santelises said, the principals supervisor grew suspicious during a routine review of documents. She noted that the principal was supposed to be teaching a yearbook class, but she visited the building often enough to know the principal wasnt teaching any classes. The principals supervisor also had never seen a yearbook class on the schedule. They also have expressed concerns about coronavirus testing. D.C. is supposed to test 10 percent to 20 percent of students each week as part of its asymptomatic testing program. The school system said Friday that the program partially launched this week and will continue to expand next week. On Thursday and Friday, the city processed 964 student tests at 37 schools, with four tests coming back positive. The city has reported other cases detected in schools, but those were not captured in the asymptomatic testing program and it is still too early to determine if there has been any spread in schools. There has been much talk about making college free. But Mullane said tuition cost is often not the biggest factor when students decide where to transfer. How many credits a student can successfully transfer and whether or not they can graduate on time seem to be much more important to students. A private college that accepts all your credits may be more affordable in the end than a state university that rejects your credits and delays your graduation. Another factor is the lost wages of spending an extra semester or year in college. Industry leaders in Maryland say they are preparing for the type of surge the state experienced in December and January, when case numbers were at their highest so far in the pandemic. They have predicted a challenging environment over the next several weeks, perhaps lasting into October. But they say they also are hopeful that the high vaccination rates among residents will mean nursing homes will be spared the devastating death toll seen earlier. Todays Headlines The most important news stories of the day, curated by Post editors and delivered every morning. Email address By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Not everyone was happy with the terms of the deal, which set a May 2021 departure date for the last U.S. troops, in exchange for a Taliban promise not to attack American forces while they were headed out the door. Everything else a Taliban pledge to keep al-Qaeda from plotting or launching attacks against the United States and its allies, a plan to begin talks between the militants and the Kabul government, with a cease-fire at the top of their agenda was only vaguely stipulated. Ghani, under heavy U.S. pressure, released 5,000 Taliban prisoners; the Taliban turned over about 1,000 captured Afghan soldiers. Ralph Reed, a Republican evangelical organizer who heads the Faith and Freedom Coalition, described the courts decision as a vindication of conservative activists who made judicial appointments a preeminent voting issue when they supported Trump in 2016. Evangelicals supporting Trump despite their initial reservations was a critical moment in that progress, Reed said. Those three justices plus the even more critical shift of the political gravity in the Republican Party and country in a pro-life direction are one of the most significant achievements of any social reform movement in the last half century. With this crisis, even more were having to explain things, said Matt Schmitt, associate director of Catholic Charities Jacksonville, which has plans to resettle some 200 Afghans. Were a blue city with a red governor in a red state, and Ive got best friends on both sides of the political divide that have reached out to me and said, Man, whats really going on? Schmitt said he can generally set peoples minds at ease by talking them through the process. Emanuel, too, notes that his crystal ball has suffered occasional cloudiness: In March 2020, he said the country would get back to normal around November 2021. For that, his friends dubbed him Mr. Pessimist. Now, his message is at least as unwelcome: Its going to be at least spring 2022 and possibly much longer before most people are ready to resume normal activities, because of the spread of the delta variant, continuing resistance to vaccines and widespread anxiety, especially about children who are not yet eligible to get vaccinated. Currently, just under 2 in 10 American workers say their employer requires people who come into work be vaccinated (18 percent). Among workers whose employer lacks a mandate, about 3 in 10 are unvaccinated. Asked what they would likely do if their employer imposed a mandate, 16 percent of that group say they would get vaccinated while 35 percent would ask for a medical or religious exemption and 42 percent would quit. If no exemption was given, 72 percent of unvaccinated workers say they would quit their job rather than get vaccinated. Charlene Thomas, 73, passed away while at the Daviess Community Hospital, Sept. 8, 2021. She was born April 23, 1948, in Washington, to Eugene Matteson and Eileen (Best) Matteson. Charlene was a homemaker who loved to play the piano, enjoyed genealogy, and liked to play cards and board games Liberal Senator Jane Hume, the Minister for Womens Economic Security, has defended the Morrison government against accusations it has not gone far enough in implementing recommendations of the Respect@Work national inquiry into workplace sexual harassment. Last week, the federal government enacted six of the inquirys 55 recommendations but did not adopt a centrepiece reform to impose a positive legal duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment. Minister for Womens Economic Security, Jane Hume. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Senator Hume had this to say to the ABCs Patricia Karvelas this afternoon: Of the 55 recommendations, not all were directed to government; some were directed to state governments and some were directed to businesses. Of the 15 that were to government, there were a number that were legislated last week and theyre really about strengthening the framework around sexual harassment and sexual violence, which is really important to do. There are some recommendations that are more complex and more work is required on those and more work is currently being done. The others should be directed to business. Theres some that didnt require legislative change, things like the Respect@Work Council, thats something weve already implemented. This is one part of the puzzle. The Respect@Work council brings together leaders from government regulators and policy makers that have oversight of sexual harassment policies and complaints, and is aimed at improving clarity and consistency across existing laws. Loading Asked why the government had not supported a proposal for ten days domestic or family violence leave, Senator Hume said it was not a policy thats without implications, both for business and for individuals. We want to hear voices from across the community. There are more than 200 different groups that are represented at the [two-day womens safety] summit today and tomorrow and they all have very unique perspectives. Thats exactly why we want them to inform that next national plan on ending violence against women. Fitz: Of all your utterances in your time as Australian of the Year, this one struck me most: Together we can end child sexual abuse. I remember [my abuser] saying, Dont make a sound. Well, hear me now . . . My question to you, Grace: what is that you most want to say, that you want Australia to hear? Tame: That we need to shift focus at every level to prevent these things from happening. Thats the thing thats missing. I mean in the Womens Safety Summit, theres no space for children in it which I think is a huge, huge mistake. I really think that what we need to be doing is teaching kids, about things like grooming and coercive control. Fitz: Is the Womens Safety Summit next week serious, or political window dressing? Tame: What weve seen in this government is a clear pattern of denial, minimisation, ultimately dismissal of womens issues. Youve got Brittany Higgins, Christine Holgate, Julia Banks; clouds of mystery and immorality around Christian Porter. Really, this summit is an extension of that. Its been so poorly organised, its incredibly secretive, its also very exclusionary. It has a comically narrow remit focusing on what are the little Band-Aids we can put on this situation make it hopefully go away. Fitz: And yet, youre appearing at it, legitimising it? Tame: Yes because there are people across the country in this sector who have been working tirelessly, and Im going to speak in solidarity with them, calling for actual structural change for a greater focus on prevention. When you look at the budget, the government initially put $2.8 million to consent education, which was mysteriously slashed to $1.36 million. As my friend Sharna Bremner pointed out when you divide $1.36 million by the number of students across Australia, primary school to high school 4 million 11 cents per head for consent education in this country. You cant even buy a milkshake with 11 cents. We need change, and the government must get serious. Fitz: Thank you. Go hard! Australian of the Year Grace Tame accepts her award in January. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen Nature loves a lockdown Getting my exercise, I saw a strange thing down by the still strangely empty Sydney Harbour this week. It was a flock of sea-gulls diving down on what appeared to be some fish near the surface. I suspect Ive never seen it before because there is usually so much boat traffic that the fish stay deep, but it fits with other things in this city where traffic of all kinds has receded. Ive seen flocks of cockatoos as never before, together with bush-turkeys proliferating. A seal was at Fairy Bower for three days this week, and another has appeared at Chowder Bay. On Thursday, walkers at Shelley Beach were stunned to see a diamond snake that appeared to have just swallowed a possum, cavorting in a tree. We all hate this lockdown, but nature doesnt. The seal at Fairy Bower this week. Credit:Jake Rowe Tweet of the Week Breaking .... Man who overdosed on Ivermectin wins third race at Flemington. @TonyHWindsor Windsor says the man had to be hospitalised afterwards, but reports that doctors describe his condition as stable. Joke of the week The local news station is interviewing an 80-year-old lady after she has been married for the fourth time. The young journalist asks her questions about her life, about what it felt like to be marrying again at such an advanced age, and then about her new husbands occupation. Hes been a funeral director for 60 years, she answers. Ah, very interesting. And would you mind telling us a little about your first three husbands? Not at all! First I married a banker when I was in my 20s, then a circus ringmaster in my 40s, and a preacher in my 60s, before being now with my funeral director. The interviewer looks at her, quite astonished. They are, he says carefully, very diverse careers ... Yes, says she. I married one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, and four to go, go, go! Quotes of the Week Its terrible whats happening to the country ... I followed all the rules. - Michael Podgoetsky, the unmasked, unvaccinated limousine driver, who is believed to be at the root of the current outbreak that has shut down half the country, when he caught the rona from an infected aircrew. And he is right. He did follow all the rules. Mr Podgoetsky was fined $500 this week for being unmasked while outside in Bondi. You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Seriously, yall. Stop it. - Part of a statement put out by the US Food and Drug Administration after too many people were using the right-wing nutter drug of choice, Ivermectin, to treat COVID-19. NSW Health put out a similar warning this week after the likes of our own Craig Kelly have also been encouraging people to take it. While 70 per cent double dose gives those of us vaccinated freedoms, 80 per cent double dose allows us to look at international travel, welcoming home all Australians. How wonderful would it be to welcome back all Aussies who want to be reunited with their families by Christmas and NSW will step up to support that cause and that case and I stress to everybody the importance of vaccination. - Gladys Berejiklian, waving our carrot. Instead of the government fronting up and trying to deal with this issue honestly and openly, we had a flurry of inquiries, including one, which avoided Mr Morrison having to ask his own staff what they knew. And I do not think that meets the sorts of standards that the Australian people want. - Senator Penny Wong on Q&A, calls out the stalling of the Gaetjens inquiry into who knew what and when in the Prime Ministers Office, when it came. The impacts of the project cannot be reasonably and satisfactorily avoided, mitigated and managed through conditions. - The NSWs Independent Planning Commission rejecting a $533 million underground mine 7 kilometres from the town of Moss Vale and an associated Berrima rail loop project. All parties initially denied the business was operating one man stating he was quoting for painting works, and the other visiting his girlfriend. Police soon confirmed the business had been operating. - From a statement by NSW Police after a brothel in Sydneys west was shut down and $12,500 in fines issued after police allege it was operating in breach of the public health order and no one at the premises was wearing a face mask. It was insane. I think, honestly, if youre not going to be the one breaking the world record and winning the gold medal, you might as well make the other athlete work hard for it. - Isis Holt after taking silver in the Paralympics T35 200 m sprint. Both she and the gold medal winner, Chinas Zhou Xia, broke the previous world record for the event. Im laying it squarely at the feet of the federal government. They knew this was going to happen and did nothing about it. - Linda Burney, shadow minister for Indigenous Australians, about the low vaccination rates in Indigenous communities now facing COVID-19 outbreaks. If they were going to pay back that money then they wouldnt have necessarily taken it in the first place. If businesses had had to show an actual turnover decline then we wouldnt have gotten the money out the door. - Treasurer Josh Frydenberg on why the government couldnt possibly ask big businesses to give back the money they were given last year to help their workers and spent instead on making profits for themselves. Homicide detectives are investigating the stabbing death of a man at a Dandenong South caravan park on Saturday night. The man has yet to be formally identified and was found at a caravan park on the South Gippsland Highway at about 10pm. Police are investigating a death in Dandenong South late last night. Credit:Paul Rovere He died of his wounds at the scene following what police believe was an altercation between several people. Victoria Police said a 25-year-old man was taken to hospital under police guard with non-life-threatening stab wounds while a 21-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman were also taken to hospital with minor injuries. Homes across Western Australia are sitting empty as families from the eastern states are blocked from moving into newly purchased properties by strict border restrictions in response to COVID outbreaks in Victoria and New South Wales. Agents say buyers from the eastern states have sunk millions into the West Australian property market but some are now facing homelessness at their current location after the McGowan government scrapped compassionate exemptions to WAs closed border. Interstate buyers have been blocked from entering WA. Credit:Rob Homer NSW resident Farrah Moyden feels she may have no other option but to move into a van with her husband and four children after their plans to move to WAs South West were thrown into disarray by the border changes. The family was pushed into a periodic lease last October, after the owner of their rental in the tourist town of Bermagui, on the states south coast, sought to cash in on soaring property prices. Beirut, Lebanon: Isaac Oehlers played in his favourite pocket of Beirut for the final time just three days before a massive explosion at the nearby port took his life. The two-year-old Australian loved the shaded garden of the Sursock Museum, his wide, brown eyes sparkling as he chased cats, climbed steps and charmed adoring locals. On Friday local time (Saturday AEST), a small group of friends, neighbours and Australian embassy staff gathered in that same courtyard to unveil a swing in Isaacs memory. The swing dedicated to Isaacs memory has been installed in a corner of the Sursock Museums courtyard. Credit:Carmen Yahchouchi for SMH The memorial has an inscription which reads: In one of the stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars will be laughing when you look at the sky at night. Rio de Janeiro: Just a few weeks ago, COVID-19 was spreading with alarming ease across a cluster of nations in South America, overwhelming hospital systems and killing thousands of people daily. Suddenly, the region that had been the epicentre of the pandemic is breathing a sigh of relief. New infections have fallen sharply in nearly every nation in South America as vaccination rates have ramped up. The reprieve has been so sharp and fast, even as the Delta variant wreaks havoc elsewhere in the world, that experts cannot quite explain it. Residents wait in line to receive COVID-19 vaccine. Credit:Bloomberg Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Uruguay and Paraguay experienced dramatic surges of cases in the first months of the year, just as vaccines started to arrive in the region. Containment measures were uneven and largely lax because governments were desperate to jump-start languishing economies. The top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee says some Americans who have been trying to get out of Afghanistan since the U.S. military left are sitting in airplanes at an airport ready to leave but the Taliban are not letting them take off. Articles Sorry, there are no recent results for popular articles. Images Sorry, there are no recent results for popular images. Allentown, PA (18103) Today Still rather warm and humid with partial sunshine and a late-day shower or thunderstorm.. Tonight Mostly cloudy. Few showers and thunderstorms possible. Beth Lane is the author of "Lies Told Under Oath," the story of the 1912 Pfanschmidt murders near Payson, Illinois and the former Executive Director of the Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County. The Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County is preserving the Governor John Wood Mansion, the History Museum on the Square, the 1835 Log Cabin, the Livery, the Lincoln Gallery displays, and a collection of artifacts and documents that tell the story of who we are. This award-winning column is written by members of the Society. For more information visit hsqac.org or email info@hsqac.org. Quincy, IL (62301) Today Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 82F. Winds light and variable.. Tonight Clear. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. Inside Hook In 1999, Giancarlo Zigante was searching for truffles in Istria, a peninsula shared by Croatia, Slovenia and Italy. What he found set a new world record: a white truffle weighing 2 pounds, 14 ounces. He had been searching for truffles for well over a decade at that point, and was involved with selling and exporting them as his primary occupation. According to a 2010 interview with Zigante, 500 grams is considered large for a white truffle. What he found was almost triple that in weight. In a new essay for The Guardian, Zigante looks back on the circumstances of his discovery and the surprising thing he did with the truffle. He describes going through the woods with his German pointer Diana on a freezing night, confident that it would be a productive outing. And as history shows, he was absolutely correct in that regard. Even before they discovered the record-setting truffle one that he compares to a human brain in size and shape the duo came across several smaller ones. Then came the moment of discovery, followed by a call to Guinness World Records. What do you do when you have the largest white truffle ever unearthed? I could have sold it for 1m and made my fortune, but I knew instantly that I didnt want to do that, Zigante wrote. Its great to be rich, but I felt the truffle could have more impact if it was shared. And so instead of selling it off, he used it as the centerpiece for a memorable feast attended by 200 people, including Croatias president. Zigante went on to open a restaurant, his truffle record was eventually broken, and he notes that he doesnt go out in search of truffles as much as he once did. But that doesnt mean hes completely done with the hunt, however. As he says in the piece, Its still in my blood; its a passion. Winchester, VA (22601) Today A mix of clouds and sun early, then becoming cloudy later in the day. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.. Tonight Scattered thunderstorms during the evening, then cloudy skies overnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%. Four companies in the drug industry said Saturday that enough states had agreed to a settlement of lawsuits over the opioid crisis for them to move ahead with the $26 billion deal. FILE - In this July 17, 2019 file photo, a pedestrian passes a McKesson sign on an office building in San Francisco. Four companies say they'll move ahead with a $26 billion settlement of lawsuits over the opioid crisis. An announcement from drug distributors AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson came Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File) Four companies in the drug industry said Saturday that enough states had agreed to a settlement of lawsuits over the opioid crisis for them to move ahead with the $26 billion deal. An announcement from the three largest U.S. drug distribution companies and a confirmation from drugmaker Johnson & Johnson, which had previously announced that it would move ahead, came Saturday. That was the deadline for the companies to decide whether there was enough buy-in to continue the settlement plan. The distribution companies AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson said that 42 states had agreed to join. Johnson & Johnson did not immediately say how many states agreed to its part of the settlement. Together, the settlements are likely to represent the biggest piece of a string of settlements between companies in the drug industry and state and local governments over the addiction and overdose epidemic in the U.S. Prescription opioids such as OxyContin and Vicodin and illicit ones such as heroin and illegally made fentanyl have been linked to more than 500,000 deaths in the U.S. since 2000. Under the $26 billion settlement, which was initially announced in June, states were given a month to decide whether to join. Then it would be up to the companies to decide whether it was enough to keep going. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. FILE - In this Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2019, file photo, is an AmerisourceBergen Corp. office building in Conshohocken, Pa. Four companies say they'll move ahead with a $26 billion settlement of lawsuits over the opioid crisis. An announcement from drug distributors AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson came Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File) The next step is trying to get local governments to sign on to the deal and agree not to continue their lawsuits. This phase is to last until Jan. 2. After that, the companies will again decide whether enough have joined to implement the deal. Saturday's milestone came days after a judge gave initial approval to a settlement worked out in bankruptcy court between OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma and some 3,000 plaintiffs. That deal could be worth $10 billion over time. In all the cases, governments have agreed to put most of their shares toward drug treatment and education programs and other measures to fight the epidemic. This year, there have been three trials on governments' claims over opioids, though none have reached a verdict. More similar trials are queued up for this year and next. ____ The day of the week has been corrected to Saturday in the opening paragraph. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) A gay substitute teacher was wrongfully fired by a Roman Catholic school in North Carolina after he announced in 2014 on social media that he was going to marry his longtime partner, a federal judge has ruled. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) A gay substitute teacher was wrongfully fired by a Roman Catholic school in North Carolina after he announced in 2014 on social media that he was going to marry his longtime partner, a federal judge has ruled. U.S. District Judge Max Cogburn ruled Friday that Charlotte Catholic High School and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Charlotte violated Lonnie Billard's federal protections against against sex discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Cogburn granted summary judgment to Billard and said a trial must still be held to determine appropriate relief for him. After all this time, I have a sense of relief and a sense of vindication. I wish I could have remained teaching all this time, Billard said in a statement released Friday by the ACLU, which represented him in court. Todays decision validates that I did nothing wrong by being a gay man. Billard taught English and drama full time at the school for more than a decade, earning its Teacher of the Year award in 2012. He then transitioned to a role as a regular substitute teacher, typically working more than a dozen weeks per year, according to his 2017 lawsuit. Doug Speirs | Uplift A weekly review of funny, uplifting news in Winnipeg and around the globe that is delivered to your inbox each Wednesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. He posted about his upcoming wedding in October 2014 and was informed by an assistant principal several weeks later that he no longer had a job with the school, according to the ruling. The defendants said that they fired Billard not because he was gay, but rather because he engaged in advocacy that went against the Catholic Churchs beliefs when he publicly announced he was marrying another man, the ruling said. But Cogburn ruled that the school's action didn't fit into exemptions to labor law that give religious institutions leeway to require certain employees to adhere to religious teachings, nor was the school's action protected by constitutional rights to religious freedom. "Plaintiff is a lay employee, who comes onto the campus of a religious school for the limited purpose of teaching secular classes, with no mandate to inculcate students with Catholic teachings," Cogburn wrote. The diocese released a statement to The Charlotte Observer saying that it disagreed with the ruling and was considering how to proceed. The First Amendment, federal law, and recent Supreme Court decisions all recognize the rights of religious organizations to make employment decisions based on religious observance and preference, the statement said. They do not and should not compel religious schools to employ teachers who publicly contradict their teachings." Ask for a roast beef sandwich at an Arbys drive-thru east of Los Angeles and you may be talking to Tori an artificially intelligent voice assistant that will take your order and send it to the line cooks. A diner at Bartaco uses their app to order an item off the menu, at the restaurant in Arlington, Va., on Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021. The restaurant is using an automated app for ordering and payments. Instead of servers they use "food runners" to get the food to the tables. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) Ask for a roast beef sandwich at an Arbys drive-thru east of Los Angeles and you may be talking to Tori an artificially intelligent voice assistant that will take your order and send it to the line cooks. It doesnt call sick, says Amir Siddiqi, whose family installed the AI voice at its Arbys franchise this year in Ontario, California. It doesnt get corona. And the reliability of it is great. The pandemic didnt just threaten Americans health when it slammed the U.S. in 2020 -- it may also have posed a long-term threat to many of their jobs. Faced with worker shortages and higher labor costs, companies are starting to automate service sector jobs that economists once considered safe, assuming that machines couldnt easily provide the human contact they believed customers would demand. Past experience suggests that such automation waves eventually create more jobs than they destroy, but that they also disproportionately wipe out less skilled jobs that many low-income workers depend on. Resulting growing pains for the U.S. economy could be severe. If not for the pandemic, Siddiqi probably wouldnt have bothered investing in new technology that could alienate existing employees and some customers. But its gone smoothly, he says: Basically, theres less people needed but those folks are now working in the kitchen and other areas." Ideally, automation can redeploy workers into better and more interesting work, so long as they can get the appropriate technical training, says Johannes Moenius, an economist at the University of Redlands. But although that's happening now, its not moving quickly enough, he says. Worse, an entire class of service jobs created when manufacturing began to deploy more automation may now be at risk. The robots escaped the manufacturing sector and went into the much larger service sector, he says. I regarded contact jobs as safe. I was completely taken by surprise. Improvements in robot technology allow machines to do many tasks that previously required people -- tossing pizza dough, transporting hospital linens, inspecting gauges, sorting goods. The pandemic accelerated their adoption. Robots, after all, cant get sick or spread disease. Nor do they request time off to handle unexpected childcare emergencies. Economists at the International Monetary Fund found that past pandemics had encouraged firms to invest in machines in ways that could boost productivity -- but also kill low-skill jobs. Our results suggest that the concerns about the rise of the robots amid the COVID-19 pandemic seem justified, they wrote in a January paper. The consequences could fall most heavily on the less-educated women who disproportionately occupy the low- and mid-wage jobs most exposed to automation -- and to viral infections. Those jobs include salesclerks, administrative assistants, cashiers and aides in hospitals and those who take care of the sick and elderly. Employers seem eager to bring on the machines. A survey last year by the nonprofit World Economic Forum found that 43% of companies planned to reduce their workforce as a result of new technology. Since the second quarter of 2020, business investment in equipment has grown 26%, more than twice as fast as the overall economy. The fastest growth is expected in the roving machines that clean the floors of supermarkets, hospitals and warehouses, according to the International Federation of Robotics, a trade group. The same group also expects an uptick in sales of robots that provide shoppers with information or deliver room service orders in hotels. Restaurants have been among the most visible robot adopters. In late August, for instance, the salad chain Sweetgreen announced it was buying kitchen robotics startup Spyce, which makes a machine that cooks up vegetables and grains and spouts them into bowls. Its not just robots, either -- software and AI-powered services are on the rise as well. Starbucks has been automating the behind-the-scenes work of keeping track of a stores inventory. More stores have moved to self-checkout. Scott Lawton, CEO of the Arlington, Virginia-based restaurant chain Bartaco, was having trouble last fall getting servers to return to his restaurants when they reopened during the pandemic. So he decided to do without them. With the help of a software firm, his company developed an online ordering and payment system customers could use over their phones. Diners now simply scan a barcode at the center of each table to access a menu and order their food without waiting for a server. Workers bring food and drinks to their tables. And when theyre done eating, customers pay over their phones and leave. The innovation has shaved the number of staff, but workers arent necessarily worse off. Each Bartaco location there are 21 now has up to eight assistant managers, roughly double the pre-pandemic total. Many are former servers, and they roam among the tables to make sure everyone has what they need. They are paid annual salaries starting at $55,000 rather than hourly wages. Tips are now shared among all the other employees, including dishwashers, who now typically earn $20 an hour or more, far higher than their pre-pandemic pay. We dont have the labor shortages that youre reading about on the news, Lawton says. The uptick in automation has not stalled a stunning rebound in the U.S. jobs market -- at least so far. The U.S. economy lost a staggering 22.4 million jobs in March and April 2020, when the pandemic gale hit the U.S. Hiring has since bounced back briskly: Employers have brought back 17 million jobs since April 2020. In June, they posted a record 10.1 million job openings and are complaining that they cant find enough workers. Behind the hiring boom is a surge in spending by consumers, many of whom got through the crisis in unexpectedly good shape financially -- thanks to both federal relief checks and, in many cases, savings accumulated by working from home and skipping the daily commute. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moodys Analytics, expects employers are likely to be scrambling for workers for a long time. For one thing, many Americans are taking their time returning to work -- some because theyre still worried about COVID-19 health risks and childcare problems, others because of generous federal unemployment benefits, set to expire nationwide Sept. 6. In addition, large numbers of Baby Boom workers are retiring. The labor market is going to be very, very tight for the foreseeable future, Zandi says. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. For now, the short-term benefits of the economic snapback are overwhelming any job losses from automation, whose effects tend to show up gradually over a period of years. That may not last. Last year, researchers at the University of Zurich and University of British Columbia found that the so-called jobless recoveries of the past 35 years, in which economic output rebounded from recessions faster than employment, could be explained by the loss of jobs vulnerable to automation. Despite strong hiring since the middle of last year, the U.S. economy is still 5.3 million jobs short of what it had in February 2020. And Lydia Boussour, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics, calculated last month that 40% of the missing jobs are vulnerable to automation, especially those in food preparation, retail sales and manufacturing. Some economists worry that automation pushes workers into lower-paid positions. Daron Acemoglu, an economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Pascual Restrepo of Boston University estimated in June that up to 70% of the stagnation in U.S. wages between 1980 and 2016 could be explained by machines replacing humans doing routine tasks. Many of the jobs that get automated were at the middle of the skill distribution, Acemoglu says. They dont exist anymore, and the workers that used to perform them are now doing lower-skill jobs. ___ AP Economics Writer Christopher Rugaber contributed to this story. KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Southern has agreed to re-engage with Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. after the U.S. transportation regulator placed a roadblock in the path of the bid from rival Canadian National Railway Co. KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Southern has agreed to re-engage with Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. after the U.S. transportation regulator placed a roadblock in the path of the bid from rival Canadian National Railway Co. The U.S. railway says its board of directors unanimously determined that CP's unsolicited proposal worth about US$31 billion including debt could "reasonably be expected to lead to it becoming a superior proposal" to CN's bid, worth about US$33.6 billion including debt. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. KCS intends to provide CP with non-public information and to engage in discussions and negotiations with the Calgary-based railway. Kansas City Southern says it remains bound by the terms of the CN merger agreement and has not determined that CP's proposal is in fact superior. CP Rail, which has given a deadline of Sept. 12 for KCS to consider its offer, says it looks forward to re-engaging with KCS. The U.S. Surface Transportation Board unanimously rejected CN and KCS's joint motion for approval for use of a voting trust, something it approved for CP. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. Companies in this story: (TSX:CNR, TSX:CP) MARRERO, La. (AP) Amid the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida, there was at least one bright light Sunday: Parishioners found that electricity had been restored to their church outside of New Orleans, a small improvement as residents of Louisiana struggle to regain some aspects of normal life. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, Lationa Kemp, 57, pauses while talking with Andreanecia Morris, a housing advocate, Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans. Full restoration of electricity to some of the hardest-hit areas of Louisiana battered to an unprecedented degree by Hurricane Ida could take until the end of the month, the head of Entergy Louisiana warned Saturday. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum) MARRERO, La. (AP) Amid the devastation caused by Hurricane Ida, there was at least one bright light Sunday: Parishioners found that electricity had been restored to their church outside of New Orleans, a small improvement as residents of Louisiana struggle to regain some aspects of normal life. In Jefferson Parish, the Rev. G. Amaldoss expected to celebrate Mass at St. Joachim Catholic Church in the parking lot, which was dotted with downed limbs. But when he swung open the doors of the church early Sunday, the sanctuary was bathed in light. That made an indoor service possible. Divine intervention, Amaldoss said, pressing his hands together and looking toward the sky. A week after Hurricane Ida struck, many in Louisiana continue to face food, water and gas shortages as well as power outages while battling heat and humidity. The storm was blamed for at least 17 deaths in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, Albert Taylor Jr., 76, pushes a walker with supplies gathered from a distribution site, Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, in the Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. Full restoration of electricity to some of the hardest-hit areas of Louisiana battered to an unprecedented degree by Hurricane Ida could take until the end of the month, the head of Entergy Louisiana warned Saturday. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum) On Sunday, state health officials announced that the death toll in Louisiana has climbed to 13, including a 74-year-old man who died of heat during an extensive power outage. In the Northeast, Idas remnants dumped record-breaking rain and killed at least 50 people from Virginia to Connecticut. As Mass began Sunday, Amaldoss walked down the aisle of the church in his green robe, with just eight people spread among the pews. Instead, the seats brimmed with boxes of donated toothpaste, shampoo and canned vegetables. For all the people whose lives are saved and all the people whose lives are lost, we pray for them, he said. Remember the brothers and sisters driven by the wind and the water. Through the wall of windows behind the altar, beyond the swamp abutting the church, the floodgates that saved the building could be seen. The Gospel was the story of Jesus bringing sight to a blind man, and throughout the tiny church, stories of miracles were repeated. Wynonia Lazaro gave thanks for newly restored power in her home, where the only casualties of Ida were some downed trees and loosened shingles. Nathan Fabre wipes sweat from his face while checking on his home and boat in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, in Lafitte, La. "We lost everything," said Fabre about the destruction of his home. (AP Photo/John Locher) We are extremely blessed, she said. Some parishioners suffered total losses of their homes, or devastating damage. Gina Caulfield, a 64-year-old retired teacher, has been hopping from relative to relative after her cousins trailer, where shed been living, was left uninhabitable. Still, she was grateful to have survived the storm. "Its a comfort to know we have people praying for us, she said. Some parishes outside New Orleans were battered for hours by winds of 100 mph (160 kph) or more, and Ida damaged or destroyed more than 22,000 power poles, more than hurricanes Katrina, Zeta and Delta combined. More than 630,000 homes and businesses remained without power Sunday across southeast Louisiana, according to the state Public Service Commission. At the peak, 902,000 customers had lost power. Nathan Fabre checks on his home and boat destroyed by Hurricane Ida, Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, in Lafitte, La. "We lost everything," said Fabre about the destruction of his home. (AP Photo/John Locher) Fully restoring electricity to some places in the state's southeast could take until the end of the month, according Phillip May, president and CEO of Entergy, which provides power to New Orleans and other areas in the storm's path. Entergy is in the process of acquiring air boats and other equipment needed to get power crews into swampy and marshy regions. May said many grocery stores, pharmacies and other businesses are a high priority. We will continue to work until every last light is on, he said during a briefing Sunday. In Jean Lafitte, a small town of about 2,000 people, pools of water along the roadway were receding and some of the thick mud left behind was beginning to dry. At St. Anthony Church, the 4 feet (about 1.2 meters) of water once inside had seeped away, but a slippery layer of muck remained. Outside, the faithful sat on folding metal chairs under a blue tent to celebrate Mass. Next door, at the Piggly Wiggly, military police in fatigues stood guard. A man looks at a partially collapsed building in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, in Houma, La. Full restoration of electricity to some of the hardest-hit areas of Louisiana battered by Hurricane Ida could take until the end of the month, the head of Entergy Louisiana warned Saturday. (AP Photo/John Locher) In times such like these, we come together and we help one another, the Rev. Luke Nguyen, the churchs pastor, told a few dozen congregants. Ronny Dufrene, a 39-year-old oil field worker from Lafayette, returned to his hometown to help. People are taking pictures of where their houses used to be, he said. But this is a chance to get together and praise God for what we do have, and thats each other. In New Orleans, many churches remained closed due to lingering power outages. But First Grace United Methodist Church opened its doors and held service without power. Sunlight from large windows brightened the sanctuary, where about 10 people sat. Whatever situation youre in, you get to choose how you see it, said Pastor Shawn Anglim, whose first time pastoring the congregation was after the church recovered from Hurricane Katrina 16 years ago. You can see it from a place of faith, a place of hope and a place of love, and a place of possibility. Jennifer Moss, who attended service with her husband, Tom, said power had been restored to their home on Saturday. Weve been blessed throughout this entire ordeal," she said. That storm could have been a little closer to the east, and we wouldnt have a place to come and worship." In Lafitte, about 28 miles (45 kilometers) south of New Orleans, animal control officer Koby Bellanger experienced his own little blessing after he heard the sounds of an animal crying as he rode through the flooded streets with a sheriff's deputy. Bellanger waded through the water and found a tiny, green-eyed black kitten clinging to the engine of a car outside a devastated house. He hoisted the animal up, to the delight of Lafayette Parish Deputy Rebecca Bobzin. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Bring him! Bobzin screamed in delight. Louisianas 13 storm-related deaths included five nursing home residents evacuated ahead of the hurricane along with hundreds of other seniors to a warehouse in Louisiana, where health officials said conditions became unsafe. On Saturday, State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter ordered the immediate closure of the seven nursing facilities that sent residents to the warehouse. Edwards was briefed Sunday about a cluster of thunderstorms near Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula, but said forecasters "dont see much potential at all for it developing into a storm of any real significance and we're very, very thankful for that. He said it does have the potential to bring some rain to coastal Louisiana and southeast Louisiana. ___ Morrison reported from New Orleans. Associated Press writer Denise Lavoie in Richmond, Virginia, contributed. LONDON (AP) A former close aide to Prince Charles stepped down temporarily from his role as chief executive of a royal charity amid reports that he helped secure an honor for a Saudi donor. FILE - This June 1, 2004 file photo shows Michael Fawcett, left. Fawcett, the former close aide to Britain's Prince Charles stepped down temporarily from his role as chief executive of a royal charity amid reports that he helped secure an honor for a Saudi donor, according to reports Sunday Sept. 5, 2021. (PA via AP, File) LONDON (AP) A former close aide to Prince Charles stepped down temporarily from his role as chief executive of a royal charity amid reports that he helped secure an honor for a Saudi donor. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The Sunday Times and Mail on Sunday newspapers reported that Michael Fawcett coordinated support for an honor for Saudi businessman Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz. The Times said the businessman donated sums of more than 1.5 million pounds ($2.1 million) to The Princes Foundation to fund heritage restoration projects of interest to Charles, including residences Charles used. The report said Charles gave Mahfouz an honorary CBE, or Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, at a private ceremony in 2016. The Saudi denies wrongdoing. The Princes Foundation said in a statement that Fawcett offered to temporarily step down from active duties as the organizations chief executive while an investigation takes place. It said Fawcett will assist the investigation. Fawcett began his royal service in 1981 as a footman to Queen Elizabeth II and later became Charles assistant valet. In 2003, he was accused of selling unwanted royal gifts but was cleared of financial misconduct allegations. He resigned from his position as valet but continued to work in other roles including as Charles events planner. JERUSALEM -- Israel says it will soon reopen its gates to foreign tour groups -- even as it battles one of the worlds highest rates of coronavirus infections. FILE - In this Saturday, May 15, 2021 file photo, people queue at a vaccination centre in Ebersberg near Munich, Germany. Germanys top health official has on Saturday, Sept. 4 called on more citizens to get vaccinated. Health Minister Jens Spahn tweeted that we need at least 5 million vaccinations for a safe autumn and winter. (AP Photo/Matthias Schrader, file) JERUSALEM -- Israel says it will soon reopen its gates to foreign tour groups -- even as it battles one of the worlds highest rates of coronavirus infections. The countrys Tourism Ministry on Sunday said it will begin allowing organized tour groups into the country beginning Sept. 19. Tourists will have to be vaccinated against the coronavirus, present a negative PCR test before their flight and undergo both PCR and serological testing upon arrival. Visitors would have to quarantine in their hotels until the test results come back -- a process expected to take no more than 24 hours. Tourists from a handful of red countries with high infection rates -- including Turkey and Brazil -- will not be permitted to visit for the time being. Israel launched a similar program in May after vaccinating most of its population early this year. But the program was suspended in August as the delta variant began to spread. In recent weeks, the country has begun administering booster shots to anyone who was vaccinated over five months ago. The campaign has shown signs of controlling the delta outbreak, allowing the government to begin allowing tourists to return. ___ MORE ON THE PANDEMIC: Two anchors of COVID safety net ending, affecting millions in U.S. Miami teen's football game to honor dad who died of COVID Germany urges vaccine shots; warns of fall COVID-19 surge Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett arrives for the weekly cabinet meeting at the Prime Minister's office in Jerusalem, Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. (AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner, Pool) Florida deals with deadliest phase yet of the pandemic ___ Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic and https://apnews.com/hub/coronvirus-vaccine ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: WASHINGTON -- The U.S. governments top infectious disease expert says he believes delivery of COVID-19 vaccine booster shots will be able to start Sept. 20 for Americans who received Pfizer doses, while Modernas may end up rolling out a couple weeks later. Dr. Anthony Fauci told CBS Face the Nation Sunday that it is still the Biden administrations plan in some respects to begin the third doses the week of Sept. 20, pending approval by the Food and Drug Administration. The administration had hoped that both Pfizer and Moderna booster shots would be rolled out at that time. But Fauci said it is conceivable that for Modernas, there might be at most a couple of weeks, a few weeks delay, if any, while the company provides more data to the FDA on the boosters efficacy. President Joe Biden on Aug. 18 touted boosters as a protection against the virus more transmissible delta variant, and said Americans should consider getting a booster eight months after their second shot. Ron Klain, Bidens chief of staff, said Sunday the administration had always made clear that Sept. 20 was a target date, and No ones going to get boosters until the FDA says theyre approved. Klain told CNN: Were ready to go once the science says go. ___ Swiss Health Minister Alain Berset, left, and Italian Minister Roberto Speranza share a word at the start of a G20 meeting in Rome, Saturday, Sept. 5, 2021. (Roberto Monaldo/LaPresse via AP) ROME The Italian health minister has indicated that a meeting of his G-20 counterparts could yield a pledge about ensuring COVID-19 vaccines reach everyone in poor countries. Minister Roberto Speranza told reporters on Sunday, after the opening session of the two-day meeting in Rome, that he hopes the gathering would yield a pact about the challenge to bring vaccines to everyone, including the more fragile populations. Speranza lamented that there is a deep gap between wealthier countries and poorer ones regarding vaccine distribution. He expressed optimism the Group of 20 nations gathering would result in resolve so that the vaccine is the right of everybody and not just a privilege for few. Italy currently holds the rotating G-20 presidency. Speranza also held separate meetings with the health ministers of Britain, India and Russia. On the eve of the gathering Speranza tweeted that only by working together can we guarantee a fairer distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. ___ LONDON Britains government has confirmed that it plans to introduce vaccine passports for nightclubs and large-scale gatherings from next month. Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said Sunday that officials are looking to begin the certification measures from the end of September, when the whole over-18 population would have been offered two COVID-19 vaccine doses. Zahawi told Sky News that this was the right thing to do to ensure the economy remains open. Lawmakers and businesses, however, have criticized the measure as divisive and say they could embroil nightclubs in discrimination cases. The best thing to do is to work with the industry to make sure that they can open safely and sustainably in the long term, and the best way to do that is to check vaccine status, he said. The plans mean that people who want to enter nightclubs and other large-scale events will be required to show proof they have had two doses of a coronavirus vaccine. Scottish leader Nicola Sturgeon said earlier this week vaccine passports will be required for nightclubs and large events from later this month as Scotland faces a spike in infections. ___ Performer Dionisia Valle, 82, dressed as a clown, poses for a photo during the National Circus Day celebration in Santiago, Chile, Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, amid the new coronavirus pandemic. Chiles Culture Minister set the stage for the first circus performances with a ringside public since the beginning of the pandemic quarantine measures as the South American country looks to fully roll back almost all COVID-19 related restrictions (AP Photo/Esteban Felix) DUBAI, United Arab Emirates The kingdom of Bahrain has authorized a third booster shot of Russias Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine for anyone above the age of 18 who received their second dose at least six months ago. The countrys coronavirus taskforce is encouraging residents who received the Sputnik jab to register for the extra dose. Already, the government has rolled out Pfizer-BioNTech booster shots to people six months after they received two shots of Chinas Sinopharm vaccine. The Mideast island nation is one of the worlds leaders in per-capita inoculations, largely relying on the Sinopharm shot. Daily infections in the country of 1.6 million have sharply declined from peaks reached a few months ago and now hover around 100 new cases per day. The country, which has recorded over 272,900 infections, is also producing the Sputnik V vaccine to supply demand across the Middle East and North Africa. ___ JERUSALEM -- Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett says the governments COVID-19 booster vaccination drive will help allow the country to avoid a full lockdown during the coming Jewish holiday season. Religious and secular Israelis alike mark Jewish new year Rosh Hashana on Monday night. Jews will also mark the fast day of Yom Kippur and the weeklong Sukkot festival over the next few weeks. The holiday season is marked by traditional family gatherings as well as packed services in synagogues. The government has urged families to avoid large gatherings. And synagogue prayers will be limited to small groups of vaccinated people. Bennett told his Cabinet on Sunday that unvaccinated children shouldnt be brought to synagogues. Last year the holiday season led to a spike in coronavirus infections that resulted in a full lockdown. ___ BERLIN The German disease control agency says that more than 4 million people have contracted the coronavirus in the country since the outbreak of the pandemic. The Robert Koch Institute reported 4,005,641 cases on Sunday. The actual number of cases is likely much higher as many infections go unnoticed. The institute said 92,346 people have died of COVID-19 in Germany. Top health officials have urged more citizens to get vaccinated. More than 61% of the German population, or 50.9 million people, are fully vaccinated, but thats less than in other European countries. The daily vaccination rate has been dropping for weeks. Germanys disease control agency on Saturday reported 10,835 new COVID-19 cases. Thats up from 10,303 a week ago. ___ OLYMPIA, Washington Days after suing to block what is believed to be among the nations strictest COVID-19 employee vaccine mandates, Washingtons largest state labor union has announced a tentative agreement for Gov. Jay Inslees order for state workers. The Northwest News Network reports the Washington Federation of State Employees has negotiated terms for Inslees mandate that all 46,000 of its union members be fully vaccinated by October 18 or lose their jobs. Jen Zoratti | Next A weekly look towards a post-pandemic future delivered to your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The new agreement, which still needs to be ratified, was announced Saturday and defines the exceptions and religious and medical exemptions process for employees who cant or wont get their shots. ___ FRANKFORT, Kentucky Democratic Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has announced that hes calling the states Republican-led legislature into a special session to shape pandemic policies as the state struggles with a record surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. The return of lawmakers to the state Capitol starts Tuesday and marks a dramatic power shift in coronavirus-related policymaking in the Bluegrass State following a landmark court ruling. Since the pandemic hit Kentucky, the governor mostly acted unilaterally in setting statewide virus policies, but the state Supreme Court shifted those decisions to the legislature. Now, that burden will fall in large part on the General Assembly, Beshear said Saturday. It will have to carry much of that weight to confront unpopular choices and to make decisions that balance many things, including the lives and the possible deaths of our citizens. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Qatar has sent a plane carrying food and medical goods to Kabul, part of an effort to provide badly needed supplies to Afghanistan as the country faces a halt in most Western aid. Pope Francis greets the crowd prior to reciting the Angelus noon prayer from the window of his studio overlooking St.Peter's Square, at the Vatican, Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Qatar has sent a plane carrying food and medical goods to Kabul, part of an effort to provide badly needed supplies to Afghanistan as the country faces a halt in most Western aid. Qatars Foreign Ministry said the plane had landed at Kabul airport on Sunday with 26 tons of medical and food aid, the second such shipment in as many days. The tiny Gulf state of Qatar has taken an outsized role in evacuation efforts as U.S. forces completed their withdrawal from the country last week. Its also expected to play an important political role in what comes next for Afghanistan. ___ MORE ON AFGHANISTAN: Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace US: Afghan evacuees who fail initial screening Kosovo-bound Rescue groups: US tally misses hundreds left in Afghanistan US expects to admit more than 50,000 evacuated Afghans Afghan women demand rights as Taliban seek recognition ___ Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: BERLIN The head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, or ICRC, has arrived for a three-day visit in Afghanistan. Peter Maurer arrived Sunday and plans to visit medical facilities, rehabilitation centers for victims of violence and disease as well as ICRC staffers. The relief group said in a statement that Maurer also plans to meet with local Afghan authorities. Maurer said: Afghans have suffered from 40 years of conflict and they now face years of work to heal and recover. The International Committee of the Red Cross is dedicated to staying here to help that recovery. The ICRC president also stressed that the future of Afghans relies on the continued investment from the outside world. ___ VATICAN CITY Pope Francis is encouraging countries to welcome Afghan refugees who are seeking a new life. During his appearance to the public in St. Peters Square on Sunday, Francis also prayed that displaced persons inside Afghanistan receive assistance and protection. In these tumultuous moments, in which Afghans are seeking refuge, I pray for the most vulnerable among them, I pray so that many countries welcome and protect all those seeking a new life, Francis said. The pope didnt cite the Taliban or their policies, but added: may young Afghans receive an education, which is essential for human development. He concluded by expressing hope that all Afghans, whether in their homeland, in transit, or in countries taking them in, may be able to live with dignity, in peace, in brotherhood with their neighbors. ___ BERLIN Angelina Jolie has expressed concern about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan. The actress, who is also a special envoy to the U.N.s high commissioner for refugees, told a German newspaper Sunday she doesnt think the incoming government in Afghanistan could simply turn back the clock so that everything would be like 20 years ago. But she still has big worries about the situation for women there. Jolie told the weekly Welt am Sonntag: Im thinking of all the women and girls who dont know now if they can go back to work or school. And Im thinking of the young Afghans who are worried that they will lose their freedom. Taliban fighters captured most of Afghanistan last month and celebrated the departure of the last U.S. forces after 20 years of war. The insurgent group must now govern a war-ravaged country that is heavily reliant on international aid. ___ BERLIN A Taliban spokesperson has told a German newspaper that his group wants to establish diplomatic relations with Germany. Zabihullah Mujahid tells the weekly Welt am Sonntag that we want strong and official diplomatic relations to Germany. The newspaper reported Sunday that the Taliban also hope for financial support from Germany as well as humanitarian aid and cooperation regarding Afghanistans health care system, education and agriculture. The German government has been reserved about establishing official ties with the Taliban. Officials say talks are needed to get the remaining former Afghan staffers who worked for the Germans out of the country. According to the newspaper, Mujahid said it was unfortunate Germany had cooperated with the Americans during the war but that has now been forgiven. ___ KABUL, Afghanistan Some domestic flights have resumed at Afghanistans international airport in Kabul, with the state-run Ariana Afghan Airline operating flights to three provinces. Shershah Stor, the airlines station manager at the airport, told The Associated Press on Sunday that the flights took place Saturday to western Herat, southern Kandahar and northern Balkh provinces. He said the flights were conducted without a functioning radar system at the airport. Stor said three more flights are scheduled Sunday to the same provinces. A team of Qatari and Turkish technicians arrived in Kabul last week to help restart operations at the airport, which the U.N. says is crucial to providing the country with humanitarian assistance. It remains to be seen, however, whether any commercial airlines will be willing to offer service. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. ___ WASHINGTON The top U.S. military general has thanked members of the 10th Mountain Division for their service in Afghanistan during the evacuation of Americans, Afghans and others over the past several weeks. Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, met with military police soldiers at the Rhine Ordnance Barracks in Germany on Saturday. Standing outside talking to a group, he asked them, You were there for the bombing? Heads nodded and a chorus of voices answered, yes, sir. A suicide bombing by the Islamic State group near a gate at the Kabul airport more than a week ago killed 13 U.S. service members as well as 169 Afghans who were crowded around the entry, desperate to get on flights out of Afghanistan. You guys did an incredible job, all of you Army, Navy, Marines, the Air Force flying out 124,000 people. Thats what you saved, Milley told the soldiers. He said they showed enormous courage discipline and capability, working together. Its something you should always be proud of... This will be a moment that youll always remember. WASHINGTON (AP) Mary Taboniar went 15 months without a paycheck, thanks to the COVID pandemic. A housekeeper at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Honolulu, the single mother of two saw her income completely vanish as the virus devastated the hospitality industry. Mary Taboniar, right, a housekeeper at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Honolulu, sits with her children, Mark Daniel Taboniar, 13, and Ma Dennise Taboniar, 12, at their home in Waipahu, Hawaii, Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021. Taboniar went 15 months without a paycheck, thanks to the COVID pandemic. The single mother of two saw her income completely vanish as the virus devastated the hospitality industry. Taboniar is one of millions of Americans for whom Labor Day 2021 represents a perilous crossroads. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones) WASHINGTON (AP) Mary Taboniar went 15 months without a paycheck, thanks to the COVID pandemic. A housekeeper at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Honolulu, the single mother of two saw her income completely vanish as the virus devastated the hospitality industry. For more than a year, Taboniar depended entirely on boosted unemployment benefits and a network of local foodbanks to feed her family. Even this summer as the vaccine rollout took hold and tourists began to travel again, her work was slow to return, peaking at 11 days in August about half her pre-pandemic workload. Taboniar is one of millions of Americans for whom Labor Day 2021 represents a perilous crossroads. Two primary anchors of the governments COVID protection package are ending or have recently ended. Starting Monday, an estimated 8.9 million people will lose all unemployment benefits. A federal eviction moratorium already has expired. While other aspects of pandemic assistance including rental aid and the expanded Child Tax Credit are still widely available, untold millions of Americans will face Labor Day with a suddenly shrunken social safety net. This will be a double whammy of hardship, said Jamie Contreras, secretary-treasurer of the SEIU, a union that represents custodians in office buildings and food service workers in airports. Were not anywhere near done. People still need help. ... For millions of people nothing has changed from a year and a half ago. For Taboniar, 43, that means her unemployment benefits will completely disappear even as her work hours vanish again. A fresh virus surge prompted Hawaii's governor to recommend that vacationers delay their plans. Its really scaring me, she said. How can I pay rent if I dont have unemployment and my job isnt back?" She's planning to apply for the newly expanded SNAP assistance program, better known as food stamps, but doubts that will be enough to make up the difference. "Im just grasping for anything, she said. Mark Daniel Taboniar hands a pen to his mother, Mary Taboniar, a housekeeper at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Honolulu, as she looks over bills at her home in Waipahu, Hawaii, Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021. Taboniar went 15 months without a paycheck, thanks to the COVID pandemic. The single mother of two saw her income completely vanish as the virus devastated the hospitality industry. Taboniar is one of millions of Americans for whom Labor Day 2021 represents a perilous crossroads. (AP Photo/Caleb Jones) President Joe Biden's administration believes the U.S. economy is strong enough not to be rattled by evictions or the drop in unemployment benefits. Officials maintain that other elements of the safety net, like the Child Tax Credit and the SNAP program (which Biden permanently boosted earlier this summer) are enough to smooth things over. On Friday, a White House spokesperson said there were no plans to reevaluate the end of the unemployment benefits. Twenty-two-trillion-dollar economies work in no small part on momentum and we have strong momentum going in the right direction on behalf of the American workforce, said Jared Bernstein, a member of the White House Council of Economic Advisers. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said he believed the country's labor force was ready for the shift. Overall the economy is moving forward and recovering, Walsh said in an interview. "I think the American economy and the American worker are in a better position going into Labor Day 2021 than they were on Labor Day 2020. Walsh and others point to encouraging job numbers; as of Friday the unemployment rate was down to a fairly healthy 5.2%. But Andrew Stettler, a senior fellow with the Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank, says the end of the expanded unemployment benefits is still coming too early. Rather than setting an arbitrary deadline, Stettler says the administration should have tied the end of the the protections to specific economic recovery metrics. He suggests three consecutive months with nationwide unemployment below 5% as a reasonable benchmark to trigger the end of the unemployment benefits. This does seem to be the wrong policy decision based on where we are, Stettler said. The end to these protections while the economic crisis persists could have a devastating impact on lower-middle class families that were barely holding on through the pandemic. Potentially millions of people "will have a more difficult time regaining the foothold in the middle class that they lost, Stettler said. Biden and the Democrats who control Congress are at a crossroads, allowing the aid to expire as they focus instead on his more sweeping build back better package of infrastructure and other spending. The $3.5 trillion proposal would rebuild many of the safety net programs, but it faces hurdles in the closely divided Congress. Activist march across town towards New York Gov. Kathy Hochul office, Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021, in New York, during a demonstration to call on Hochul, Speaker Carl Heastie, and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousin to extend pandemic era eviction protections in wake of Supreme Court decision lifting the moratorium. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) In the meantime, families will have to make do. These are two very important things that are expiring. There's no doubt that there will be families impacted by their expiration and that they will have additional hardship," Sharon Parrott, the president of the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, said in an interview. The COVID-19 response has been sweeping in its size and scope, some $5 trillion in federal expenditures since the virus outbreak in 2020, an unprecedented undertaking. Congressional Republicans had supported some of the initial COVID-19 outlays, but voted lockstep against Bidens $1.9 trillion recovery package earlier this year as unnecessary. Many argued against extending another round of unemployment aid, and Republicans vow to oppose Bidens $3.5 trillion package lawmakers are expected to consider later this month. There are still multiple avenues of support available, although in some cases the actual delivery of that support has been problematic. States with higher levels of unemployment can use the $350 billion worth of aid they received from the relief package to expand their own jobless payments, as noted by an Aug. 19 letter by Walsh and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. Federal rental assistance funds remain available, though the money has been slow to get out the door, leaving the White House and lawmakers pushing state and local officials to disperse funds more quickly to both landlords and tenants. The investment bank Morgan Stanley estimated Thursday that the economy will grow at an annual pace of 2.9% in the third quarter, down sharply from its prior forecast of 6.5%. That decline largely reflects a pullback in federal aid spending and supply chain bottlenecks. And the economy still faces hurdles. Union officials says sectors like hotel housekeepers and office janitorial staffs have been the slowest to recover. Our industry is the tip of the spear when it comes to COVID, said D. Taylor, president of UNITE HERE, a union that represents hotel housekeepers a field that is "primarily staffed by women and people of color. Many of those housekeepers never returned to full employment even as Americans resumed traveling and hotel occupancy rates swelled over the summer. Taylor said several major hotel chains have moved to permanently cut down on labor costs by reducing levels of service under the guise of COVID. Taboniar's hotel in Hawaii for example has shifted to cleaning rooms every five days unless the guest specifically requests otherwise in advance. Even as the hotel was at more than 90% occupancy in August, she was only employed for half her usual pre-pandemic number of days. The delta variant of the coronavirus also poses a challenge, threatening future school closures and the delay of plans to return workers to their offices. Doug Speirs | Uplift A weekly review of funny, uplifting news in Winnipeg and around the globe that is delivered to your inbox each Wednesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Walsh called the delta variant an asterisk on everything. The sudden lapse of a crucial element of the pandemic safety net has fueled calls for a re-evaluation of the entire unemployment benefits system. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the chairman of the Finance Committee, said in an interview it's crucial that Congress modernizes the unemployment insurance system as part of the package. It's heartbreaking to know it didn't have to be this way, Wyden said. One of the changes he proposes is to have jobless benefits more linked to economic conditions, so they won't expire in times of need. We got to take the unemployment system into the 21st century, he said. ___ Associated Press writer Josh Boak contributed to this report. LOS ANGELES (AP) Andy Farquhars plans for an outdoor adventure have gone up in smoke twice this summer. FILE - In this July 25, 2018 file photo, Hannah Whyatt poses for a friend's photo as smoke from the Ferguson Fire fills Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. (AP Photo/Noah Berger, File) LOS ANGELES (AP) Andy Farquhars plans for an outdoor adventure have gone up in smoke twice this summer. The retired attorney and teacher from the Philadelphia area had planned to hike with a friend for several weeks on the Pacific Crest Trail north of Lake Tahoe until the second-largest fire in California history stampeded across the Sierra Nevada, closing a 160-mile (257-kilometer) stretch of the trail and blanketing the region in thick smoke. I saw a satellite view of where we were going, and all it was was fire, he said. The two scrambled and chose a seemingly fireproof backup plan: canoeing a massive network of lakes and bogs on the Minnesota-Canada border. That plan went poof when lightning-sparked fires forced the closure of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Were batting zero now, Farquhar said. Untold numbers of camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, rafting and biking adventures have been scrapped as U.S. wildfires have scorched nearly 7,900 square miles (20,460 square kilometers) this year in forests, chaparral and grasslands ravaged by drought. The vast majority are on public lands in the West that also serve as summer playgrounds. FILE - In this Sept. 1, 2021 file photo boats float in the water away from a dock as smoke from the Caldor Fire fills the air in South Lake Tahoe, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong,File) More than 24,000 camping reservations out of 3.2 million so far this year have been canceled due to wildfires, according to data kept by Recreation.gov, which books campsites on most federal lands. That does not account for no-shows or people who left early. All national forests are closed in California to prioritize fighting blazes, including the Caldor Fire near Lake Tahoe, a year-round outdoor paradise that attracts skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, boaters and paddleboarders. Lassen Volcanic National Park also is closed because of the Dixie Fire, the blaze that forced Farquhar to cancel his plan to hike from the Lake Tahoe area to the Oregon border. In June, fires closed several national forests in Arizona, derailing plans Kristin Clark made with family to camp by Lynx Lake in Prescott National Forest for her mother's 70th birthday. She reserved the campsite in February. As the vacation neared, she watched as wildfires grew, bringing new closures. She knew her trip was over before it began. That is the reality in Arizona. More and more frequently, we get wildfires, Clark said. I was bummed. My husband was bummed. We were really looking forward to a week in nature to kind of disconnect." Intense wildfires have coincided with a sharp uptick in people trying to find serenity in the wild after being cooped up during the coronavirus pandemic. Competition for online campground and backpacking permit reservations is stiff, and they can fill up six months in advance, leaving less flexibility for spontaneous trips or easy rescheduling. FILE - In this June 11, 2019, file photo, canyon walls are shrouded with smoke from a prescribed burn in Kings Canyon National Park, Calif. Wildfires burning in the U.S. this summer have upended plans for countless outdoor adventures. Campers, hikers, rafters and other outdoor enthusiasts have had to scrap or change plans or endure awful smoke. (AP Photo/Brian Melley, File) One of the toughest tickets to score in California is a pass to summit Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Hundreds who managed to win a permit and trained for the arduous hike were foiled in June when a fire broke out near the main trailhead in the Inyo National Forest. The trail was closed 10 days, preventing up to 1,850 people from hiking, said Debra Schweizer, a forest spokeswoman. In addition to forest and park closures that have required people to cancel or change plans, plenty of other trips have been altered by approaching fires and the omnipresent pall of smoke that has created a respiratory hazard for millions nationwide. Kerry Ellis of Boise, Idaho, and her family didnt do anything last summer because of COVID-19. So they were excited for a July rafting trip on the Salmon River with friends. After a daylong drive, they arrived to find the area blanketed in smoke that made it uncomfortable for Ellis, who has asthma, to breathe. The outfitter described scenarios of the fire jumping the river, embers flying and smoke making it impossible for guides to see. They pointed out that once you push off, youre committed for the entire six days, Ellis said. You have no cell service. Its Idaho backcountry. With that level of wildfire and smoke, the chances of evacuation would be difficult. The outfitter canceled the trip. It was disappointing, but Ellis said it was the right decision. Wildfire smoke has increasingly become a fixture on the Western landscape, ranging from a strong campfire odor in its most mild form to a serious health hazard that causes coughing fits and headaches. Satellite images show plumes from fires pouring into the sky and spreading widely, even reaching the East Coast. For many, though, smoke appears to be an irritating but tolerable inconvenience when pricey or hard-to-get plans have been made. Even as smoke shrouded the Tahoe basin last week before evacuations were ordered at the south end of the lake people in masks walked the beach or pedaled bikes along the shore. A study of 10 years of campground bookings on federal land found relatively few cancellations or departures when smoke was present. The study by Resources for the Future, an independent nonprofit research institution, suggested campers were less likely to pull out of popular destinations like Glacier National Park in Montana or Yosemite National Park in California. Limited visitation seasons at northern parks like Glacier, as well as competitive reservations at popular parks like Yosemite, could lead campers to brave the smoky conditions rather than forego a trip altogether, the authors said. Ready, Pet, Go! Leesa Dahl looks at everything to do with our furry, fuzzy, feathered, fishy (and more!) pet friends. Arrives in your inbox each Monday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Those patterns could change, particularly after the past two years of severe, pervasive fires that were not accounted for in the study, said Margaret Walls, a senior fellow with Resources for the Future who co-authored the study. She thinks the potential for smoke could factor into future plans. In the past, maybe you just went. You didn't think about the smoke, Walls said. "You used to be able to say, itll be all right around the Grand Canyon. Not anymore. When the Boundary Waters in Minnesota's Superior National Forest was closed last month, Farquhar was one of hundreds of paddlers who lost out. The outfitters who rent canoes, sell supplies and help them plan their trips also were hit hard. Typically, the parking lot of Sawbill Canoe Outfitters is full of cars in August and all its roughly 200 canoes are in the wilderness, said Clare Shirley, the third-generation owner. Despite a blue sky and no smell of smoke recently, the boats were all on their racks late last month and the parking lot was nearly empty. Its very, very quiet around here, which is eerie, said Shirley, who estimated she was losing tens of thousands of dollars. Were definitely missing out on a big chunk of our peak season. Farquhar has pivoted once again. He and his friend were fixing up a canoe last week for a trip to the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Maine. The state's forest service designated that area with its lowest rating for fire danger. OTTAWA - With the United States and its allies, Canada included, having left Afghanistan firmly in the hands of the Taliban, another world power is stepping into the void to exert its influence on the troubled country China. Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, left, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pose for a photo during their meeting in Tianjin, China, in a July 28, 2021, photo released by China's Xinhua News Agency. With the United States and its allies, Canada included, having left Afghanistan firmly in the hands of the Taliban, another world power is stepping into the void to exert its influence on the troubled country China. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Xinhua, Li Ran OTTAWA - With the United States and its allies, Canada included, having left Afghanistan firmly in the hands of the Taliban, another world power is stepping into the void to exert its influence on the troubled country China. Analysts predict that could transform the recent political foe into an unexpected Western ally on a shared priority: fighting terrorist groups within Afghanistan and preventing them from threatening neighbouring countries. That's because Afghanistan and China share a small piece of land border that abuts the Chinese province of Xinjiang where Beijing has detained hundreds of thousands of ethnic Muslim Uyghurs. Canada and dozens of countries have denounced China at the United Nations for what it sees as the systematic abuse of the Uyghurs. Human rights advocates, political figures and scholars gathered last week in Britain for a major conference to discuss what they allege is a genocide being perpetrated by Beijing. China denies the allegations and has vigorously defended its actions in Xinjiang, saying it is trying to stamp out domestic terrorism through re-education efforts. China does not want to see any infiltration of the Islamic State group's Afghanistan affiliate known as ISIS-K, which staged a suicide attack on Kabul airport late last month killing 13 American military personnel and dozens of Afghans. Cong Peiwu, China's ambassador to Canada, said his country wants Afghanistan to be on good terms with the international community, especially its neighbours. "China sincerely hopes all parties of Afghanistan can echo the eager aspirations of the Afghan people, and the common expectation of the international community: build an open and inclusive political structure, adopt moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, make a clear break with terrorist organizations in all forms," Cong said in an interview. Relations between China and the U.S. are at an all-time low for a number of reasons. China's aggressive military provocations and claims to the vast waters of the South China Sea have angered regional neighbours and Washington. Beijing's clampdowns on Hong Kong and ethnic Muslim Uyghurs have also exposed the Chinese government to widespread international condemnation, including from Canada, that it is violating the human rights of a vulnerable group. "The number 1 priority is avoiding the spillover of terrorist groups into China, their connection through Xinjiang," said Paul Evans, a China expert at the University of British Columbia. "We've had something of a common agenda with China since 9/11, but in practical terms, it was not too far developed." The al-Qaida terrorist group used Afghanistan to stage the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on the United States, but was routed along with the then Taliban government by U.S.-led forces. Canada joined with its American-led NATO allies to fight a resurgent al-Qaida based in Kandahar in 2006, and fully withdrew its military from the country in 2014. There were 158 Canadian military personnel and seven civilians who died in Afghanistan. "When I was serving in Afghanistan, China certainly had an interest and it wasn't in any kind of antagonistic manner," said Ben Rowswell, the top Canadian political representative to Kandahar just over a decade ago. China's main interest in Afghanistan back then was primarily economic, which included an interest in a copper mine. "They were relatively content to have someone else provide the security backstop for the Afghan state," he said. Today, Rowswell said, China has "massively exaggerated the threat of political Islam within its borders" and it doesn't need to be worried about an infiltration of terrorists from Afghanistan. "I would expect there to be difficult times ahead for the Uyghurs as the Chinese crack down even further out of fear, out of perceptions there may be some kind of threat," said Rowswell, now the president of the Canadian International Council think-tank. Bessma Momani, an international affairs specialist at the University of Waterloo, said the fact the Taliban sent its second-in-command to Beijing for a meeting in late July sends a clear signal that it wants amicable relations with China. "The Taliban have actually made it very clear that they don't have any interest in picking a fight with China or to provide sympathy to the Uyghurs in some way," she said. The Writ The federal election occurs Sept. 20 and we have you covered. Get the latest campaign news, insights, analysis and commentary delivered weekly to your inbox with our free newsletter. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. But with no diplomatic footprint on the ground, it will be hard for Canada to monitor the effectiveness of its three-year, $270 million foreign aid spending commitment to international organizations operating inside Afghanistan, said Momani. "For us, the big question is: will we continue to have a foreign aid program there?" Momani and other analysts are also dismissive of a growing school of thought that China is interested in pursuing new economic interests in Afghanistan, whether it is their old copper mine or attempting to exploit the country's rare-earth mineral potential. "When you look at it, China plays a pretty conservative game. They want to get a return on their investment," said Ian Johnson, a Montreal native who is the senior fellow on China studies at the U.S. Council on Foreign Relations. "Yes, there are natural resources. But it's hard getting them out of the ground and getting them to China, as other countries have experienced in the past." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. VANCOUVER - Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole said Sunday he would maintain a Liberal ban on "assault-style" firearms if he forms government, a change in course the Liberals say they don't believe will last. Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole speaks to supporters at a rally in Nanaimo, B.C. on Saturday, September 4, 2021. Canadians will vote in a federal election Sept. 20th. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Frank Gunn VANCOUVER - Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole said Sunday he would maintain a Liberal ban on "assault-style" firearms if he forms government, a change in course the Liberals say they don't believe will last. O'Toole has faced days of questions about his party's gun policy after repeatedly saying he would maintain a ban on "assault weapons," while remaining evasive about whether he was talking about a 1977 ban on fully automatic weapons or a more recent Liberal cabinet order. On Sunday, he said a Conservative government would keep both. "It's critically important for me to say to Canadians today that we're going to maintain the ban on assault weapons, we're going to maintain the restrictions that were put in place in 2020 by the order-in-council," O'Toole told reporters in Vancouver. It was a change from the day before, when O'Toole said people who were confused on his position could look to the party's platform to "fill in the blanks." That document promises to repeal the Liberal measures, which were introduced through a May 2020 order-in-council and banned some 1,500 firearm models, including the popular AR-15 rifle and the Ruger Mini-14 used to kill 14 women at Montreals Ecole polytechnique in 1989. "We're maintaining the status quo that's in place right now," he said, however he would not say whether he would maintain the Liberal ban permanently. O'Toole has also promised to conduct a "public, transparent" review of Canada's gun classification system, a step he said will depoliticize gun regulation. "Our intention is to take the politics out of this, because Mr. Trudeau has divided rural versus urban, he has demonized, in some cases, farmers, hunters, sport shooters and actually ignored the real problem of rising smuggling and organized gang activity," he said. At a rally in Toronto, Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau said he believes the O'Toole will use the review of the classification system to legalize currently banned guns. What hes says now is, and listen for it is, OK, well hold onto that order-in-council if we get re-elected, but well start a reclassification system for all the guns and work with the gun lobby to make sure that we get the right guns reclassified," Trudeau told supporters. "If hes going to reclassify them, its his way of saying, maybe we can bring them back.' Some Conservative candidates appeared to not be aware the party's position would be changing. Earlier Sunday, Battle River-Crowfoot candidate Damien C. Kurek posted on Facebook that "a Conservative government will stand with hunters, farmers and sport shooters law-abiding firearms owners and will repeal C-71 and the May 2020 Liberal Order in Council." In March, Kurek wrote an opinion piece for the Bashaw Star in which he slammed the Liberals for not defining what "assault-style firearms are." "Assault'' or "assault-style'' firearms are colloquial descriptions, and what falls into either category is debated among gun users. The Conservative platform also promises to scrap Bill C-71, which expanded background checks for people seeking gun licences as well as record-keeping requirements for gun sellers. Asked about whether repealing that bill remains a promise, O'Toole repeated that he would maintain the bans on assault and "assault-style" weapons. PolySeSouvient, a group that pushes for more stringent gun control laws said it doesn't believe O'Toole's new stance is a dramatic change from his previous position. "Yes, he said he would maintain those prohibitions, but he also promised a review of all firearms classification. It is not hard to predict how such a review would play out, as he has repeatedly stated that farmers, hunters and sport shooters have been unfairly caught up in the Liberals 2020 ban, Nathalie Provost, a spokeswoman for the group and a survivor of the 1989 Polytechnique massacre, said in an email. She said O'Toole is now "offering a more convoluted stance that sounds good to the general public, but which can clearly be construed as a dog whistle to sports shooters and collectors of assault weapons." Rod M. Giltaca, the CEO and Executive Director of the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights, said his group agrees with O'Toole's position "that the classification of firearms should not be a political process." The Writ The federal election occurs Sept. 20 and we have you covered. Get the latest campaign news, insights, analysis and commentary delivered weekly to your inbox with our free newsletter. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "This election is about the future of Canada. Our focus is replacing a failed Liberal government with one competent to lead whether on the pandemic, the economy or firearms," Giltaca wrote in an email. The National Firearms Association, meanwhile, seemed convinced O'Toole's backpedal wouldn't change the policy laid out in the Conservative platform. "Canada's National Firearms Association is confident a Conservative government will keep its commitment to protect the rights and property of Canadians," said Blair Hagen, the association's executive vice-president. This report from The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship. OTTAWA - As Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor mark 1,000 days in separate Chinese prisons, their supporters took to the streets of Ottawa and beyond on Sunday to push for their freedom. Michael Kovrig, left, and Michael Spavor are shown in a composite image of two 2018 images taken from video footage. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP OTTAWA - As Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor mark 1,000 days in separate Chinese prisons, their supporters took to the streets of Ottawa and beyond on Sunday to push for their freedom. Around 150 people gathered in the capital to walk roughly an-hour-and-a-half to a park near Parliament Hill. It was intended replicate the 7,000 steps Kovrig has tried to walk every day in his cramped jail cell to maintain his physical and mental well-being, along with a strict regime of reading and meditation. "One thousand days is a long time and it wears on us, particularly our father," said Paul Spavor, brother to Michael Spavor, who was among the family members of the two men who led Sunday's march, holding a red banner with "#bringthemhome" emblazoned in white. "We felt it important to mark this day, and Michael has come to understand the global profile of the whole situation, so he's become a little more willing to have us speak." China's ambassador to Canada said the marchers and others are harming relations between the two countries by hyping the milestone with unwarranted accusations against his government. That left the political stalemate between Canada and China unbroken ahead of Sunday's marches, which were expected to take place throughout Canada and around the world and are shaping up to be the largest public outpourings of support for the men who have come to be known in Canada and abroad as "the two Michaels." Kovrig, a Canadian diplomat on leave to an international organization, and Spavor, an entrepreneur who tried to forge ties to North Korea, were arrested in apparent retaliation for the RCMP's arrest of Chinese high-tech executive Meng Wanzhou on Dec. 1, 2018 as she was transiting through Vancouver airport. The Mounties were acting on an American extradition request because the U.S. wants to prosecute Meng, the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies, for violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. Nine days after Meng was detained, Kovrig and Spavor were arrested in China. Both have since been convicted of spying in closed Chinese courts a process that Canada and dozens of allies say amounts to arbitrary detention on bogus charges in a closed system of justice with no accountability. China has denied that and accused Canada of being a U.S. government lapdog, and has repeatedly demanded Meng's immediate release. China says the U.S. is simply trying to prevent Huawei from asserting its dominance in the international telecommunications market. Kovrig and Spavor have languished in prison, while Meng's extradition hearing in the British Columbia Supreme Court has been unfolding at epic length, fuelled by the legal duelling between a large team of Meng's lawyers and Canadian federal Justice Department counsel acting on behalf of the U.S. The extradition hearing ended in August, and Associate Chief Justice Heather Holmes is expected to render her decision sometime this fall, but it could be appealed, prolonging the imprisonment of the two Michaels. The men's relatives and supporters are pushing for some sort of political resolution that could bring them home. And they are taking to the streets to make their point. "It's an extremely difficult milestone, but one that we want to mark in this way, in part, to honour the strength and resilience that Michael and Michael Spavor have shown," Kovrig's wife Vina Nadjibulla said in an interview. "In one of his letters, Michael had said that we don't choose our circumstances. But we do have a choice in how we handle ourselves in those circumstances. And for 1,000 days, Michael has endured this injustice and his detention with remarkable strength, dignity, and character." Among those who joined in Sunday's march were the ambassadors to Germany, the European Union, Australia, as well as Conservative foreign affairs critic Michael Chong and Marc Garneau, a Liberal candidate and Canada's foreign affairs minister. Garneau wouldn't offer specifics of how Canada is trying to free both men, but said the country continues to send the message they are being arbitrarily detained and should be released, and that it will keep working with the United States on the matter. "The point is that whole process that has been going on for the last 1,000 days is actually moving in a positive direction," he said. "We talk to all the people that we are dealing with and so I wouldn't say it otherwise. We are making progress, and we will continue to work until we get them free." Spavor and Kovrig are not allowed visits from family or lawyers, except in the case of their separate trials earlier this summer at which both were convicted. Spavor was later handed an 11-year sentence, while Kovrig is still waiting. Canadian diplomats see the men roughly once a month in a video link; in-person visits ended in early 2020 and were suspended for 10 months because Chinese officials said they wanted to control the spread of COVID-19 in prisons. Kovrig was a Canadian diplomat who took a leave of absence to work for the International Crisis Group, a non-government agency. In addition to the Ottawa march, Canadian diplomats are expected to walk in solidarity in New York, Washington, Brussels and across Asia, Africa and Latin America. Spavor's family has kept a low public profile, preferring written statements to public interviews, while Nadjibulla went public last summer with her concerns and stepped up her public advocacy to push the Canadian and American governments to find a way to end the ongoing imprisonment of the two Michaels. Paul Spavor said his brother spends a lot of his time imprisoned reading, doing yoga and meditating. Cong Peiwu, China's ambassador to Canada, said in an interview the marking of the 1,000 days has "gravely violated the norms governing international relations and international law" and noted that Meng has been under arrest in Canada even longer. "Recently, we have noted that a small number of people here in Canada have been hyping the so-called 1,000 days of the detention of the two Michaels, who are Canadian citizens, making unwarranted accusations against China's handling of the cases." Cong said his government stands by a report this week from the Global Times, a newspaper controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, saying that Spavor photographed military equipment and shared the images outside the country. The report, citing unnamed sources, said Spavor shared information with Kovrig over a long period of time. Nadjibulla reiterated her long-held view that neither Kovrig nor Spavor are spies, saying the allegation that leaked out this week has been publicized in the past. Spavor's family and friends have said in written statements that he was doing nothing untoward in China and has been committed to building bridges with North Korea. Nadjibulla said the next few weeks and months will be critical towards breaking the logjam. In addition to Holmes's ruling, there will be chances for U.S. President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping during the fall gatherings of the G20 and the United Nations Climate Change Conference. The Writ The federal election occurs Sept. 20 and we have you covered. Get the latest campaign news, insights, analysis and commentary delivered weekly to your inbox with our free newsletter. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. She said the current federal election hasn't really had any effect on the fate of the two Michaels. "This is not a partisan issue. I have been heartened by that," she said. "Canadians of all political persuasions, and all political leaders are united in the way they see this as an unjust, arbitrary detention and also in their call to bring them home." The U.S. State Department threw its backing behind Kovrig and Spavor Sunday, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken once again calling for their release. "The practice of arbitrarily detaining individuals to exercise leverage over foreign governments is completely unacceptable," Blinken said in a statement. "People should never be used as bargaining chips." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. -With files from Stephanie Taylor. MONTREAL - A Quebec judge has rejected a request from three Quebecers who wanted the province's rules on face coverings due to the COVID-19 pandemic suspended. A woman wears a face mask as she walks by a sign advising of the mandatory wearing of masks and face coverings to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Montreal, Monday, Sept. 21, 2020. A Quebec judge has rejected a request from three Quebecers who wanted the obligation to wear a face covering in the province immediately suspended. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes MONTREAL - A Quebec judge has rejected a request from three Quebecers who wanted the province's rules on face coverings due to the COVID-19 pandemic suspended. In a decision rendered Friday, Quebec Superior Court Justice Frederic Perodeau refused to grant the application to immediately suspend provincial decrees and ministerial orders that oblige Quebecers to wear face coverings in various indoor public settings. While the request for an emergency stay was rejected, the case will be heard on its merits during a trial at a later date. "This is not one of those extremely clear and obvious cases that allow a court to intervene before trial," wrote Perodeau. "Only a full debate on the merits will shed light on the issues raised and separate the wheat from the chaff." Until then, masking measures will remain in effect unless the province changes the rules. The three plaintiffs named in the action, Francesco Platania, William Thomas and Marie Tranquille, believe COVID-19 isn't a serious threat to Quebecers and there is no need for the health emergency or face covering measures. They argued the public health measure should be abolished and declared illegal and unconstitutional. Their arguments include that the requirement to wear a face covering violates their fundamental rights, including the right to life, liberty, security and freedom of expression. The Writ The federal election occurs Sept. 20 and we have you covered. Get the latest campaign news, insights, analysis and commentary delivered weekly to your inbox with our free newsletter. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. They also argue studies do not demonstrate the effectiveness of face coverings. They noted other provinces have lifted or eased their mask rules. They've also asked the court to rule there is no health emergency. Perodeau wrote it wasn't for the courts to decide whether a legislative measure is warranted, but rather if it is legal. There is a presumption that laws and legislative acts are passed in the public interest and seeking to suspend them must demonstrate otherwise. He also stressed that an emergency suspension must demonstrate urgency and that waiting for the outcome of a trial isn't possible. The must also show there would be serious and irreparable harm if the measure wasn't removed. But the judge wrote the applicants did not demonstrate there was an urgency to their request. The province's mask rules on public transit and indoor spaces have been around since July 2020, but the challenge was filed 11 months later. "The situation they are complaining about today has been around for over a year," he wrote. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 4, 2021. OTTAWA - Canada's party leaders entered the fourth week of the federal election campaign expressing support for the families of two men who have been detained in China for 1,000 days. Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau makes remarks on gun control during the Canadian federal election campaign in Markham, Ont., on Sunday, September 5, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette OTTAWA - Canada's party leaders entered the fourth week of the federal election campaign expressing support for the families of two men who have been detained in China for 1,000 days. Sunday also saw the Liberals escalate their attacks against Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole over his apparent flip-flop on a platform promise to repeal an "assault-style" firearms ban introduced last year and subject it to a review if he forms government after the Sept. 20 election. Hours before O'Toole, who has faced days of questions over his firearms policy, made his remarks, Trudeau hit on the issue by championing his government's action on gun control in the Greater Toronto Area. He promised to tighten measures imposed last year even further by limiting the number of rounds high-capacity gun magazines can hold and providing $1 billion for provinces wishing to ban handguns. But Trudeau first opened his remarks in Markham, Ont., by acknowledging Sunday was a difficult one for the relatives of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor as they marked the thousandth day of their incarceration in Chinese prisons. "I can assure you that this government over the past 1,000 days has put forward all the different range of tools that we have to put pressure on the Chinese government to return Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, on our allies to influence them and to have them advocate for us," said Trudeau. "We've been significantly more successful than the previous government was because we use all the tools at our disposal, usually not shouting in the public square. We usually lean in, and put pressure on those countries in various ways to ensure that we can get Canadians home in a way that is quiet and effective." Chinese officials detained the men out of what Canada believes to be retaliation for the RCMP's arrest of Huawei Technologies chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou in December 2018 while she travelled through the Vancouver airport. She was arrested on an extradition request from the United States, where officials want her to be prosecuted for allegedly violating U.S. sanctions against Iran. On Sunday, New Democratic Party Leader Jagmeet Singh renewed his calls for Canada to work with its international allies to do everything possible to free the men who have come to be known as "the two Michaels." "I can't even imagine what that's like for Mr. Kovrig and Mr. Spavor, for their families, for their loved ones," he said from Ottawa, where he pledged to boost vaccination rates against COVID-19 and change the Criminal Code to provide better protections to health-care workers. "One thousand days in conditions that have been pretty horrible, not having access to human rights, not having access to the same dignity that you would expect in a criminal justice system here in Canada." The Liberal government has faced criticism from some over its handling of Kovrig and Spavor's ongoing detentions. The Conservatives, in particular, have said the Liberals have been soft on their policy towards a more authoritarian China, and promised to take a tougher approach if they win the election. In his election platform, O'Toole pledges to negotiate new trade agreements with nations in the Indo-Pacific and Africa so Canada doesn't have to rely as heavily on China, as well as work with international allies in hopes of "decoupling" their supply chains from the Chinese regime. The Conservatives also promise to ban Huawei from Canada's 5G infrastructure and advise universities against partnering with Chinese "state-controlled" companies. "I've often said China might be much larger in terms of population and economy, but they can learn a lot from us with respect to engagement for human rights, dignity and the rule of law," O'Toole said at a campaign stop in Vancouver. The Writ The federal election occurs Sept. 20 and we have you covered. Get the latest campaign news, insights, analysis and commentary delivered weekly to your inbox with our free newsletter. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "Our sanctions would be meant to highlight the fact that the two Michaels are in prison as diplomatic pawns. That is unacceptable for a country that projects itself as a world-leading country. We'd like to push the communist regime to do better." While campaigning in British Columbia on a promise to put more RCMP officers in communities to combat gangs and drugs, O'Toole clarified that if he forms government, a 2020 ban the Liberals placed on some reclassified firearms would remain in place. In May 2020, Trudeau's government banned some 1,500 firearm models, including the popular AR-15 rifle and the Ruger Mini-14, used in some of the country's deadliest shootings. O'Toole had promised to repeal the order-in-council that instituted the ban, but after several days of attacks from the Liberals about striking a deal with the country's gun lobby, he clarified the ban would stay in place. He pledged, however, to conduct a review of Canada's system for classifying firearms if voted into office. The Liberals seized on that promise, saying it offers a wink and a nudge to groups representing gun owners that he intends to keep his commitment to repeal the existing legislation. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. Calgary firefighter Mark Turik recalls standing at Ground Zero in January 2002, watching a group of police officers as they surrounded a body pulled from the rubble of the World Trade Center. Firefighters work beneath the destroyed mullions, the vertical struts which once faced the outer walls of the World Trade Center towers, after a terrorist attack on the twin towers in New York on Sept. 11, 2001.THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Mark Lennihan Calgary firefighter Mark Turik recalls standing at Ground Zero in January 2002, watching a group of police officers as they surrounded a body pulled from the rubble of the World Trade Center. He was told the remains likely belonged to another police officer, based on the duty belt or gun. Sifting through dozens of photos taken that month nearly two decades ago, Turik shared memories from his time in New York City four months after the September 11 terrorist attack, when firefighters were still searching for the remains of fallen colleagues and civilians unable to escape the wreckage. Nearby sat a box filled with newspapers, magazines and video tapes. "I hadn't opened up that box of stuff in over 15 years. There's little pieces that you carry with you that you don't think about," said Turik, who is now deputy chief with the Calgary Fire Department. Turik is one of many Canadians reflecting on the tragedy -- and the work he did to try to help in its aftermath -- as the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attack approaches. On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, four coordinated terrorist strikes played out on American soil -- with two hijacked aircrafts flown into the Twin Towers, one into the Pentagon in Virginia and another that failed to hit its target. Nearly 3,000 people died, and 25,000 more were injured. Turik was one of hundreds of Canadian firefighters who went south following the tragedy. Local firefighters were adamant about recovering the bodies from the wreckage themselves, so many firefighters from abroad went on what Turik called a "mission of support." "All of them were obviously devastated by it. Every one of them knew somebody (who died), so you would just go down and talk to them and bring well wishes," said Turik. He and five others from Calgary's heavy rescue team spent about a week trying to come to grips with what happened while comforting their American colleagues as best they could. For 20 years, 9/11 has served as a sober reminder for Turik. There is no such thing as being too prepared. You never know what might happen. One photo taken by his team showed a sign in a New York fire station that read: "Let no man's ghost come back to say 'my training let me down.'" The horror of 9/11 lingers on the minds of many as they reflect on the sober anniversary, but for the mayor of a small Atlantic Canadian town, it also conjures memories of "love overcoming hatred." When the United States shut down its airspace, the Town of Gander in Newfoundland and Labrador opened its runway. Thirty-eight airplanes carrying more than 6,500 people landed in the municipality with a population of just 9,000. It was a logistical nightmare, remembers MayorPercy Farwell, who served as deputy mayor at the time. Stranded passengers needed food, shelter, translators, clothing and medicine, having only the clothes on their back and whatever filled their carry-on bags. Farwell said people arrived from 95 different countries. Many had no idea why they had been rerouted, or where Gander was located on a map. As the reality of the calamity set in with some passengers praying for the safety of their loved ones in New York the people of Gander and surrounding communities stepped up to help. "Everybody volunteered their time, spare sheets, pillows, clothes and made food --- whatever was required," said Farwell. "They needed reassurance, compassion and love." The Writ The federal election occurs Sept. 20 and we have you covered. Get the latest campaign news, insights, analysis and commentary delivered weekly to your inbox with our free newsletter. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. The story of Gander inspired people from across the world and has since been adapted into the musical "Come From Away" and retold in several books. Farwell said he continues to receive messages from young students in the U.S. who are learning about that day. Gander was one of multiple Canadian cities that welcomed diverted flights to their runways as part of Operation Yellow Ribbon. Upwards of 240 aircraft were rerouted to 17 airports across the country. Farwell said he hopes others are able to take some comfort in those efforts, too. "Darkness is overcome by light and we've been an example used for that," he said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 5, 2021. Worn for only a few days or weeks, a set of frayed and grimy canvas armbands stored in a back room at the Winnipeg Police Museum bear the weight of more than a century of history. Worn for only a few days or weeks, a set of frayed and grimy canvas armbands stored in a back room at the Winnipeg Police Museum bear the weight of more than a century of history. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Armbands worn by special police during the Winnipeg General Strike in 1919 were used to distinguish officers from the strikers. Originally fastened around a jacket sleeve with a set of snaps or modified with hand stitched elastic, these armbands bear witness to the involvement of special police constables in the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike. Where to see it Click to Expand Writer Brenda Suderman stepped into the past at Winnipeg Police Museum to check out century-old arrest records, mug shots, buffalo coats and other artifacts from nearly a century and a half of policing in Winnipeg. Located on the ground floor of police headquarters at 245 Smith St., the museum is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Friday. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. For more information, call 204-945-3976 or visit https://winnipegpolicemuseum.ca/ "They knew they were going to have all these civilians, so they needed ways to identify them," museum curator Tammy Skrabek said, pointing to the large plastic bin of armbands stored on a shelf in a large second-floor archives room. Along with the white armbands, printed with the words Special Police Winnipeg, the museum owns a bin of pinback celluloid buttons also issued to the anti-strike, anti-union volunteers hastily commissioned as police officers during the strike, which saw more than 30,000 workers participate, including most of Winnipegs Police Department. Another large plastic bin holds dozens of night sticks, improvised from wagon wheel spokes and furniture legs during the strike. Examples of each of these strike-related artifacts are on permanent display in the museums ground floor exhibit room in what once was public space in the former Canada Post building. The non-profit museum moved downtown in 2016, after sharing space with the Winnipeg Police Academy in west Winnipeg for three decades. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Tammy Skrabek, curator of the Winnipeg Police Museum & Historical Society, says owing to the unique nature of artifacts, only certain locations will do. Members of a police historical committee began collecting materials in 1973, after police departments in the metropolitan area of Winnipeg merged into what is now known as the Winnipeg Police Service. That creation of one department after a century of independent municipal departments didnt go over well with everyone, says Skrabek, resulting in the destruction of some materials before they could be handed over to a central storehouse. "For Winnipeg, we have record books going back to 1870. I have nothing for Transcona or Kildonan," she says of the municipal departments that merged with the Winnipeg department. "Were in the process of working on the pre-amalgamation stories prior to 1974." ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A mugshot from 1900 is among paper artifacts maintained at the museum. The second-floor climate-controlled archive and artifact storage room houses shelves and shelves of arrest records, robbery reports and mug shots, including a dozen or so hand drawn images from the 1870s, mostly from the Winnipeg department. Skrabek plans to digitize these carefully handwritten ledgers and files to create a searchable database for future researchers. "Its invaluable to preserve this," she says of the floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with record books dated by year. "Its on paper, and paper and ink wont last forever." ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The museum has both the old buffalo coats and the mannequins to display them. Although all museums preserve artifacts and digitize records, Skrabek deals with unique challenges compared to other community museums. The former police officer maintains and cares for 50 firearmsall disabledand files an annual firearms report. She also curates a huge closet of clothing, including buffalo fur coats worn by beat officers for years, racks full of wool uniform jackets, and assorted uniform hats, gloves and boots, and maintains a fleet of 20 vehicles, including motorcycles, cruisers, a paddy wagon and a hovercraft that never saw active duty. "Not every museum is faced with the same type of collection," she says of the wide range of artifacts at the Smith Street location. "Were dealing with firearms and bullets and various police equipment. It all requires different types of preservation and not every museum is equipped to deal with that." The storage room also houses some one-off curiosities, like the photo radar camera damaged by an irate and likely irrational motorist after receiving a ticket for speeding. "This guy got a ticket and drove back and shot at the box," says Skrabek, adding the whole incident was caught on camera. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A remote-controlled police robot is among artifacts at the museum. Like other community-run museums, Skrabek runs on a bare-bones budget, made up from donations, payroll deductions by current members of the Winnipeg Police Service and a grant from the City of Winnipeg to cover her part-time curators salary. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A 1966 Harley-Davidson with a sidecar: the sidecar wasn't for a passenger, but primarily to improve the motorcycle's performance in winter. But she also counts on a wealth of volunteers who explain how an artifact was used to keep law and order on city streets. That 1978 Harley-Davidson motorcycle with attached sidecar may seem like a curiosity to some, but for former traffic officer Lawrence Klippenstein, it brings back memories of cold winter rides on snowy streets. "Snow is bad but what was even worse was the sand on the street in spring," he explains, adding that the sidecar didnt carry passengers, but was employed to provide stability on slippery winter roads. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A police call box was an essential piece of equipment for policing in the pre-cellphone days. Smartphone-toting visitors may question the efficiency of a network of call boxes, used by beat officers to check in with their supervisors every 15 minutes or to call for a paddy wagon when making an arrest. But those cast-iron boxes, equipped with one-way telephones answered at local police stations, were cutting-edge technology in 1913 when installed, with Winnipeg only the third city in the world to employ the system, says former beat officer Don Wardrop, who joined the police in 1967 and retired as a district inspector in 1992. "This is strictly a direct line and I often thought it would be good to (still) have them because its a direct line," he says of the call boxes used until 1978. Some technology preserved by the museum was less useful than anticipated, such as the 1971 hovercraft, given to the police department by an English manufacturer, but never mobilized for active duty on Winnipegs river system. Designed to fly over ice and water, the boat manufactured by HoverHawk was drydocked after a brief training period because it could only handle about 180 kilograms (400 lbs.) ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A hovercraft was donated to the Winnipeg police by its British manufacturer, but was mothballed when officers discovered it was easily overloaded. "It you take two officers fully clothed with their gun holsters, it was fully loaded and you couldnt rescue anyone," Skrabek says of the limitations of the hovercraft. "They decided it wasnt very conducive to policing in Winnipeg. The company didnt want it back so it just went to a junkyard," she says. Eventually, it was donated to the museum where it is displayed both as a curiosity and perhaps a cautionary tale that not all technology functions in every context. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A jail cell is featured among the artifacts. Visible to pedestrians passing by on the Graham Avenue sidewalk, the hovercraft and other vehicles in a front glassed-in room serve to entice visitors into the museum, says Skrabek. "This was always designed to be a public area," she says of the space accessible to museum visitors. "And the museum was put here to make people feel more welcome." Currently behind locked doors, visitors can call the office number posted on sandwich boards on the sidewalks around the building, or buzz in at the security office. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The Winnipeg Police Museum moved to a much more visible location in the downtown police headquarters from its old location on Allard Avenue in Westwood. Once inside, volunteers will show visitors around the museum, share their own personal connections to the years of artifacts, and encourage visitors try on a uniform jacket or one of those heavy buffalo coats once worn by every cop pounding the beat. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "What I loved about buffalo coats is everyone would talk to you," recalls Wardrop. ALEX LUPUL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Records of arrests in Winnipeg from the early 1900's are maintained in the museum. "Kids loved it, seniors would talk to you, and the drunks would come up to you and ask, Got a light, Teddy Bear?" And now Wardrop and the other retired officers volunteering at the museum return that favour, sharing their stories and experiences with the 10,000 or so visitors who file through annually. "I call them my walking exhibits," says Skrabek of her 18 regular volunteers. "Thats the thing we get the most comments from visitorsthey love the tour guides." brenda.suderman@freepress.mb.ca VENICE (AP) Afghan female filmmakers who fled the Taliban begged the world to not forget the Afghan people and to support its artists, warning Saturday that a country without culture will eventually lose its identity. The Venice Film Festival organized a panel discussion Saturday to give a platform to Sahraa Karimi, the first female president of the Afghan Film Organization, and documentary filmmaker Sahra Mani, who is presenting a project at the Venice film market fair. Karimi choked up while telling reporters about her own escape in which she had just hours to decide whether to stay or leave and all that had been lost after the Taliban completed their takeover of the country. She cited numerous films that were in pre-and-post production, filmmaking workshops that had been organized, insurance policies negotiated for equipment, and said that Afghan directors were increasingly being welcomed at international film festivals. Karimi herself had presented a film at the Venice Film Festival in 2019. It was our dream to change the narrative of Afghanistan, because we were tired of those cliches about Afghanistan, she said. We wanted to produce films, movies and to tell our stories from different angles, from different perspectives, to show the beauty of our country. No choice there either for your or for the folks youre infecting. Even so, nobody certainly not the government should tell anyone what to door so the argument goes. Were talking rights, talking freedom here Thats wrongheaded too. Often times, it aint up to you. Thats the way the world works. Theres no opt out for gravity and getting in the way of Newtons laws of motion is fraught with dire consequences. And when it comes to putting limits on what we can and cannot do, the folks we live with pretty much pick up where Mother Nature left off. Civilization means taking those choices that would be bad for the lot of us off the table as options for you, me, or the guy down the street. By and large we see the good sense in that. So we stop at stop signs, yield to pedestrians, wear pants in public, and refrain from acting on homicidal thoughts even when we feel like doing otherwise. It doesnt take a particularly deep thinker to understand that, ultimately, whats good for everybody is good for me too. Wearing a mask and getting a shot to help stop a pandemic is good for everybody. Good for you too. DUBROVNIK, Croatia (AP) Beaches along Croatia's Adriatic Sea coastline are swarming with people. Guided tours are fully booked, restaurants are packed and sailboats were chartered well in advance. Summer tourism has exceeded even the most optimistic expectations in Croatia this year. Once fearful that the coronavirus pandemic would discourage people from traveling, Croatia's tourism industry was caught by surprise. "It's much better it's almost like 2020 never happened," said Josip Crncevic, a tour guide in Dubrovnik, a southern city known for its Old Town and nightlife that is Croatia's most popular destination. The Balkan country experienced four years of war in the 1990s, but before the pandemic had become a top vacation spot for European and American visitors who appreciated its small towns and scores of islands offering natural beauty, local seafood and recreation in comparatively uncrowded settings. The success of the summer season carries strong implications for Croatia's economy, which is among the weakest in the European Union. Tourism accounts for up to 20% of gross domestic product, and visitor spending is essential to the incomes of locals who rent lodging or run other tourism-linked businesses. LITTLE FALLS, NY Its hard to believe that in one week the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks on the United States will take place. Numerous remembrance ceremonies are taking place nationally as well as here at home. In Little Falls a remembrance walk will take place. The walk is about a mile and participants are asked to meet in the Rotary Park at the Little Falls Marina at 1 pm on the 11th. The walk itself will begin at 1:30. Participants will proceed down the Erie Canal Trail, loop under the Route 167 Bridge, and return to the park. There will be a 9/11 exhibit on display from the Little Falls Library, and the New York State Troopers Wall honoring Troopers that have passed away on duty will also be present at the park. I think it's important that we remember the lives, not just the day, but the lives that were taken so vastly and quickly from us, says Dan Enea who helped organize the walk. We need to make sure that people who weren't around when it happened are made aware of the tragedy that we had to go through. Anyone can show up on the day of the event, next Saturday, September 11th, but organizers say that RSVPs will help with the planning. If youd like to participate you can message organizers here. With the more contagious Delta variant of Covid-19 sweeping across the country this summer, health care workers and officials are finding themselves returning to a crisis experienced last year when hospitals struggled to handle an influx of patients. In the Southeast, Georgia is now seeing its highest number of hospitalizations since the start of the pandemic, matching peaks experienced in January, according to US Health and Human Services Department (HHS) data. Dr. James Black, director of emergency services at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany, Georgia, told CNN's Amara Walker Saturday that his hospital nearly doubled its ICU capacity yet is still faced with an overflow of patients. "The emergency department is full and the hospital is full," Black said. "Anytime a patient is discharged, we have patients waiting on those beds." The city of Albany, located in the southwestern part of the state, had one of the worst outbreaks of Covid-19 in the country at the start of the pandemic. Now hospitalizations are eclipsing those earlier numbers, Black said, calling it "disheartening" to be faced with its return as health care workers once again are on the front lines facing daily risk of infection. "We were frustrated, a little bit bewildered, especially given what we've been through at the onset of the pandemic," Black said, also noting that Georgia trails the national average in vaccination rates. Georgia has fully vaccinated 42.1% of its population, according to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while nationally, 53% of the population is fully vaccinated. "We were a little bit kind of surprised and disappointed at the lack of turnout. So, you know, we've had to redouble our efforts and pick each other up and certainly, we had hoped to not be having the same discussion 18 months into it. But here we are, seemingly in worse shape overall than we were initially." Total hospitalizations in the US nearly tripled in July and doubled again in August, according to HHS data, but weekly national numbers only went up by 2% on Thursday, a potential sign of improvement on the horizon. But this comes as little relief to hospitals in hotspots seeing ICU beds fill up. "We are perilously close...of having, in certain areas of the country getting so close to having full occupancy, that you're going to be in a situation where you're going to be in a situation where you're going to have to make some very tough choice," Dr. Anthony Fauci told CNN's Jim Acosta on Sunday. More than 102,000 people nationwide are hospitalized with Covid-19, according to HHS data Saturday, with more than 25,000 in ICUs. "What we really should be doing, and I hope we are doing, is to do everything we can to mitigate the number of people who are getting infected and requiring hospitalization and ICU beds," said Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. In Hawaii, the state's health department reported 13 new deaths from Covid-19 on Wednesday, its highest single-day death figure of the entire pandemic. A number of restrictions on public businesses were reinstated in August, and Gov. David Ige urged out-of-state visitors to not travel to the islands unless they had urgent business. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has called for a special session of the state general assembly to meet Tuesday regarding Covid-19, with the aim to extend the state's declared state of emergency to January 15 and to review executive, agency and cabinet orders. "The Commonwealth is in a state of emergency. The Delta variant is spreading at a rate never seen before -- impacting businesses, shuttering schools and worse, causing severe illness and death," Beshear said Saturday. Officials concerned about Labor Day weekend Given the recent surge, public health officials are also worried about Labor Day weekend and whether it could exacerbate an already dire situation. On Tuesday, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky asked unvaccinated Americans to not travel for the holiday weekend. Those who are fully vaccinated can travel with precautions, but the current transmission rates mean they, too, should take the risk of traveling into consideration. "I know we're all looking forward to the long weekend," Mayor Derek Kawakami of Kauai County, Hawaii, said in a news conference Friday. But health care workers will not be able to celebrate, he noted, "because they're busy taking care of our sick people." "Now what we choose to do over the next 72 to 96 hours is going to determine a lot of within the next two to three months, on whether we start to continue to burn our hospital systems, burn out our health care workers, keep our kids in school, keep our businesses running, and moving on with moving forward and coexisting with Covid-19." "And while we want everybody to have a great time and I hope to see people surfing, enjoying time with their family ... we want to remind people, the steps to take are simple," he said. "Wear your mask indoors, avoid large gatherings, and if you do, do it outside." Less-vaccinated parts of California face ICU capacity issues California's San Joaquin Valley region has met the threshold to enter "surge protocols," with less than 10% of staffed ICU beds remaining for three consecutive days, the state Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced Friday. All general acute care hospitals in the San Joaquin Valley region with ICU bed capacity must accept transfer patients when "clinically appropriate" and directed by state health officials or the California Emergency Medical Services Authority, in an effort to find open beds for patients in the area where available. This is the first region in the state to trigger the public health order, according to CDPH. The region, which includes 12 counties in the central part of the state, had only 9.4% of adult ICU beds available Saturday, far less than the 20% availability in Southern California and the San Francisco Bay Area. The protocol is set to be reevaluated Thursday, according to the department. The surge in patients hospitalized with Covid-19 in the region comes as the vaccination rate in the area lags behind the state's more urban coastal regions. Less than 50% of eligible residents have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 across much of the agriculture-rich San Joaquin Valley, CDC data shows, with fewer than one-third of all residents fully inoculated in Kings County. "While the state works to further increase the number of eligible Californians vaccinated, we must take steps to protect the unvaccinated who are more at risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death from Covid-19," CDPH said in a statement. "This action will ensure the state's health care delivery system is prepared and can respond appropriately." Vaccinations for those in schools are critical, some states say More children have needed emergency room visits and hospitalizations in states with lower vaccination rates, according to a recent study from the CDC. And some states are working to get ahead of the latest surge by getting as many eligible people vaccinated as possible. The state of Washington, which has an October vaccine mandate for teachers and staff going into effect, is seeing "great news" regarding youth vaccination efforts, according to state health secretary Umair Shah on Thursday. At least 41% of children between 12- and 15-years-old are vaccinated and just under half of the state's 16- to 17-year-olds are fully vaccinated as well. "Washington schools have the structure, protocol and people to have successful in-person education," Shah said. In Illinois, Gov. JB Pritzker is extending the deadline for teachers, college students and health care workers to receive a Covid-19 vaccination. The state mandate for those individuals to have at least one vaccination dose, originally set to go into effect September 5, is being pushed back to September 19 at the request of representatives of the health care industry and education organizations. "While hospitals and schools move forward in good faith, this extension ensures they are prepared to meet this requirement to better protect our most vulnerable residents and children who are not yet eligible to get vaccinated," Pritzker said in a written statement Friday. Employees will only be required to have one shot by September 19 -- with a second shot within 30 days, if necessary -- but those who are not fully vaccinated must be tested for Covid-19 at least once a week. Workers must provide proof of the vaccination to their employers. Exemptions are allowed for people with a medical or religious objection to the vaccine, but those employees also must get a weekly Covid-19 test. The-CNN-Wire & 2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. Calls for Welsh Government to step up Covid measures in schools amidst a rise in cases amongst pupils in other parts of UK A teachers union is calling for the Welsh Government to step up Covid control measures in schools amidst a backdrop of soaring cases in Scotland and Northern Ireland only a few weeks after pupils returned. The NASUWT-The Teachers Union is calling for proactive measures to deliver on promises to improve ventilation and an extension to the programme of onsite testing to break the chain of virus transmission within schools. If there is a sharp rise in cases in Schools across Wales, measures the union would like to see include the need for pupils to self-isolate when they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. A measure that was scrapped for the start of the school year. The union also wants a timetable from the Welsh government as to when 30,000 CO2 monitors, announced last week, will be deployed into schools. NASUWT also wants ministers to reconsider the removal of the requirement to wear face coverings in classrooms. Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT General Secretary said: Ministers must not risk complacency or follow a strategy of crossing their fingers and hoping for the best if the number of Covid cases rise following school reopening. We only need to look to Scotland to see that there has been a steep increase in Covid cases among school-age pupils within just a couple of weeks. In the event of rising case numbers, Ministers will need to consider the reintroduction of the requirement for pupils to self-isolate when they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive. This should be supported by an extended programme of onsite testing in schools, rather than relying on a less effective system of home testing. Schools will also want confirmation of the timetable for the rollout of already promised Co2 monitors into schools to assist them in ensuring good ventilation. There is no reason for further disruption to pupils education, where sensible and proportionate measures are taken to support the already tremendous efforts being taken by schools and staff. Neil Butler, NASUWT National Official Wales, said: If action is not taken to address safety controls, the spread of Covid once again risks further disruption to pupils education and the safety and health of students and staff. Allowing the spread of Covid in schools also risks driving a further wave of infections in the wider community. The Welsh Government needs to reconsider the removal of the requirement to wear face coverings in classrooms. There is a double standard here where the Welsh Government asks employers to require the use of face coverings in enclosed places, but does not require this in classrooms. Ministers cannot simply put the responsibility for safety onto individuals and schools. We need to learn from the situation in Scotland and keep hold of the national Operational Guidance until we have a clearer idea of the impact of returning to school settings. Plaid Cymrus health spokesperson Rhun ap Iorwerth MS has raised the issue as learners are set to return to classrooms and lecture theatres across Wales. The latest data from Public Health Wales has shown that positive test results are at their second highest since the pandemic started. A corresponding rise in hospital admissions from Covid can also now be seen across all health boards in Wales. Mr ap Iorwerth will be writing to the Welsh health minister to ask how the government is planning to respond to this pattern. The Welsh Government previously confirmed that vaccination significantly weakened the link between infection and hospitalisation, but Mr ap Iorwerth said rising cases would always lead to rising hospitalisations. Mr ap Iorwerth said of additional concern is the fact that a recent study shows that one in seven children who catch coronavirus still show symptoms months after the original infection. He said: Our learners are returning to schools, colleges and universities at a time when community transmission and hospital admissions are rising, and far higher than at the same point in 2020. In 2020, the return to school was a factor in community cases rising even higher, and we cannot ignore that this might happen again. Children and young people remain largely unvaccinated, so have little protection against catching the virus, and nothing to stop them passing it on to family and the wider community. Of additional concern is the harm that can be caused by long-COVID, and a recent study shows 1 in 7 children with COVID will still show symptoms after 15 weeks. Schools are crying out for clearer guidance on how to keep children and staff safe from harm: Some of whom are clinically vulnerable, and will be anxious to find out about government plans for a third vaccine dose. Welsh Government must always show how its responding to the ever-changing situation in order to try to allay fears, and this is why Ill be writing to the Health Minister to express the concerns and to seek clarity on the approach she will adopt. There has been a growing epidemic of the misuse of the anti-parasitic medication known as ivermectin for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, although it has yet to be proven an effective treatment. And despite the lack of any valid scientific studies supporting its use, there have been droves of social media accounts of celebrities like Joe Rogan turning to the medication, which dangerously promotes the ongoing quackery. To put into scale the lunacy of it all, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that prescriptions for ivermectin have spiked to 88,000 per week. The pre-pandemic baseline average ran around 3,600 per week. Additionally, the American Association of Poison Control Centers has noted that there has been a five-fold jump in the number of calls regarding its abuse, significantly from those using veterinary formulations. These developments prompted the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to admonish the public to stop abusing the anti-parasitic medication. Last week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an alert to health care providers and the public on reports of severe illness in the misuse of ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19. More recently, the American Medical Association (AMA) issued a statement strongly opposing the ordering, prescribing, or dispensing of ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19 outside of a clinical trial. Consumer warning againts use of Ivermectin. Source Twitter The AMA wrote, We are alarmed by reports that outpatient prescribing for and dispensing of ivermectin have increased 24-fold since before the pandemic and increased exponentially over the past few months. They warned that the veterinary forms of this medication come in highly concentrated formulations intended for large animals that could be toxic to individuals using them. One could perhaps grimace in dismay over one comedian telling his 13 million followers that he used medication intended to deworm livestock, pets or people exposed to helminths parasites, such as roundworms, flukes and tapeworms. But when ivermectin is promoted as the answer to COVID-19 through a political and media campaign, something far more sinister is involved. On August 23, Judge J. Gregory Howard of the Butler County Common Pleas Court in Ohio ordered West Chester Hospital to administer ivermectin to a patient named Jeffrey Smith, who was being cared for in their intensive care unit, despite the FDAs position against its use. Smith contracted COVID-19 sometime in early July, testing positive on July 9. He was admitted to the hospital on July 15. However, his condition deteriorated and he was placed in a medically induced coma and supported on a ventilator on August 1. Apparently, the course of his treatment was difficult and despite having exhausted all course of treatment and COVID-19 protocols, his condition continued to deteriorate. His wife asked the hospital administrators to offer her husband ivermectin, but they refused. According to NBC News , Julie Smith sought a declaratory judgment demanding the hospital follow her request, and the judge fulfilled her request. Even worse is the revelation by the Associated Press that inmates in a northwest Arkansas jail were given ivermectin without their knowledge, while being told that this was medicine for COVID-19. One prisoner, William Evans, told AP, They were pretty much testing us in here is all they were doing, seeing if it would work. He was given the drug for two weeks after he tested positive for COVID-19. Another prisoner, Edwin Floreal-Wooten, said he would never have taken a medicine for farm animals: Never. Im not livestock. Im a human. Pressure is now being placed on hospitals by other families with loved ones struggling on ventilators to provide the medication to them. In a similar case at Memorial Center in Springfield, Illinois, a Sangamon County judge ruled in favor of the hospital, citing the fact that the patient, a 61-year-old-male, was improving and no longer had active COVID. The judge also explained that the medications side effect could injure his kidneys or lungs, compromising his tenuous state. This hasnt stopped Ralph Lorigo, a Buffalo, New York, attorney who took on the Springfield, Illinois case, from leading the charge on other ivermectin cases, using the argument that family members have the right to save their loved ones. He has thus far successfully sued in New York, Illinois and Ohio. The issue here is not the despair of families, which is real, and the blame for it lies on the entire political spectrum that has allowed the virus free rein to infect and kill millions. Rather, the issue at the center of this discussion is whether the standard of care in treating a patient is being met. The argument being employed on behalf of ivermectin is both reactionary and dangerous. Ivermectin: a brief recent history Given the hype over ivermectin and the controversies being generated, few take note that in 2015, the Nobel Committee awarded the prize in physiology or medicine to three scientists who had discovered drugs hidden in various plants and soils that could treat disfiguring and deadly parasitic infections. Parasitic diseases plague an estimated one-third of the worlds population, particularly among the poorest in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia and Latin America. Two of the awardees, Drs. William C. Campbell and Satoshi Omura, developed avermectin in the 1970s, the parent of the now infamous ivermectin, which has helped nearly eradicate river blindness and drastically curtail the incidence of filariasis, a condition that leads to the swelling of lymphatic channels in the legs, causing a condition colloquially called Elephantiasis. The third scientist recognized for the Nobel was Dr. Tu Youyou of China who discovered artemisinin, a drug that has become the mainstay in the prevention of malaria. Drs. William C. Campbell and Satoshi Omura, Nobel Laureates in medicine, in Stockholm December 2015. Source Wikimedia The Nobel Committee wrote, These two discoveries [avermectin and artemisinin] have provided humankind with powerful new means to combat these debilitating diseases that affect hundreds of millions of people annually. The consequences in terms of improved human health and reduced suffering are immeasurable [because parasitic diseases] represent a huge barrier to improving human health and well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) has estimated that approximately 1.5 billion people have been infected with soil-transmitted parasitic worms. More than half of those infected are children who can develop severe abdominal pain with debilitating diarrhea, leading to serious malnutrition. The WHO has recommended that those living in endemic areas periodically take these medications as forms of prevention, a treatment also known as deworming. Alongside its use among a large swath of the population affected by these devastating infections, ivermectins use in veterinary medicine followed its discovery and large-scale manufacturing by Merck. Veterinarians have been using it for nearly 40 years to treat heartworm disease in some small animal species as well as certain internal and external parasites in various animal species. Interestingly, though now in their 90s, Dr. Campbell and Dr. Omura have had an opportunity to weigh in on the controversy surrounding ivermectin, though with opposed sentiments. In April 2020, the Royal Irish Academy asked Dr. Campbell if ivermectin could kill SARS-CoV-2. The question was raised after a study conducted the previous month at Royal Melbourne Hospitals infectious diseases reference laboratory that found ivermectin had a significant ability to inhibit the virus from replicating under in-vitro conditions (in a test tube, culture dish or outside a living organism.) In a lengthy response, he warned that the concentrations used in these tests on mammalian cells were many magnitudes higher than would be tolerated in humans. In high concentrations, ivermectin can lead to many gastro-intestinal disturbances as well as the suppression of breathing, coma and possibly death. Thoughtfully, Dr. Campbell emphasized the need for future studies to determine if ivermectin truly possessed anti-viral efficacy, before using it in a clinical setting. He wrote, On the other hand, it has been approved for use against parasites, not against viruses: and awareness of ivermectins prior approval for a different use carries the risk of unduly raising hopeful expectations in this matter, with attendant risk of hasty and ill-considered action. However, Dr. Omura ,who is affiliated with Kitasato University, has allied himself with promoting ivermectin and its use in fighting the coronavirus, in what amounts to a long descriptive essay published in the Japanese Journal of Antibiotic s in March 2021. Many of the studies cited in his report have never been peer reviewed and suffer significant methodological flaws. Many of the sources have been lifted from pseudo-scientific platforms that have uncritically collected any publication that support their views. Scientists speak out on ivermectin In Brazil, where ivermectin has been heavily promoted by the government of fascistic President Jair Bolsonaro, a professor of microbiology at the University of Brasilia, Dr. Fabiana Brandao, speaking with Estadao , explained ,although the [pseudo-scientific] platform, Ivmmeta.com, presents a structure alluding to scientific works, including graphics and mathematical calculations, the site has dangerous content with harmful interpretations full of [erroneous] and biased data. She notes that the presented studies have not been analyzed by other scientists in the same fields, and that often the studies have characteristics that do not even lend themselves to being compared. Marcio Bittencourt, a researcher at the University Hospital of the University of Sao Paulo, highlighted that these studies have been selected based on their favorable results, but have failed to be published in journals or reviewed by experts. Many of the study authors do not even identify themselves or take responsibility for the data they present. Meanwhile, even Dr. Omuras survey conceded that the WHO and the NIH have recommended against the administration of ivermectin for COVID-19 prevention or treatment. Dr. Mellanie Fontes-Dutra, a doctor of neurosciences at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, called Omuras work a theoretical dissertation, which does not provide confirmation or refutation of the efficacy of ivermectin. However, it is precisely such an objective evaluation that has been lacking, which makes the pseudo-scientific facade presented by Ivmmeta dangerous. Fontes-Dutra explained that to confirm or discard the effectiveness of ivermectin, it would be necessary to conduct meta-analyses with extremely outlined methodologies, randomized and controlled clinical trials are important and have immense weight to hammer out on a subject. Even signed by a Nobel, this [Omuras] article does not change the current state of understanding of the use of ivermectin for COVID-19. The science on ivermectin The pandemic continues to spin out of control, killing more every day without any effort on the part of the ruling elites to stem these repeated waves of infections that enable the convergent evolution of more lethal strains of the coronavirus. Despite the success in developing the COVID vaccines, vaccination has been used not as a mechanism in a comprehensive array of public health measures to eliminate and eradicate the virus globally, but as a means of lulling the population into accepting the inevitability that the virus is here to stay. Finding therapeutics that can limit the severity of or prevent COVID-19 is a serious and medically rewarding venture. For instance, the Randomized Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy (RECOVERY) trial results has established the significance of the drug dexamethasone in the intervention in severe COVID-19 cases. Remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies, under specific criteria, appear to have modest efficacy. Medicinal oxygen is a cornerstone for the management of moderate to severe COVID-19 cases. Meanwhile, drugs like chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, as well as the antibiotic azithromycin, have proven ineffective. The current frenzy and broad-based abuse of ivermectin, however, limits the ability to ascertain in well-designed trials its utility in COVID cases. Yet, when the governments and public health institutions in countries like Brazil, Peru, Colombia and even France, promote and condone without evidence the use of this drug, it sets a dangerous precedent. Even in the face of a health care crisis, properly conducted trials are the cornerstone of identifying reliable and effective treatments. It is precisely in a crisis that such information is most critical. Perhaps the most compelling review of the evidence thus far was conducted by the Cochrane Library, which maintains a collection of databases in medicine and other health care specialties that conduct systematic reviews and meta-analyses which provide summaries and interpretations of the medical research. The non-profit institution is named after Dr. Archibald Leman Cochrane, a Scottish doctor who is well known as a principal figure in modern clinical epidemiology and considered the originator of the idea of evidence-based medicine. In a 16-page report issued by the Cochrane Library this year, titled, Ivermectin for preventing and treating COVID-19, noted that earlier scientific work from a decade ago on ivermectins in-vitro mechanism of action found it could inhibit a particular human cargo protein complex that carries the HIV-1 and other RNA viruses into the nucleus and initiates replication. Though ivermectin showed potential in inhibiting viral replication in-vitro, they found no evidence of its clinical effectiveness on people infected with SARS-CoV-2. In the companion summary report where the results of their analysis are published, the authors found, after limiting consideration to studies considered valid for review, 14 studies with 1,678 participants investigating the use of ivermectin. Of these, nine studies analyzed treatment of patients with moderate disease, four with mild disease, and one on the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Only six studies were double-blinded and placebo-controlled. They note, however, Of the 41 study results contributed by included studies, about one-third were at overall high risk for bias, or unreliable. The reader is encouraged to review and read the summary using the link above in this paragraph. They concluded, Based on the current very low- to low-certainty of evidence, we are uncertain about the efficacy and safety of ivermectin used to treat people with COVID-19 in the inpatient and outpatient settings and to prevent a SARS-CoV-2 infection in people after having high-risk exposure. There is also no evidence available from the study pool as to which is the best dose and regimen of ivermectin. Overall, the reliable evidence does not support the use of ivermectin for treatment or prevention of COVID-19 outside of well-designed randomized controlled trials. Conclusion While hydroxychloroquine as a miracle drug against COVID was exposed early on, ivermectins use, through its promotion by the likes of Joe Rogan or ultra-right Republican senators Rand Paul of Kentucky and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin, has skyrocketed among those claiming to be antivaccine or vaccine-hesitant. The phenomenon is not unique to the US, as many countries governments or celebrities have advocated for their use. And, most disconcerting, given this hype, these dubious studies find their way into medical journals, gaining relevance not based on the merits but rather by the very fact of publication. In other words, the studys presence in a journal grants it authority rather than the weight of its evidence. The case of Dr. Pierre Kory, the president of Front-Line COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC) is worth citing. He testified before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on December 8, 2020, seeking to convince lawmakers to make ivermectin routine in the care of COVID-19 patients and offered as prophylaxis. His study on the review of the emerging evidence on ivermectin, published in the American Journal of Therapeutics in June 2021, was rejected by Frontiers Science News, stating in their rejection letter after a careful review, Upon further scrutiny by our Research Integrity team about the objectivity of this paper during the provisional acceptance phase, it was revealed that the article made a series of strong, unsupported claims based on studies with insufficient statistical significance, and at times, without the use of control groups. Further, the authors promoted their own specific ivermectin-based treatment which is inappropriate for a review article and against our editorial policies. ... In our opinion, this document does not offer an objective or balanced scientific contribution to the evaluation of ivermectin as a potential treatment for COVID-19. What lies at the center of these controversies is the struggle for scientific truth, which is on par with the fight for historical truth. The complete disregard for the conduct of studies, the principle that the truth and not financial opportunity, should be the guide, the statistical manipulation of data, speaks to the complete bankruptcy of the capitalist order. This functions as an extreme form of postmodernism that challenges every reality that is scientifically validated. In this sense, the fight for scientific truth becomes a struggle for a correct political orientation. Dozens of people were evacuated and hundreds made homeless after a fire ripped through a 20-storey apartment block in Milan, northern Italy, on August 29. Events at the tower block, known as Torre dei Moro, are strikingly reminiscent of the catastrophic Grenfell Tower inferno, which took place in London just over four years ago, killing 72 men, women and children under entirely preventable circumstances. Video footage of the Torre dei Moro fire shows the entire tower engulfed in flames, with smoke billowing across the city. Fortunately, no deaths or serious injuries were reported. Although the exact details of the Milan fire are yet to be established, it is thought to have been caused by a short-circuiting electricity supply on the 15th floor. Flames rapidly spread both up and down the building, consuming the entire structure within less than 30 minutes. The apartment block has been left uninhabitable, with photos from inside the building revealing a blackened shell, with rubble and destroyed furniture strewn across the floor. There are concerns that the building could be at risk of collapse as high temperatures have possibly melted steel beams supporting the structure. Smoke billows from a building in Milan, Italy, Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021. Firefighters were battling a blaze on Sunday that spread rapidly through a recently restructured 60-meter-high, 16-story residential building in Milan. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno) Seventy-four residents had to be evacuated from the building, with about 20 of them suffering from mild smoke inhalation. After being rapidly alerted about the fire by an inhabitant of the 16th floor, who posted a message on the buildings group chat and knocked on neighbours doors, most residents were able to quickly and safely leave the building using largely fire-resistant and smoke-excluding stairwells. Torre dei Moro is thought to have accommodated 70 families, many of whom were reportedly not present at the time of the fire, meaning that the number of individuals left homeless could be in the hundreds. Many of the displaced families are being housed in hotels near to the site of the blaze, while others have been taken in by friends and family. Four years on from the Grenfell Tower disaster, events like the Torre dei Moro blaze are a further exposure of the ruling elites criminal disregard for the lives of the working class globally. Decades of deregulation and cost-cutting have endangered or cost the lives of workers in factories, hospitals, tower blocks and other residential buildings across the world. While luckily no fatalities occurred in the Milan fire, events could easily have taken a catastrophic turn. Hundreds of lives have nonetheless been upended and years of precious family possessions lost. Questions are already being raised about the lack of fire safety regulations and equipment at the tower block, with many parallels drawn with the deadly events at Grenfell. Residents have reported faulty fire alarms which failed to ring when pulled, while firefighters responding to the blaze have stated that fire extinguishing systems in the building did not properly work and that water did not flow through fire hoses installed there. A 50-metre-tall aerial ladder, brought by firefighters and which would have been capable of reaching the top of the tower, could not be used due to a lack of suitable spaces to set it up. Had assisted evacuations been necessary, firefighters inability to use this apparatus would have severely hindered rescue efforts. Reports have also emerged that sprinkler systems in the building failed to operate on the majority of the floors. While sprinklers on the first five floors, and two basement levels, worked well, this system did not activate between floors five and 10, media reports have recounted. Above the tenth floor, the system operated only partially. Particularly devastating in light of the Grenfell fire are reports that flammable cladding was used at Torre dei Moro, enabling flames to rapidly spread around the outside of the building. Combustible Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) panels used on Grenfell Tower were the most significant factor in allowing flames to swiftly consume the entire 24-storey building in less than 20 minutes. Witnesses reported that the panels coating Torre dei Moro burnt like cardboard. Speaking to the Corriere della Sera newspaper, one resident said, We were told that the panels covering the building were fireproof, instead they melted like butter. I remember perfectly, we were assured that the panels were fire resistant. While it is not yet clear exactly what type of cladding was used on Torre dei Moro, most reports indicate that some form of ACM cladding with a polyethylene core was likely used. In an interview with the Corriere della Sera, Angelo Lucchini, Professor of Technical Architecture at the Milan Polytechnic, explained that the flammable cladding was chiefly responsible for the rapid spread of the fire. The facade of the building was built with combustible materials, Lucchini told the newspaper. Unfortunately there is no law that prohibits it. Comparing the Milan fire to events at Grenfell Tower, Lucchini continued, there is a strong analogy between the two events. Fortunately in the Milanese case, there were no problems with evacuation, probably because construction rules for compartmentalisation were respected, which prevented flames from attacking internal floors. In London, however, they werent, and it was a tragedy. Another factor, according to reports, that may have played a major role in facilitating the spread of fire at Torre dei Moro was the cavity between the walls of the building and the panels, leading to a so-called chimney effect. As at Grenfell, this allowed flames and heat to travel vertically both up and down the tower in a short amount of time. Many residents spoke to local and national newspapers about the devastating impact the fire has had on their lives. There are 70 families without a home; were back to square one, explained one resident of the Torre dei Moro high rise. I lived on the fourth floor. There is nothing left of the building. We are homeless; we want justice, stated Silvana and Carmelo, two residents of the apartment building. We went down the 11 flights of stairs [to the exit] and we saw that there were flames on the fifteenth floor, the couple continued. In less than half an hour, actually in a few minutes, there was a match effect. I hope that the judiciary quickly investigates because weve been left without a home. A 10-year-old apartment block has ended like this. We residents want justice. That the inferno did not lead to a catastrophic loss of life is largely down to luck. Unlike the Grenfell fire, the blaze at Torre dei Moro took place at around 5 oclock in the afternoon, meaning many residents were already out of the building and those inside were awake and able to evacuate quickly. By contrast, the inferno at Grenfell took place in the middle of the night, with many inhabitants not waking up until it was much too late to leave the tower. Importantly, however, as fire safety expert Angelo Lucchini noted, internal compartmentalisation regulations had largely been respected at Torre dei Moro, meaning flames were not able to breach the inside of the building and spread from apartment to apartment at the same rate as at Grenfell. Stairways had largely been sealed off from the rest of the building, allowing residents to evacuate by this route without succumbing to the deadly effects of smoke inhalation. While Milans prosecutors office has opened an investigation into the Torre dei Moro fire, no trust should be placed in the ruling elite to secure justice and compensation for those who have been made homeless. Like countless other inquiries and investigations before it, it will prove to be a cover-up intended to protect the corporate and political culprits who bear chief responsibility for the destruction. The Grenfell Inquiry has been going on for four years, despite a wealth of information being in the public domain from day one as to the identity of the culprits responsible in corporate and political circles. The building was clad in highly flammable material in order to save money, turning a safe building into a death-trap during a refurbishment. The inquiry set up by Theresa Mays Conservative government under Labours 2005 Inquiries Act has no power to determine any persons civil or criminal liability. No-one is being prosecuted as the Metropolitan Police long ago declared that its own investigation would wait until the inquiry finished and produced its report before even considering doing so. The inquiry may not even conclude next year, five years after the fire. Tuhan's family crossed the border from China's western Xinjiang region to Afghanistan 45 years ago to escape persecution. Now, as the Taliban exerts control over the country, she fears she and other ethnic Uyghurs could be sent back to China by members of the militant group keen to curry favor with Beijing, which has been accused of carrying out a genocide on the Muslim minority. Tuhan, who is using a pseudonym to protect her identity from the Taliban, is caught between a homeland where Uyghurs are facing increasing repression, and an adopted country where they are considered outsiders. What worries them most is that they could be deported to China. Over the past few years, the Chinese government has escalated its security and religious crackdown in Xinjiang. Up to 2 million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities are believed to have passed through a sprawling network of detention centers across the region, according to the US State Department. Former detainees allege they were subjected to intense political indoctrination, forced labor, torture, and even sexual abuse. China vehemently denies allegations of human rights abuses, insisting the camps are voluntary "vocational training centers" designed to stamp out religious extremism and terrorism. Tuhan said she fears what will happen to her and her family if they're forced to return. "All these past years, life was difficult ... But what is happening now is the worst," she said, referring to the Taliban takeover. "It is just a matter of time before (the Taliban) find out that we are Uyghurs. Our lives are in danger." "China refugee" Tuhan was just 7 years old when she and her parents fled Yarkand, an oasis on the ancient Silk Road near the Chinese border with Afghanistan. At the time, Kabul was known as the "Paris of the East," and for ethnic Uyghurs, it was a sanctuary from China's Cultural Revolution, a decade of political and social turmoil from 1966 to 1976, during which Islam -- like all other religions -- was harshly cracked down upon. Tuhan is one of up to 3,000 Uyghurs in Afghanistan, according to Sean Roberts, a professor at George Washington University and author of "The War on the Uyghurs," making them a tiny minority in the country of more than 37 million. Many of them fled China after the Communist Party took control of Xinjiang in 1949. Some -- like Tuhan -- migrated in the mid-1970s, during the chaos of the last years of the Cultural Revolution, crossing mountain passes in the south of Xinjiang to seek refuge, Roberts said. Many of the Uyghurs now hold Afghan citizenship, but their identification cards still identify them as Chinese refugees -- including second generation immigrants, according to an ID photo shared with CNN and accounts of two Uyghurs. Abdul Aziz Naseri, whose parents fled Xinjiang in 1976, said his ID still identifies him as a "China refugee," even though he was born in Kabul. Naseri, who now lives in Turkey, said he has collected the names of more than 100 Uyghur families who want to flee Afghanistan. "They're afraid from China, because the Taliban was dealing with China behind the door. And they are afraid to (be) sent back to China," he said. A "good friend" There's reason for Uyghurs in Afghanistan to be worried, say experts. In July, a Taliban delegation paid a high-profile visit to Tianjin, where they met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Wang called the Taliban "an important military and political force in Afghanistan" and declared that they would play "an important role in the country's peace, reconciliation and reconstruction process." In return, the Taliban called China a "good friend" and pledged to "never allow any forces to use the Afghan territory to engage in acts detrimental to China," according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on the meeting. And last week, a Taliban spokesperson called for closer relations with Beijing in an interview with Chinese state broadcaster CGTN. "China is a very important and strong country in our neighborhood, and we have had very positive and good relations with China in the past," Zabihullah Mujahid said. "We want to make these relations even stronger and want to improve the mutual trust level." Roberts said Uyghurs' fears the Taliban could deport them to China to gain more favor with Beijing were legitimate. "(The Taliban) have a lot of reasons to try to ingratiate Beijing in terms of gaining international recognition, in terms of getting financial assistance at the time when most of the international community is not giving them financial assistance," he said. Tuhan's concern over potentially being forced to return to China is deepened by Beijing's increasingly aggressive efforts in recent years to bring overseas Uyghurs back to Xinjiang, including from Muslim countries. CNN has collected more than a dozen accounts detailing the alleged detention and deportation of Uyghurs at China's request in Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. In a report published in June, the Uyghur Human Rights Project said there were least 395 cases of Uyghurs being deported, extradited, or rendered back to China from countries across the world since 1997. In a statement to CNN, China's Foreign Ministry called the Uyghur Human Rights Project an "outright anti-China separatist organization." "The so-called data and reports released by them have no impartiality and credibility, and are not worth refuting at all," it said. Cracking down on militants The Chinese government has a long history of engaging with the Taliban, dating back to the late 1990s, when the militant group last controlled Afghanistan. Beijing has repeatedly urged the Taliban to crack down on Uyghur militants in Afghanistan, primarily the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), which it has blamed for almost every terror attack or violent incident in Xinjiang and other parts of the country. During his July meeting with Taliban officials in Tianjin, Wang, the Chinese foreign minister, said ETIM "poses a direct threat to China's state security and territory integrity." A video released by state broadcaster CGTN in 2019 compared the ETIM to al Qaeda and ISIS, saying it "has attempted to recruit people on a massive scale, spreading a radical ideology that continues to cause chaos in many countries around the world." But experts say there is little independent evidence to confirm China's claims of ETIM's size, capabilities and influence -- and there are doubts that it still exists today. ETIM started as a small group of Uyghurs who came to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan in 1998 with the intent to establish an insurgency against Chinese rule, according to Roberts. The Taliban initially allowed the group to settle in Afghanistan, but in an attempt to seek Chinese support amid international isolation, the Taliban assured Beijing that it would not allow any group to use its territory to conduct attacks against China. In the 1990s and 2000s, Xinjiang saw a rise in violent attacks, which Roberts said were often spontaneous outbursts of grievances toward the Chinese government's repressive policies. But after the 9/11 attacks, Beijing tried to reframe all those incidents as being related to Islamic terrorism directed by external groups such as ETIM, he said. Few people had heard of ETIM until it was designated by the US government as a terrorist organization in 2002, during a period of increased anti-terrorism cooperation with China in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. That decision, however, has been questioned by experts and officials, who see it as a quid pro quo by Washington to gain Beijing's support for the invasion of Iraq. Last year, amid worsening US-China relations, the Trump administration delisted ETIM as a terrorist group, drawing the ire of Beijing. The US State Department said the removal was because "for more than a decade, there has been no credible evidence that ETIM continues to exist." ETIM's founder Hasan Mahsum was killed in 2003 by troops in Pakistan, where he and his followers fled following the US bombing of Afghanistan. The group appears to have died with him, said Roberts. But by 2008, a successor group to ETIM, called the Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), had emerged and threatened to attack the Beijing Olympics. The group is known to be affiliated with al Qaeda and later became a key player in the Syrian civil war. "They've been very prolific in terms of producing videos threatening Beijing, but there's no evidence of them being able to carry out any attacks inside China," Roberts said. But the Chinese government has continued to use the existence of the TIP -- which Beijing still refers to by the name ETIM -- to highlight the threat of terrorism and justify its ongoing crackdown in Xinjiang, said experts and Uyghur activists. "Why send a friend?" Now in her early 50s, Tuhan lives in northern Afghanistan, making a living by tailoring people's clothes, while her children do odd jobs, like painting neighbors' houses, for whatever money they can get. But even regular people like her could find themselves swept up in Beijing's campaign against terror groups. Roberts said it is unclear that TIP has a significant presence in Afghanistan, although a small number of its members are believed to be living in the country. If the Taliban were to deport anyone to China, it would most likely be ordinary Uyghurs rather than the TIP members they have had long-term relations with, he said. "If they want to show Beijing they were being receptive to its demands (for repatriation), why send a friend they know when they could just send any random Uyghurs in Afghanistan and suggest they are a threat to Beijing?" Roberts said. Despite having lived for decades in Afghanistan, the Uyghurs are considered outsiders, and unlike thousands of people airlifted to safety by the US and its allies, they have no country to help negotiate their exit. "They don't really have anybody to advocate on their behalf, to help them get out of the country," Roberts said. Tuhan said she and her family don't even have passports, so they have limited options to leave Afghanistan, even if another country was willing to take them. "They don't give passport for free, and we can't afford it. But now they have stopped issuing the passports anyway," she said. "It has been 45 years since we fled here. We have grown old without seeing a good day," she said. "Hopefully our kids could have a better life. That's all we want. We just want to be saved from this oppression." The-CNN-Wire & 2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved. CASEY, Ill. (WTHI) - The Casey, Illinois Fire Department finally got the chance to welcome visitors to their new home! The construction for the new firehouse began in late 2019, and the team moved in March of 2020 right before Covid-19 really took off. They never had a chance to showcase their new home to the community. Saturday the station invited the public to come on over and finally check it out. The fire department was in two different buildings prior to this expansion. Now, all of the Casey trucks are under the same roof. "It made it a lot better for us as far as being able to respond to fires and stuff with all of our equipment at the same time," Casey Fire Chief Jason Garver said. The fire chief says the new station was made possible with a large donation, and many fundraisers along the way. They look forward to continuing to serve the community in their new and improved base. INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTHI) - The Indiana USAR Task Force #1 members are on their way home from Ida recovery efforts. This comes after dozens of team members helped with efforts in New Orleans after Hurricane Ida's devastating impact on the city. 45 members helped with search and rescue efforts and provided locals with water and basic needs during this difficult time. The team will return sometime this weekend. A report from Science Daily gave a frightening report. Scientists have determined that the Earth is leaking oxygen into space! Scientists studying Earths magnetic field have also stumbled onto the fact that our magnetic field charges oxygen atoms into ions and flings them into space, a bit like a slingshot, according to Hans Nilsson of the Swedish Institute of Space Physics. Scientists quickly add theres nothing to worry about.for now. However, they say that when the Sun gets older and hotter, the leaking may increase. First global warming, now leaking oxygen. I may never sleep again! SAN DIEGO (AP) Veteran-led rescue groups say the Biden administrations estimate that no more than 200 U.S. citizens were left behind in Afghanistan is too low and also overlooks hundreds of other people they consider to be equally American: permanent legal residents with green cards. Some groups say they continue to be contacted by American citizens in Afghanistan who did not register with the U.S. Embassy before it closed and by others not included in previous counts because they expressed misgivings about leaving loved ones behind. As for green card holders, they have lived in the U.S. for years, paid taxes, become part of their communities and often have children who are U.S. citizens. Yet the administration says it does not have an estimate on the number of such permanent residents who are in Afghanistan and desperately trying to escape Taliban rule. The fear is that nobody is looking for them, said Howard Shen, spokesman for the Cajon Valley Union School District in the San Diego area that is in contact with one such family who says they cannot get out. Stung by the U.S. militarys chaotic and deadly retreat, President Biden has promised that evacuation efforts will continue for the 100 to 200 American citizens who want to leave, most of whom he said are dual citizens. And Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that extends to green card holders and Afghans who supported the U.S. government during the 20-year war. Its unclear how that will work without an active U.S. military presence in the country and the Taliban-controlled Kabul airport, a major way out of the country, now closed. But an undersecretary of state said this past week that all American citizens and permanent residents who could not get evacuation flights or were otherwise stranded had been contacted and told to expect further details about routes out once those have been arranged. Three school districts in California say they know of more than 30 children enrolled in their schools who have not been able to return. One family who has lived in Sacramento for years has been texting daily with their childrens elementary school principal while trying to escape. The parents and three children all legal U.S. residents went to Afghanistan in April to care for their sick grandmother after being unable to do so for months because of COVID-19 restrictions. Caught by surprise by the quick Taliban takeover, the family members were unable to get through the crush of thousands of people at the airport in Kabul before the last U.S. plane left Aug. 31. Now they fear they will be forgotten by the U.S. government, especially since they are not American citizens. Im loosing the hope, the mother, who is not being named to protect her safety, texted in broken English to Principal Nate McGill, who urged her to not give up. McGill said California Democratic Rep. Doris Matsui, who has been working to free the family, tried to help them board a flight in Afghanistan. But they were pushed back. The family, whose three children are in first, third and fourth grade, fled amid tear gas and gunfire as U.S. forces and the Taliban tried to control the crowd. We run away from the gate. Situation is very scary. Kids are crying because of these firing, the mother texted, later adding: I totally lost my mind sir ... today I saw my death. Mohammad Faizi, a green card holder from the San Diego suburb of El Cajon, said he and his wife and five children were stopped by the Taliban at a checkpoint on their way to the airport. His wife is a U.S. citizen. Faizi, whose family got out just before the last U.S. flight left, said he was asked at the checkpoint why he was trying to leave Afghanistan. I told him, Thats our country. Thats my nation. Were living there. So we have to get out of here. The Taliban, which are in need of foreign aid, have said they will allow people with valid travel papers to leave, and the international community says it will be monitoring to see if they keep their word. Mike Jason, who runs an ad-hoc rescue operation called Allied Airlift 21, said his volunteer group has been in contact with 78 green card holders trapped in the country, but that the figure does not capture the scale of the problem. Add their spouses and children to the tally, he said, and the number rises to nearly 400. Jason and others say they also believe the number of U.S. citizens is much higher than 200 people and is misleading because it does not include their family members who may be green card holders. Allied Airlift has identified 45 U.S. citizens in the country but has documents on more than 250 family members stuck there with them. Such volunteers say they are also skeptical of the governments estimate because it only includes American citizens who registered with the U.S. Embassy before it was shuttered in Kabul, a process that was entirely voluntary. Alex Plitsas, an Iraq War veteran who is part of an informal rescue network called Digital Dunkirk, said he received calls from six U.S. citizens stuck in Afghanistan in just one day earlier this week and none had registered with the U.S. Embassy. He suspects the true number of U.S. citizens left behind could be off by hundreds. Those names are starting to trickle out now, said Plitsas, a former civilian intelligence officer in Afghanistan. I expect that number to rise significantly. Plitsas said hes also handled pleas from more than 100 U.S. green card holders trying to leave over the past two weeks and says they should get just as much attention as U.S. citizens. They live here, he said. Theyre our folks. Republican Rep. Darrell Issas office said he is working to evacuate an 80-year-old couple who are both U.S. citizens and live in San Diego County, along with two other families from his congressional district that covers El Cajon. The administration says 6,000 U.S. citizens made it out, most on U.S. military flights. Issa said he believes the number of U.S. citizens still there and wanting to leave is closer to 500. That includes roughly the number the State Department says made clear they want to leave and additional U.S. citizens who were not counted because they expressed concern about leaving behind family members to die. If you include the family members of U.S. citizens, the number of people could be as high as 1,000, he added. Unless we continue and get the rest of our American citizens, and all those otherwise eligible out, we wont have done our job, Issa said. Republican Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska, a former Air Force officer receiving calls for help in the rescue effort, said the Biden administration needs to give a full accounting of those left behind and stop limiting its official tally to U.S. citizens. The problem is, it doesnt include families, he said. Theyre lowballing the numbers. Rescue coordinator Chuck Nadd, an Afghanistan veteran, said the numbers being reported back to him by 180 Digital Dunkirk volunteers suggest there are hundreds of green card holders desperate to get out. Among them are the three Sacramento schoolchildren whose mother recently texted their principal a photo of them with forlorn faces and handmade signs reading, Take us out of Afghanistan, please and I am SO scared here. ___ Condon reported from New York. Associated Press writers Kathy Gannon in Kabul, Afghanistan, and Matt Lee in Washington contributed to this report. Fairmont, WV (26554) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning becoming more widespread in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 79F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Morgantown, WV (26505) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High around 80F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Charleston, WV (25311) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 78F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.. Tonight Thunderstorms during the evening, then cloudy skies overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Clarksburg, WV (26301) Today Scattered thunderstorms in the morning becoming more widespread in the afternoon. High around 80F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.. Tonight Thunderstorms in the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%. Denis Villeneuves Dune has been the talk of the Lido since Fridays buzzy world premiere, with Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, and the rest of a star-studded cast gracing the red carpet. But while Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures sci-fi tentpole brought some welcome star power to this years Venice Film Festival, it could bring an even bigger boost to the Hungarian film industry, which brought its considerable skills and manpower to bear on hosting the $160 million epic. Its the latest success story for the second-biggest production hub in Europe, behind only the U.K., which has not only weathered the coronavirus pandemic but is on pace to reach record-breaking heights. Though production briefly ground to a halt in Hungary last spring interrupting additional photography on Dune, amongst other high-profile projects a swift response from the government and the industry alike led to a quick restart. More from Variety Since then, production has been in full swing. Weve never been busier, says Adam Goodman of Mid Atlantic Films, which serviced principal photography on Dune in 2019. Mid Atlantic, which recently wrapped shooting on Lionsgates Borderlands, starring Cate Blanchett and Kevin Hart, is in production on season three of Paramounts Jack Ryan series, Sonys horror-thriller The Bride, and Marvels Moon Knight series for Disney Plus, while prepping several new projects, including the second seasons of Showtimes Halo and the Netflix series Shadow and Bone. It would be a busy slate under normal circumstances, but the backlog of productions left in limbo by the pandemic has only added to the urgency. Im talking to studios who are budgeting to make commitments in order toopen up office in January, he says. They know that theyre going to have to move quickly to get ahead of other shows that are also [planning to shoot in] Budapest. Story continues Vivien Laszloffy of Pioneer Stillking Films, which after the restart was able to complete additional photography on Dune, credits the industry for enacting strict protocols that created a climate of reassurance and trust for international productions. We knew how to manage this as good as possible, with all the testing and all the COVID protocols, she says. At the beginning, we were all facing this new world. And now its become part of our daily life. Pioneers slate includes NBCUniversals FBI International, Lionsgates John Wick prequel, and the latest feature from Yorgos Lanthimos, Poor Things. Laszloffy says production this year has been on par with 2019 a record-breaking year for the industry with no signs of slowing down. Its the other way around, she says. Its getting busier and busier. Industry players credit the government for introducing a host of measures to keep the film business afloat throughout the pandemic, including an emergency fund to support freelance industry workers, and more than $3 million in grants to support local distributors and exhibitors. Entry permits for certain key industries, including film and TV production, were granted at a time when travel across much of the world was halted. The measures have bolstered an industry that in the past decade has cemented itself as a go-to hub for studio productions outside the U.S., drawn by a 30% cash rebate (which can reach 37.5% through the addition of qualifying non-Hungarian costs), skilled crews, and production costs that are 30%-35% lower than those in the U.S. or U.K., and 25% lower than in Western Europe. Direct film production spending in Hungary has surpassed $350 million every year since 2017, according to film commissioner Csaba Kael. Rather than rest on its laurels, however, the industry is constantly looking for ways to evolve. I firmly believe that our industry will only be able to keep its leading position and competitiveness if we are focusing unceasingly on development, Kael tells Variety. Nowhere is that more apparent than in the expansion of the state-owned Mafilm Studio complex outside Budapest, which has hosted productions such as Villeneuves Blade Runner 2049, Paramounts Terminator: Dark Fate, and Netflixs The Witcher and The Last Kingdom. Construction is underway on four new sound stages that will boost studio space five-fold to 12,200 sq.m., giving a much-needed lift to an industry that is already operating at close to full capacity. Other studios are keeping pace. Mihaly Toth of Origo Studios, which hosted Dune as well as projects including Focus Features Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris, says the studios new additions include a water tank purpose-built for the 2019 shoot of the Russian blockbuster Chernobyl: Abyss, a green-screen stage, and a host of air-conditioned warehouses and workshops. Plans are underway to extend the backlot and add new stages as well. Each development bolsters the overall strength of the Hungarian industry. We are not real competitors in the country, as the different studios offer various services and facilities, says Toth. He notes how productions such as Blade Runner 2049 and Columbia Pictures Inferno were filmed at both Origo and Korda Studios, taking advantage of what each has to offer. Cooperation between the studios saves valuable time and money for productions and that is good for everyone. In charting the path forward, Kael likes to invoke the rich history of a film industry which celebrates its 120th anniversary this year, noting how a country that produced pioneers such as Fox Studios founder William Fox and Paramount Pictures founder Adolph Zukor both Hungarian immigrants has taken great strides to create whats often referred to as Hollywood on the Danube. He draws the comparison to Italy, which in the 1950s boasted a production hub that, much like Budapest today, lured the international blockbusters of its time while also producing the likes of Michelangelo Antonioni and Federico Fellini. Says Kael: I used to say to my friends, We can start a Dolce Vita here in Budapest. Best of Variety Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Angelina Jolie opened up to the Guardian on Sunday about her life and her new book, Know Your Rights and Claim Them: A Guide for Youth. The book and much of Jolies activism are dedicated to ensuring the rights of children around the world. Her new work is written in partnership with child rights lawyer Geraldine Van Bueren QC and Amnesty International. More from Deadline In discussing the book and its themes, Jolie also spoke about her own struggles to advocate for herself. I started working really young to help [my mother] pay bills and stuff. And I wasnt aware of how I deserved to be treated as a young girl and a human being. I didnt feel I was born with these rights and protections. When asked about her experience of being disrespected in Hollywood, Jolie gave an all too familiar answer. Well, no surprise, Harvey Weinstein. I worked with him when I was young, she says. Jolie made Playing By Heart, which was released by Miramax, in 1998. It was then she said she had the bad experience with the producer that she briefly described to the New York Times in 2017. Given the context of her book its focus on the rights of young people, Jolie spoke to the Guardian more expansively than she has before about the incident. Victims of assault out of shame, self-blame or simply the desire to forget often play down such incidents. Jolie was no exception. If you get yourself out of the room, you think he attempted but didnt, right? The truth is that the attempt and the experience of the attempt is an assault, says Jolie. Asked more specifically about the incident with Weinstein, she told the Guardian she didnt want to get too far off of the topic of the book. Story continues In that context, she was asked, were his actions an abuse of her rights? It was, she says. It was beyond a pass, it was something I had to escape. I stayed away and warned people about him. I remember telling Jonny [Lee Miller], my first husband, who was great about it, to spread the word to other guys dont let girls go alone with him. I was asked to do The Aviator, but I said no because he was involved. (Miramax produced the film.) I never associated or worked with him again. It was hard for me when Brad did. Brad, of course, is Brad Pitt, to whom she was married and from whom she is now divorced. It was hard, she said, when Pitt worked with Weinstein on Inglourious Basterds. That 2009 film, like many Quentin Tarnatino projects, was released by the Weinstein Company in the U.S. Pitt also later worked with TWC on Killing Them Softly in 2012. We fought about it. Of course it hurt, said Jolie, that he worked with Weinstein after she told him about the incident. She said she avoided events for the film where she might bump into Weinstein. Pitt had confronted Weinstein about such behavior before. In the New York Times piece, previous girlfriend Gwyneth Paltrow recounts a hotel room incident similar to Jolies with Weinstein during the time Paltrow and Miramax were preparing to shoot 1996s Emma. Afterward Paltrow says Pitt, to his credit, confronted Weinstein about it. Last year, Weinstein received a 23-year sentence in New York after being found guilty of two sex crime felony charges. He currently faces rape charges in Los Angeles that could see him behind bars for up to 140 years. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. President Joe Biden's Grandaughter Naomi Engaged to Peter Neal: 'Forever' Naomi Biden/Instagram Naomi Biden is engaged! On Saturday evening, Naomi, 27 who is the eldest daughter of President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden revealed that her longtime boyfriend, Peter Neal, had popped the question and asked for her hand in marriage. Sharing a photograph of herself and Neal posing together as the setting sun bounced off their faces, Naomi held up her hand in the shot to show off her stunning engagement ring. "Forever ," the Columbia Law graduate captioned the sweet shot as Neal shared the same picture to his own Instagram page without a caption. RELATED: Naomi Biden Sports Same Dress Sister Maisy Wore to Grandfather Joe Biden's Inauguration In the comments section, various users congratulated the couple on their exciting news. "Congratulations, that's fantastic, you have found your soulmate ," one wrote as another added, "Congrats!! Ring is GORGEOUS." U.S. Vice President Joe Biden (L) waves with his granddaughter Naomi Biden as they walk out from Air Force Two upon arrival at the Beijing Capital International Airport on August 17, 2011 in Beijing, China. Ng Han Guan-Pool/Getty Neal, a fellow law school attendee, previously interned for Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign, according to Guest of Guest. The outlet added that he also interned at the White House when Barack Obama served as President, and when Naomi's grandfather served as his second-in-command. President Biden, 78, is a proud grandfather who told Anderson Cooper during a CNN town hall in March 2020, "Every single day, I speak to all five of my grandkids. Either on the phone, or I text with them." During the final night of the Democratic National Convention, President Biden's granddaughters Maisy, Finnegan, Natalie, and Naomi said in an interview with PBS News Hour that he calls them all every day. "He'll pick up our calls no matter where he is," Naomi said. "He'll be onstage, giving a speech, and we'd call him and he'd be like, 'What's wrong?!'" RELATED: President Biden Visits Hurricane-Ravaged Gulf Coast: 'I Promise We're Going to Have Your Backs' "We've grown up together," she added. "He's made sure that every single tradition, every holiday, we're all together ... I don't think there's been any decision, no matter how big or small, that we haven't decided as a family." Hunter, 51, shares daughters Naomi, Maisy, and Finnegan with ex-wife Kathleen Biden, as well as a child born in 2018 with an Arkansas woman and a baby boy, born in March 2020, with wife Melissa Cohen. At his father's January inauguration, it was revealed the baby boy was named Beau after Hunter's late brother. US Navy Sailors Paul R. Fridley, Bradley A. Foster, Bailey J. Tucker U.S. Navy The U.S. Navy has identified the sailors killed in a helicopter crash off the California coast this past week. Five service members have been declared dead after their MH-60S helicopter went down about 60 nautical miles off the coast of San Diego. The crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday while "conducting routine flight operations from USS Abraham Lincoln," according to a Navy statement released Wednesday. RELATED: 5 Missing Navy Sailors Declared Dead After Helicopter Crashed into Pacific Ocean off Calif. Coast The Navy personnel have been identified as: Lt. Bradley A. Foster, 29, a pilot from Oakhurst, California Lt. Paul R. Fridley, 28, a pilot from Annandale, Virginia Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class James P. Buriak, 31, from Salem, Virginia Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Sarah F. Burns, 31, from Severna Park, Maryland Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Bailey J. Tucker, 21, from St. Louis, Missouri. On Saturday, the Navy declared the sailors dead after an exhaustive search to find them in the Pacific Ocean failed. "Coordinated rescue efforts" shifted that same day from search and rescue to recovery after more than 72 hours. RELATED: 5 Missing after U.S. Navy Helicopter Crashes at Sea During Routine Operation On Wednesday, the Navy's Third Fleet announced one sailor had been rescued shortly after the incident and taken to a San Diego hospital in stable condition. Lt. Samuel R. Boyle, a spokesman for the Pacific fleet, said five other sailors on the aircraft carrier were also injured, per The Associated Press. Three more were reportedly treated on-site for minor injuries while two others were also taken to a San Diego hospital. An investigation into the incident is in progress. Photo credit: Jane Beiles Our column "The Best Room At" offers a glimpse inside some of the most charming, luxurious, and iconic properties around the world. David Bowd had his eye on property in upstate New York even before the area developed one of the hottest real-estate markets around. Wed been looking in the area for about seven years, Bowd, the CEO of Salt Hotels, says. I lived in London for 20 years, and on weekends my friends and I would go explore someplace in a two-hour radius of London. Thats something that wasnt done so much in America. Over the past few years, theres been a feeling of people wanted to explore the area around New York and things have really opened up. So, when Bowdwhose portfolio includes two properties in Provincetown, MAfirst saw a 73-acre former foundry property in Kingston, New York, he knew hed discovered something special. I cant tell you how many sites we looked at, but with this one from the moment we first wenteven when it was a complete messit was just breathtaking, he says. Most other properties upstate arent right on the river, theyre usually back behind the train lines. But because the train goes into Kingston proper, it does a loop around our property so we had to do this project, it was just so spectacular. Photo credit: Jane Beiles Hutton Brickyards opened in the Spring of 2021 and welcomed guests to its 31 suites, restaurant, spa, and bounty of outdoor activitiesincluding riverside yoga classes, archery, an outdoor gym, a roving afternoon drinks cart, or fire pits, which make for an ideal evening gathering spot. Guests check in at a charming mansion at the top of the property and then are whisked past ruins of a brick foundry to their private suite, adding to the feeling that theyre truly getting away from it all. Itd be easy to while away a stay on property, but making plans to visit nearby Kingstonfull of shops and great restaurants, like the cant-miss Tex Mex eatery The Armadillois a must. Story continues Here, we talk to Bowd about the property's best accommodations, and what makes it one of the regions most exciting new additions. What do you consider the best room at the hotel? Why? All of the rooms are interesting, but for me its the River View King Cabins. There are 12 that are directly on the river, and because of the way we position the cabinsand because one end of each is made entirely of glassyou really feel like youre there on your own, just you and the river. People talk about being with nature, but here its at the level you choose; you can get completely lost in nature or do nature in a luxury setting. Ive never stayed someplace else in the world like this. Photo credit: Jane Beiles How much does it cost per night? Room rates begin at $395 per night. How would you describe the guests and vibe at the hotel? Its a mindset rather than a demographic; our guests are really looking for a true experience. Weve had guests come purely for relaxation and isolation, who do multiple spa treatments and dont interact much at all, or there are people who gather around the fire pits at night and enjoy being much more social. Photo credit: Jane Beiles What feeling about the region do you hope to impart to guests? What I love is the friendly nature of Kingston. Before opening, we were in Kingston all the time, staying in the hotels and eating in the restaurants, and there are some truly incredible things there. Theres great service and a real lack of pretention, which Ive found so welcoming. Thats what I want our guests to experience; we try to direct guests into so any of those other places so they can truly experience the whole of Kingston. So, yes, theres the stunning nature of the region, but also this really lovely hospitality. Photo credit: Jane Beiles Whats one thing about the hotel that you think first time visitors will find surprising? To me what was fascinating was the process of the brick making. As you drive down from the mansion into the main village of room, youre driving past history. I learned so much about brick making and how it formed the landscape; everything youre seeing is about the 200 years of work that was happening on the site. This site is such an iconic part of the waterway; we like to celebrate the new and the old. Now I know far more about brick making than I ever thought I would, but people love the story of the place. You Might Also Like As Georgia faces a surge of covid-19 cases, state health-care workers recently had to shut down and vacate a mobile vaccination clinic after being threatened by a swarm of protesters. Others are receiving harassing emails, and some are seeing their social media accounts flooded with false information about vaccines. The state's top health official detailed the examples of increasing hostility toward health-care workers during a Monday briefing. Speaking alongside Republican Gov. Brian Kemp, she pleaded for civility toward those working "tirelessly to keep people alive." Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. "This is wrong. This is absolutely wrong," Kathleen Toomey, the state's Department of Public Health commissioner, said during the news conference. "These people are giving their lives to help others and to help us in the state. We in Georgia can do better." Toomey said she was particularly troubled by the vaccine site shuttering over "harassment, bullying and threats directed at our team." In Georgia, 41.2% of eligible residents are fully vaccinated, according to The Washington Post's tracker. The national rate is 52.4%. Throughout the pandemic, health-care workers and public officials have faced threats for promoting vaccines, encouraging the use of masks and battling disinformation. Harassment was so rampant in Colorado that the state banned the doxing of public health workers. After battling the virus for more than a year, many health professionals are burned out. Roughly 3 in 10 health workers have considered leaving the profession. Related video: Health-care workers found ways to cope a year into pandemic Toomey on Monday referenced the fatigue of health-care workers in Georgia. They are again seeing an influx of critically ill patients, including some who need to be put on ventilators. "I know how tired they are," she said of the health workers. Story continues Though Toomey offered few specifics about the harassing behavior, her spokeswoman told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that health-care workers in Georgia have been "yelled at, threatened and demeaned by some of the very members of the public they were trying to help." "Aside from feeling threatened themselves, staff realized no one would want to come to that location for a vaccination under those circumstances, so they packed up and left," the spokeswoman, Nancy Nydam, told the Journal-Constitution, adding that the vaccine site was in north Georgia. At the Monday news conference, Toomey said that as a senior health official, she expects a certain degree of public backlash. But no one should be directing their anger about pandemic policies toward those on the front lines, she said. "Maybe it comes with the territory of someone in my position, but it shouldn't be happening to those nurses who are working in the field to try to keep this state safe," Toomey said, adding, "We should be thanking these individuals for trying to get lifesaving vaccines to our state." Georgia's new daily reported covid-19 infections rose by nearly 15% in the past week, according to The Post's coronavirus tracker. During that same time period, new daily reported deaths were up by more than 72%. Nearly all new reported infections are attributable to the highly contagious delta variant, Toomey said at the news conference. Related Content George W. Bush's wars are now over, but he retreated a while ago 'Impeachment: American Crime Story' shows there are limits to how much we can (or should) rehab '90s tabloid figures Doctors dismayed by patients who fear coronavirus vaccines, but clamor for unproven ivermectin Larry D. Cavitt, pictured, allegedly used a 9mm handgun to shoot his half-brother. Massac County Sheriff's Office, Getty Images A corrections officer was shot and killed by his half-brother following an argument over COVID-19 vaccines, police say. Larry Cavitt, 68, is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated battery with the use of a firearm. There had been no physical altercation before the "senseless" shooting, Johnson County's sheriff said. Visit Insider's homepage for more stories. An Illinois man allegedly used a 9mm semi-automatic handgun to shoot his half-brother in the head during a heated argument over COVID-19 vaccinations, Inside Edition reported. Larry D. Cavitt, 68, is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated battery with the use of a firearm, according to a news release by Illinois State Police. Video: How the anti-vaccination movement took root in America Joseph E. Geyman, a 51-year-old corrections officer, died from injuries sustained by gunfire, police said. Johnson County Sheriff Pete Sopczak said that the half-brothers, who were also neighbors, argued over coronavirus vaccines late Saturday night (August 28) before Cavitt allegedly took out a gun and shot Geyman, Associated Press reported. There had been no physical altercation before the "senseless" shooting, Sopczak said. Cavitt was initially in custody at Massac County jail, police said, but he was released from jail on Tuesday after he posted bond. The bond was set at $750,000 during a hearing on Monday, and requires Cavitt to possess no firearms and to stay away from Geyman's wife and children, The Southern Illinoisian reported. Cavitt's next court appearance, a preliminary hearing, is set to take place on September 15. Geyman, a father-of-four, was described as a "good-hearted, hard-working, talented man" in tributes to him on Facebook. "Joe Geyman was one of the greatest guys around," Sopczak said, according to The Southern Illinoisian. His funeral took place on Friday. Read the original article on Insider Getty Images 8 million borrowers over the age of 50 hold 22% of the $1.7 trillion student debt crisis. Insider spoke to a 61-year-old single grandmother raising 3 grandchildren with $75,000 in student debt. Her main hope is that her student debt doesn't push her grandchildren into poverty. See more stories on Insider's business page. Gwen Carney's main hope is that her three grandchildren don't grow up in poverty. But her $75,000 student-debt load is standing in the way. Carney, a 61-year-old single grandmother in Oklahoma, has a Bachelor's degree in counseling, a minor in psychology, and a Master's degree in Indigenous people's law. With her grandchildren's parents out of the picture, she is supporting a 12-year-old, a 14-year-old, and a 17-year old in addition to herself. She told Insider it takes "every penny she earns" to get by. "I probably would be able to qualify for food stamps, but I don't want to do that," Carney said. "I don't want my grandkids to know that grandma had to go get food stamps, and that's how they ate." Gwen Carney. Gwen Carney Insider reported in May on the over 8 million borrowers over the age of 50 who hold 22% of the $1.7 trillion student-debt load in the country, with three of those borrowers saying they don't think they will ever be able to pay off their student debt before they die. Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren told Insider that "student debt isn't just crushing young people," and that student debt is one of the biggest contributors" to the rise in debt for seniors overall. The situation for Carney is different from most seniors. She desperately wants to give her grandchildren the lives they deserve, but with having to pay all of their expenses, including medical and education, on top of her student debt, working 40 hours a week at a job in counseling just isn't enough. "They're good athletes, they're good students, they're good kids, and they give me no trouble whatsoever," Carney said, referring to her grandchildren. "I don't want my grandkids to be in poverty." Story continues 'Restarting payments makes me very anxious' The student-loan payment pause during the pandemic has given Carney significant relief. She sewed facemasks and sent them across the country, and to Canada, to make some extra cash while she wasn't paying off her student debt. But with payments set to resume in February, Carney is worried she won't be ready. "Restarting payments makes me very anxious because I somehow have to find that extra $200," Carney said. "I just don't have it." Since her grandchildren were doing school remotely during the pandemic, Carney said her water, gas, electric, and food bills tripled, and even though she was still getting her paychecks, the money that could have gone toward her student-loan payments went elsewhere. Other borrowers took money saved from the payment pause and used it toward other expenses, as well. One borrower previously told Insider that the almost $400 she saved each month from not making student-loan payments during the pandemic allowed her to pay off the expenses of giving birth, in full. And even for borrowers who did make payments on their student debt during the freeze, some of them did not even get $1 less in debt than their original balances, showing the inescapable nature of the debt. "I'm really not looking forward to February at all," Carney said. "It scares me." 'Don't forget about us grandparents' Elizabeth Warren and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote a CNBC op-ed in February highlighting the student debt plight for older Americans. "Older Americans with student debt include people who may not have had a chance at a degree when they were younger because they had a family to support, but took a shot at the American dream and went to college later in life," the lawmakers said. "Now their student debt eats away at the retirement security they worked so hard for." Carney pursued her Master's degree because she had a family to support, and she wants to make sure other grandparents like her are not getting lost in the student-debt forgiveness conversation. "Don't forget about us grandparents that have done a great job raising our grandchildren with student debt," she said. But even with the constraints of student debt, Carney does not regret seeking an education. She just doesn't want the debt to hold her grandkids back. "I want them to be able to grow up and say, 'We did not live in poverty. We did not use food stamps. We did not rely on the government to support us - Grandma did," Carney said. "'She did it the best she knew how.'" Read the original article on Business Insider The demonstrators in the town of Cetinje had thrown rocks, bottles, and firecrackers at police as church figures were flown into the town by helicopter, news site Vijesti reported, but there were no reports on injuries on either side. The protests reflect tensions in the Balkan country, which remains deeply divided over its ties with Serbia, with some advocating closer ties with Belgrade and others opposing any pro-Serb alliance. Protesters are opposing the enthronement of Joanikije II to the top clerical position in the country, known as the Metropolitan of Montenegro and Archbishop of Cetinje. White House senior adviser Cedric Richmond said Sunday that the devastating impact of Hurricane Ida demonstrates why Congress needs to approve pending infrastructure legislation and the administrations $3.5 trillion mega-spending bill. These once-in-a-century storms are starting to come almost every other year, he said on ABCs This Week. They're bigger, stronger. They wreak more havoc. If you look at New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. People should see what climate change is doing. Were going to address that in our legislation. Richmond formerly served as a congressman from Louisiana, where Hurricane Ida made landfall a week ago. Ida subsequently moved north and east, leaving more than 60 people dead as far north as New York and Connecticut. In discussing the impact of the hurricane, Richmond argued that these two pieces of legislation would help on multiple levels, by upgrading the countrys infrastructure and by fighting climate change. The president created this legislation over a year ago. So he was ahead of this. Now we need Congress to come along with us to protect the American people and invest in them, he told host George Stephanopoulos. Richmond said he was not discouraged by recent statements by Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) expressing opposition to the $3.5 trillion bill. It's not abnormal for this to happen in the legislative process, he said. Speaking immediately after Richmond, Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) said he expects the bipartisan infrastructure bill will be approved by the Senate, but not the larger spending package. They are not connected. We'll vote on the infrastructure bill which will be voted on its on merits and its very meritorious, he said, adding of a vote on the second bill: Hopefully, by that time, cooler heads have prevailed. The calls come regularly to people with a student loan, and even those without them: An unknown person is offering aid paying back loans or outright forgiveness. The callers talk about the relevant issues: public student loans or the federal freeze on loan payments. And lately, borrowers report on social media, the calls seem to come a lot more frequently. But theyre almost always a scam, especially when the caller starts asking for money. Loan forgiveness is extremely rare, said Kristen Evans, the section chief for students and young consumers at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The reality is discharging federal student loans usually requires more than the unexpected kindness of strangers. And the complicated rules around debt forgiveness can provide cover for scammers looking to con people who are already struggling financially and unaware of their options. Chatter about the nations $1.7 trillion student loan portfolio has never been more mainstream, thanks to the pandemic-era suspension of federal student loan payments and interest, which is set to expire before February. Progressive lawmakers have clamored for President Joe Biden to cancel more student loan debt for all borrowers. His Education Department instead is offering relief for targeted populations, such as people with disabilities or former students of colleges that closed. In all, Bidens administration has forgiven about $9.5 billion for more than half a million borrowers, but that means millions of Americans still must figure out how to pay their debts. Which gives scammers plenty of options. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. Tracking the operators of these scams is difficult, which can make it hard to say if there have been more or less calls related to student loans scams in recent weeks, Evans said. Pitches related to student loans already accounted for some of the largest robocall campaigns, according to a North Carolina State University study of calls from February to December 2019. Story continues What is certain is that the callers at least skim the news. The CFPB has expressly warned borrowers to be wary of pitches that mention Biden Loan Forgiveness. This program doesnt exist, but it invokes headlines borrowers might have seen. Bidens plans for higher education had included a plan to forgive up to $10,000 in student loan debt. And lawmakers just last month bickered over which branch of the government has the legal authority to discharge debt. Marketers that sprinkle the news in their pitches create a flavor of truth, said Betsy Mayotte, the founder of the Institute of Student Loan Advisors, a nonprofit that offers free financial advice to student loan borrowers. This content is not available due to your privacy preferences. Update your settings here to see it. That may also be the case with Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Its a government program that allows borrowers who work in select jobs to discharge eligible debt after 120 payments about 10 years of payments. But obtaining forgiveness via this program can be a long and complicated slog. Of the roughly 168,000 people who applied from November to April, only 2% qualified for relief, according to data from the federal government. The Education Department is currently soliciting feedback from borrowers about how to improve that program. And borrower advocacy groups like the Student Borrower Protection Center have been pushing the Biden administration to simplify the process while encouraging borrowers to share their experiences. Some robocallers have mentioned Public Service Loan Forgiveness in their pitches recently. A USA TODAY reporter received a message recently that mentioned public student loans and a prequalification for the student loan forgiveness program. (The message was incorrect: Journalism jobs are largely ineligible for debt forgiveness via public service.) Having someone call you and say, Hey, we can get this for you, Mayotte said, gives them a little more credibility and feeds into the anxieties of the student debt consumer. Part of the appeal of the telemarketers, she said, is they may seem to be an unbiased party to borrowers. Borrowers want advice, Mayotte said, from someone with no financial interest in their life. And such help allows borrowers to stay anonymous, which can be appealing for those who otherwise might be embarrassed to seek help. How you can avoid getting scammed So what should people do to avoid these scams? Remain cautious about any deal that seems too good to be true, Evans said. That includes promises of immediate student loan forgiveness or guarantees to remove debts from your credit report. Another red flag is any organization that charges for help. Many of the services offered by these callers, such as loan consolidation or enrollment into a plan based on a persons salary, are offered for free by the federal government. Plans that require an upfront fee or continuing monthly payments should raise alarms, Mayotte said. You can also contact your loan servicer if you're unsure about the status of your loans, Evans said. And if you're unsure who your servicer is, check with the federal government. Scammers may also use emails to target borrowers with logos and email addresses that bear similarity to official government communications. So double-check the email address of the sender. Official government messages will come from addresses ending in a .gov. Finally, Evans encouraged borrowers to report these types of calls either to the Federal Trade Commission or your local attorney generals office. Doing so allows the government to better track where the calls are coming from. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Scam calls promise Biden's student loan forgiveness. Don't fall for it Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. Patna: Repeatedly raped allegedly by her father, a 28-year-old woman killed her 8-month-old daughter before committing suicide in Bihar`s Gaya district on Saturday. The incident occurred in the Lakhibagh area under the Mufassil police station. The victim had also filed a complaint before the SSP of Gaya and at the women`s police station a week ago, but no action was taken on it. The victim's husband also tried to commit suicide when he saw his wife hanging from a ceiling fan with their infant daughter lying dead on the bed. But he was saved by his neighbours. "My wife`s father was continuously raping her. As no one helped her, she went to the SSP office and the women`s police station a week ago, but the police thought it to be a domestic matter and sent her home," the victim`s husband said. "Her father raped her again after she returned from the police station. The cops did not understand the gravity of the crime and showed callous attitude. She became helpless and hence took the extreme step," he added. The accused father is absconding. "We have registered an FIR on the basis of the statement given by the victim`s husband. Efforts are on to nab the accused," said K.K. Singh, investigating officer of Mufassil police station. New Delhi: A special CBI court here on Saturday granted interim bail to Yes Bank founder Rana Kapoor's wife and daughter in a case involving private sector lender DHFL. Kapoor's wife Bindu and daughter Radha were named as accused in the supplementary charge sheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation recently, but the duo was never arrested in the case. The court, after taking cognizance of the charge sheet, had summoned the accused, and the two appeared before court on Saturday. They then moved bail applications through their legal team comprising Vijay Agarwal and Rahul Agarwal, and contended that their arrests were not required as the CBI had filed a charge sheet as well without arresting them during the probe. When the probe agency sought time to file a reply to the pleas, the duo prayed for interim bail, which was allowed by special judge S U Wadgaonkar. Advocate Vijay Agarwal had also filed an application before the principal judge of the sessions court praying that the two matters connected to DHFL being probed by the CBI and ED be listed before the same judge. The court issued notice to the probe agencies and listed the matter for hearing on September 20. As per the CBI, Kapoor, who is in judicial custody after being arrested by Enforcement Directorate in a related case, and his family received kickbacks for Yes Bank's investments to the tune of Rs 3,700 crore in DHFL's debentures. Also Read: Infosys helps Naxalites, tukde-tukde gang? RSS mouthpiece attacks desi IT major The CBI has claimed Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Limited, in return, gave Kapoor Rs 600 crore as bribe in the form of loans to a firm controlled by the latter's wife and daughters. Also Read: Supertech to file review petition against SC order; twin towers built as per law: Chairman R K Arora Live TV #mute New Delhi: A 12-year-old boy, who was admitted to a hospital in Kerala's Kozhikode with symptoms similar to those of Nipah virus infection, died on Sunday (September 5, 2021) morning after undergoing treatment at a private hospital. Kerala Health Minister Veena George informed on Sunday that a 12-year-old boy in Kerala dies of Nipah virus infection. The health minister is going to Kozhikode today to take stock of the situation. "Till now, no one from the family or other contacts of the 12-year-old has any symptoms. I am going to Kozhikode today, I will be joined by minister PA Mohammed Riyas," said Kerala Health Minister Veena George. We have formed teams to handle the situation. Contact tracing and other measures have already been initiated. As of now, there is no need to panic, but we need to exercise caution: Kerala Health Minister Veena George on the death of a 12-year-old due to Nipah virus infection pic.twitter.com/BKneqWnWr4 ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 Meanwhile, the Government of India confirmed that a case of Nipah virus has been detected in the Kozhikode district of Kerala. The Central Government has rushed a team of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to the State to provide technical support. A case of Nipah virus has been detected in the Kozhikode district of Kerala. The Central Government has rushed a team of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to the State to provide technical support: Government of India ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 The samples of the boy, which were sent to the Pune National Institute of Virology, confirmed the presence of Nipah virus. The Central Government has rushed a team of National Centre for Disease Control to the state, which will provide technical support to the state, the ministry said. Some immediate public health measures have been advised by the Centre which include active case search in the family, families, village and areas with similar topography especially in Malappuram. According to a PTI report, the health department source revealed that the state government held a high-level meeting of health officials late Saturday night following the information about the suspected Nipah infection. ALSO READ | How Nipah infection is different from swine flu, bird flu Although the state government has not yet officially announced the presence of Nipah virus, sources said the health minister might rush to Kozhikode Sunday morning to take stock of the situation. Nipal virus is spread by saliva of the fruit bats. The first Nipah virus disease (NiV) outbreak in South India was reported in the Kozhikode district of Kerala on May 19, 2018. The state had witnessed 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases till June 1, 2018. (With PTI inputs) Live TV Kolkata: On a day when the Election Commission announced the bypolls in Bhowanipur from where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will seek to get elected to the West Bengal Assembly, the Trinamool Congress received a boost with another BJP MLA joining the ruling party on Saturday, taking the tally of saffron party MLAs joining the Trinamool camp to four. Kaliaganj MLA Soumen Roy on Saturday joined the Trinamool Congress in Kolkata in the presence of state minister and party leader Partha Chatterjee. Justifying his return to the party, Roy said, "I had to contest from Kaliaganj on a BJP ticket due to some circumstances. But my soul and heart belong to Trinamool. I joined the party again to support Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee`s efforts. I apologise to the party for the time I was not with it." Two other BJP MLAs joined the Trinamool in the past one week -- Tanmoy Ghosh from Bishnupur in Bankura district and Biswajit Das from Bagda in North 24 Parganas district. The first BJP MLA to defect to the Trinamool was Mukul Roy, the party`s national Vice President who had won the elections from Krishnanagar North. While Roy had left Trinamool for the saffron camp in 2017, the other three MLAs were in the ruling party before jumping ship to the BJP just before the Assembly elections held in March-April this year. Ever since the Trinamool swept the polls to retain power in West Bengal, many leaders who had switched to the BJP from the Trinamool camp before the Assembly polls have returned to the party. Live TV New Delhi: Amid third COVID-19 wave threat, the Haryana government on Sunday (September 5) extended the lockdown by a fortnight, while allowing the existing relaxations to continue. The state government also modified its earlier order of reopening of institutes and ordered the vice-chancellors of residential universities to continue with the online classes till October 15, PTI reported. The order by Chief Secretary Vijai Vardhan read, "The Mahamari Alert-Surakshit Haryana is extended for another fortnight, that is from September 6 (5 am onwards) to September 20 (till 5 am), along with guidelines to be implemented during this period issued vide earlier orders. A decision on resuming physical classes in residential universities shall be taken on October 15 after assessing the prevalent COVID-19 situation, the order added. Meanwhile, university administrations may strive to ensure to get all students, faculty members and staff, including the outsourced ones, fully vaccinated and share the progress with the Department of Higher Education, Technical Education and Medical Education and Research, as the case may be, Vardhan said in the order. Although, students can visit universities and colleges for doubt classes, practical classes in laboratories, practical and offline examinations with strict adherence to COVID-19 appropriate behaviour. Besides, hostels in colleges and universities are allowed to open only for the students appearing for examinations. In an earlier order, vice-chancellors of universities were asked to chalk out a plan for the reopening of universities from the next academic session and share the programme with Haryana government's department concerned. Haryana logged nine new coronavirus infection cases and two more fatalities that took the infection count to 7,70,543 and the death toll to 9,683, according to the health department's daily bulletin on Saturday. (With PTI inputs) Live TV New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday (September 5) expressed concern about rising dengue and malaria cases and said these patients should also undergo COVID-19 testing. Cases of dengue and malaria are also increasing but their symptoms are different this time. Therefore, such patients must undergo COVID-19 test, ANI quoted Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray as saying. He also stated that easing of coronavirus curbs will depend on the availability of oxygen and it was "up to the people to prevent or invite a 'third wave' of the pandemic". Slamming the opposition for demanding reopening of places where crowds cannot be avoided, Thackeray at a virtual medical conference said, Some people are in hurry to reopen some establishments. I request them to wait for some more time because we don't want to open them and then close again if the situation gets worse. Cases of dengue and malaria are also increasing but their symptoms are different this time. Therefore, such patients must undergo COVID-19 test: Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 Further, the Shiv Sena chief asked people to protest against coronavirus rather than for reopening temples. I request people not to protest for reopening of temples and other places. If you want to protest, protest against Corona, the Maharashtra CM said. His statement comes in the backdrop of the BJP and MNS holding protests during Janmashtami after the state banned Dahi Handi. Thackeray added that the second wave of COVID-19 is "under control", however, there is a slight spike in the daily cases in the last few days. "We have to avoid crowding...Have patience. We should not be required to close the places which have been opened up now," he added. Cautioning people, the Shiv Sena supremo said that the "enemy is yet not completely defeated...The thick tail is still there". Directing hospitals and clinics to have an audit of their electric equipment, the CM said taking a stock of medicines and oxygen in the state is necessary. Meanwhile, Maharashtra on Saturday reported 4,130 new COVID-19 cases and 64 fatalities, which pushed the caseload to 64,82,117 and the death toll to 1,37,707, as per the state health department. (With agency inputs) Live TV New Delhi: Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) national spokesperson Rakesh Tikait on Sunday (September 5) at the Kisan mahapanchayat' in Uttar Pradeshs Muzaffarnagar pledged that the farmers protesting against the Centres three controversial farm laws will not leave the protest site until they emerge successfully. Addressing the mahapanchayat attended by farmers from Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states, Tikait said, We take a pledge that we'll not leave the protest site there (at Delhi borders) even if our graveyard is made there. We will lay down our lives if needed, but will not leave the protest site until we emerge victorious. We take a pledge that we'll not leave the protest site there (at Delhi borders) even if our graveyard is made there. We will lay down our lives if needed, but will not leave the protest site until we emerge victorious: BKU (Arajnaitik) leader Rakesh Tikait at Kisan Mahapanchayat https://t.co/9v8dekM3vB pic.twitter.com/1pbp5ikQ8P ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) September 5, 2021 He further said that if the Government of India calls the farmers union for discussion on the three farm laws, they will go. When Govt of India will invite us for talks, we will go. The farmers' agitation will continue until the Govt fulfil our demands. The struggle for Independence continued for 90 years so I have no idea for how long this agitation will run, ANI quoted him as saying. Tikait said these mahapanchayats will be held across the country. These meetings will be held across the country. We have to stop the country from getting sold. Farmers should be saved, the country should be saved; business, employees and youth should be saved--this is the aim of the rally, the BKU leader added. The mahapanchayat was organized on Sunday by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) at the Government Inter College ground in Muzaffarnagar in protest against the Centre's farm laws. This event holds importance in the backdrop of crucial Uttar Pradesh assembly polls which are set to take place next year. BKU media in-charge Dharmendra Malik earlier said that farmers belonging to 300 organisations from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, among others, have gathered for the event. Since November last year, the farmers have been demanding the repeal of the three farm laws which they say will remove the MSP system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. (With agency inputs) Live TV New Delhi: It's a historical moment! There are four women judges in the Supreme Court! These are the headlines. Yes, it feels good. For every young woman who is a lawyer like me, for every girl who dreams of being one, it is exhilarating to see someone like us up there. One of them might even become India's first woman Chief Justice, maybe in 2027. There is so much pride. However, it is not all that meets the eye. This is a step, albeit significant, but small, leaving much wanting. 4 women judges out of 33, an 11.7 percent representation! In the 70 years of the Supreme Court, only 8 women have been appointed as judges. Among the 644 working judges in High Courts, only 77 are women, just 12%. At least five states: Manipur, Meghalaya, Bihar, Tripura and Uttarakhand do not have a single woman judge. Seven High Courts have just one female judge. When you look at these numbers, you may wonder, maybe there arent enough women in law. There was a time when this was true and the legal field was dominated by men. Women were hardly seen, much less heard. Today, however, the average percentage of women in partnership at 30 top Indian law firms for which data is available, is 30. The percentage of women lawyers on state panels varies from 7 to 55, averaging around 30. The history of women in law is complicated. Women were barred from practicing law in India, like in England, during the British Raj. In fact, the first woman to pass the Bar, Ms Regina Guha, was prevented from practicing because a full bench decision of the High Court, delivered on 29th August 1916, refused the enrolment of Regina Guha as a pleader. An advocate and a pioneer of women's rights, Dr Hari Singh Gaur, then took it upon himself to correct this injustice. Dr Gaur, moved an amendment to the resolution adopted by the Central Legislative Assembly of India to remove the sex disqualification against women on 1st February 1922, And the Government be further pleased to remove the sex bar held to disqualify women from enrolment as legal practitioners in the courts of this country. The Supreme Court of India came into existence in 1950 and got its first woman judge in 1989. In comparison, India got its first women Prime Minister in 1966, first woman Chief Minister in 1963, first woman IAS officer in 1951 and first woman 3-star army General in 2004. But for the Supreme Court it took 39 years to get one woman judge, 71 years to get four and it might take 77 years to get the first female Chief Justice, a post she will hold for only 37 days before retiring. The judges are still referred to as Lordships and all petitions start with The Hon'ble Chief Justice and Brother Judges. Even 71 years later we are not using Ladyship or Brother/Sister Judges or just gender-neutral Hon'ble Colleague Judges. Why? The legal profession has always been a boys club so to say. Today, nearly 50 percent of students of law are women. However, there is a systemic bias against them, both in litigation and in firms. A study conducted with 81 women in law firms revealed that women were being allocated unchallenging work and forced to remain content with lower professional fees than their male counterparts, and were also being denied benefits and promotions in corporate positions. The legal career demands long hours and difficult work. Women are forced to choose between family, societal expectations and their careers. Because there is an undercurrent of bias, women are often expected to work harder and longer to prove themselves as of the same mettle as men. The world of law has not changed to accommodate women's issues. Going on maternity leave for 6 months will still be a huge setback to your career and most law firms do not give facilities like creche or support to working mothers. One of the key comments Justice Nagarathna, the would-be CJI, made during her recent court hearings is: "India's patriarchal society doesn't know how to treat empowered women." This bias and the undercurrent of patriarchal views have traveled up the line, reducing the chances of women in the legal system and the judiciary. The judiciary is in no way equal for both men and women, in opportunity or in character. However, it can be and it must be. As women rise, we hope they will help others rise. More than that, we know their voices will become louder and so will ours, in demanding more opportunity and equality till one day, we achieve a truly gender-balanced profession. That is what we need to demand, to work for. While we celebrate the elevation of four women, we must remember that the battle is far from over and we have to continue demanding more. When will it be enough, you ask? Inspired by the legend, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the answer is, "When there are 17 women on the Supreme Court. Don't be alarmed, there have been seventeen men before and no one has questioned it. Live TV New Delhi: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted "very heavy rainfall in Goa over the next couple of days, following which the coastal states administration directed all the officials to be on high alert on Sunday (September 5, 2021). The Met officials said that the sky was overcast in Goa's capital Panaji and other cities of the state since morning. Additionally, on Sunday, a senior official from the North Goa district administration revealed that the control rooms were activated and people were asked to remain alert in case there was flooding in their areas. After the experience of last month, when several places were flooded (due to heavy rains), we are leaving nothing to chance, the official said. ALSO READ | Weekend forecast: IMD predicts heavy rainfall in these states till September 5, check full list here The developments came after IMD on Saturday said that the monsoon activity may get strengthened over south Konkan and Goa in the coming days with the likely formation of a low pressure area over north and adjoining central Bay of Bengal during the next 48 hours. Very heavy rainfall (exceeding 11.5 cm in 24 hours) is very likely at one or two places over the districts of Goa on September 5, 6 and 7. Likelihood of heavy rainfall (64.5-115.5 mm in 24 hours) continues over North and South Goa districts for about a week from 4th September, with scattered and isolated spatial distributions, the IMD had said. It also said that intense spells of showers for a short duration are very likely over North and South Goa districts during this period. Winds with speed around 40 kmph are likely to occur along with rain spells. With increased rainfall activity to continue, the areas vulnerable for landslide and flooding may be kept under monitoring, the weather department had said. The IMD also informed the state government that water levels in rivers and reservoirs may be monitored and necessary precautions may be taken. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday said the state administration was put on high alert in the wake of the possibility of very heavy showers in the coastal state. (With PTI inputs) Live TV New Delhi: Nepal and Indian Army personnel will participate in two weeks joint military exercise, the 15th edition of Suryakiran from September 20. Speaking to WION, Nepal Army Spokesperson Santosh Ballav Poudyal said the event will take place in Pithoragadh of India. Nepali Army personnel participating in the exercise will travel to Pithoragadh in India. The event will take place from September 20 to October 3. As many as 300 Nepali Army personnel will participate and similar number of Indian Army personnel, Poudyal told WION. The Army Spokesperson said this comes after the series of discussion that took place during the visit of Nepalese army delegation to India recently to meet their Indian counterparts. Suryakiran is the biggest of cross-country military exercises that Nepal participates, in terms of the number of personnel involved. He confirmed that Nepal and India alternately host each edition of the exercise. The area of focus in the exercise will be counter insurgency and general warfare technique. The exercise had to be postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic, said Poudyal. When asked what safety protocols will be carried out due to COVID, he said, All personnel will be double vaccinated and PCR tests will be conducted before they join the event. Of course, all other COVID safety protocols will be followed. Speaking on the invitation of Indian Army to retired Nepali Army Chiefs of Staff, he said, Around eight retired Army Chiefs have been invited and not everybody has confirmed their participation. The program will take place in New Delhi this September. Live TV New Delhi: Security has been beefed up in Uttar Pradeshs Muzaffarnagar as thousands of farmers from 15 states have started reaching the state ahead of todays (September 5, 2021) Kisan Mahapanchayat in the district. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella body of 40 farmer unions, said the this gathering will prove that the agitation, against the Centres three farm laws, has the support of all castes, religions, states, classes, small traders and other sections of the society. The mahapanchayat of September 5 will make the Yogi-Modi governments realize the power of farmers, farm labourers, and supporters of the farm movement. The Muzaffarnagar mahapanchayat will be the biggest ever in the last nine months, the SKM said in a statement. It also added that five hundred langar services have been started to arrange meals for farmers, including mobile langar system run on hundreds of tractor-trolleys. Additionally, as many as 100 medical camps have been set up for the farmers attending the mahapanchayat, the statement said. A total of 32 farmer unions from Punjab have give a deadline of September 8 to the state government to withdraw cases against protestors, it said. Muzzafarnagar is the home district of Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait. In the Mahapanchayat, Tikait is likely to share the stage with SKM leaders Gurnam Singh Chadhuni, Balbeer Singh Rajowal and Yogendra Yadav. Meanwhile, the farmers' protest against the three contentious laws has completed over nine months since they first arrived at the Delhi borders. The farmers have been demanding the repeal of the laws which they are afraid will do away with the MSP system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. Over 10 rounds of talks with the government that has been projecting the laws as major agricultural reforms have failed to break the deadlock between the two parties. According to a Hindustan Times report, six companies of the provincial armed constabulary (PAC) and two companies of rapid action force (RAF) will be deployed at the farmers gathering to maintain law and order, officials familiar with the matter said. Additionally, the event will be videographed and five SSPs, seven ASPs, and 40 police inspectors will be posted on security duty, said DIG of Saharanpur range, Preetinder Singh. Live TV New Delhi: The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Sunday (September 5, 2021) announced the list of candidates contesting in the upcoming by-poll elections in West Bengal and said that Mamata Banerjee will fight from the Bhabanipur assembly constituency. Besides the West Bengal Chief Minister, the TMC also announced the names of candidates for by-election in Jangipur and Samserganj where Jakir Hossain and Amirul Islam will contest respectively. This is to be noted that Mamata who had moved out of her traditional Bhabanipur seat to fight in Nandigram during the West Bengal Assembly polls 2021, will now have a chance to become a member of the state legislative assembly. She is required to win a seat in the state assembly by November 5 in conformity with the constitutional provisions in order to continue as chief minister. The Constitution allows a non-member of a state legislature or Parliament to continue in a ministerial position for six months. The TMC chief had lost the Nandigram seat to his former close aide Suvendu Adhikari who contested on a BJP ticket. After her defeat in Nandigram, Sovandeb Chattopadhyay, state cabinet minister and TMC MLA from Bhabanipur, vacated the seat to facilitate Mamata's election from there. Mamata Banerjee, notably, is a resident of Bhabanipur and has contested from the seat in the past two state assembly elections since 2011. The fate of Mamata Banerjee and her two other candidates will be decided on the day of the counting of votes which will take place on October 3. (With agency inputs) Live TV New Delhi: MP Varun Gandhi on Sunday (September 5) described farmers, who have been protesting against three farm laws, as "our own flesh and blood" and suggested that the government should re-engage with them in reaching common ground. A large number of farmers are attending a mahapanchayat organised by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) at the Government Inter College ground in Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh. "Lakhs of farmers have gathered in protest today in Muzaffarnagar. They are our own flesh and blood. We need to start re-engaging with them in a respectful manner: understand their pain, their point of view and work with them in reaching common ground," Gandhi tweeted, posting a short video of the large crowd. Lakhs of farmers have gathered in protest today, in Muzaffarnagar. They are our own flesh and blood. We need to start re-engaging with them in a respectful manner: understand their pain, their point of view and work with them in reaching common ground. pic.twitter.com/ZIgg1CGZLn Varun Gandhi (@varungandhi80) September 5, 2021 The mahapanchyat comes ahead of the crucial Uttar Pradesh assembly polls next year. The Centre had held talks with the protesting farmer unions but in vain as it did not agree to their demand of withdrawing the three farm laws. The government has insisted that these Acts have given farmers new opportunities to sell their produce and rejected the criticism that they are aimed at doing away with the minimum support price regime and farm mandis. ALSO READ: Teachers' Day 2021: President Ramnath Kovind hands National Teachers' Award to 44 educators Live TV New Delhi: The National Board of Examinations (NBE) is all set to release the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) PG Admit Card 2021 on Monday (September 6, 2021). Once released, the candidates will be able to download their hall ticket at the official website of NBE- nbe.edu.in. A total of 1,74,886 candidates, who have registered for NEET PG 2021 exam, are eagerly waiting for the board to release the hall tickets. NEET-PG 2021 is the eligibility-cum-ranking examination for admission to various MD/ MS/ PG Diploma courses of the 2021 admission session. The candidates need to note that the NEET-PG 2021 examination is scheduled to be held on April 18, 2021 but was postponed due to the pandemic and will now take place on September 11, 2021. Admit Cards issued earlier for examination on 18th April 2021 shall be treated as null & void. Fresh admit cards shall be issued on NBEMS website nbe.edu.in on 6th September 2021, read the official notice on PG Admit Card 2021. ALSO READ | UGC NET 2021: Last day to register for December, June sessions, apply on ugcnet.nta.nic.in "Candidates shall be provided with a protective face shield, face mask and sanitizer sachets individually at test centres. NBEMS shall encourage to follow the COVID Appropriate Behaviour at all times during the conduct of the test. Candidates are advised to refer to the NBEMS notice dated 09.04.2021 for detailed instructions regarding adherence to COVID Appropriate Behaviour at test centres," the official notice added. Live TV Kathmandu: Nepal`s Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday warned protesters not to burn the effigy of the Prime Minister of the neighbouring country without mentioning the name of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. The statement came in response to some protests in Kathmandu against the Indian government and Modi in a backdrop of recent diplomatic friction between Nepal and India. Recently, Nepal and India indulged in two different diplomatic row after Indian helicopter repeatedly breached the Nepali territory and made a flight over western Nepal of Darchula district. According to the media reports, Nepal`s Home Ministry has taken up the matter with the Foreign Ministry of Nepal to protest the incident with India after the death of a 33-year-old man from Darchula district of western Nepal who fell into Mahakali while crossing the river using an improvised cable crossing, locally known as tuin. A probe report prepared by Nepal`s Home Ministry said, "It appears that the incident happened in the presence of Indian Sashastra Seema Bal." So the report has recommended that the government take diplomatic initiatives to bring the perpetrators to book, said the Home Ministry in its findings that took for one month for the preparation of the report. Though this issue was not dying down, Nepal and India entered into another fresh diplomatic row after an Indian helicopter reportedly crossed the Nepali airspace and made several rounds in western Nepal last week. Some student wings of the ruling and opposition parties held protests in Kathmandu against the Indian government and Indian Prime Minister Modi over the last few days. Serious attention has been drawn from the Home Ministry to the recent protest and agitation against the neighbouring country. The home ministry statement reads, Nepal government wants to maintain good relations with all its neighbours and is committed not to allow any activities against its neighbours. "We urged all not to indulge in any activity that will hamper the dignity and prestige of the neighbouring countries," the home ministry said. We have been talking with the neighbouring countries to resolve these disputes through diplomatic means, the statement reads further, any dispute, discord or disagreement with neighbouring countries will be resolved through the talks in the future. Action will be taken against those who will take law in their hand and target the neighbouring countries, the statement added. New Delhi: The Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday (September 4, 2021) informed that Kerala will continue with its night curfew and Sunday lockdowns amid the continuing high number of COVID-19 cases in the state. The announcement came after the state authorities held a meeting to review the coronavirus situation in Kerala. "The COVID review meeting, which was held today, has decided to continue night curfew and lockdown on Sundays across the state," said Vijayan while addressing a press conference post the meeting. The Chief Minister also informed that Kerala reported 29,682 new COVID-19 cases, 25,910 recoveries, and 142 deaths on Saturday. The number of active cases in the state stood at 2,50,065 while the death toll logged was 21,422. Additionally, the test positivity rate was recorded at 17.54 percent. On the other hand, on Saturday, India recorded 42,618 fresh COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours wherein Kerala contributed a majority of cases by logging 29,322 positive cases. 330 fatalities were reported in the country in the last 24 hours wherein Kerala added 131 fatalities. Kerala has reported 29,682 new #COVID19 cases, 25,910 recoveries and 142 deaths today. Active cases at 2,50,065 & death toll at 21,422 in the state. Test positivity rate stands at 17.54%: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan pic.twitter.com/sec6RCFnUZ ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2021 CM Vijayan reveals post-Onam numbers While addressing the press conference, Kerala CM Vijayan also said that the post-Onam increase in the number of COVID-19 cases was not as high as was anticipated. "The percentage of people admitted to hospitals in the past one week when compared to the previous two weeks has reduced. From August 14 to 20 the patients were 1,77,935 and those admitted to hospitals were 5.99 per cent. From August 28 to September 3 the cases have increased to 2,23,197 but those admitted to hospitals have reduced to 5.23 per cent," said CM Vijayan. Kerala's COVID-19 vaccination status CM Vijayan stated that 75 per cent of those aged 18 years were innoculated with the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. He further stated that a total of 2,15,72,491 people have received the first dose and 79,90,200 have received the second dose so far. "100 per cent of the first dose and 87 per cent of the second dose has been administered to health workers and front line workers in the state. 92 per cent first dose and 48 per cent second dose administered to those aged above 45 years," Vijayan added. Vijayan also stated that in the months of June, July, and August, the state vaccinated 1 .95 crore people. The Kerala Chief Minister also announced that the state aims to complete the first dose vaccination among those aged 18 years, while stating that the state is facing a severe shortage of vaccine doses in some places, Vijayan revealed that as informed by the Centre, the state is scheduled to receive 9,97,570 doses on Sunday. CM Vijayan said, "We are facing a severe shortage of vaccine doses in some places in the state. The Centre has informed us that we will receive 9,97,570 doses of vaccine tomorrow." The Kerala Chief Minister stated that with COVID-19 vaccination "progressing at a great pace", the state government is hoping to achieve herd immunity soon. Experts on recent surge in Kerala As per the World Health Organization (WHO), 'Herd immunity', also known as 'population immunity', is the indirect protection from an infectious disease that happens when a population is immune either through vaccination or immunity developed through the previous infection. WHO supports achieving 'herd immunity' through vaccination, not by allowing disease to spread through any segment of the population, as this would result in unnecessary cases and deaths. Herd immunity against COVID-19 should be achieved by protecting people through vaccination, not by exposing them to the pathogen that causes the disease. Vijayan further stated, "Health experts have opined that considering all these reasons the recent surge in covid cases in Kerala should not be very worrying. The government held a discussion with health experts at the national and international level to assess the covid situation in Kerala." Vijayan said that the Kerala government has decided to form neighborhood watch committees with government employees, volunteers, and residents association as members. If anyone breaks quarantine rules they will be fined and will also be kept in paid quarantine centers, he added. He also said that police services will be used to ensure that COVID-19 positive people are staying in quarantine at their homes. He further said that a case will be registered against those violating quarantine rules, adding that police motorcycle teams will be deputed to keep a check. CM Vijayan announces 'be the warrior ' campaign The Chief Minister also officially announced 'be the warrior ' campaign to contain the spread of COVID-19 infection in the state. The Chief Minister handed over the logo of the campaign to state Health Minister Veena George. The campaign was organized by the state health department. Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Vijayan said, "Self-defense is most important. Everyone must save themselves from COVID-19. The campaign aims to ensure that everyone wears a mask, cleans their hands frequently with soap, water, or sanitizer, maintains physical distance, and takes two doses of vaccine to take part in the fight against COVID-19. We can't go to the lockdown all the time. Life and livelihood must be protected at the same time. It is a condition that COVID-19 can be infected by anyone. So everyone should be cautious." He stated that the main objective of this campaign is to reduce the severity of the third wave and to intensify the vaccination drive. As a result of the preventive measures taken by the state so far, many people have been saved from contracting the disease, said the Chief Minister, adding that efforts are being made to make everyone safe by vaccinating as soon as the vaccine is available. Vijayan informed that the campaign also aims to educate the general public on the importance of SMS campaigns, (Soap, Mask, Social Distance ), pass only the official guidelines of the department of health, observe reverse quarantine and prevent the spread of the disease to the elderly, children and inpatients. "As part of this, an active effort will be made to raise awareness about the importance and responsibility of every citizen in the fight against covid through newspapers, visual, audio, social media, and other means across the state. Each of us can be a selfless warrior in the fight against the covid pandemic," added the Chief Minister. (With ANI inputs) Live TV New Delhi: After Panchjanya`s article attacking software company Infosys for hurting the country`s economic interest was published, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Sunday (September 5) distanced itself from the comment made in it. In a social media post RSS`s Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Sunil Ambekar said that the article published by Panchjanya reflects the individual opinion of the author. "As an Indian company, Infosys has made seminal contributions to the progress of the country. There might be certain issues with a portal run by Infosys, but the article published by Panchjanya in this context only reflects individual opinion of the author," Ambekar said. "Panchjanya is not a mouthpiece of the RSS and the said article or opinion expressed in it should not be linked with the RSS," Ambekar added. In its cover story titled `Saakh Aur Aghaat` the Panchjanya accused Infosys of helping `Tukde-tukde gang`, naxals and other anti-national forces. Pointing to regular incidents of glitches in IT portals developed by Infosys, resulting in trouble for tax payers and investors, the Panchjanya article said that such incidents brought down the trust of taxpayers in the Indian economy. The article called Infosys `naam bade aur darshan chhote` (great cry and little wool). The Panchjanya article claimed that this was not the first time Infosys had done this to a government project. "First time mistake can be called a coincidence but if the same mistake happens repeatedly, it raises doubts. There are accusations that the Infosys management is deliberately trying to destabilise India`s economy," the article said. The article also claimed that Infosys has been accused of helping `Naxals, leftists and tukde-tukde gangs`. "Infosys is accused of providing assistance to Naxals, Leftists and the Tukde Tukde Gang. The issue of Infosys directly or indirectly supporting divisive forces in the country has already come out in the open," the article said. (With agency inputs) Chennai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (September 5) hailed the contributions of freedom fighter V O Chidambaranar on his 150th birth anniversary while Tamil Nadu government observed the day as a state event with Chief Minister M K Stalin and leaders cutting across party lines honouring the state's icon of the freedom movement. PM Modi tweeted: "Remembering the visionary V O Chidambaram Pillai on his Jayanti. He made pioneering contributions to our freedom movement. He also envisioned a self-reliant India and made key efforts towards it, especially in the ports and shipping sectors. We are deeply inspired by him." Remembering the visionary V. O. Chidambaram Pillai on his Jayanti. He made pioneering contributions to our freedom movement. He also envisioned a self-reliant India and made key efforts towards it, especially in the ports and shipping sectors. We are deeply inspired by him. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 5, 2021 Stalin garlanded a decorated portrait of VOC, abutting a statue of the leader and paid floral tributes, followed by state Ministers including M P Saminathan, K N Nehru, MPs and MLAs. Chidambaranar's life-size statue, which was decked with garlands and flowers for the anniversary is in the Chennai Port premises. VOC (5 September 1872 - 18 November 1936) is an icon of freedom movement in Tamil Nadu and respected for his sacrifices for the sake of nation. Stalin released leaflets in Tamil and English on the life and times of the freedom fighter and the first copies were received by Nehru. Union Minister of State for Fisheries L Murugan was among others who recalled the yeoman services of VOC to the nation and paid tributes. An arterial road, renamed after VOC in Tuticorin was declared open by Minister for Social Welfare P Geetha Jeevan, along with party MP Kanimozhi and they also garlanded a statue of the leader in the southern port city. Fisheries Minister Anitha Radhakrishnan visited VOC's memorial at Ottapidaram in southern Tamil Nadu and paid floral tributes. Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan was among others who visited the freedom fighter's memorial at Ottapidaram and paid homage. Participating in an event to honour the leader, Soundararajan paid rich tributes and underscored his contribution to India's freedom movement including his Swadeshi Steam Navigation Company initiatives. BJP Tamil Nadu unit chief K Annamalai, who paid floral tributes at VOC Manimandapam in Tuticorin, tweeted "V O Chidambaram Pillai born on Sep 5, 1872 in Ottapidaaram, Thoothukudi, fondly called as VOC is a freedom fighter of the highest order." Annamalai said VOC was a famous lawyer and writer during his hey days. "He sacrificed everything at one go and started a shipping company Swadeshi Steam Company to take on the British monopoly in shipping. United our workers against the unjust trade practices of Britishers. The British government arrested him and made him to do merciless hard labour in Coimbatore prison. He sacrificed everything for our freedom & for our nation." Dravidar Kazhagam chief K Veeramani garlanded a statue of VOC in Tiruchirappalli. To honour V O C, Stalin had on Friday announced a 14-point programme which includes refurbishing his memorials and instituting an award in the leader's name as a mark of respect to his contributions -by working in various spheres including shipping- to the freedom movement. (With agency inputs) Raipur: The Chhattisgarh government has ordered a probe into irregularities at a recently-held government-run sterilisation camp in Surguja district, where a surgeon allegedly performed tubectomies on 101 women in seven hours, an official said on Saturday. The sterilisation camp was held on August 27 at Narmadapur community health centre in Mainpat development block of the district, located over 300 km away from the capital Raipur, the official said. Local newspapers had reported alleged irregularities in the camp, following which the department swung into action and issued show-cause notices to the surgeon and a local health official. Following complaints regarding the sterilisation camp, a probe has been ordered, based on which further action will be taken, said Dr Alok Shukla, Principal Secretary of the states Health and Family Welfare department. A total of 101 surgeries were performed by a (government) surgeon in the camp. The women who underwent the procedure were reported to be in a normal condition. However, as per the government guidelines, a surgeon can perform a maximum of 30 surgeries in a day and hence, an enquiry has been ordered to ascertain why the guidelines had been violated, Shukla said. The surgeon has claimed that a large number of women had turned up for the procedure and urged him to perform the operations, citing that they had come from remote villages and cannot travel frequently, he said. ALSO READ | Bihar: Woman raped repeatedly by her father, kills her infant, commits suicide Earlier, Surguja Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) P S Sisodiya had on August 29 issued a show-cause notice to surgical specialist Dr Jibnus Ekka, who performed operations in the camp, and Block Medical Officer (BMO) Dr R S Singh seeking their reply in this regard. The CMHO had also constituted a three-member committee to probe the matter. The surgeries were conducted from 12 pm to 7 pm on August 27. Once the enquiry committee submits its report, further action will be taken. Stern action will be taken against people who are found guilty, Dr Sisodiya said. In November 2014, at least 83 women had developed complications after undergoing a procedure at a government-held sterilisation camp in Bilaspur district, and 13 of them had died, triggering widespread criticism against the government-run programme offering free sterilisation. Live TV Chennai: The State Election Commission of Tamil Nadu will hold an all-party meeting on Monday (September 6) ahead of the rural body elections to be held in nine new districts. The Commission called the meeting to discuss the modalities of conducting the polls in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. The SEC has already released the voters list for the nine districts. It has also announced the extended hours of polling due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Election commission officials said that the polls would be held in two to three phases, IANS reported. Meanwhile, the SEC has requested the Supreme Court 35 more days to complete the election formalities to the nine districts. Notably, the SC had ordered the Commission to complete the formalities to the rural bodies polls by September 15. The Commission said that the preparations for the elections are going in full throttle but it would need more time to complete it. The urban local body elections of Tamil Nadu are scheduled in December and the state urban development minister, K.N. Nehru has confirmed that the elections would be completed in December. It is learned that the State Election Commission has moved another prayer to provide seven months time to conduct the Urban local body elections. Sources in the State election commission office told IANS that the commission has sought more time to conduct Urban local body elections as the government has announced new corporations and municipalities. Live TV New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday greeted the teaching fraternity on Teachers' Day 2021 and said that it was commendable how the teachers' fraternity has innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in COVID times. The PM also paid tributes to former president S Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary which is celebrated as Teachers' Day. "On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds," PM Modi tweeted. It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in Covid times, he said. On Teachers' Day, greetings to the entire teaching fraternity, which has always played a pivotal role in nurturing young minds. It is commendable how teachers have innovated and ensured the education journey of students continues in the COVID-19 times. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 5, 2021 "I pay my respects to Dr S Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti and recall his distinguished scholarship as well as contributions to our nation," PM Modi said in another tweet. I pay my respects to Dr. S. Radhakrishnan on his Jayanti and recall his distinguished scholarship as well as contributions to our nation. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 5, 2021 On September 5 every year, our country celebrates Teachers' Day marking a special dedicated day for great minds who nurture future generations. The day which marks a special celebration for acknowledging the efforts of our teachers is practised in many countries. In India, Guru Purnima is also dedicated to the reverence offered to the Guru and September 5 - the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan - the second president of India, is celebrated as Teachers' Day. Live TV Chandigarh: On the occasion of Teachers' Day, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced on Sunday that Haryana will celebrate 'Shiksha Parv' till September 17. Speaking during a function organised at Indira Gandhi University in Rewari district, Khattar highlighted the significant role of a teacher in everyone's life. He said good education makes a responsible citizen which further helps in nation building. Khattar said 'Shiksha Parv' is just another way to render respect to teachers and it will be celebrated till September 17, which coincides with the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The chief minister also laid the foundation stone of developmental projects worth Rs 47.27 crore at Indira Gandhi University. Khattar also remembered his favourite teacher K L Gera and spoke with him on telephone during the programme to enquire about his well-being. The chief minister said one has to move forward while serving the country and society, and a teacher plays a pivotal role in giving a new direction to life. He also lauded the role played by teachers amid the Covid pandemic. Speaking at another event in MDU university in Rohtak, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatreya said the dream of "Atmanirbhar India" would be fulfilled only through effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP-2020). "Teachers will play an important role in the effective implementation of this revolutionary education policy. Therefore, teachers will have to work harder for this," the governor said during the Teachers' Day function organised at Maharishi Dayanand University in Rohtak. The governor, who is also the chancellor of the university, called upon the teacher community to take care of the students like a mother would. "Along with their intellectual development, work continuously for morale enhancement and character building," he said, adding that teachers should motivate the students for entrepreneurship by using information technology. He called upon the students present in the auditorium to become job providers. The governor said the university has to be made a centre of entrepreneurship excellence along with academic excellence. Dattatraya called for starting a social awareness campaign against social evils, while taking inspiration from the thoughts and works of Swami Dayanand Saraswati. He congratulated the entire university, including vice chancellor Rajbir Singh, for the remarkable progress, green campus and multi-faceted achievements. Live TV Prayagraj: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya got a major relief in the alleged fake degree case after additional chief judicial magistrate (ACJM), Prayagraj rejected an application demanding a criminal case against him. ACJM Namrata Singh rejected the application filed by a social activist Diwakar Tripathi under Section 156 (3) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), saying that prima facie no cognizable offence appears to have been committed. The application is rejected, as the same is found to be baseless and groundless, noted Singh. The complainant had alleged use of fake educational degrees by Maurya for contesting five elections at different places and also obtaining a petrol pump. District government counsel (criminal), Gulab Chandra Agrahri told reporters that the additional chief judicial magistrate (ACJM) court on August 11 had directed the police to hold a preliminary inquiry into the alleged fake degrees of the deputy chief minister. The ACJM had directed the station house officer of Cantonment, Prayagraj to submit a report on the authenticity of the degree like Uttar Madhyama second year issued by the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan, Prayagraj to the deputy chief minister and also regarding the allegation of use of fake certificates by Maurya in the affidavit of elections. Subsequently, the police after conducting an inquiry had filed its report in which it was stated that none of the alleged offences took place in the jurisdiction of Cantt police station of Prayagraj. Hence, no FIR was registered by the Cantt police on the application of Tripathi. Besides, as per the report filed by police, the alleged fake degrees were not obtained by the applicant from any authentic sources, rather only the xerox copies of the documents have been filed, which were not credible evidence. Further, no complaint was filed by the applicant against Maurya before the Election Commission. Live TV New Delhi: Bank of Maharashtra has invited applications for the recruitment of candidates to the post of Specialist Officer in various disciplines in Scale I and II. A total of 190 vacancies have been notified. Interested candidates can apply for the posts on the banks officials website bankofmaharashtra.in. The last date to apply is September 19. The application process had started on September 1. Bank is looking forward to augmenting agriculture sector, strengthening cyber security, impregnable legal services and emulating techno-savvy systems in tandem, the banks recruitment notification read. The candidate should be proficient in computers, good in inter-personal communication skills, analytical skills and drafting skills Bank of Maharashtra Recruitment 2021 - Vacancy details: Agriculture Field Officer 100 vacancies Security Officer - 10 vacancies Law Officer 10 vacancies HR/ Personnel Officer 10 vacancies IT Support Administrator (various technologies) 60 vacancies Bank of Maharashtra Recruitment 2021 - Pay Scale: Scale I: Rs. 36000 (1490/7) - 46430 (1740/2) 49910 (1990/7)- 63840 Scale II: Rs. 48170 (1740/1) - 49910 (1990/10) 69810 Bank of Maharashtra Recruitment 2021 - Selection Procedure: The candidates shall be required to appear for online examination to be conducted through IBPS. The successful candidates shall be called for interview. The allocation of marks for online examination and interview is each of 100 only, which will be converted into 60:40. The minimum cut-off marks for online examination, interview and the final selection shall be 50% for UR / EWS and 45% for SC / ST / OBC / PwBD. Also Check: NHPC Recruitment 2021: Hydropower PSU announces vacancies for various posts, pay scale up to Rs 1.8 lakh per month Live TV New Delhi: Rajasthan and Ministerial Services Selection Board (RSMSSB) has invited applications for Sanganak (Computer) posts. Interested candidates can apply at the official website of RSMSSB at rsmssb.rajasthan.gov.in. The application process will commence on September 8 and last till October 8. The recruitment drive will fill up to 250 vacancies at the organization. Eligibility: Candidates must have Bachelorss degree in Maths, Statistics or Economics and should also possess a Degree/Diploma/Certificate in Computer. The age limit of the candidate should be between 18 to 40 years. Vacancy details: General 79 EWS 22 OBC 46 EBC 11 SC 35 ST 26 TSP Area 30 Saharia 1 RSMSSB recruitment 2021: Steps to apply 1. Visit the official website of RSMSSB at rsmssb.rajasthan.gov.in 2. On the homepage, click on the Recruitment tab 3. Log in the required details and upload the documents 4. Pay the application fee and submit the form 5. Take a printout of the application form for future reference Application fee: General category and OBC candidates have to pay a fee of Rs 450. Candidates from SC, ST, and PwD will have to pay Rs 250 while BC/EBC (NCL) Rajasthan candidates will have to pay Rs 350. It is to be noted that the date for the written exam will be announced later on the official website. Candidates are recommended to keep a tab. Live TV NEW DELHI: The Karnataka government has issued a new set of guidelines in view of the upcoming festival season amid the looming threat of the COVID-19 third wave in the country. Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Saturday said that the state government will be issuing a set of COVID-19 guidelines in the wake of upcoming festivals and urged the people to follow COVID-appropriate behaviour. As far as functions and events are concerned, I have seen guidelines being broken in some of the functions. Thats why, considering all these, new guidelines will be released soon, CM Bommai said. As far as functions and events are concerned, I have seen guidelines being broken in some of the functions. That's why, considering all these, new guidelines will be released soon: Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2021 Replying to a question on the resumption of schools, the Chief Minister said the state government was still not in favour of reopening schools for classes 1 to 5. No, we have not considered it yet. We will see how things will function with classes 6,7 and 8, and based on that we will take further decisions, CM Bommai told reporters. The remarks from the chief minister came a day after the officials of the health department sealed the Christian Nursing College located in Bengalurus Horamavu after 34 students tested Covid positive. The states health department has been taking all efforts to trace the primary and secondary contacts of the infected persons in the city. The authorities have sealed the Christian Nursing college campus, including the 100 meters of the surrounding area. The area has been identified as a containment cluster zone. The health department has instructed the college authorities to take the responsibility for keeping the students in quarantine for 14 days. The officials are also looking into the submission of fake RT-PCR certificates by students and investigating the matter. Notably, the Karnataka government has managed to bring down the number of cases in the state from 50,000 to 1000 with great difficulty. On Friday, Karnataka reported 1,220 fresh COVID-19 cases and 19 deaths, pushing the total number of infections to 29,53,064 and the toll to 37,380. Earlier last week, the Karnataka government had said that it will continue the night curfew from 9 PM to 5 AM and the weekend curfew from 9 PM on Friday till 5 AM in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district till September 13. During the curfew period, essential services will be allowed. Moreover, the shops selling essential items will be allowed to function from 6 AM to 2 PM. Live TV New Delhi: The Karnataka government on Sunday (September 5) announced guidelines for celebrating the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi in the state amid COVID-19 pandemic. The state government banned processions during the festival and said distribution of food and prasad will not be allowed. For districts witnessing more than 2% positivity rate, no functions can take place, ANI reported. The government capped the limit of people allowed at celebrations and Ganesha idol immersion to 20. Night curfew will remain in effect during the 5-day celebration of the festival in the state. No celebrations will be allowed after 9 pm. No processions will be allowed. Only eco-friendly Ganesha idols will be allowed. Distribution of food & prasad will not be allowed during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. No function to take place in districts with more than 2% positivity rate: Karnataka govt ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 Last week, the Centre had extended the ongoing COVID-19 guidelines till September 30 and asked all states and union territories to ensure no large gatherings take place during the festival season. Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla had said that overall pandemic situation now appears to be "largely stable" at the national level, except for the localised spread reported in a few states. On Saturday, Karnataka reported 983 new COVID-19 infections and 21 fatalities, taking the total infection tally to 29,54,047 and the death toll to 37,401. With 1,620 discharges, the total number of recoveries in the state reached 28,98,874. The active cases in the state stand at 17,746. The positivity rate on Saturday was 0.61 per cent, while the Case Fatality Rate (CFR) was 2.13 per cent. Meanwhile, as Kerala continues to record a worrying surge in daily COVID-19 cases, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Saturday told officials to ensure 100 percent vaccination across all villages lying within the 20 km range of the Kerala border. In a meeting with the District Commissioners (DC) and Superintendents of Police (SP) and district In-charge ministers of bordering districts of Kerala, Bommai said vaccination in Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu, Chamarajanagar and Hassan should be increased by 35 per cent, IANS reported. (With agency inputs) Live TV Kozhikode: Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Sunday confirmed two more cases of Nipah virus infection hours after a 12-year-old died at a hospital in Kozhikode. Two more persons have been identified with the symptoms of Nipah virus infection, Health Minister Veena George was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The two are among the 20 high-risk contacts of the deceased 12-year-old child, she said. "We have identified 188 contacts till now. The surveillance team has marked 20 of them as high-risk contacts. Two of these high-risk contacts have symptoms. Both are health workers. One works with a private hospital, while the other is a staff member of Kozhikode Medical College hospital," she told reporters after chairing a high-level meeting to take stock of the situation. She said all the 20 high-risk contacts will be shifted to the Kozhikode Medical College by evening, while other contacts of the child have been asked to remain in isolation. This came hours after a 12-year-old boy died due to a Nipah virus infection. The samples of the boy, which were sent to the Pune National Institute of Virology, confirmed the presence of the Nipah virus. The Central Government, meanwhile, has rushed a team of the National Centre for Disease Control to the state, which will be reaching in the evening on Sunday. The team will provide technical support to the state. Nipah virus is spread by the saliva of the fruit bats. Giving details of the case, the Minister told reporters, "Unfortunately, the boy passed away at 5 in the morning. The condition of the child was critical on Saturday night. We formed various teams and have started the tracing. Steps have been taken to isolate those who were the primary contacts of the boy". The death of a 12-year-old boy has been confirmed due to Nipah virus. We have already started contact tracing, and assessing the situation. The team from NCDC is also coordinating with us: Kerala Health Minister Veena George in Kozhikode pic.twitter.com/GWQPlbrJwY ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 The Minister said the infection was confirmed by the Pune NIV on Saturday night. "Three samples-- plasma, CSF and serum-- were found infected. He was admitted to the hospital with a heavy fever four days ago. But on Saturday, his condition became worse. We had sent his samples for testing the day before yesterday," the Minister said. George said none of the close contacts of the boy are showing any symptoms as of now and that the health department has already traced out the contacts of the child. "There is nothing to worry about. The health department is closely following up on the situation. Special officers have been posted and special teams were formed. The patient was first taken to a private hospital, then to the medical college and from there again shifted to a private hospital. So we have traced all his contacts. His friends in his locality, his cousins and others, the health department had completed the identification and tracing of all these contacts," George said. The minister also asked the neighbouring Kannur and Malappuram districts to remain cautious. Hospital sources said the boy will be cremated today itself following the health protocol. Police have cordoned off an area of a three km radius around the house of the boy. In the wake of the Nipah virus resurfacing in Kerala, the Centre has advised some immediate public health measures which include active case search in the family, village and areas with similar topography, especially in Malappuram. The measures also include active contact tracing for any contacts in the past 12 days, strict quarantine of the contacts and isolation of any suspects and collection and transportation of samples for lab testing, the ministry said. The first Nipah virus disease outbreak in South India was reported from Kozhikode district of Kerala on May 19, 2018. There have been 17 deaths and 18 confirmed cases as of June 1, 2018. Live TV MUMBAI: Amid indications of a possible surge in COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has warned that there is no room for showing complacency as the state government is preparing to deal with a third wave of the infection. The Chief Minister said that there was a surge in COVID-19 cases after festivals last year. I request all of you to avoid crowding. Wearing a face mask is important even after vaccination, the Maharashtra Chief Minister added. There was a surge in COVID-19 cases after festivals last year. I request all of you to avoid crowding... Wearing face mask is important even after vaccination: Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray pic.twitter.com/wBUWpxAz9L ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2021 Thackeray made these remarks while addressing the virtual Majha Doctor conference during which he said the government has strengthened the health infrastructure and it is in the midst of increasing the oxygen capacity to 3,000 MT from the present level of 1200 to 1400 MT to meet the demand in the wake of the third wave. At present, 300 MT of oxygen is supplied for COVID-19 and other patients in the state. The Shiv Sena chief strongly criticized the BJP and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena without directly naming them for their agitation for the reopening of the temples in the state. There are people who are in a hurry demanding the reopening of everything. I urge them not to bring politics during the present coronavirus pandemic. If they want to agitate, they should do it against the virus, he noted. Thackeray also strongly justified the governments move to slowly and carefully reopen various activities in the state. He recalled despite severe curbs last year after the festive season in September there was a surge in COVID-19 cases. Now the government has relaxed several curbs. There is an upcoming Ganesh Utsav. I want people not to be complacent, avoid crowding in order to avoid the spread of the virus and its infection. I also urge political parties to avoid crowding, he said. The Shiv Sena leader had earlier said that even though some districts have shown a steady decline in COVID-19 cases, some others are still exhibiting an upward trend, but the number of patients under treatment has dropped from what it was in April-end. Thackeray said he has asked officials to work in a mission mode to ramp up the production of medical oxygen, used in treating serious COVID-19 patients, ahead of the third wave of the infection hitting Maharashtra, the worst coronavirus-affected state in the country. We are preparing for the third wave of the virus, Thackeray said addressing the state on social media. The CM said the people of the state, where lockdown-like curbs are in place to stem the infection spread, should not become complacent just because there is a downward trend in coronavirus cases. Thackeray said, Though some districts have shown a decline in cases, we need to be ready for the third wave of COVID-19. The state task force on COVID-19 is currently engaged in guiding family doctors in district and tehsil places about treatment protocols. It will enable them to make accurate diagnosis and avoid over prescription of medicines. Live TV Mumbai: Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday attacked the Centre for allegedly removing former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's picture from a poster released by a body affiliated to the Union Education Ministry to mark the 75th year of India's independence. The Shiv Sena leader said that it showed the Centre's "narrow mindset", and asked the Union government why it "hates" Nehru so much. Raut, in his weekly column 'Rokhthok' in the Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamana, said the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Education, has excluded the pictures of Jawaharlal Nehru and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad from its poster and alleged that it was an act of "political vindictiveness". "Those who had no participation in the freedom struggle and creating history are keeping out one of the heroes of the independence struggle. This act, done out of political vindictiveness, is not good and shows their narrow mindset. It is an insult of each and every freedom fighter," Sanjay Raut claimed. One can have differences over Nehru's policies after independence, but no one can deny his contribution to the freedom struggle, said the Rajya Sabha member, who is the executive editor of 'Saamana'. "What has Nehru done to hate him so much? In fact, the institutions he built are now being sold to keep the Indian economy moving," Raut said, while referring to the National Monetization Pipeline (announced recently by the Centre), and claimed it was due to Nehru's "long-term vision" that the country was saved from economic devastation. Raut, whose party shares power with the NCP and Congress in Maharashtra, said Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin recently took a decision not to remove pictures of former state CMs Jayalalitha and EK Palaniswami from school bags which were being distributed free to children in the southern state. "If he (Stalin) can show political maturity, why do you hate Nehru so much? You owe an answer to the nation," the Shiv Sena's chief spokesperson said, without naming the BJP. The Modi government's criticism of Congress president Sonia Gandhi and party leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra was understandable, he said, claiming that the Centre made its hatred public by changing the name of the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award. "You cannot destroy the immortal contribution of Nehru and (former prime minister) Indira Gandhi in nation-building. Those who deny Nehru's contributions will be called villains of history," Raut further claimed. Live TV New Delhi: Nearly 1.3 lakh eligible beneficiaries or 80 per cent of adult population in Maharashtra's Mumbai has been vaccinated with first dose of anti-COVID-19 vaccine, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation infomred on Saturday. With this making the metropolis becomes the top-ranked city in terms of inoculation percentage, a BMC official was quoted by PTI. BMC Chief Iqbal Singh Chahal claimed 30 per cent of the city's eligible beneficiaries have been administered the second dose as well while hailing the private hospitals in the city. "A total of 1.3 lakh doses were administered on Saturday. With this, 80 per cent of the population has taken at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. We are number one in terms of percentage of the population covered under the drive among major cities in the country," Chahal told reporters. Further, he said adherence to COVID-19 norms like wearing a mask and maintaining social distance can save us from a possible third wave. Mumbai: Actress Arshi Khan, who is learning wrestling skills from The Great Khali, feels blessed to find a teacher in the form of the ex-WWE fighter. The Big Boss 11 and 14 alum revealed that apart from the sport, Khali also teaches her basic humour to cope up with the challenges of life. Arshi, who has acted in movies like 'The Last Emperor' and took part in reality shows and daily soaps, shares how Khali has motivated her in life. She says, "People were urging me to take back my decision to learn wrestling at this point in life. But Khali has made me strong enough to live a life of dreams. He made me trust myself and I feel blessed to find a new teacher in life. Apart from wrestling, there is a lot more to learn from The Great Khali." Arshi also said that Khali is very much dedicated to the country and its culture. "The Great Khali is very much dedicated to India and its culture. I am getting to learn so many things with him," she adds. Arshi will be celebrating Teacher's Day with The Great Khali. New Delhi: Actress Kangana Ranaut has praised multiplex chains for screening the Telugu and Tamil version of her upcoming film 'Thalaivii'. She calls it a ray of hope. After hearing the news, Kangana, who had earlier taken to Instagram to request the multiplex owners for 'Thalaivii's' screening, said she was moved by the decision and penned a long note. She wrote: "PVR's decision to screen the Tamil and Telugu versions of the film is a ray of hope for Team Thalaivii as well as all those cinegoers who are waiting to rush back to their favourite multiplex chain for a cinematic experience. I am personally moved by the kind words used for me and Team Thalaivii." The actress hopes that the Hindi version of the film, based on the life of late Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and former actress J. Jayalalithaa, gets to see the light of day. "And I hope with talks, and a passion for the theatrical experience, we can come together to find a solution so that the Hindi version can also find love and appreciation on the big screen @pvrcinemas_official - Lots of Love, Kangana." A statement on behalf of Kamal Gianchandani, CEO, PVR Pictures Ltd, Chief of Strategy, PVR Limited read: "We are thankful to 'Thalaivii' team for offering a 4 week theatrical window for its Tamil and Telugu language versions. We are delighted to be able to play 'Thalaivii' in Tamil and Telugu language at our cinemas, however, we are disappointed that for the Hindi language version, 'Thalaivii' team has decided to offer only a 2 week window. "We would like to appeal to Ms Kangana Ranaut, Mr Vishnu Induri & Mr. Shailesh Singh to keep a uniform window of 4 weeks across all language versions and therefore allow all cinemas across the country to showcase 'Thalaivii' to audiences, on the big screen." The statement further read: "Considering the severe impact of the ongoing pandemic on our business, PVR cinemas has already agreed to reduce the 8 week theatrical window to 4 weeks, for all films releasing in the near future. "This is a temporary step by PVR cinemas to assist our producer partners in realizing full commercial potential of their films, while keeping the sanctity of theatrical experience, intact." The film, which will be released in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu, is based on the life of the late Jayalalithaa. 'Thalaivii' showcases the varied aspects of her life, tracing her journey as an actress at a young age to becoming the face of Tamil cinema as well as the rise of the revolutionary leader that changed the course of Tamil Nadu politics. It is set to release in cinemas on September 10. New Delhi: Actor Pankaj Tripathi turns 45 years old on Sunday (September 5). The versatile actor has been super busy despite the COVID-19 pandemic and has had six releases in the past one year, which include - Gunjan Saxena, Ludo, Kaagaz and Mimi, and web show Mirzapur 2 and Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors. Joking about the same, the actor told ETimes, I am the only actor to have had so many releases during the lockdown! Main lockdown ka hero hoon (I am a hero of the lockdown). Pankaj also spoke about getting replaced in the films. The actor however shares that all the films that he has been replaced from did not do well. Oh, so many times. You are told you have been finalised till the very end, and one day, you find out you have been replaced. Of course, it hurts, but it is a part of the process. However, every project I have been replaced in, has eventually flopped; trust me, I didnt jinx them (laughs). So, in hindsight, it was for the best! Jo nahi ho sake poorn kaam, unko karta hoon main pranaam (Wishes that remain unfulfilled are probably for the best). shared the Mirzapur actor. However, with the advent of OTT, Pankaj Tripathi and many other actors have got a new platform to showcase their talent and a huge fanbase. I am absolutely shocked; 8th and 9th-grade students are turning out to be my fans these days. Recently, I met the CEO of a company, who told me he was a fan of my work, as were his 70-year-old parents and teenage kids. I dont understand how an actor can get such adulation from three generations, especially one who looks so ordinary and cant even sing or dance! It stumps me every time, he said. The actor's plate is full of work and he is booked till 2022. Pankaj however wishes to take a break once free and go to the mountains. I want to go on a three-four month vacation, take off to the mountains, catch hold of a yoga guru, and live a satvik life of discipline and simplicity for some time to cleanse my mind, body, and soul, told Pankaj. New Delhi: Actress Pavitra Punia recently opened up on her bond with the late actor Sidharth Shukla and spoke a few words on Shehnaaz Gill's relationship with the 'Balika Vadhu' actor. She revealed that Shehnaaz and Sidharth's bond was no less than that of a husband and wife and described it as 'pure'. She said that fans will remember the duo for the time to come in an interview with a leading daily. She told Hindustan Times, "Aaj main jab Shehnaaz ko dekthi hoon, toh rooh kaanp jaati hai. People dream of having a pure bond like they had. I wouldnt say it was dosti or boyfriend-girlfriend. Yeh rishta pati patni se kam nahin tha. After Soni-Mahiwal, Romeo-Juliet, people will remember Sidharth-Shehnaaz. Their fans are crazy about them. I was madly in love with the Shehnaaz and Sid jodi. I hope she manages, stays strong to cope with the loss." Pavitra revisited memories with Sidharth during the interview and recalled having a Tom and Jerry like bond with him. She said, "I worked with him in Love U Zindagi in 2011 my first show as a lead. Back then, I didnt know the ways of the industry yet I had an attitude. I was called a youth icon and a reality star due to Spilsvilla. Sidharth was reserved, composed and kaam se kaam rakhnewale. He was my senior yet we had issues. I would think hoga hero apne ghar ka and we wouldnt give shots together." "The show lasted for 6 months. We bonded well when we went to Macau for an awards show. Thats where we broke the ice. He was so protective and such a gentleman. After the show ended, our bond became better. Later, when we met on Bigg Boss, he asked me, Dus saal pehle wali Pavtira kahan hai?. He wanted the rowdy Pavitra. Had he not asked me to bring the original Pavitra, I wouldnt have lasted for a week in the house," she added. For the unversed, TVs most popular face and Bigg Boss 13 winner Sidharth Shukla died on Thursday (September 2), with many suspecting it to be a heart attack. His viscera samples have been sent to a forensic laboratory for examination though initial reports did not reveal any signs of unnatural death, police and hospital sources told PTI. The autopsy report of the actor did not mention the exact cause of death, said a police officer on Friday. On the face of it, there were no signs of unnatural death but the opinion has been reserved," he said, adding that the exact cause of death will be known after reports of chemical analysis of the viscera and histopathology tests were received. Sidharth Shukla is survived by his mother and two sisters. The actor's last screen outing was Ekta Kapoor's insanely popular show 'Broken But Beautiful 3' in which he played the role of Agastya Rao. New Delhi: The much-revered day, marking the contribution of our respected teachers is finally here. Teachers' Day is annually celebrated in the country on September 5, acknowledging the great minds who nurture future generations. Although a single day is not enough to make them feel special, lets take a look at how Bollywood actor Esha Deol is celebrating Teachers' Day. Well, on the special occasion, Esha penned a heart-warming note for her mother and first teacher Hema Malini and even called her a blessing. Sharing a monochromatic picture of herself along with her mother from her initial classical dancing days, she wrote, From my first step as a tiny dancer to who I am today as a mother, its all because of you. The knowledge, the ethics & the discipline I have learnt from you has always been a blessing for me. My mother, My first teacher! For the unversed, Esha is the daughter of legendary actors Dharmendra and Hema Malini. She also has a sibling Ahana Deol. Esha got married to Bharat Takhtani on June 29 in 2012 in an intimate low-key wedding in a suburban Mumbai temple. The couple is proud parents to two girls - Radhya and Miraya. Esha Deol made her debut in Bollywood in 2002 with 'Koi Mere Dil Se Poochhe'. She was also seen in movies like- Dhoom, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum, Kaal, No Entry, Yuva and Cash to name a few. New Delhi: After writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar compared RSS, VHP to Taliban, Maharashtra MLA and BJP spokesperson Ram Kadam took to Twitter and shared a video saying that until Javed Akhtar apologises to RSS for his analogy till then none of his films will be allowed to screen in India. Javed Akhtar had earlier in an interaction with the NDTV said that the right-wing across the world want the same things. "Just like the Taliban want an Islamic State, there are those who want a Hindu Rashtra. These people are of the same mindset -- be it Muslim, Christian, Jews or Hindus," he told NDTV. He further added, Of course, the Taliban is barbaric, and their actions are reprehensible, but those supporting the RSS, VHP and Bajrang Dal are all the same. Reacting on the same, BJP MLA Ram Kadam posted a video on Twitter which he captioned, This statement by Javed Akhtar is not just shameful, but painful and humiliating for crores of functionaries of the Sangh and the Vishva Hindu Parishad and crores of people across the world who follow their ideology." In the video, the BJP MLA can be seen asking the writer to have at least reflected that the people with the same ideology are running the government now, and are fulfilling the Raj Dharma. He further says that if the ideology was Talibani, would he have been able to make these remarks? This in itself shows that the statements made by him are hollow. "We will not allow any of his films to run in this land of Ma Bharti till he apologises with folded hands to the functionaries of the Sangh who have dedicated their lives to the nation," the MLA said in the video. Javed Akhtar has been critical of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party and its policies. The vocal film personality is the husband of actress and activist Shabana Azmi and father of director Zoya Akhtar and actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar. Javed Akhtar has been a member of the Rajya Sabha in the past. New Delhi: Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) Jeevan Anand policy offers investors a chance to save for their better future. The policy offers two bonuses at two different intervals if the investor keeps on investing in the investment scheme. Any investor aged 18 and above can start investing in the scheme that offers assured returns at the time of maturity. One of the best highlights of the policy is that the premium term and the policy term - which means that the premium will have to be paid till the get the policy matures. Investors in the policy also receive a bonus after investing continuously for 15 years. In case of the death of the investor, the LIC Jeevan Anand policy also ensures that the nominees get a decent amount of returns to secure their future. The minimum sum assured in the LIC scheme is Rs 1 lakh. However, investors can increase the claim by increasing their sum assured. Currently, LIC is offering 125% of the sum assured in case of the death of the investor. Investors also get a slew of other benefits in the LIC Jeevan Anand policy, including insurance for accidental death, disability, term assurance and critical illness cover, among others. Investors can also choose how they want to get their returns. They can either withdraw the lump sum amount at once or can opt for assured monthly returns. Heres how you can get Rs 10.33 lakhs on maturity by investing just Rs 76 daily If an investor aged about 24 opts for the Rs 5 lakh option in the LIC Jeevan Anand Policy, then he/she will need to pay Rs 26,815 as a premium, which translates into a monthly premium of Rs 2281 or Rs 76 a day. Also Read: Got Rs 2 old coin? You can earn up to Rs 5 lakhs by selling it online In the next 21 years, the deposited money will be about Rs 563705. Coupled with bonus money, an investor will get about Rs 10 lakh 33 thousand rupees on maturity. Also Read: Atal Pension Yojna dominates social security scheme with 66% National Pension Scheme subscriber base New Delhi: In a shocking turn of events, Malayalam actress, best known for her film Madras Cafe was recently arrested by Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW). She is the wife of Sukesh Chandrashekhar, who is allegedly involved in an extortion case. According to reports, film actress Leena Paul was involved with Sukesh in the extortion of Rs 200 crores. Earlier, on August 23, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said that it had Sukesh Chandrashekhar "seized" a sea-facing bungalow in Chennai, Rs 82.5 lakh cash and over a dozen luxurious cars in connection with a money laundering case as per a PTI report. At the time, the ED had also conducted raids against Leena Paul, Chandrashekhar's wife. She is an actress in the Malayalam industry and is well-known for her feature in the Hindi film Madras Cafe. (With PTI inputs) Today is Teachers Day and up until now this day was celebrated in colleges and schools but that has changed now, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students are now wishing their teachers and professors virtually via WhatsApp. However, one can send special stickers on WhatsApp to their teachers on this occasion. Heres a step-by-step guide for sending WhatsApp messages: Step 1: Go to Google Play Store and type Teachers Day WhatsApp stickers or Teachers Day WhatsApp sticker packs in the search bar to get third-party WhatsApp stickers. iPhone users can download Sticker.ly from the App Store. Step 2: Then choose the sticker pack apps that you want to use and click on the Install button to install them on your Android smartphone. Step 3: After the sticker app or apps has been installed, open it and tap on the Open Stickers packs option. Step 4: You will be instantly greeted with a list of Teachers Day sticker packs. Choose the ones you like and then click on the Plus icon on the right side of every sticker pack. When you do so, you will be able to add it to your sticker collection in WhatsApp. Step 5: The sticker app will then show various apps, including WhatsApp and Telegram, wherein these sticker packs can be added. Tap on WhatsApp to add these sticker packs to the Facebook-owned messaging app. Step 6: Then do your selection by tapping on the Add option. Now, you will find all these stickers in the sticker section inside WhatsApp. Live TV #mute Chinese smartphone brand Realme is set to launch its two new phones which are Realme 8i and Realme 8s 5G in India on September 9. It will also unveil Realme Pad, the first tablet by the brand. Meanwhile, Realme India and Europe CMO Francis Wong recently announced that the company will make another big announcement at its September 9 event. Wong also revealed that the features and other details of the Realme 9 series will be revealed during the launch event. Customers will have to wait and watch to see the specifications upgrade of Realme 9 and 9 Pro. In terms of features of Realme 8 Pro, the smartphone will be equipped with a 108 MP camera in the sub-20K segment, while the Realme 8 5G is seen as the most affordable 5G phone in India. Besides that, Realme 8i will feature MediaTek Helio 96 SoC, while the Realme 8s 5G will have the Mediatek Dimensity 810 SoC. Besides that, the company will also launch Realme Pad on September 9. Realme India CEO Madhav Sheth recently confirmed that the tablet will be equipped with the highest resolution displays on the market with a WUXGA+ (2000x1200 pixels) resolution. Live TV #mute New Delhi: WhatsApp for iOS devices appears to be all set for a major design change. The Facebook-owned social media platform is reportedly testing chat bubbles for Apple iPhone and iPads. Reports have previously suggested that Apple was already testing the new design for Android devices. The beta version of the Android app is already sporting the new design. This suggests that WhatsApp may soon launch the chat bubbles for the beta version of the messaging platform. WABetaInfo, an online portal that tracks new developments related to WhatsApp, reported that the WhatsApp beta version 2.21.13.2 has already received the new design. Beta testers of Android devices are already testing the new design while iOS users are now also receiving the new update, the site reported. Users can see the new change in how the size of the chat bubbles has increased in the beta version of the app. The increase in size makes bubbles much more readable than they were in the previous versions of the app. Also Read: Google banned fake apps from Play Store: Heres how to identify malicious apps Meanwhile, WhatsApp Web is also set to get a new update, which would be similar to how you react on Facebook Messenger and Instagram-like Message reactions feature. WABetaInfo stated that the app is currently working on this WhatsApp Web feature both for Android and iOS. The WhatsApp Web message reactions feature is currently under development. Also Read: Happy Teachers' Day: Heres how to download and send WhatsApp Stickers to your teachers New Delhi: In the latest episode of Bigg Boss OTT, Karan Johar graced the stage as part of the Sunday Ka Vaar. At the beginning of the episode, the host of the show Karan Johar paid tribute to late actor Sidharth Shukla who passed away on September 2. Later, he goes on to speak to Milind Gaba and Akshara Singh about the comments they had made on Neha Bhasin's behaviour. In an earlier episode, Milind had commented on Neha's habit of getting physical and portrayed that in a slightly negative light. Akshara Singh had also made comments on the same. On the Sunday episode, Karan slammed the two contestants for their words. While Karan was interacting with the contestants, Pratik Sehajpal began blaming Akshara Singh for defaming her. However, Karan Johar breaks the fight. Once again Nishant Bhat and Shamita Shetty had a huge argument and the former called the latter 'ghamandi' or 'proud'. Shamita has a huge meltdown and begins yelling at Nishant. The choreographer tells Shamita that if he throws verbal attacks at her, she will start crying. The fight remained unresolved and the contestants were called into the living room by Karan Johar. The host then announced the eliminations of the week. Unfortunately, Milind Gaba and Akshara Singh were eliminated from the show. This was a sad moment for many of the contestants. For more updates, stay connected and watch this space for fresh content related to Bigg Boss OTT. New Delhi: Actor-comedian Krushna Abhishek has refused to feature in The Kapil Sharma Show episode that features his maternal uncle Govinda and his wife Sunita Ahuja. Earlier, in 2019 Krushna was not part of the episode in which Govinda, Sunita and their daughter Tina Ahuja. Confirming the news Krushna told ETimes, Since the past 15 days, I have been shuttling between Raipur and Mumbai to shoot for my film and Kapils show. I would always go that extra mile to adjust my dates for the show. However, when I learnt that they would be appearing as celebrity guests in the upcoming episode, I didnt want to be a part of it, so I didnt try to adjust my dates. I believe both parties dont wish to share a stage. Krushna has not been in talking terms with Govinda and his family for more than 3 years. Yeh meri taraf se bhi hoga aur unki taraf se bhi hoga. Also, its a comedy show. Pata nahi kaun si baat lekar badi baat bann jaye aur phir wohi sab hoga ki aisa bol diya waisa bol diya. I didnt want to create an issue. I am sure that the audience waits in anticipation for my gig when Govindaji comes on the show, but I realised that it was better not to perform. Artistes bahut emotional hote hain. Unko kaam karna chahiye par aise bhi nahi jahaan dono ko ek doosre ko dekhna nahi hai. Things are still the same between us and issues havent been resolved, he shared. The comedian however maintained that his personal equation with Govinda cannot be the ground that Kapil Sharma or the show also cut their ties with him. Why should the team spoil their relationship with Govinda? Its a family matter...an internal matter. Kapil is extremely fond of him and shares a great bond with him. I wouldnt want Kapil to spoil his equation with him. said Krushna. Lucknow/Muzaffarnagar: Hundreds of farmers from different states on Sunday participated in a Kisan Mahapanchayat' held in Uttar Pradesh's Muzaffarnagar district in protest against the Centre's three controversial farm laws. The mahapanchayat organised by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) was held at the Government Inter College ground in Muzaffarnagar, ahead of the crucial UP assembly polls next year. Bharatiya Kisan Union media in-charge Dharmendra Malik said farmers belonging to 300 organisations spread across different states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, among others, have gathered for the event. Farmers in large numbers attend Kisan Mahapanchayat in Muzaffarnagar demanding repeal of Centre's three farm laws pic.twitter.com/q5qrkqzgSl ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) September 5, 2021 He said over 5,000 langars' (food stalls), including some mobile stalls, had been set up for the participants. Ahead of the mahapanchayat, the farmers, including women carrying flags of different organisations and wearing different coloured caps, were seen arriving at the venue in buses, cars and tractors. A number of medical camps had been set up in the vicinity. The Muzaffarnagar district administration denied the request of the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) to sprinkle flowers from a helicopter on the venue and participants of the mahapanchayat. City magistrate Abhishek Singh rejected the request, saying it cannot be allowed due to security reasons. RLD chief Jayant Chaudhry had earlier sought permission from the district authorities to allow sprinkling of flowers from a helicopter on the mahapanchayat in honour of the agitating farmers. The district authorities have posted police personnel at the residences of Union minister Sanjiv Balyan and BJP MLA Umesh Malik here, as a precautionary measure. The SKM on Saturday claimed that thousands of farmers from 15 states had reached Muzaffarnagar to participate in the mahapanchayat'. The umbrella body of 40 farmer unions spearheading the farmers' agitation against the Centre's three farm laws said the event will prove that the agitation has the support of all castes, religions, states, classes, small traders and other sections of the society. "The mahapanchayat of September 5 will make the Yogi-Modi governments realise the power of farmers, farm labourers, and supporters of the farm movement. The Muzaffarnagar mahapanchayat will be the biggest ever in the last nine months," the SKM had said in a statement. It had said 100 medical camps had also been set up for the farmers attending the mahapanchayat. A total of 32 farmer unions from Punjab have given a deadline of September 8 to the state government to withdraw cases against protestors, it said, adding that if the cases are not withdrawn, the farmers will prepare a roadmap for a bigger protest on September 8. The farmers' protest against the three contentious laws has completed over nine months since they first arrived at the Delhi borders. The farmers have been demanding the repeal of the laws which they are afraid will do away with the MSP system, leaving them at the mercy of big corporations. Meanwhile, the Muzaffarnagar district authorities have ordered the closure of all wine shops in view of the mahapanchayat. Live TV New Delhi: Virtually ruling out an alliance with the SP and BSP for the Uttar Pradesh assembly polls, Congress' state unit chief Ajay Kumar Lallu on Sunday said his party will forge alliances only with small parties and will "not even think about" joining hands with the big ones for the elections. He also said the governments of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) that have ruled Uttar Pradesh in the last 32 years, when Congress was not in power, failed to live up to the expectations of the people and the Congress was set for a comeback in the state. In an interview with PTI, Lallu said that in the eyes of the people of Uttar Pradesh, the Congress is the main challenger to the BJP in the polls next year and expressed confidence that the party would win the elections under the leadership of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and form the next government. The Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president said the party will fight the polls under the "supervision" of Priyanka Gandhi as she is the general secretary in-charge of the state and a call on the issue of chief ministerial face will be taken by the national leadership. Asked about the Congress' stand on alliances for the UP polls and if there was still a possibility of a tie-up with the SP and BSP, Lallu said, "The Congress' stand on alliances is clear, we will forge alliances only with small parties. We will not even think about aligning again with big parties." Pointing to the reaction of SP and BSP to a Congress booklet that talked about misrule under the non-Congress governments in the last 32 years, he said it is clear that "we will align with small parties" on the issues of the poor, farmers, youth and women's security. "We are moving forward as a strong opposition force and under the leadership of Priyanka Gandhi we will win the polls, and form the government in 2022," Lallu said, adding that he was in touch with small parties on alliances but could not talk about the details now. Both the SP and BSP have also ruled out tying up with the Congress, with SP's Akhilesh Yadav saying the party will forge alliances only with small parties and Mayawati asserting that BSP would go solo in the polls. Lallu claimed that SP as the main challenger to the BJP for the 2022 polls was a media creation and it was the Congress that was standing resolutely on the ground to take on the BJP. Citing the examples of the Congress' 'BJP Gaddi Chhorho' campaign and party leaders spending three days in gram panchayats and wards to hold a direct dialogue with about 90 lakh people last month, Lallu said only one party is focussed on training its cadre and constantly struggling on the ground and that is the Congress. "I say with full confidence that when you look at the strength, organisation and struggle, it is clear that Congress is the voice of farmers, youth, labourers, for women's security and of the village poor," he asserted. Claiming that there is anger against the BJP over issues such as price rise, unemployment, farmers' "plight", poverty, reservation, "murder of democracy", Lallu said he believes that this anger will manifest itself in the polls and common people were standing with the Congress. There is a strong undercurrent in favour of the Congress which will be visible in the elections, he said. Asked about the demand of caste census by many Opposition parties and the Congress' stance on it, Lallu said his party's stand is clear and it is in favour of a caste-based census. Previously also, under the UPA rule, the Congress had got it done and when the BJP came to power, they stopped the publishing of the caste data, he alleged. The BJP does not want a caste census but the Congress believes it should be done, he said. Lallu also asserted that the BJP's alleged crackdown on farmers as was seen in Haryana recently and the "three black farm laws" will also be a major issue in the upcoming polls and people will stand by the farmers. "Under Priyanka Gandhi's leadership there have been various rallies in different parts of the state where these issues were raised. When Rakesh Tikait was attacked, she sent me and we have been strongly standing in support of the farmers," Lallu said. "The three black laws were first opposed by Rahul Gandhi and the Congress has raised the issue both inside and outside Parliament," he said. Lallu alleged that the recent incidents of mob violence and hate had been orchestrated by the BJP as it was "desperate and disappointed". The BJP has lost the confidence of the people and they want to divert people from real issues by raising the Hindu-Muslim bogey, he alleged. "But the people of UP know that this election will be about issues such as farmers' plight, health system, women's safety and corruption," Lallu said. The Congress won just seven seats while its alliance partner SP bagged 47 seats in the 403-member assembly in the 2017 assembly polls. The BJP won a thumping mandate with 312 seats and the BSP bagged 19 seats. London: Amrullah Saleh, the former vice-president of Afghanistan, who is now leading the Resistance Front against Taliban in Panjshir Valley, delineated the sequence of events that unfolded as Kabul fell to the outfit and how Afghan leadership abandoned the people of the war-ravaged country in the hour of need. Writing for a UK newspaper, Saleh, 48, who has declared himself as caretaker president of Afghanistan after former president Ashraf Ghani fled the country, says he believes those politicians who leave their country in moments of crisis betray its very soil. He revealed how Afghan officials went underground instead of fighting the Taliban as the outfit fighters advanced towards Kabul last month. "The night before Kabul fell, the police chief called me to say there was a revolt inside the prison and the Taliban inmates were attempting to escape. I had created a network of non-Taliban prisoners. I called them, and they started a counter revolt on my orders within the prison," he writes in Daily Mail. "Mob control units were deployed along with some Afghan special forces and the situation in the prison was controlled," he adds. He said he tried contacting the then Minister of Defence Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, then-Interior Minister, and their deputies on the morning of August 15. "But I could not find them". "I did find very committed officials in both ministries who reported to me how they are not able to deploy the reserves or the commandoes to the frontlines," he recounts. Saleh said he was unable to find deployable Afghan troops anywhere in the city in "desperate hour". "I then spoke to the police chief of Kabul, a very brave man whom I wish all the best wherever he is. He informed me that the line in the east had fallen, two districts in the south had fallen, and the adjacent province of Wardak had fallen," he says. "He asked for my help in deploying commandoes. I asked him if he could hold the front with whatever resources he had for an hour," he adds. Saleh says he was not able to assemble any troops to help the police chief. So he tried to contact the presidential palace and former National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib, but it was of no use. "I called the Palace. I messaged our National Security Adviser to say we have to do something. I got no response from anyone. And by 9 am that morning of August 15, Kabul was panicking," he says. "The Intelligence Chief had visited me the evening before. I had asked him about his plan should the Taliban storm Kabul. 'My plan is to join you wherever you go,' he said. 'Even if we are blocked by the Taliban, we do our last battle together.," he added. In an apparent swipe at former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and other officials, Saleh said these politicians have "betrayed the people". "They stay in these hotels and villas abroad. And then they call on the poorest Afghans to revolt. That's craven. If we want a revolt, the revolt has to be led," he writes. "They may say now that they would have become martyrs had they remained in Afghanistan. Why not? We need leaders to become martyrs. They will say they would have been taken prisoner. Why not? We need leaders to serve as prisoners," he adds. As no help and support arrived from the government side, Saleh turned to Ahmad Massoud, the son of his mentor Ahmed Shah Massoud. "Instead I sent a message to Ahmad Massoud, son of my mentor, the late Massoud. 'My brother, where are you?' He said: 'I'm in Kabul and planning my next move'. I told him I was also in Kabul and offered to join forces," he writes. Before leaving Kabul, Saleh went home to destroy pictures of my wife and my daughters. "I then went through my home and destroyed pictures of my wife and my daughters. I collected my computer and some belongings. I asked my chief guard, Rahim, to place his hand on my Koran," he writes "We are going to Panjshir and the road is already taken,' I told him. 'We will fight our way through. We will fight it together. But should I get injured, I have one request of you. Shoot me twice in my head. I don't want to surrender to the Taliban ever," he adds. Saleh's says they got into a convoy of a few armoured vehicles and two pickup trucks with guns mounted on them. The convoy was attacked twice on the way to Panjhsir. "We crossed the northern pass with great difficulty because it has become a lawless territory. Thugs. Thieves. Taliban. We were attacked twice, but we survived. We fought our way with determination," he says. "When we reached Panjshir, we got a message that the elders of the community had gathered in the mosque. I spoke to them for an hour and afterwards each of them rose in support," he adds. Panjshir has been a tourist destination for 20 years, he says, adding "We had no military equipment, no ammunition here". "But that night I drew up a strategy to toughen the province's defences. Then I received a call informing me that Ahmed Massoud was heading to Panjshir by helicopter. I felt a surge of hope course through me. We had our first meeting to strategise that night," he adds. "Has it been easy to take up resistance? Absolutely not. I'm in a difficult situation, no doubt. I'm not made of steel I'm a human being. I have emotions. I'm aware that the Taliban want my head. But this is history. And we are in the centre of the history," he notes. Tehran: Iran President Ebrahim Raisi on Saturday (September 4) called for elections in Afghanistan to determine the future of the country. Raisi said he hopes peace will return as western troops have left and the Taliban have taken control. Speaking on state TV, the prime minister said that the people of Afghanistan should vote to determine their own government at the earliest. A government should be established there which is elected by the votes and the will of the people," he said. The Islamic Republic has always sought peace and calm in Afghanistan, and an end to bloodshed and fratricide, and the sovereignty of the people's will. We support a government elected by the Afghan people, he added. Meanwhile, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said the world should engage with Afghanistan to address humanitarian needs and provide economic stability to prevent a refugee crisis in the war-torn country. Khan spoke with Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres over the telephone and the two leaders discussed the developments in Afghanistan, with a particular focus on the humanitarian situation. According to a statement by the Prime Minister's Office, Khan underscored the need for the international community to become more engaged with Afghanistan, according to urgent priority to addressing the humanitarian needs and ensuring economic stability. KIRKUK: Islamic State militants killed 10 Iraqi policemen and wounded four during an overnight attack on a guard post near the city of Kirkuk, police sources said on Sunday. Police sources said the attackers clashed for two hours with police stationed at a village in the town of Rashad, 30 km (18 miles) southwest of the northern city of Kirkuk. Militants used roadside bombs to prevent police reinforcements from reaching the post, destroying three police vehicles, police sources said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but Islamic State militants are active in the area and a security source said they were involved. Separately, at least three Iraqi soldiers were killed and one was wounded on Sunday when gunmen attacked an army checkpoint southeast of the Iraqi city of Mosul, security sources said. Despite the defeat of the Islamic State militant group in 2017, remnants of the group switched to hit-and-run attacks against government forces in different parts of Iraq. WELLINGTON (Reuters) - New Zealand has tried for years to deport the knife-wielding militant who wounded seven people at a mall in Auckland last week, the government said after it released more details on the attacker following the lifting of a court suppression order. Court documents made public on Sunday named the attacker as Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, 32, a Tamil Muslim from Sri Lanka. He had arrived in New Zealand 10 years ago on a student visa seeking refugee status, which was granted in 2013. Samsudeen came to the attention of the police and security services in 2016 after he expressed sympathy on Facebook for militant attacks, violent war-related videos and comments advocating violent extremism. It was later discovered that his refugee status was fraudulently obtained, the government said in a statement, adding that the process had begun to cancel his refugee status. Police shot dead Samsudeen, who had been convicted and imprisoned for about three years before being released in July, moments after he launched his stabbing spree on Friday. "In July this year I met with officials in person and expressed my concern that the law could allow someone to remain here who obtained their immigration status fraudulently and posed a threat to our national security," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said. "This has been a frustrating process." The attack by Samsudeen has led to questions about why the he was allowed to remain free if the authorities had decided he needed to be watched so closely. Ardern vowed on Saturday to pass legislation that would criminalise planning a terror attack and tighten other counter-terrorism laws. Samsudeen`s family issued a statement to the local New Zealand media, describing their shock on the attack. "We are heartbroken after this terrible event," said the statement released by his brother Aroos, carried by state broadcaster 1NEWS. "We hope to find out with you all, what happened in Aathil`s case and what we all could have done to prevent this," the statement said. New Delhi: Former Afghanistan vice president Amrullah Saleh appealed to United Nations asking it 'mobilise their resources' to end the crimes being committed by the Taliban in the war-torn country. In a letter written to the United Nations, Saleh informed about the 'humanitarian crisis' in Panjshir, the last province in Afghnaistan not controlled by the Taliban, claiming the province was looking at a full scale "catastrophe" which might lead to "genocide" of Afghans. Around 2,50,000 people, including local women, children, elderly and 10,000 IDPs who arrived in Panjshir after the fall of Kabul and other large cities are stuck inside these Valleys and suffering from the consequences of this inhuman blocked (sic). If no attention is paid to this situation, a full scale human rights and humanitarian catastrophe including starvation and mass killing, even genocide of these people are in the making, the letter read. READ HERE: Further, Saleh said two decades of conflicts, recurrent natural disasters, disease outbreaks, COVID-19 pandemic and recent takeover of most of the country by the Taliban has "plunged the country into one of the worlds worst humanitarian crisis". Saleh claimed that over 3 million people have been displaced and more than 18 million people are in need of food aid for their survival. He urged UN and other international agencies to help his country and generously respond to "this overwhelming humanitarian crisis". As it Taliban's ascend to Kabul had looked inevitable Saleh had declared himself the acting president of Afghanistan. Former president Ashraf Ghani had fled the country. Kabul: The leader of the Afghan opposition group resisting Taliban forces in the Panjshir valley north of Kabul said on Sunday he welcomed proposals from religious scholars for a negotiated settlement to end the fighting. Ahmad Massoud, head of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRFA), made the announcement on the group`s Facebook page. Earlier, Taliban forces said they had fought their way into the provincial capital of Panjshir after securing the surrounding districts. "The NRF in principle agree to solve the current problems and put an immediate end to the fighting and continue negotiations," Massoud said in the Facebook post. "To reach a lasting peace, the NRF is ready to stop fighting on condition that Taliban also stop their attacks and military movements on Panjshir and Andarab," he said, referring to a district in the neighbouring province of Baghlan. Earlier, Afghan media outlets reported that an Ulema council of religious scholars had called on the Taliban to accept a negotiated settlement to end the fighting in Panjshir. There was no immediate response from the Taliban. Massoud, who leads a force made up of remnants of regular Afghan army and special forces units as well as local militia fighters, called for a negotiated settlement with the Taliban before the fighting broke out around a week ago. Several attempts at talks were held but they eventually broke down, with each side blaming the other for their failure. Taliban spokesman Bilal Karimi said earlier on Sunday that their forces had fought their way into the provincial capital Bazarak and had captured large quantities of weapons and ammunition. RUGGED VALLEY Panjshir, a rugged valley in the mountains north of Kabul that is still littered with the wreckage of Soviet tanks destroyed during the long war in the 1980s to oust the Soviet presence, has proved very difficult to overcome in the past. Under Massoud`s late father, Ahmad Shah Massoud, the region long resisted control by both the invading Soviet army and by the Taliban government that previously ruled from 1996 to 2001. But that effort was helped by supply routes leading north to the border, which were closed off by the Taliban`s sweeping victory last month. The Panjshir fighting has been the most prominent example of resistance to the Taliban. But small individual protests for women`s rights or in defence of the green, red and black tricolour flag of Afghanistan have also been held in different cities. Will never give up to Taliban: Massoud Massoud said that the resistance in Panjshir and protest for the rights of women by women in Afghanistan indicate that people never give up when it comes to standing for their legitimate rights, Khaama News reported. On Friday night, the war in Panhshir province intensified and there were reports of its collapse which were then denied. Massoud in his Facebook post wrote that the people of Afghanistan never get tired of resistance and fight for their rights and will strive for a developed and independent Afghanistan. "The defeat only happens when you give up the fight for your legitimate rights and when you get tired." Massoud and Amrullah Saleh were reported to have fled to Tajikistan after a heavy conflict between the Taliban and resistance forces in Panjshir but the latter in a video clip said that he is still in the province. The former Vice President and one of the commanders of Panjshir resistance accused the Taliban of denying humanitarian assistance to the province. He asked the UN to watch the situation closely and press the Taliban to allow humanitarian aid to the province. (With agency inputs) Kabul: Taliban special forces in camouflage fired their weapons into the air Saturday, bringing an abrupt and frightening end to the latest protest march in the capital by Afghan women demanding equal rights from the new rulers. The women's march " the second in as many days in Kabul " began peacefully. Demonstrators laid a wreath outside Afghanistan's Defense Ministry to honor Afghan soldiers who died fighting the Taliban before marching on to the presidential palace. "We are here to gain human rights in Afghanistan," said 20-year-old protester Maryam Naiby. "I love my country. I will always be here." As the protesters' shouts grew louder, several Taliban officials waded into the crowd to ask what they wanted to say. Flanked by fellow demonstrators, Sudaba Kabiri, a 24-year-old university student, told her Taliban interlocutor that Islam's Prophet gave women rights and they wanted theirs. The Taliban official promised women would be given their rights but the women, all in their early 20s, were skeptical. As the demonstrators reached the presidential palace, a dozen Taliban special forces ran into the crowd, firing in the air and sending demonstrators fleeing. Kabiri, who spoke to The Associated Press, said they also fired tear gas. The Taliban have promised an inclusive government and a more moderate form of Islamic rule than when they last ruled the country from 1996 to 2001. But many Afghans, especially women, are deeply skeptical and fear a roll back of rights gained over the last two decades. For much of the past two weeks, Taliban officials have been holding meetings among themselves, amid reports of differences among them emerging. Early on Saturday, neighboring Pakistan's powerful intelligence chief Gen. Faiez Hameed made a surprise visit to Kabul. It wasn't immediately clear what he had to say to the Taliban leadership but the Pakistani intelligence service has a strong influence on the Taliban. The Taliban leadership had its headquarters in Pakistan and were often said to be in direct contact with the powerful Inter-Services Intelligence agency. Although Pakistan routinely denied providing the Taliban military aid, the accusation was often made by the Afghan government and Washington. Faiez' visit comes as the world waits to see what kind of government the Taliban will eventually announce, seeking one that is inclusive and ensures protection of women's rights and the country's minorities. The Taliban have promised a broad-based government and have held talks with former president Hamid Karzai and the former government's negotiation chief Abdullah Abdullah. But the makeup of the new government is uncertain and it was unclear whether hard-line ideologues among the Taliban will win the day " and whether the rollbacks feared by the demonstrating women will occur. Taliban members whitewashed murals Saturday that promoted health care, warned of the dangers of HIV and even paid homage to some of Afghanistan's iconic foreign contributors, like anthropologist Nancy Dupree, who singlehandedly chronicled Afghanistan's rich cultural legacy. It was a worrying sign of attempts to erase reminders of the past 20 years. The murals were replaced with slogans congratulating Afghans on their victory. A Taliban cultural commission spokesman, Ahmadullah Muttaqi, tweeted that the murals were painted over "because they are against our values. They were spoiling the minds of the mujahedeen and instead we wrote slogans that will be useful to everyone." Meanwhile, the young women demonstrators said they have had to defy worried families to press ahead with their protests, even sneaking out of their homes to take their demands for equal rights to the new rulers. Farhat Popalzai, another 24-year-old university student, said she wanted to be the voice of Afghanistan's voiceless women, those too afraid to come out on the street. "I am the voice of the women who are unable to speak." she said. "They think this is a man's country but it is not, it is a woman's country too." Popalzai and her fellow demonstrators are too young to remember the Taliban rule that ended in 2001 with the US-led invasion. The say their fear is based on the stories they have heard of women not being allowed to go to school and work. Naiby, the 20-year-old, has already operated a women's organization and is a spokesperson for Afghanistan's Paralympics. She reflected on the tens of thousands of Afghans who rushed to Kabul's Hamid Karzai International Airport to escape Afghanistan after the Taliban overran the capital on Aug. 15. "They were afraid," but for her she said, the fight is in Afghanistan.